The Public Meeting Index

The Lacey City Council held a work session on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers and online. The meeting included public comments on the Franz Anderson interlocal agreement, review of a telecommunications license application, preliminary 2027 revenue and expenditure estimates, and discussion of interjurisdictional committee assignments. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephanie Scott, Lacey resident, spoke on the Franz Anderson interlocal agreement amendment. She urged the council to incorporate input from people with lived experience of homelessness, emphasized the value of a regional housing-first model, and offered three choices: increase investment in existing supportive housing, work with a different provider, or continue with LIHI under strict accountability. She stressed the need for regional collaboration and direct input from those experiencing homelessness. - Daryll Bullock, Lacey resident, read a statement prepared by Kathy Martin questioning the management record of the Low Income Housing Institute (LIHI) at Maple Court. Martin requested data on housing placements, successful transitions, staff turnover, and spending of prior funds ($4.5M+ allocated). She strongly recommended no vote on additional funding until such information is provided. Discussion Items A. Sealink Networks Inc. Telecommunications License Application Communications Manager Donna Feliciano presented the application for a five-year telecommunications license to allow Sealink to install fiber infrastructure within city rights-of-way as a pass-through to Westport, without providing local services. The license is required under federal law. Key terms: $1,000 application fee, $2 million liability insurance, performance bond. Council noted the city cannot deny the application if conditions are met. Final action will occur via consent agenda on September 15, 2026. B. Revenue and Expenditure Estimate Finance Director Troy Woo and Deputy Finance Director Chelsea Knight presented preliminary 2027 estimates. Revenue highlights: sales tax growth of 2.6% (about half from state tax base changes), property tax increase of $147,866 (1% plus new construction), utility tax up 9.2% (including new cable tax collecting $650,000/year), interest income projected to increase 58% due to expected rate hikes. Expenditure pressures: salaries/benefits up $3.6M across all funds; district court costs rising from $534,000 to an assumed $1.6M; election costs increasing $338,000 due to county overhead changes; utility expenses of $419,000. The general fund shows a $4.6M deficit; staff targets reducing it to $3M through budget controls and potential revenue enhancements. City Manager Rick Walk outlined a three-prong approach: revenue enhancements, economic development investments, and expenditure control. Council discussion on stormwater rates leaned toward a 9.5% increase for one year (rather than a multi-year plan) to ease resident burden, with formal direction expected at the September 22 budget workshop. Council also discussed using interest income from other funds to offset general fund pressures. C. Council Interjurisdictional Committee Assignments City Manager Rick Walk asked whether to assign councilmembers to five alternate positions vacated by former Councilmember Dunning. Council opted not to make formal reassignments now, but to have primary members coordinate ad-hoc replacements as needed pending the filling of the vacant council seat. A full reassignment will occur in January. Key Outcomes - The Sealink Networks license application will be forwarded to the September 15 regular meeting for final action on the consent agenda; no opposition was expressed. - Council generally supported a 9.5% stormwater rate increase for one year, with formal direction to be given at the September 22 budget workshop. - Staff will continue refining the 2027 budget to reduce the general fund deficit from $4.6M to $3M, including consideration of using interest income as a revenue source. - No formal committee alternates were appointed; a temporary informal system will be used until the council vacancy is filled.

