The Public Meeting Index

The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Weatherford City Hall, 303 Palo Pinto Street, Weatherford, Texas, was canceled due to a lack of agenda items. No meeting was held, and no public comments, discussions, or decisions occurred.

The Honolulu City Council held its regular meeting on September 9, 2026, beginning at approximately 10 a.m. The meeting included opening ceremonies (Pledge of Allegiance and a message by storyteller Lopaka Kapanui), followed by consideration of a lengthy agenda encompassing appointments, first-reading bills, second-reading bills, third-reading bills, and resolutions. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to public testimony, with multiple community members speaking on land use, housing, parks, and animal control issues. The Council took action on over 20 agenda items, approving most with unanimous votes or recorded reservations. Consent Calendar - [No separate consent calendar was used; all items were taken up individually or in grouped motions.] Public Comments & Testimony - Ava Puhi Chanel Kalauli Robinson (self-identified as a lineal heir and plaintiff in Red Hill litigation) testified on multiple items, opposing Bill 55 (Waikiki rezoning), Bill 37 (Honouliuli land use boundary amendment), Bill 39 (Kapulei/Honouliuli rezoning), Bill 42 (Koolauloa land use amendment), Bill 43 (Paalaa Kai rezoning), and Resolution 26-71 (sale of surplus city property). She argued that these actions affect royal patents and require consultation with Native Hawaiian lineal descendants under the Supreme Court’s Kapaakai analysis. She also spoke on Resolution 26-169 (gift to ENV) requesting consultation for projects at Honouliuli. - Pikachu Billionaire (District 9) testified in opposition to Bill 55 (Waikiki rezoning), raising concerns about homelessness and cultural respect. He opposed Bill 52 (streets/sidewalks) and expressed support for most other bills but noted procedural concerns regarding allodial titles and royal patents. - Kelvin Ole Konihiki testified in opposition to Bill 37, Bill 42, and Bill 43, calling the land use changes “illegal corruption” and arguing that agricultural land must be preserved for food sovereignty. - Stephanie Hilton (public testimony via phone) testified on Bill 33 (parks funds) requesting funding for security cameras and a social worker pilot program, and on Bill 16 (dog control) recounting an August 23, 2026 dog attack at airport campgrounds. She urged stronger enforcement and support for homeless pet owners. - Stephanie Kendrick (Hawaiian Humane Society) testified in strong support of Bill 16, stating the ordinance provides needed deterrents. - Susan Collins (Burden B Hawaii Animal Sanctuary) testified in support of Bill 16, emphasizing accountability for dog owners. - Dylan Armstrong testified in support of Bill 30 (parks activation), Bill 16, and Resolution 26-189 (sustainable road practices), and offered general support for park improvements. - Kalena Cookshe and Dominique Bonifacio (Honolulu Youth Commission) testified in strong support of Resolution 26-189, urging adoption of recycled ash in road construction to reduce landfill waste. - Konoilani Perry (president of All Island Records) testified on CR246 (global settlement of towing claims), requesting her company’s name be removed as they were unaware of any legal proceedings. - Ernie Lau (Board of Water Supply) supported the reappointment of Naalehu Anthony and spoke on Resolution 26-193 (Red Hill PFAS contamination), urging more aggressive monitoring and testing. Discussion Items - Appointment Confirmations: The Council adopted Resolution 26-172 CD1 confirming Naalehu Anthony to the Board of Water Supply (vote: 9-0). Resolution 26-196 (Gary Okimoto to Civil Service Commission) was referred to committee. Resolution 26-197 was canceled. - First Reading Bills (Bills 55 & 56): Bills 55 (rezone Waikiki property) and 56 (relation to corporation counsel) passed first reading. Public testimony opposed Bill 55 due to Native Hawaiian cultural and land rights concerns. Bill 56 had brief testimony questioning authority hierarchy. - Second Reading Bills: - Bill 54 (parking): Passed 9-0 without testimony. - Bill 52 (streets, sidewalks, malls): Passed 9-0 (Councilmembers Tolba, Tupola, Wire recorded reservations). Testimony raised concerns about enforcement capacity and homeless impacts. Council discussion centered on fine increases and enforcement gaps. - Bill 37 (land use boundary – Honouliuli): Passed 9-0 after public opposition from Kalauli Robinson and others citing royal patent and lineal heir rights. - Bill 38 (TOD special district expansion): Passed 9-0 (Councilmembers Tolba, Tupola, Wire reserved). Councilmember Tupola expressed strong reservations about lack of community engagement and full conversion of AG lands; Councilmember Kia Aina urged DPP to meet with Tupola. Council asked DPP about timeline for remaining TOD plans – target is to finish all station rezoning by 2031. - Bill 39 (rezoning Kapulei/Honouliuli): Passed 9-0 after testimony opposing changes affecting ancestral lands. - Bill 42 (land use – Koolauloa): Passed 8-0-1 (one absent). Testifiers opposed. Councilmember Wire inquired about generator and fuel storage improvements at the joint base yard; Councilmember Kia Aina clarified the amendment brings the existing corporation yard into state land use compliance. - Bill 43 (rezoning Paalaa Kai): Passed 8-0-1 after testimony against reducing agricultural land. - Third Reading Bills: - Bill 33 (parks funds): Passed 9-0. Councilmember Tupola explained the bill creates dedicated funds for parks and botanical gardens, allowing reinvestment of revenues. - Bill 50 (land conservation fund amendments): Passed 9-0 without testimony. - Bill 30 (public parks activation): Passed 9-0 after testifier support. Councilmember Tupola noted the bill targets underutilized parks and will not displace existing recreation. - Bill 31 (cultural sites in public parks): Passed 8-0-1 (Councilmember Wire excused). Testifier Kalauli Robinson urged broader definition of cultural practitioner qualifications. Councilmember Tupola highlighted two sites: Ku Ilioloa Heiau and Mauna Lahilahi, supported by community stewards. - Bill 32 (park fees flexibility): Passed 8-0-1 (Councilmember Wire excused) with amendment FD1 removing camping fees from director authority. Councilmember Tupola emphasized safeguards and support. - Bill 16 (dog control): Passed 9-0. Testimony from Hilton, Kendrick, Collins, and Armstrong in support; Kalauli Robinson urged empathy for homeless dog owners. Councilmember Okimoto highlighted the two-year effort with Department of Customer Services and Hawaiian Humane Society. - Other Resolutions: - Collective bargaining items (CR218/Res. 26-166): Passed 9-0. - Fund transfers for DCS and DTS (CR219/Res. 26-170, CR220/Res. 26-181): Passed without objection. - Gift acceptance (Res. 26-169 for ENV, Res. 26-167 for bench at Aina Moana, Res. 26-174 for Kalihi Valley tennis court naming, and multiple bench/monetary gifts): All adopted with 9-0 or 8-0 votes. - Resolution 26-189 (sustainable road construction with recycled ash): Adopted 9-0 after youth commission testimony emphasizing landfill reduction. - Resolution 26-87 (safer pedestrian crossings at Kaelepulu Elementary): Adopted; Councilmember Kia Aina asked administration to follow up with nearby residents about mural placement. - Resolution 26-71 (sale of surplus city property): Adopted 9-0 after Kalauli Robinson’s opposition citing ancestral connection to Chocolate Beach/pond. - Sister city resolutions (Res. 26-184 with Cebu, Philippines; Res. 26-185 policy guidelines): Adopted 9-0. Councilmembers expressed support for meaningful economic and cultural ties. - Resolution 26-193 (Red Hill PFAS contamination): Adopted 9-0. Manager Lau and testifiers urged more aggressive Navy monitoring and expanded well network. - Resolution 26-198 (foreclosure action in Kaneohe): Adopted 9-0. Councilmember Kia Aina explained it was a last resort for a dilapidated property. - Resolution 26-150 (LUO amendment on large detached dwellings): Adopted 9-0 with reservations from Tupola, Wire, and Dosanto Tan concerning impacts on ADUs and non‑conforming status. Matter goes to Planning Commission. - Resolution 26-168 (SMA permit for Nanakuli commercial building): Adopted 9-0. - Resolution 26-188 (downzoning 10 acres in Kailua): Adopted 9-0 after explanation that DHHL deemed the site unsuitable for homesteading. - Committee Reports CR244, CR245, CR246, CR254: Adopted. Councilmember Tupola reserved on CR246 (global settlement of towing claims), citing inaccurate information presented about the contractor’s unpaid invoices. Councilmember Cordero reserved on CR245. Testifier Konoilani Perry raised concerns about her company being named in CR246; Council clarified the settlement bars future claims against both city and contractor. - Bill 48 (condemnation): Passed third reading 9-0 with amendment FD1. - Resolution 26-186 (gift of plumbing/drainage): Adopted 9-0 with amendment FD1. - Resolution 26-192 (gift for HFD K9 team): Adopted 9-0 without amendment. Key Outcomes - Confirmed Appointment: Naalehu Anthony to the Board of Water Supply (CR222/Res. 26-172 CD1). - Passed First Reading: Bill 55 (Waikiki rezoning) and Bill 56 (corporation counsel). - Passed Second Reading: Bill 54 (parking), Bill 52 (streets/sidewalks), Bill 37 (land use – Honouliuli), Bill 38 (TOD expansion), Bill 39 (Kapulei/Honouliuli rezoning), Bill 42 (Koolauloa), Bill 43 (Paalaa Kai). All passed with 8–9 yes votes; some members recorded reservations. - Passed Third Reading: Bill 33 (parks funds), Bill 50 (land conservation), Bill 30 (public parks), Bill 31 (cultural sites), Bill 32 (park fees flexibility), Bill 16 (dog control), Bill 48 (condemnation). - Adopted Resolutions: Over 20 resolutions, including collective bargaining, gift acceptances, sister city relationships, Red Hill contamination, sustainable roads, surplus property sale, and zoning amendments. - Referred Items: Resolution 26-196 (Gary Okimoto appointment) and Resolution 26-150 (LUO amendment) to committee/Planning Commission respectively. - Next Meeting: Adjourned to Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 10 a.m.

