The Public Meeting Index

The Davis City Council met on September 15, 2026, for a regular meeting that included proclamations, public comments, approval of the consent calendar, a public hearing on wastewater capacity fees, and updates to the integrated pest management policy. The meeting began at 2:30 PM and included several recognitions and announcements. Proclamations & Recognitions - Fire Prevention Month (October 2026): The council proclaimed October 2026 as Fire Prevention Month. A fire department representative reminded residents that engine companies will visit first-grade classes in October and invited the community to an open house at Fire Station 31 on October 17, 2026, from 10 AM to 2 PM, featuring free hot dogs. - National Bullying Prevention Month (October 2026): Vice Mayor Partita recognized the Davis Phoenix Coalition and its Executive Director Sandra Nelson for their work. The proclamation highlighted the importance of preventing bullying, especially among LGBTQ+ students. - Fourth of July Celebration Partners: The council recognized the Davis Live Music Collective (15 years) and Discovery Christian Church (8 years) for their contributions to the 2026 Fourth of July celebration, attended by over 10,000 people. Bobby Coyote and Jason Huang accepted on behalf of their organizations. City Manager Announcements City Manager Dunstan announced: - Downtown Davis events: "Dive into Downtown" UC Davis student orientation runs September 16, 18, and 19. Residents should expect crowds of freshmen. - Skate Park Grand Opening: Friday, September 18, 2026, at Community Park from 5:30-7 PM, with vendors, food, and music. - Davis Neighbors Night Out: Sunday, October 4, 2026. Residents can register at CityofDavis.org/neighbors. Goal of 125 parties (currently 100). Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved unanimously. Before the vote, Councilmember asked about Item C (Harvest Glen pricing). Assistant City Manager Stakowitz explained that pricing is determined by backing into a maximum sales price based on area median income, interest rates, property taxes, HOA dues, and down payment assumptions—a standard practice used for previous units. Public Comments & Testimony - League of Women Voters of Yolo County (two speakers): Expressed strong support for Measure W, which would permit the Willow Grove development (232 acres, 1,250 homes, at least 250 deed-restricted affordable units, 20 reserved for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities, $6.8 million for affordable housing). They highlighted sustainability features (all-electric, solar, EV charging, 2,500 new trees) and agricultural protections (44 acres urban agricultural transition, 2:1 conservation ratio). The league urged a "yes" vote on November 3. - Speaker (name unclear): Complained about teacher Kelly Wilkerson, accusing her of lying to students about gender identity and of putting the speaker on a "hate watch list." Requested that the teacher not film student journalists. The speaker also made derogatory remarks about transgender individuals. - QHT Healer: Commented on suicide awareness (opposed to mentioning suicide), cancer (called it a "make believe disease"), and warned about AI robot wives from China being a safety concern. - Leslie Blevins (Yolo County Association of Realtors): Expressed concern about the affordable housing process at Harvest Glen. Said the current system places buyers on a list without pre-qualification, leading to delays and unmet qualifications. Recommended pre-qualifying buyers based on income, assets, debt, and financing capability. Offered to work with the city to improve the process. - Alan Miller: Criticized a council member (Bapu Vetal) for calling Israel's actions genocide. Cited examples of anti-Israel protests and signs. Accused the council of divisiveness. - Norby Kumagai: Praised the Davis Phoenix Coalition and its anti-bullying work, especially for LGBTQ+ and transgender students. Donates $36/month to the coalition. Supported teacher Kelly Wilkerson and student journalists. - Villanova Drive Resident: Complained about speeding on Villanova Drive between Anderson and Sycamore; requested speed bumps. Also noted that downtown red curbs still have parking space lines, causing confusion and tickets. - Michael Scheer: Encouraged infill development over sprawl, citing state policies (R1 zoning eliminated, ADUs). Suggested looking at European models. Also raised food insecurity and asked the council to support a program to redistribute tier 2 food. - Leila (CalPIRG UC Davis): Introduced the student group and announced fall campaigns: making the 2028 California Olympics single-use plastic free, protecting public lands, registering students to vote (National Voter Registration Day), and addressing hunger and homelessness. - Two additional speakers commented on Israel-Palestine issues (one criticizing the council member's genocide accusation, another referencing MAPA). Discussion Item 6: Wastewater Capacity Fees (Ordinance & Resolution) - Presentation: Adrian Henning, Assistant Public Works Director, presented an update to the city's wastewater capacity fees (one-time connection fees), last adjusted in 2013. The new fee structure simplifies calculations using an Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) and includes an annual CPI adjustment. The proposed single-family residential fee increases by about $3,000 (from $6,510 to $9,500), placing Davis in the middle of comparable agencies. The revenue can only fund new or expanded capacity, not