The St. Helena City Council met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Vintage Hall Board Room. Councilmember Aaron Barak was absent. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including a proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month, staff briefings on traffic calming and infrastructure projects, a contentious consent item regarding a construction management budget overrun, a public hearing to update the Library Board ordinance, the appointment of a new planning commissioner, and two major water-related items: an update on efforts to reduce discolored water events and a proposed water bill credit program. Consent Calendar - Item 10.2 – ADU Ordinance (Second Reading): The Council approved on a roll-call vote (4-0) the second reading and adoption of three ordinances amending the Municipal Code to update regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units, along with related water and sewer utility requirements. Interim City Manager Jim McCann noted that the changes discussed at the prior meeting had been made. Public Comments & Testimony - Michelle Lou Covell (speaking as a resident, not in her official capacity): Questioned how a $50,000 "not-to-exceed" construction management contract for the Downtown Pedestrian Improvements Project had grown to $131,698. She asked where the system of checks and balances is and why no one is held accountable for such overruns, stating that this is "exactly the kind of institutional breakdown that the Blackbird reports have been pointing to." - Tamara Sorensen (1381 St. James Place): Concurred with Ms. Covell and said that admitting to "sloppy work" is not the first time the council has used that excuse. She called for a public matrix with milestones, deadlines, and owners for the Blackbird recommendations, stating that the community needs accountability. - Gary Rose (speaking as a resident, not representing any committee): On the discolored water item, he praised the analysis provided by resident Joshua Park and called it a well-organized starting point for understanding the system. On the water credit item, he called the one-time $200 rebate a "really bad idea" that would put the Water Enterprise Fund in a tough position, and said the ongoing credit program was not ready for prime time without more cost analysis. - Joshua Park: Presented his analysis of the water system, hypothesizing that the source of discoloration may be debris in the Bell Canyon transmission main being pushed into smaller distribution pipes during high-flow events. He urged the city to create a legacy maintenance plan so that future staff have a consistent schedule for pipe cleaning and upkeep. - Eli McElroy: Urged the council to act with more urgency on the water problem, asking why pipe flushing could not start in weeks rather than months, and urged the council to reallocate funds from other capital projects to prioritize water quality. - Chris Warner (1434 Grayson Avenue; speaking personally): Opposed the one-time $200 rebate as a gesture not tied to cost of service, noting that roughly 75% of customers may not have experienced discolored water. He supported developing the ongoing incident-based credit program but said it needed more work. Discussion Items - Item 9.1 – Traffic Calming Measures and Spring Street: Public Works Project Manager Mario Traverso provided background on the 2022 Spring Street bike lane striping, which has drawn ongoing complaints about lane confusion, narrow travel lanes, and parking in bike lanes. He noted the long-term vision is an expanded sidewalk with bi-directional pedestrian and bicycle travel, similar to the Vine Trail. The Council gave informal consent for staff to conduct community outreach, develop design alternatives, and bring findings back for direction. On speed humps installed in five locations, staff reported the product does not provide the most comfortable transition and that a better design would be used if retained. Council consensus was to allow staff to dig deeper with no commitment. - Item 9.2 – Oak Avenue Status Update: Traverso reported that utility work is 99% complete. The surface repair project (estimated at $2.1 million) is currently out for bids, with award expected at the September 22 council meeting. Construction would commence immediately after award, with final pavement expected in spring 2027 depending on weather. 95% of sidewalks would be replaced. - Item 9.3 – Main Street Sidewalks Phase 1B Update: Design is being finalized for completion of downtown sidewalks. A community and business coordination meeting was held two weeks ago. Trees will largely be retained. Spring Street crosswalk modifications will be funded by a $500,000 grant from Aguilar. Construction anticipated for early 2027. - Item 9.4 – City Manager Recruitment Update: Jim McCann reported the subcommittee met with the recruiter. Individual interviews with council members start next week. A community survey will be released later in September. The brochure will be reviewed by council, applications will be accepted through mid-to-late November, with interviews in December and a target selection by year-end. - Item 13.2 – Public Works Update on Discolored Water Events: Assistant City Manager and Public Works Director Joseph Leach, joined by Dr. Assam Najim (water quality expert) and Bruce Zaney (project manager), presented findings from three years of investigation. Key points: - Discolored water is seasonal (June–September) and system-wide, affecting all pipe materials. - The July 18 hydrant incident (4,500 gallons/minute uncontrolled flow) mobilized debris citywide, with 97 reports through the Grapevine portal. - Treatment plant improvements have reduced iron and manganese breakthrough, but legacy deposits in the distribution system remain extensive. - Staff propose a measured approach: inspect 2,900 feet of pilot pipe segments via CCTV, clean all transmission and distribution mains system-wide, monitor, and adapt. No budget authorization was requested for this item; a contract