Note: The official agenda and minutes list the meeting date as September 8, 2026, but per the user's instruction, this summary uses September 9, 2026. The meeting was held at 4:00 p.m. in City Hall Room 246. Due to the lack of a quorum (three board members absent and one resignation), no formal votes were taken. Discussions focused on the summer 2026 season report, program challenges, future planning, and public feedback. Consent Calendar - Minutes for March 24, 2026: Deferred to the December 1, 2026 meeting because the board lacked a quorum to approve them. Public Comments & Testimony - Barry (public comment): Expressed a desire for more musical diversity at free public concerts, specifically including genres from the 1930s–1950s (e.g., operetta, Rogers & Hammerstein, Gilbert & Sullivan, patriotic songs). He urged the board to conduct broader community surveys (e.g., Polco) rather than limiting surveys to current concert attendees. He also raised concerns about noise levels at Peace Plaza concerts affecting nearby residents and suggested the board meet more often to have greater input on programming rather than leaving decisions solely to staff. - Another speaker (name not given): Promoted a free public event at The Castle (Thursday afternoon, September 10) featuring an artist from Houston, Texas, hosted by a local radio station. Discussion Items - Music Department Report (May–August 2026): The director presented a quarterly report covering summer programming. Key statistics: total attendance/participation reached 15,699; 825 active app users; 73% increase in average Forward concert attendance; 164% increase in passport session attendance; largest Riverside concert (Better Than Ezra) drew 3,097 attendees; largest Forward concert was Corey Kennedy. Survey response: 1,338 surveys at Riverside (15% of estimated attendance), 303 at Forward (up from 219 in 2025). Challenges included downtown construction (impacting Riverside attendance), severe weather (two Forward concerts canceled due to rain/lightning), and a heat advisory. Partnerships with Mayo Clinic, Think Bank, Townsquare Media, and Minnesota 97.5 were highlighted. The city's website was redesigned for accessibility compliance. Staff also noted the successful July 4th transition to Experience Rochester and the continued use of the new Apex stage. - Grants & Funding: The board received a $77,952 Minnesota State Arts Board operating support grant (a decrease from a previous high but an increase from last year). A CMAC grant for passport sessions was not awarded. A $20,000 Arts Access grant application is under review (decision expected in October). - Sound School & 2027 Planning: The November Sound School residency will feature artist Dusky Waters (contemporary Americana) with a public concert at The Chateau on November 21. Planning for the 2027 summer season is underway; booking occurs on a rolling timeline, with updates to be shared at the December meeting. - Accessibility & Audience Experience: Staff discussed efforts to improve parking access (partnering with Christ Community Church and an RPU site to convert nearby spaces to ADA parking) and coordination with Community Support Officers. Board members suggested adding meet-and-greet information to the app and using QR codes on sticks (or pins) for surveys to make them more accessible. - 2027 Meeting Schedule: The board discussed changing meeting times (current 4:00 p.m. Tuesdays) and agreed to send a survey to all members to gauge preferences, with final discussion at the December meeting. - Future Agenda Items: Board members noted the annual cycle of programming, call for bands, election of officers, and the need for a well-attended December meeting to elect officers and finalize plans. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or actions were taken due to the absence of a quorum. The minutes from March 24, 2026, were deferred. - Next meeting: Scheduled for Tuesday, December 1, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. (Note: agenda and minutes list the current meeting as September 8, but this summary uses September 9 per instruction.) - Directives: Staff will survey board members about 2027 meeting times; will explore adding meet-and-greet info to the app; will consider QR code survey options; and will continue hiring for a limited-term marketing/outreach position. The board will elect officers at the December meeting.