maintenance. The fiscal commission recommended regular reviews every five years. - Public Comment: None. - Council Questions: Councilmember asked about the effect on Measure W developments (staff confirmed they would be subject to the new fees). Councilmember clarified that CPI adjustments are allowed by state law as they reflect cost increases. - Action: Motion to approve staff recommendation passed unanimously (all ayes). The new fee takes effect December 8, 2026. Discussion Item 7: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Policy Update - Presentation: Adrian Henning (with John Macnery available for technical questions) presented updates to the IPM policy, adopted in 2017. Key revisions include: replacing the IPM Technical Advisory Committee with an in-house IPM Coordination Team; adding language to prohibit neonicotinoid pesticides outdoors with a caveat allowing indoor use for specific pests (e.g., bed bugs, fleas); updating nomenclature and best practices; committing to review the policy every five years (as recommended by the Environmental and Climate Justice Commission). The policy emphasizes using the least toxic methods and transparency (e.g., lawn signs explaining non-chemical weed control). - Public Comment: None. - Council Questions: Councilmember Vetal asked about outdoor use of neonicotinoids. Staff confirmed they are not currently used outdoors; the amendment would allow only indoor use in controlled situations. Councilmember noted the challenge of foxtails and weed growth due to changing weather patterns and inquired about the Adopt-a-Park program; staff deferred to parks department. Councilmember also requested that the exemption language specify "indoor use." - Action: Motion to approve staff recommendation with the specified change (indoor-only neonicotinoid use) passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously. - Wastewater Capacity Fees: Ordinance introduced and resolution adopted unanimously. New fees effective December 8, 2026, with annual CPI adjustments and a five-year review commitment. - IPM Policy Update: Adopted unanimously with amendment to allow neonicotinoid pesticides only indoors. - Long Range Calendar: No updates. City manager noted a heavy meeting on December 1, 2026, and plans to reschedule some items. The October 20 meeting will include council administration (selection of mayor/vice mayor and subcommittee assignments). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned in memory of John Montsmith, a community contributor.

The Hillsborough County Value Adjustment Board (VAB) met on September 15, 2026, at the county center to certify tax rolls, approve minutes, and address administrative matters. The meeting was brief—approximately five minutes—and concluded at 9:37 a.m. Consent Calendar - Corrective notation: The board accepted a corrective notation to reopen an unfinished recommendation from 2025 and approved the recommendation, allowing the property tax office to make a corrective entry. The motion passed with all in favor and none opposed. - Certification of 2026 assessment rolls: The board certified the 2026 real and tangible assessment rolls. The motion was made, seconded, and passed with all in favor and none opposed. - Approval of minutes: The board approved the July 30 meeting minutes as drafted, with no corrections, deletions, or amendments. The motion was made by Mr. Ravern, seconded by Miss Brendan, and carried with all in favor and none opposed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered. The chair noted that public comment sign-up is available both online and in person at the county center. Discussion Items - Litigation status: The board was informed that a petition is set for hearing in December. The board is asking the circuit court to dismiss the petition because, pursuant to the paperwork filed, the VAB cannot be sued as a quasi-judicial entity. - Training and correspondence: Ms. Sweetwater reported changes and additions to VAB training for special magistrates and the use of electronic equipment. Certificates confirmed that each special magistrate completed required training before hearings, and documentation showed the meeting was properly noticed. Ms. Sweetwater stated the county had already been implementing these practices proactively. - Audit update: The board was updated that the auditor who performed the VAB audit retired July 31, leaving the audit in transition. No conclusion is expected soon; a board member noted there is nothing negative happening, but the audit is delayed. - Next meeting: No next meeting has been scheduled yet. The board will need to hold hearings first and gather enough information before scheduling. Key Outcomes - Certified the 2026 real and tangible assessment rolls unanimously. - Approved the July 30 meeting minutes unanimously. - Accepted the corrective notation and approved the previously unfinished 2025 recommendation. - Took no action on the December litigation, training updates, or audit update; these items were informational. - No next meeting date was set.

On September 15, 2026, the Janesville City Council held an informal gathering to tour fire trucks and equipment. The agenda advertised this event for September 14, 2026, but the meeting occurred on September 15. No formal business was conducted. Fire Department Equipment Tour - Council members viewed fire trucks and equipment in the City Hall parking lot. - Fire Department personnel were present to answer questions. No votes, decisions, or public comments were recorded.