for cleaning will be brought later. - Mayor Dohring and Councilmembers discussed whether the source is debris migrating from the Bell Canyon transmission main. Staff acknowledged that hypothesis but noted that access points for cameraing the main need to be evaluated. Water quality expert Dr. Najim advised that the entire system needs cleaning because manganese spreads from the water sources, not just from corroding iron pipes. - Item 13.3 – Water Bill Credit Program: Jim McCann proposed two elements: (1) a one-time $500,000 fund providing an estimated $200 credit per eligible customer account (excluding non-potable/standby accounts) as a gesture acknowledging past discolored water incidents; (2) an ongoing reporting-based credit for customers who experience verified discolored water incidents and flush their systems, with credits calculated using smart meter data. Public comment and council discussion strongly opposed the one-time universal credit, with speakers calling it a poor use of Water Enterprise funds that should go toward fixing the problem. Council directed staff to abandon the one-time credit but to develop and bring back the ongoing incident-based credit program, along with a more accessible damage-claim process, at a future meeting. - Item 13.4 – FY 2025/2026 Water Supply Update: McCann reported that based on March 2026 Bell Canyon reservoir levels, the city is not in jeopardy of declaring a water emergency in the current fiscal year. Council briefly discussed the need to revisit the water neutrality policy and conservation messaging, given the demonstrated robustness of the supply. Vice Mayor Deasy noted the operational flexibility proposal to maximize use of Bell Canyon during the rainy season could be a "game changer" for water security. - Item 10.1 – Downtown St. Helena Pedestrian Improvements Project Budget Amendment (Pulled from Consent): The item was pulled by Vice Mayor Deasy and discussed after the consent calendar. McCann acknowledged that the original $50,000 not-to-exceed contract for construction management services was inadequately scoped, and that a first amendment for $24,000 should have been for the full $81,698 needed, resulting in a total contract of $131,698. He called this "sloppy work." Councilmembers expressed frustration but said they believed the reorganization of Public Works following the Blackbird report would prevent recurrences. The resolution was approved 4-0. Key Outcomes - Item 10.1 – Downtown Pedestrian Improvements Budget Amendment: Approved on a 4-0 roll call vote, authorizing the execution of Amendment No. 2 to the construction management contract, bringing the total to $131,698. - Item 10.2 – ADU Ordinance Second Reading: Approved on a 4-0 roll call vote, adopting the three code amendments. - Item 11.1 – Library Board of Trustees Ordinance First Reading: Approved on a 4-0 roll call vote introducing and waiving the first reading of amendments to Chapter 2.52 of the Municipal Code to update the Library Board's duties and name. Second reading is scheduled for September 22, 2026. - Item 13.1 – Planning Commissioner Appointment: The Council appointed Elaine Honig to fill a vacancy on the Planning Commission, with a term expiring June 30, 2028, by a 4-0 roll call vote. - Item 13.2 – Discolored Water Mitigation Program: Council gave staff direction to proceed with the proposed strategy of inspecting, cleaning, monitoring, and adapting the water distribution system. A contract for system-wide cleaning will be brought to a future meeting. No immediate budget authorization was requested or approved. - Item 13.3 – Water Bill Credit Program: Council rejected the one-time $500,000 universal credit and directed staff to return with a refined ongoing incident-based credit policy and an improved damage-claim process. - Item 13.4 – Water Supply Update: The report was received and filed. Council indicated interest in revisiting the water neutrality policy in the future. - Meeting extension: The Council voted 4-0 to extend the meeting until 9:30 PM to complete the agenda.

The San Ramon City Council held a special meeting on September 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber at San Ramon City Hall. The agenda contained one substantive item: a closed session to meet with the city's labor negotiators regarding a grievance filed by SEIU and the Police Officers Association (POA) concerning retirement contributions. Vice Mayor Marisol Rubio recused herself from the item prior to closed session citing a potential conflict of interest. One member of the public provided comments before the council adjourned to closed session. After the closed session, the council reported that they had given direction to negotiators and had nothing further to report. Public Comments & Testimony - A speaker representing "We the People" expressed dissatisfaction with the city for not spelling out the acronyms SEIU and POA in full on the agenda materials. The speaker characterized SEIU as a "foreign employee union" and argued that the two organizations should be handled as separate items to avoid negatively impacting police officers' retirement benefits. The speaker requested that the council separate the two items and not automatically apply decisions to both. Closed Session - The council convened into closed session under Government Code § 54957.6 with labor negotiators Megan O'Donoghue, Steven Spedowfski, and Martin Lysons to discuss the grievance filed by SEIU and the POA regarding retirement contributions. The agenda noted that any settlement would also apply to retirement contributions for unrepresented miscellaneous employees. Staff Response - Following public comment, the city attorney provided clarification, stating that the negotiations involve two separate organizations and that there is no commingling of funds or transfer of money between the organizations. Key Outcomes - Vice Mayor Rubio recused herself from the item. - The council gave direction to city labor negotiators. - No reportable action was taken in closed session.