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Board met on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. Commissioners present: Chair Johnson, Vice Chair Jost, Commissioners Noecker, Bowie, Coleman, and Yang (arrived late). Commissioner Kim was excused; Commissioner Vang absent. The meeting covered a public hearing on conduit bond amendments, a staff report on Downtown Vitality Fund economic development recommendations, and an introduction to the Hamm Building conduit bond issuance. Action was taken only on the first item. Public Hearing & Resolution (Item 1) - Resolution RES PH 26-254 – Approved amendments to and reissuance of conduit multifamily housing revenue bonds for three projects (801 Mt Curve Blvd, 2265 Hillcrest Ave, 2285 Hillcrest Ave), known as Emma Norton/Restoring Waters and Nellie Francis Court Projects (Ward 3, District 15). Chair Johnson opened the public hearing; no one from the public testified. Commissioner Jost moved to close the hearing and adopt the resolution. The motion carried 6-0 (Commissioners Noecker, Yang, Bowie, Johnson, Jost, Coleman in favor; Commissioner Kim absent). Downtown Vitality Fund Economic Development Recommendations (Item 2 – SR 26-190) - Presentation by Senior Project Manager Nick Wolff – Overview of the $2 million economic development portion of the Downtown Vitality Fund (total $5M including $3M for housing). 60 interest forms led to 35 eligible projects; 15 applications totaling over $4M in requests. Ten projects were approved administratively (under $500K), plus funding for the Alliance Bank Center Skyway. Two projects over $500K were presented for future HRA approval on September 23: - Endicott Arcade (134 Fifth St E) – $799,800 recommended to St. Paul Downtown Development Corporation for facade repairs and stabilization to restore a long-vacant commercial building. - 428 Minnesota Street (With Love Minnesota) – $682,200 recommended to renovate 11,000 sq ft of vacant ground-floor retail into a civic destination (cafe, event space). - Board Discussion – Commissioners expressed strong support, noting the program’s rapid deployment and focus on filling vacant spaces. Commissioner Noecker credited Downtown Development Corporation President Dave Higgins for suggesting the business funding component. Commissioner Yang asked about forgivable loan structure; Executive Director McMahon explained it is a four-year forgivable loan with annual forgiveness, avoiding long-term administrative burden. Commissioner Coleman highlighted the importance of investing in vacant stretches like Fifth Street to encourage downtown residential life. - Public/Invited Testimony – Several project representatives spoke: - With Love team (co-founders Damola Ogundipe, Emilia Ndely-Ogundipe, Director Thomas Toley) – Expressed excitement for activating the space, employing locals, and hosting events to draw residents and visitors. - Dave Higgins (St. Paul Downtown Development Corporation) – Thanked the Board for the program and noted the historic significance of the Arcade (designed by Cass Gilbert) and its potential for retail. - Joe Spencer (Downtown Alliance) – Called the Fifth Street corridor a key connection and praised the With Love project for filling a space vacant since Woolworths. - Jim Goldman (St. Paul Farmers Market) – Thanked the Board for a $20,000–$50,000 investment, noting their indoor market (former Black Dog space) had already spurred another 10,000 sq ft of leasing. - DJ (Eritrean restaurant owner, Erta Ale) – Expressed gratitude for support and described his restaurant as a destination for Ethiopian cuisine, jazz, and coffee ceremonies. - Bill Eddins (MetroNOME Brewery) – Thanked the Board for funding, explaining the brewery funds music education for kids and has struggled for 4.5 years. - Next Step – Formal approval of the two large projects will be brought to the HRA on September 23, 2026. Hamm Building Conduit Bond Issuance (Item 3 – SR 26-191) - Presentation by Principal Project Manager Laura Haynssen – Introduction of a conduit bond request (up to $14 million) for the conversion of the historic Hamm Building (408 St. Peter St.) into 128 housing units, all affordable at 60% area median income (AMI). The building (built 1919) has ground-floor tenants (Park Square Theatre, Meritage Room Cafe) and vacant upper floors. Developer PAK Properties purchased the property in 2022. Total development cost $49 million, funded by tax-exempt bonds, 4% low-income housing tax credits, and historic tax credits. The bond issuance will require a public hearing and formal resolution at the September 23 HRA meeting. - Board Discussion – Commissioner Noecker praised the project for bringing affordable housing downtown and noted unique features (potential pickleball courts). Chair Johnson asked developer Rich Pakonen what drew him to the site; Pakonen cited the building’s iconic status and his 30-year career redeveloping St. Paul properties. - Rich Pakonen (PAK Properties) – Expressed gratitude to city staff and confirmed the project is moving forward after several years of work. Key Outcomes - Vote Taken – Resolution RES PH 26-254 (conduit bond amendments for Emma Norton/Restoring Waters and Nellie Francis Court) passed 6-0. - No Action on Items 2 & 3 – Both will return for formal approval (including public hearing for Item 3) at the next HRA meeting on September 23, 2026. - Next Meeting Date – September 23, 2026 at 2:00 PM.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary can be produced.