The West Linn City Council held a work session on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting covered public comments on the Oppenlander development and Bolton School parking issues, a detailed discussion on repealing the noise exemption for ODOT's Abernethy Bridge project, and consideration of the League of Oregon Cities legislative priorities. Council took steps to repeal the blanket noise exemption and scheduled a special meeting for September 22, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Dean Sir (Miles Drive resident, representing neighbors and the RSNA) expressed frustration over lack of progress on the Oppenlander development, specifically regarding the Miles Gate question, the stub street design, wetland studies, and SDC (System Development Charges) funding. He requested city council instruct staff to open discussions for community engagement. City Manager Williams noted that Friends of Oppenlander had requested a work session, and council agreed to add it to an upcoming agenda. Dean Sir also thanked the city for its September 11 event and corrected the spelling of “Abernethy.” - Wendy Gorski (Buck Street, Bolton neighborhood resident) reported that the Clackamas ESD program now occupying the former Bolton Primary School has 97 staff members but only 42 approved parking spots, causing overflow into Hammerley Park and adjacent streets, creating traffic hazards and trapping residents for up to 40 minutes. She stated the Bolton Neighborhood Association filed code enforcement case LP 26042037 and requested the city clear Hammerley Park parking, stop traffic on Parent Street, and conduct a change of use review. Council committed to investigate conditional use requirements and follow up with school district leaders. - Jonathan Barton (neighborhood resident) thanked the council for its advocacy on the ODOT nighttime noise issue, noting the city's responsiveness and transparency. He urged repeal of the noise exemption and a comprehensive overhaul of the noise ordinance, having reviewed codes of other cities. He asked council to make this a priority. - Rachel (resident) reiterated gratitude for the council's work but reported that when neighbors called the ODOT hotline the night before, they were told the neighborhood had agreed to work until 12 a.m., which was false. - Josh (Bolton neighborhood resident, living directly under the bridge) described light trespass from bright stadium-style lights pointed at his home after midnight, which were turned off following complaints but then turned back on 30 minutes later. He reported loud scraping and banging noise at 1 a.m., causing his house to shake, and that work continued until 4:30 a.m. He questioned why work could not be done during the day when the site was often empty. Council expressed sympathy and concern. Discussion Items - Ordinance 1775 – Noise Exemption: Mayor Rory read a statement recounting the history of the Abernethy Bridge project, ODOT's failure to adhere to its own commitments (e.g., promising loud work would stop by midnight but continuing after midnight on September 11), and the need for accountability. He noted that ODOT had that day offered to reimburse affected residents for hotel accommodations and attempt 24-hour notice, but called for a reliable system rather than attempts. Council members (Groner, Bonnington, Bright) expressed strong frustration with ODOT's actions and supported repealing the blanket exemption. City Manager Williams and City Attorney Kaylee presented a draft ordinance that removes the blanket exemption and establishes a special permit process, with the city manager as the deciding authority. Key points: adding a provision allowing citation of entities authorizing noise violations; a six-month exemption for state agency construction projects (though Councilor Groner questioned the need for a time limit); a 30-business-day timeline for city manager decisions on permits; and an emergency effective date. Council agreed to the ordinance changes and scheduled a special meeting on September 22 for first and second readings and a vote. Chief Rollins expressed sympathy for residents and noted the police department would support enforcement but preferred an organizational solution. - League of Oregon Cities Priorities & Legislative Strategy Session: City Manager Williams explained that the deadline for LOC priority submissions is September 25, and council had previously asked for more time. He suggested council members send their top five priorities individually, then finalize at the September 22 special meeting. A draft legislative advocacy plan (by city lobbyist Doug Riggs, who could not attend) was included in the packet, proposing an outreach strategy including legislative breakfasts and coordination with Clackamas County. Council agreed to revisit last year's priorities and provide input. Councilor Binner noted that the LOC fall meeting will require a voting representative; Councilor Groner was the only one signed up to attend. - City Manager Report: City Manager Williams briefly reviewed upcoming meetings: a special meeting on September 22 (with consent IGA item and noise ordinance), a work session on October 6 (council priorities update, possibly with Doug Riggs), and a business meeting in October featuring an annexation on Killarney Drive and a sub-regional transit study update. Councilor Bonnington and the mayor highlighted the quick replacement of a downed stop sign at Lancaster and Cornwall, noting excellent staff response. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to proceed with repealing the blanket noise exemption for ODOT and creating a special permit process. First and second readings of Ordinance 1775 are scheduled for the special meeting on September 22, 2026, with an intended immediate emergency effective date. - Council agreed to add a work session on Oppenlander development (including SDC funding for a potential park) to a future agenda; City Manager Williams will coordinate with Dean Sir. - Council will follow up on the Bolton School parking and traffic issues, including reviewing the conditional use waiver and working with school district and ESD leaders. - Council members will submit their top five legislative priorities to the city manager by September 25 for finalization at the September 22 special meeting. - Mayor announced that ODOT has agreed to reimburse affected residents for hotel accommodations during nighttime work and will attempt to provide 24-hour notice; further details will be communicated to neighbors.

The Richmond City Council held a formal meeting on September 15, 2026, beginning at approximately 2:15 PM. The council approved a consent agenda, heard public comments on police surveillance and zoning reform, and processed numerous continuances of legislative items. Consent Calendar - Eleven items (ordinances 2026-102, 113, 173, 174, 176, 177, 179, 182, 183, 185, and 191) were adopted unanimously (8-0) as part of the consent agenda. - During the public hearing on the consent agenda, speakers opposed to SUP 2026-183 (the Virginia home redevelopment) requested a 30-day delay, citing unfair process, unfulfilled affordable housing promises, and traffic/parking concerns. The applicant and a supporter spoke in favor. Despite the opposition, the consent agenda passed without removal of the item. Public Comments & Testimony - Melvin Jones (3rd district resident): Expressed concern about approximately $8 million in misappropriated funds related to a homeless shelter and fire department funds going out of state. Urged the city to recover the money to hire more police officers and firefighters. - Daniel Tobias (public comment): In sarcastic praise, opposed the city's contract with Flock Safety and other license plate reader (LPR) systems, critiquing the expansion of mass surveillance, disproportionate policing of communities of color, and misuse of cameras by officers. He referenced other Virginia localities ending their contracts. - Benjamin Chambers (6th district, LGBTQ+ resident): Protested Flock cameras and broader surveillance infrastructure, linking them to 287(g) agreements that could allow federal immigration enforcement. Cited a police audit revealing improper data sharing with federal agencies. Urged the council to ban such cameras. - Don O'Keefe (2nd district, architect and academic): Supported code refresh and zoning reform, criticizing draft 3 as watered down. Advocated for by-right zoning with design standards, transit-oriented development, and urged council to consult local housing advocacy groups. - Tom Beach (public comment): Charted a middle path on code refresh, supporting by-right zoning if accompanied by form-based codes and design checklists. Emphasized transit-oriented development as a promising approach, drawing on examples from Portland and Arlington. - Miles Kuzal (renter and worker): Criticized code refresh draft 3 as maintaining exclusionary zoning that historically kept young and working-class residents out of wealthy neighborhoods. Called for truly transformative land-use policies. - Claire Guthrie Gastinyaga and Tony Mounts (during consent hearing): Opposed SUP 2026-183 (Virginia home conversion), requesting a 30-day delay. Cited concerns about traffic, parking, unfulfilled affordable housing commitments, and procedural fairness. - William Smollin (applicant attorney) and Charlie Troqual (neighbor): Spoke in favor of SUP 2026-183, noting extensive community engagement and parking studies. Discussion Items - Amendments to the Agenda: The council voted to continue numerous items to future dates: several ordinances to September 28, 2026; some to October 13, 2026; and others to November 9, 2026. Item 11 and 19 were amended and continued; item 26 was amended and continued. The motion passed unanimously (8-0). - Item 11 – Ordinance 2026-178 (Baywood Court): Two competing amendments were proposed. Councilor Breton's amendment (sidewalk maintenance and repair) was adopted (8-0), rejecting the Planning Commission's amendment (six-foot wide sidewalk). The ordinance as amended was continued to September 28. - Item 19 – Ordinance 2026-186 (Mimosa Street): Amended to modify the public right-of-way width and update code references, then continued to September 28. Approved unanimously. - Item 26 – Resolution 2026-R029 (Gilpin transformation MOU): Amended to modify the execution date, then continued to October 13. Approved unanimously. - Reports and Announcements: Council members provided district updates including code refresh town halls, public safety events, and senior tax relief sessions. Councilmember Gibson expressed support for a referendum on code refresh; Councilmember Trammell criticized the process and shared her efforts to circulate petitions for a referendum. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted (8-0) despite public opposition to one item. - Council approved electronic participation for Councilor Breton (8-0). - Appointments and reappointments approved (8-0), except the recommendation for Kai Banks to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Supervisory Board (continued). - Multiple legislative items were amended and continued to later meetings. - No immediate action was taken on public comment topics (Flock cameras, code refresh, or the Virginia home SUP).

The Stamford Zoning Board held a public hearing on three applications: a historic density bonus for a Barrel Lane property, a rezoning of Pacific Street to the VC2 district, and a related text change. The board also approved several coastal site plan applications and discussed administrative items. The meeting began on September 14, 2026, and continued into September 15. Public Hearing – Application 226-11: Historic Density Bonus for 23 Barrel Lane - Applicant's Presentation: James Lunny and Elena Kalman proposed to preserve a historic cottage (the only remaining structure from the Eva Weber Hoyt estate) by retaining at least 50% of the original structure, removing later additions, and adding two new units. They requested a 0.45 density bonus (one additional unit beyond the 2.55 allowed as of right) to make the project financially viable. They argued the bonus would allow higher-quality