The Monroe Historic Preservation Commission met on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered several Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) applications, a detailed discussion on the definitions of canopies versus awnings and related sign code discrepancies, and a policy discussion on permanent holiday lighting in the historic district. All members were present except Donna Bahler. The meeting adjourned at 1:50 PM. Consent Calendar - The August 12, 2026 meeting minutes were accepted as presented. (Note: The published agenda contained a typographical error, labeling this item as "Correction of Minutes - September 9, 2026"). Discussion Items Lighting Policy Review (1002 17th Avenue) - The applicant, Scott Thompson, withdrew his application for a COA for permanent lighting. Commission members discussed the broader need for a clear policy regarding permanent colored and programmable LED lighting in the historic downtown district. - Commissioners expressed a general preference for white/toned white lighting as a standard, with temporary exceptions for holiday decorations. Concerns were raised over light intensity (referencing the existing half-foot candle standard), the potential for a "Vegas strip" aesthetic, and the enforcement of any new rules. - Staff will work on developing specific guidelines over the winter to present to the Commission. Canopy vs. Awning Definitions & Sign Code Alignment - Shannon Haydin initiated a discussion on the zoning code's distinct definitions for awnings and canopies, noting that the current definitions create confusion regarding sign lettering limits (12 inches for awnings per the zoning code vs. a more generous allowance for canopies). - Commissioners noted a significant discrepancy between the Zoning Code and the Historic Preservation guidelines, which allow lettering up to 20 inches. The discussion explored eliminating the distinction between canopy and awning for downtown signage, or aligning the guidelines entirely with the zoning code to prevent confusion and ensure equal treatment of businesses. - Staff will review the historic guidelines against the zoning code and bring proposed amendments back to the Commission. Key Outcomes Certificate of Appropriateness Approvals - Item C.2 – 608 the Factory (1607 10th Street): Approved. The applicant proposed using a new composite shake material for the sign backdrop. Motion by Mary Soddy, seconded by Tom Mitchell. Unanimous voice vote. - Item C.4 – Evolve Collective (1602 11th Street): Approved. The applicant revised their awning application to meet the "canopy" definition to comply with zoning code sign area regulations. Motion by Jeff Maliszewski, seconded by Jordan Norby. Unanimous voice vote. - Item C.5 – Urban Spa & Boutique (1609 10th Street): Approved. A wall sign that was ordered prematurely based on a previous COA was approved to be installed on the existing canopy instead, to comply with the single on-building sign rule. Motion by Corrine Wartenweiler, seconded by Mary Soddy. Unanimous voice vote. Administrative Directives - Sign Code Alignment: Staff will propose amendments to align the Historic Preservation Commission's design guidelines with the Zoning Code regarding canopy/awning/sign definitions. - Lighting Policy: Staff will develop policy language on permanent holiday lighting. - Application Deadline: Clerk Wahl adjusted the COA application deadline to 14 days prior to the monthly meeting to improve review coordination.

On September 9, 2026, at 2:00 PM, the Annapolis City Council held a virtual special work session to receive an informational briefing from Melissa Maddox-Evans, Executive Director/CEO of the Housing Authority of the City of Annapolis (HACA), and Bishop Craig Coates, Chair of the HACA Board of Commissioners. The session aimed to provide council members with a deeper understanding of HACA's legal framework, programs, and strategic direction (HACA 2035) to foster a more effective partnership. No public comments were taken, and no votes were conducted. Presentation by HACA Executive Director Melissa Maddox-Evans - Maddox-Evans outlined HACA's role as an independent public institution created under Maryland law to perform an essential government function: providing safe, affordable housing where the private market fails. She emphasized that HACA is not a city department but shares outcomes with the city. - HACA's governing board is appointed by the mayor and city council, and the authority operates under a broad set of federal and state laws, HUD agreements, and board-approved policies. The agency currently has 28 employees, manages 54 public housing units, administers 770 vouchers (tenant-based and project-based), and serves over 1,100 families. - Maddox-Evans explained the distinction between public housing (HACA as owner/manager) and voucher programs (tenant-based assistance follows the family; project-based assistance stays with the unit). She clarified that each program has different eligibility, mobility, and compliance rules. - She described the planned conversion of traditional public housing units to mixed-income, RAD/project-based voucher properties under the HACA 2035 strategic plan. By end of 2027, public housing units will decrease to 353, while voucher units will increase to about 970. - The tax credit financing model was detailed: tax credits sold to investors generate equity that reduces debt, keeping rents affordable. Post-redevelopment, properties will have multiple layers of oversight (HUD, city, state, investors). - Maddox-Evans identified seven areas where the city can support HACA: code enforcement resources, permit review assistance, specific funding (operational and capital), advocacy and resident presence, information sharing (especially on right-to-return), public safety engagement, and board oversight. Discussion and Council Questions - Councilmember Thorpe asked for clarity on legal authorities and accountability. Maddox-Evans directed him to the Maryland Housing Authorities Law, the cooperation agreement, and the pilot agreement between the city and HACA. Bishop Coates added that council presence at HACA board meetings and reviewing public documents builds trust. - Councilmember Huntley raised concerns about resident mistrust regarding the right to return, particularly at Bloomsbury Square. Bishop Coates emphasized the importance of consistent language between the city and HACA and suggested using trusted voices from past successful redevelopments (e.g., Wilburne Estates) to reassure residents. Maddox-Evans noted that residents must have eligible household members listed on their lease to secure the right to return. - Councilmember Huntley also asked about consolidating the multiple inspections (city, state, federal) that burden HACA maintenance staff (70–80% of their time). Maddox-Evans explained that while they attempt to coordinate, HUD inspections offer only 28 days' notice and are inflexible. Mayor Littmann noted that the recent $15 million lawsuit over unequal inspections would make consolidation legally complex. - Councilmember Johnson asked about relocation options during redevelopment. Maddox-Evans explained that residents are offered choices: on-site moves to vacant units, transfers to other HACA properties, vouchers for private housing, or staying with relatives. A relocation team works individually with each family, and residents receive a 90-day notice before their phase begins. - City Attorney Cooper Smith asked about resident councils. Maddox-Evans clarified that tenant councils and the Resident Advisory Board are independent; HACA assists with elections and funding but cannot attend meetings without invitation. Tenant councils have their own bylaws and officers. - Bishop Coates recommended readings (e.g., Politics and Public Housing by Dr. Rhonda Williams) to deepen understanding of community culture and activism in public housing contexts. Key Outcomes - The session was purely informational; no formal actions or votes were taken. - Council members gained a more detailed understanding of HACA's independent authority, the various program types, and the complexities of redevelopment and financing. - Mayor Littmann concluded by framing the discussion as part of an ongoing series to improve collaboration between the city and HACA. - The next steps include continuing quarterly coordination meetings and reinforcing consistent messaging around resident rights and responsibilities.

The Anchorage Assembly Public Health and Safety Committee met on September 9, 2026, beginning at 11:01 a.m. The agenda included two major presentations: a Mayor's Office introduction of a Bloomberg Philanthropies evaluation of Willow Commons, and a detailed presentation by 21st Century Policing Solutions (21 CP) on its use-of-force review of the Anchorage Police Department (APD). The committee also heard public testimony, extended the meeting by 15 minutes, and deferred a planned APD implementation update to a future meeting. No formal votes were taken. Mayor's Office Report and Bloomberg Cities Idea Exchange - Thea Agnew Bemben, special assistant to the mayor, introduced Luke Hydrich and Kirsty Paul of the Bloomberg Cities Idea Exchange, a Bloomberg Philanthropies program, and the Behavioral Insights Team. - Hydrich and Paul said their evaluation team has conducted more than 1,000 evaluations and partnered with more than 130 cities. They are evaluating Willow Commons to document what Anchorage did, inform local decisions, and provide a guide for other cities on rapid housing. - They conducted interviews in the spring with planning, construction, and project members; while in Anchorage they planned to tour Willow Commons and the Anchorage Recovery Center and conduct follow-up interviews. They also planned to visit Atlanta's Melody project and Shreveport later in the year. - In response to a member question, they confirmed the project is both documenting and evaluating effectiveness and return on investment, with a city report expected later. Discussion Item: 21 CP Use of Force Review and Recommendations - Charles Ramsey, founding partner of 21 