materials (HardiePlank siding, architectural shingles, historic-style windows) and preserve the building. - Board Questions: Member Keith asked if the house would be demolished if the bonus were denied. Lunny replied it would likely be knocked down. Member Roseanne inquired about side-yard setbacks and a fence; the applicant clarified that a projection on the west side would be removed, resulting in a 10-foot setback. Member Bill expressed doubt about historic significance but said he could live with the plan. - Public Testimony: Sue Halburn read a letter from June Norinski (president of the Historic Neighborhood Program) supporting the project for preserving a piece of Stamford history. Karen Thompson (38 De Barrel Lane, across the street) voiced opposition due to parking congestion and traffic, noting her association had submitted a statement of opposition. No other speakers were heard. - Applicant's Response: Lunny argued that the proposed project includes on-site parking (2 garages + 3 surface spaces) and that under new state law, as-of-right 2-unit development would not require parking, making this a better project. He emphasized the rental units (two 4-bedroom, one 2-bedroom) would provide needed larger family rentals. - Outcome: The public hearing was closed. The board will vote on the application at a future meeting. Public Hearing – Applications 226-12 and 226-13: Pacific Street Rezoning to VC2 and Commercial Street Designation - Presentation by Ralph Blessing (Land Use Bureau Chief): The rezoning would change sections of Pacific Street from RMF (multi-family) and CB (community business) to VC2 (village commercial). The goals were to clean up non-conforming uses, create a “Main Street” for the South End, and implement the South End Neighborhood Study. The accompanying text change (226-13) would designate Pacific Street between Atlantic and Dock Streets as a commercial street, allowing ground-floor retail. Blessing showed a soft-site analysis predicting approximately 230 additional units over time, with more design controls, wider sidewalks (15 ft along commercial streets), and parking requirements for developments over 16 units (under new state law). The planning board had unanimously recommended approval, but suggested modifying the boundary to keep historic residential structures on Pacific and Henry Streets in the RMF zone. - Board Questions: Bill asked about density – Blessing described the VC2 FARs (1.75 commercial, 1.5 residential) as moderate. Roseanne asked about the planning board’s recommendation; Blessing explained that the historic buildings are already overbuilt and unlikely to be redeveloped, so the rezoning does not materially increase risk. Keith asked if any developer was lined up; Blessing noted only a previously approved historic preservation project at 500 Pacific Street. - Public Testimony: Sue Halpern (Elmcroft Road, 40-year South End resident) expressed concern about loss of historic properties (over half of the original 449 historic properties in the district are gone), adverse impacts on residential properties abutting VC2 without side setbacks, and parking and infrastructure strain, citing recent flooding. Gary Michael (Harbor Point) echoed parking concerns, noting no spare spaces in area garages and that free on-street parking exacerbates the problem. Dave Adams (Glenbrook Road) asked for clarification on parking requirements and the vision; he described the area as a walking community and worried about over-concentrating commercial activity. Blessing responded that the VC2 zone is a mixed-use district with parking accommodated within buildings, and that parking management is a separate issue. He also noted that the zone encourages historic preservation through a density bonus. - Outcome: The public hearings were closed. The board will vote on both applications at a future meeting. Consent Calendar - None (all items were discussed individually). Regular Business – Minutes and Coastal Site Plan Approvals - Minutes: The board approved minutes from July 2, 2026, and July 6, 2026, without changes (motions carried unanimously). - CSPR 1235 – 2331 Door Street (William Guardiano): Coastal site plan approval for demolition of a two-family dwelling and construction of five detached dwellings with garages, patios, etc. The property is within the Coastal Area Management (CAM) boundary. Staff noted the project is as-of-right but required CAM review. Conditions include a fee-in-lieu for sidewalks (no sidewalk on that street), street trees, and standard EPB and engineering conditions. Approved unanimously. - CSPR 1236 – 203 Ocean Drive West (Landauer): Coastal site plan approval for a new dock at a residence. Approved with conditions from DEP, EPB, and Harbor Management Commission. Unanimous. - CSPR 1237 – 2236 Chipan Avenue (Shatman): Coastal site plan approval for a garage addition and driveway modifications. The project reduces impervious surfaces. Approved with conditions. Unanimous. Administrative Review - Consolidation of PNL escrow agreements was deferred as still under discussion. - Approval of the use of $125,000 in funds from the development at 860 Canal Street for a feasibility study of the Casky Usville Park boat ramp (Phase 2), proposed by the Harbor Management Commission, with half from the state and half from harbor management. Discussion was noted but no action taken. Key Outcomes - Public hearings for applications 226-11, 226-12, and 226-13 were closed; board votes will occur at a subsequent meeting. - Coastal site plan approvals CSPR 1235, CSPR 1236, and CSPR 1237 were all approved unanimously with conditions. - Minutes from July 2 and July 6 were approved.

The board met on September 15, 2026, and acted on three items: an allocation of Harbor Management funds for a boat ramp feasibility study, and one-year time extensions for two development projects — a self-storage building at 35 Commerce Road and a residential redevelopment at Zero Walton Place/80 Prospect Street. All three items were approved by unanimous voice vote. The meeting ran long and adjourned just after 11:00 PM. Discussion Items Harbor Management Boat Ramp Feasibility Study Funding - Board members discussed approving use of previously transmitted funds — originating from 860 Canal as a fee in lieu — that Harbor Management wants to spend on a feasibility study for a boat ramp. The city retains approval rights over the expenditure. - The amount was disputed in discussion: one member said $62,500, while another stated the total was $135,000 and the requested half was $67,500. The motion referenced 'either half of the funding amount' and cited $52,500 or $67,500. This discrepancy was not resolved on the record. - Members noted the study qualifies as a water-dependent use and has been discussed for years. The motion to approve the fund use passed unanimously. Application 22512 — ESS FRISA LLC, 35 Commerce Road - Applicant proposes a new self-storage building with parking, site landscaping, and stormwater systems. The board approved a one-year extension of time from September 23, 2026 to September 23, 2027. - Approved unanimously. Application 222-25 — Walton Place LLC / 80 Prospect Street Partners LLC, Zero Walton Place and 80 Prospect Street - The project redevelops the site by repurposing a 1900s church building, removing a 1960s addition and a former retail building, and constructing a new 224-unit multifamily residential apartment building with green space and uncovered parking. - Staff reported the project is moving slowly: a drainage relocation issue has been resolved, but financing issues remain. This was described as the applicant's final extension. - The requested one-year extension runs to October 21, 2027 (the motion first cited 10/31/27, then 10/21/27 — the record is inconsistent). Approved unanimously. Next Meeting Preview - Upcoming agenda items include text changes: a cleanup amendment, the CN district, ML district, BD district map and text, and the Traffic Bureau's text amendment for mobility and parking changes stemming from the state's regulation changes. - Members noted the state requirements went into effect July 1, 2026, and that roughly 90% of Connecticut municipalities have not yet approved their amendments; the board is still ahead of the curve. The board discussed narrowing the list. Key Outcomes - Approved the Harbor Management boat ramp feasibility study fund allocation (voice vote, unanimous). - Approved the ESS FRISA LLC one-year extension at 35 Commerce Road (voice vote, unanimous). - Approved the Walton Place / 80 Prospect Street final one-year extension to October 2027 (voice vote, unanimous). - Adjourned around 11:00 PM. The next meeting is scheduled for September 28, 2026; one member will be out of the country and plans to attend via Zoom.

This pre-meeting of the Mobile City Council, held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, addressed routine approvals, public hearings, rezoning proposals, budget considerations, and extensive discussions on trolley buses and public safety. Key decisions included holding several items for further review, supporting a federal trolley grant with caveats, and scheduling follow-up meetings. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the September 8, 2026 meeting. - Noise ordinance waiver requests for events on September 19 (Pallister Place West), October 17 (Adam Street), October 10 (Venetia Road), and September 26 (Downtown Boulevard) were moved to 9 p.m. for District 1 and District 5. - Public hearing declared structures at 1550 Stewart Avenue (formerly 1551 Forest Street), 1318 Hercules Street, 913 Texas Street, 858 McQuillen Street, and 1109 Bay Avenue as public nuisances and ordered their demolition. - Public hearing considered the application of Grand Barry Executive Transport for a certificate of public convenience and necessity to operate a shuttle, sedan, and limousine service. - Resolutions introduced included: declaring structures public nuisances (48-982 through 4986), authorizing removal of weed groups, approving bonuses for parks employee, firefighter, and officer of the month; authorizing an agreement with Merth Artist for Mardi Gras float construction ($55,725); approving purchase orders for cybersecurity software ($12,540), storm drainage debris removal ($23,200), a Ford Bronco SUV ($32,189.50), three Ford pickup trucks with utility bodies ($180,171); and authorizing contracts for the Arterial Management Project ($300,000 each). Public Comments & Testimony - Lonny Robinson questioned why the city is not cutting an overgrown ditch; a 311 complaint filed in April received no response. The city clerk noted a work order is in progress. - Estella Trotter alleged the Mobile Housing Board has failed for years to enforce and file finance reports to the federal government, including malpractices related to demolition, relocation, and replacement of residential housing development buildings. Discussion Items - Rezoning at 255 Church Street: Councilwoman Ingram requested a one-week hold to address concerns from a developer and residents about proposed T6 zoning. The worry is that allowing a single T6 building could unravel other areas; she suggested a full amendment might be more appropriate. The item was held over. - Resolution 08958 (Laser Fish Document Management Software): Councilwoman Ingram thanked administration for sharing the agreement, which addresses data privacy and handling of PII and personal information. - Resolution 09978 (Tailor Landing Affordable Housing Funds): Councilman Penn offered an amendment to clarify that the funds are not coming from federal sources; the amendment was to be presented at the council meeting. - Budget (09979): The 2026-2027 general fund and capital improvement fund budgets were held for one week to allow the finance committee to meet that afternoon. The deadline for adoption is September 20. - Trolley Buses (Resolution 31980): Extensive debate occurred on authorizing the mayor to apply for a federal grant for five new trolley-style buses (with a $320,000 city