CP, former Chicago police officer, former police chief in Washington, D.C., former Philadelphia police commissioner, and co-chair of President Obama's Task Force on 21st Century Policing, presented with Michael Moore, senior advisor and former chief of the Los Angeles Police Department. They reviewed APD use-of-force data from January 2021 through June 2025, including 11 officer-involved shootings. - Reported use of force declined by approximately 17% between 2022 and 2024 and was about 4.7% lower in 2024 than in 2021. - Just over 89% of reported uses of force were level one, the lowest category; fewer than 1% were level three, the most serious category. Level three force was most often associated with DUI, arrest, eluding, assault, or burglary calls. - Use of force was concentrated on late Friday and Saturday nights. Officers were injured in just under 8% of reported incidents; subjects were injured in approximately 14.5%. - Twenty officers accounted for 19% of reported use-of-force incidents, and six officers accounted for more than 100 incidents each. 21 CP said such concentrations require deeper review of assignment, tactics, and training. - Chief Case added context: two of the top six officers were in the special investigative support unit/SWAT and conducted high-risk vehicle stops; one officer was no longer with APD; one officer's use of force was 94% level one; and in the first quarter of 2026 none of the original top six remained in the top six. He said 64% of officers move in and out of the top 20 over the study period. - The review found that 56% of reportable force incidents involved an individual experiencing an apparent or known behavioral health crisis. - Tactical concerns included officers bypassing distance, cover, and concealment; inconsistent on-scene command communications; and increased use of vehicle-blocking tactics. 21 CP said the rise in blocking maneuvers appears influenced by APD's restrictive pursuit policy and can place officers in front of reportedly armed individuals, although no officers had been attacked in the reviewed cases. - 21 CP found that APD's administrative use-of-force investigations improved during Chief Case's tenure but recommended transcribed interviews, stronger data collection, and more complete records on subjects and officers. - The report contains 57 recommendations across categories including policy and officer decision-making, training and cultural competency, reporting and investigations, vehicle tactics and supervision, early intervention systems, and community and post-incident support. - Regarding officer-involved shootings, 21 CP noted accountability findings: in 2024, one of eight shootings was found out of policy; in 2025, one of five; and in 2026 so far, one of seven was found out of policy and six were undetermined. - Ramsey said APD is a solid, good department, not an out-of-control or toxic one, but one that must continue improving. Moore cited LAPD and Philadelphia examples where training changes produced major drops in officer-involved shootings. - In response to questions, 21 CP said cross-city force comparisons were requested by the city but are limited because Anchorage reports more low-level events than most agencies, such as drawing a weapon or vehicle-boxing tactics. They recommended creating a 'level zero' category to isolate these unique events. - On legislative oversight, Ramsey and Moore advised the committee to support needed resources, demand regular reports, verify implementation through training observations, and institutionalize changes beyond any single chief's tenure. - Moore said Anchorage should consider a deployment study to assess pairing officers and using technology such as drone first response and online reporting, noting LAPD saved more than 25,000 reports a year through online traffic-collision reporting. Public Comments and Testimony - Jamie Lopez East Anchorage, formerly homeless and formerly with a coalition, said there is no community-driven public safety commission with investigative and subpoena power. She described police as a threat to poor, marginalized, and vulnerable residents, and raised concerns about APD's use of Aura, an external private surveillance network with facial recognition, including 375 licenses obtained by APD at no cost over 60 months. She asked the committee to investigate the June officer-involved shooting at Walmart. - Amanda Bremner, deputy director of Native Movement, thanked 21 CP and the municipality for the independent review. She stated the report shows Alaska Native people were involved in 45% of all APD use-of-force incidents over the past four and a half years while Alaska Native people make up 7.3% of Anchorage's population, and said this disparity was absent from the mayor's office press release. She also noted that 20 officers, or 5% of the department, were involved in 19% of force incidents, and six officers were each involved in 100 or more incidents. She said Seattle, Portland, and Spokane use early intervention windows of six months to a year, while Anchorage's primary window is 30 days, and asked the committee to extend APD's early intervention thresholds and review how the program is used. - Mercedes Arseniga from West Anchorage said the report confirmed disproportionate use of force, called for culture change and independent oversight such as an inspector general with subpoena power, and described the chief as up against a resistant 'good old boy' system. She supported annual reporting and continued municipal due diligence. - Def Williams, a community volunteer with the Anchorage Suicide Prevention Coalition and the Anchorage Community Police Relations Task Force, reported that Chief Case went door-to-door in the Fairview area in July and residents responded positively; he urged more such engagement. - Glenn Cajwamura with First United Methodist Church said the church is launching a child care partnership for up to 80 children and asked how police and community can protect the children and citizens near the church. He noted the mayor attended the August 7 launch. Key Outcomes - The committee received the 21 CP use-of-force report and presentation; no formal action, motion, or vote was taken. - The committee stated it will schedule time for Chief Case to present the department's implementation of changes, an item that was on the agenda but was not reached. - The meeting was extended by 15 minutes to allow public comment. The planned ABAPD update was deferred to a future meeting. - Public testimony raised specific requests for further oversight, transparency, and review of APD's early intervention system and surveillance tools.