match). Councilman Runnels expressed support for the grant but urged caution about expanding trolleys without first seeing ridership results from system changes. He questioned the required capital contribution to meet federal guidelines and preferred investing in shelters and frequency. Councilman Reynolds countered that trolleys have proven successful in Kansas City, fit Mobile's narrow roads and historic character, and are needed to transport the workforce for economic growth. He argued that six trolleys alone cannot be fairly judged and requested support for further investment. Councilwoman Ingram requested data on ridership impacts from smaller buses and asked about addressing weather-related barriers. Administration (Mr. Woods) explained the federal capital contribution requirement. Ultimately, the council supported the grant, with Councilman Runnels stating he would vote in favor but wanted future budget discussions to be cautious. - Arterial Management Project (Resolutions 2197-98): Jennifer explained the RTAP program using consultants to constantly tweak traffic signals, funded through MPO federal funds. Council members asked about quarterly performance reports and specific corridors (Water Street, Government Street). - Arena Opening Delay: Councilman Runnels thanked the mayor for deciding to delay the arena opening, allowing organizations to adjust budgets. He noted the decision was made soon enough for Mardi Gras organizations to pivot. - Public Safety: Councilwoman Ingram requested a community safety meeting after shootings in the Rickaby area; she said residents want to be heard and feel safe. Commander Graves acknowledged the request, described efforts to engage the community and the difficulty of getting witnesses to talk due to fear. He mentioned a reward system being developed. Vice President raised intersection safety at Tud Hill and Spring Hill, requesting more creative traffic control. Commander Graves said they are working with traffic engineering. Councilman Penn promoted Operation SHIELD, a program allowing homeowners to connect cameras to police. Commander Graves encouraged Safe Passage initiative and community participation. The Public Safety Committee meeting is scheduled for September 22. Key Outcomes - Noise ordinance waivers moved to 9 p.m. for Districts 1 and 5. - Rezoning at 255 Church Street held over for one week. - Resolution 09978 amendment to clarify non-federal funding; final vote pending at council meeting. - Budget held over one week; finance committee meeting scheduled for 1 p.m. on September 15. - Trolley bus grant (Resolution 31980) supported; council members expressed need for data and caution on future expansions. - Public safety committee meeting scheduled for September 22, 2026, with questions to be submitted in advance. - Finance committee meeting at 1 p.m. to discuss budget and related items.

The Benicia City Council convened at 6:00 PM on September 15, 2026, in Council Chambers at City Hall (250 East L Street, Benicia, CA), following a closed session with no reportable actions. Mayor Steve Young participated remotely from Atlanta under the exception for official city business (Bay Area Council delegation on energy equity and economic development); Vice Mayor Trevor Macenski presided, with Council Members Kari Birdseye, Lionel Largaespada, and Terry Scott present. No minutes for this meeting were available in the source materials; the agenda listed a 7:30 PM adjournment target. The council approved the consent calendar with two pulled items, received the Independent Oversight Committee's first formal evaluation of voter-approved tax measures, and introduced an ordinance restricting fishing at the Benicia Marina boat launch float. Proclamation — Hispanic Heritage Month 2026 Vice Mayor Macenski proclaimed September 15 through October 15, 2026, as Hispanic Heritage Month on behalf of Mayor Young and the council. The proclamation noted that Hispanic Heritage Week began in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded to a 30-day observance in 1988 under President Ronald Reagan; Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua celebrate independence on September 15, Mexico on September 16, and Chile on September 18. Martha Ramirez and Francisco Roman of Chico's Taqueria accepted the proclamation and thanked the city for recognizing and supporting Hispanic small businesses. Presentation — Independent Oversight Committee (IOC) Tax Measure Evaluation Bob Sachs presented the IOC's evaluation of Measure C (1% general sales tax, adopted 2014), Measure B (three-quarters of one percent general sales tax, adopted 2024), and Measure F (a specific-use measure). The committee, together for two years (started with 19 members, five of whom are original), individually scored each measure using a 0–3 rubric (0 = poor, 3 = exceeds expectations). Measure F scored highest; Measures B and C, which draw from the general fund, scored "needs improvement." Key findings: the annual tax measure report is retrospective and not timely for oversight; reaching budget documents requires multiple steps and is too hard for the average citizen; Measure B revenue is untraceable; Measure C's capital expenditure tracking and associated oversight ended in 2022 with no communication to taxpayers; and rising CalPERS costs pressure the general fund, with the unfunded actuarial liability growing significantly from 2018 to 2025. While the committee could not prove tax revenues funded the pension liability, the mere question undermined confidence. Recommendations included tax-measure landing pages (budgeted revenues, past uses, staff reports), a CalPERS strategy page, publishing plans for each measure, and using priority-based budgeting scoring data. In discussion, Councilmember Scott questioned comparing a specific-use measure with general fund measures; each measure scored individually. Councilmember Birdseye asked about pension cost pressure; Sachs confirmed the committee discussed—but omitted from the report—a hypothesis that tax measure revenues (including an apparent correspondence with Measure F revenue) were covering pension costs. Councilmember Largaespada asked for rubric details. Mayor Young supported a transparency landing page and suggested tying Measure B revenue directly to pension payments ($8 million this year, rising to about $13 million in 2031). Deputy City Manager Shaki presented slides prepared by City Manager Mario Giuliani (absent) showing how locally approved tax measures—utility user tax (described as Measure A, adopted 1996), business license tax (Measure R, 2004), Measure C (2014), Measure B (2024), and a transient occupancy/hotel tax adopted in 2024 (also described as "Measure A" in the transcript, an apparent naming inconsistency)—support departments; together they fund approximately one-third of city services, based on the revised FY 2024–25 budget. Examples included 21.4% of utility user tax revenue directed to police services, 19.7% of business license tax revenue to fire services, and 12.1% of Measure C revenue to public works. Mayor Young questioned the 16% "general services" allocation, which is not an actual department; staff responded that priority-based budgeting would reallocate such citywide costs to individual programs. Public Comments & Testimony - Nicole Newell, program manager with Sustainable Solano and a Benicia resident, promoted a countywide air quality summit on Saturday, October 17, at the Joseph Nelson Center in Suisun City (9 AM–4 PM), with lunch, Spanish translation, and a $50 stipend for the first 50 non-government-affiliated registered participants who stay the full day. - Chris Shinfeld, who pulled consent item 14I, argued the employee MOU cost increases (health insurance, education reimbursement contributions, comp time) should be made public and should not be on the consent calendar. - Scott Trommer, a 25-year Benicia Marina slip holder, urged approval of the fishing restriction, stating no marina he has seen permits fishing; Harbor Master Ryan supported the restriction as a safety and liability issue, noting better locations exist for fishing. Consent Calendar The council approved by one motion, with no removals beyond 14H and 14I: 14A (minutes of the August 18 and September 1, 2026 regular meetings); 14B (second amendment to the DC Electric Group, Inc. agreement for streetlight and facility light maintenance, increasing the not-to-exceed amount from $400,000 to $410,000); 14C (FY27 police department General Fund and Asset Forfeiture budget amendments); 14D (FY 2025/26 fourth quarter investment report); 14E (first amendment to the Beauchaine Consulting Group, LLC agreement for Tyler Resident Access implementation, $36,090, new total not to exceed $121,090); 14F (professional services agreement with TRB + Associates, Inc. for Rose Estates development review support, not to exceed $345,000); 14G (declaration of Housing Element Site 34, 1471 Park Road, as surplus land); and 14J (waiver of reading of all ordinances). The vote was unanimous. Discussion Items - Item 14H — Southern Pacific Railroad Depot Construction Management Task Order. Staff recommended a task order with Unico Engineering under the City's existing Master On-Call Agreement, not to exceed $90,500, for construction management and inspection for the Depot Preservation and Maintenance Project. Councilmember Largaespada said he was not persuaded the project requires 570 hours and a $90,000 construction management budget and supported the lower-cost competitor, Consor. Mayor Young called spending nearly half of the $195,000 project value on contract management for essentially re-roofing, gutters, and a paint job "crazy." A motion to award the task order to Consor passed 3–2 (Largaespada, Macenski, and Young in favor; Birdseye and Scott opposed). Staff warned that departing from its recommendation means "it's on the shoulders of the members that voted this way" if the work is not done right. - Item 14I — Employee Association MOUs (FY 2026–27). The one-year agreements (June 21, 2026 through June 20, 2027) with the Benicia Public Service Employee Association, Benicia Supervisors and Professionals Association, Benicia Police Officer's Association, Benicia Dispatchers Association, Benicia Firefighter's Association, and unrepresented management groups were pulled for discussion. HR Director Kim Bowden reported an estimated citywide cost of about $955,000 if fully staffed, with most provisions one-time and non-pensionable (no impact on CalPERS rates or the unfunded liability). Employees had requested cost-of-living adjustments, but the city was not in a financial position to grant ongoing increases given uncertainty such as Valero; of 150 job classifications, 59 are market-surveyed, 48 are below market (averaging about 12% below by classification and about 15% on an employee-weighted basis), and vacancies run about 10% in police and 14% in management classifications versus roughly 8% typical government turnover. Mayor Young and Councilmember Birdseye said the item should have been on the business agenda; Mayor Young questioned whether health cost increases are truly one-time since premiums generally rise annually (staff explained health coverage and cost-sharing are renegotiated each year). The resolution passed unanimously (5–0). Business Item — Ordinance Amending Chapter 12.41 (Marina Boat Launch Fishing Restriction) City Attorney Stock introduced an ordinance extending the existing prohibition on fishing from the Ninth Street boat launch float to the Benicia Marina boat launch float, following requests from the marina and residents citing boat damage. Councilmember Birdseye moved to waive the first reading and introduce the ordinance; it passed unanimously (5–0). Key Outcomes - Adopted the agenda and the consent calendar unanimously; pulled and separately considered items 14H and 14I. - Awarded the Depot construction management task order to Consor instead of staff-recommended Unico Engineering (3–2). - Approved the FY 2026–27 employee MOUs unanimously (5–0). - Introduced, on first reading, the ordinance prohibiting fishing from the Benicia Marina boat launch float unanimously (5–0). - Proclaimed Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 – October 15, 2026. - Mayor Young announced $30 million in Air District catalyst grant funding, with an additional $5 million recommended (total $35 million), plus $10 million for the school district; contracts are being negotiated, and funds are expected to become accessible in the fall. Councilmember Birdseye expressed hope the Air District board approves the additional $5 million for electrifying homes closest to the refinery. - No reportable closed session actions; no ACT task force group updates were presented; the meeting was adjourned.