The City Council convened to recognize several individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community through the honorary certificate program. The meeting featured presentations honoring environmental stewardship, public service, literacy advocacy, athletic leadership, youth sports achievement, and botanical garden management. Ray Ivazian III – Environmental Leadership - Councilmember Talba presented the first certificate to Ray Ivazian III for outstanding environmental leadership, community service, and stewardship of Honolulu's parks, beaches, and oceans through the Adopt a Park program. - Ray Ivazian is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, teacher, scientist, engineer, inventor, and volunteer. In 2018, he founded SEED (Stimulating Education and Ecological Design) to educate about marine debris, microplastics, recycling, and environmental protection. - He was the first volunteer for the city's Adopt a Park program and now helps care for Kie Lagoon Beach Park, Neil S. Blazedale Park, and Kalama Beach Park. - He developed innovative tools to study and remove microplastics from the ocean. He is currently studying architecture at UH Manoa. Tyler Sugihara – Public Service Retirement - Councilmember (unnamed) recognized Tyler Sugihara for 39 years and two months of public service, retiring as chief of the Division of Road Maintenance on June 1, 2026. - His career began with the State Department of Health in 1987 and continued with the city and county of Honolulu starting in 1995. - He created the Malama ʻo Kaina Community Volunteer Program, giving residents opportunities to maintain public spaces. He also volunteered with the American Public Works Association, Hawaii chapter, and assisted fundraising for the Boys and Girls Club. - In 2025, he was named DFM's manager of the year. Read to Me International – 30th Anniversary - Councilmember Dosanto Stan presented a certificate to Read to Me International on its 30th anniversary, founded in 1996 by former First Lady Lynn Waihee and Rotary Club of Honolulu Sunrise. - The organization promotes reading aloud to children for at least 10 minutes daily, serving an average of 10,500 individuals annually. - Executive Director Dana Barnes leads core initiatives including the RTM 10 parent coaching program, family literacy events, the Kupuna Keiki Pen Pal program, and the Ted Sakai Hoala Reading Program for incarcerated parents. - The Council expressed appreciation for empowering families and fostering lifelong love of reading. Donald “Spud” Botello – Life and Legacy - Councilmembers Nishimoto, Cordero, and Wire jointly recognized Coach Don Spud Botello for over six decades of dedication to Hawaii's youth, athletics, and education. - He was a standout athlete at Roosevelt High School and the University of Hawaii, part of the 1955 team that defeated Nebraska 6-0. He held a record for a 95-yard touchdown pass in 1957. - He served as assistant coach at UH (1960–1964), head coach/athletic director at Damien Memorial High School (1965–1974), then athletic director and head coach at Mid-Pacific Institute, building the Pac-5 football program. He captured Oahu Prep Bowl championships in 1982 and 1985. - He served as ILH executive director from 2003 to 2015. He was inducted into the University of Hawaii Sports Circle of Honor in 2000. - Councilmember Nishimoto shared personal memories as a former player, emphasizing Coach Botello's impact on youth. Pearl City Little League Senior Baseball Team – 2026 World Series Champions - Councilmember Okimoto recognized the District 8 Pearl City Little League Senior Baseball Team for winning the 2026 Senior League World Series championship. - The team advanced as West Region champions on July 25, 2026, then competed in the World Series (August 1–8) in Easley, South Carolina. After losing their opening game 4–1, they rallied to win the U.S. semifinal 3–2 in walk-off fashion and the U.S. championship 12–0 against Delaware, televised on ESPN Plus. - The team roster, manager Tai Takahashi, and coaches were acknowledged. Jocelyn “Josh” Sand – Retirement as Director of Honolulu Botanical Gardens - Councilmember Kiaina honored Jocelyn Sand on her retirement after more than 36 years of city service. She began as a plant propagator in 1990 and served as director. - She earned a master's in public administration from UH Manoa in 1994 and developed international partnerships to preserve rare and native plants. - Under her leadership, the five botanical gardens welcomed a historic 887,168 visitors in her final year, achieved ArbNet Level 3 accreditation, and advanced long-range plans for Hoʻomālahelu Botanical Garden and a new community garden at ʻEwa Beach. - Her daughter Miranda also works in horticulture. Key Outcomes - Honorary certificates were awarded to all six recipients. - The Council directed its appreciation and congratulated each honoree.