The City Council and Planning Agency of Laguna Hills met on September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM, following a Closed Session at 5:00 PM. Significant actions included the adoption of a residential permit parking program for the Beckenham Park neighborhood, a vote to expand unrestricted parking on Laguna Hills Drive, and a public safety report. The council also received public testimony on e-bike issues and Flock surveillance cameras. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the bulk of the consent calendar (Items 4.1-4.3, 4.5) in one motion, including routine minutes and the warrant register. - Item 4.4 (CDBG Curb Ramp Project): Councilmember Wheeler removed this item for discussion. City Engineer Joe Ames clarified that the project upgrades ramps to current design standards, not safety deficiencies. The project was scaled from 80 to 63 ramps due to a 20% reduction in federal grant funding (from $250,000 to $195,000). The motion to authorize advertising for bids passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Jenna Minickbull (Executive Director, South Coast Conservatory): Reported on the organization's 35 years of service, awarding over $350,000 in scholarships to make arts accessible. She framed the performing arts as a device-free workforce development pipeline. She invited the council to their upcoming Dance-a-thon and Nutcracker performance. - Shelley Rowe (Resident): Expressed urgent concern over an e-bike nuisance in her neighborhood near Alicia Village and Alicia Plaza apartments. She stated that neighbors are moving away due to children on e-bikes who have no respect for rules. She asked the city to develop a plan and requested higher police visibility for enforcement. Councilmember Sweeney offered to meet with her to discuss a game plan. - Jeff McPherson (Resident of 26 years): Expressed strong opposition to the city's contract with Flock Safety cameras, describing the system as invasive surveillance and requesting the council cancel the contract. Captain Burke clarified that the city's cameras only capture still images of vehicles and plates in the public right-of-way, are used reactively, and all searches are logged. Mayor Kaskey confirmed the item will be formally agendized for a future meeting. Discussion Items - Residential Permit Parking Program (Beckenham Park) – Item 5.2.1: Assistant City Manager Joe Ames presented the recommended resolution for establishing a permit parking area on streets around Beckenham Park. He noted the 67% threshold was met. Councilmember Sweeney requested corrections for inconsistent neighborhood and street names in the draft resolution. Councilmember Wheeler expressed concern about parking displacement and committee recommendations. Councilmember Pazold opposed the proposed $32,000 cost for alternating street sweeping, suggesting the use of text alert notifications instead. A motion to adopt the staff recommendation, which included a six-month review, passed. - Parking on Laguna Hills Drive – Item 5.2.2: Mr. Ames presented an evaluation to provide additional unrestricted parking on the north side of Laguna Hills Drive to mitigate displacement from the Beckenham Park program. He recommended reducing the existing medical office building permit zone from 1,000 to 600 feet to create space for up to 46 unrestricted stalls. Councilmember Pazold dissented, citing safety concerns due to the proximity of Laguna Hills High School and potential for predators. Councilmember Sweeney and Mayor Kaskey argued that concentrating parking on a main thoroughfare is safer than in residential cul-de-sacs. Councilmember Wheeler abstained. The motion passed. - Public Safety Update (Q2 2026) – Item 5.3.1: Captain Burke reported second-quarter statistics compared to Q2 2025. Total calls for service were 4,635. Priority one response time averaged 3 minutes 59 seconds. Crimes against persons decreased 41.9% (36 to 21 incidents). Property crimes decreased 1%. Proactive arrests (crimes against society) increased from 127 to 166. Traffic collisions dropped 31% with zero fatalities. Captain Burke also provided a strong defense of the Flock ALPR system, calling it an invaluable tool that accelerates case closures while being subject to strict accountability policies. Councilmember Pazold expressed strong support for the cameras, citing their role in stopping past gun violence in the city. The report was received and filed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Adopted 5-0: Residential Permit Parking for Beckenham Park (Item 5.2.1). Resolution adopted with corrections. Staff directed to send educational letters, conduct a warning period, and return in six months for a performance review. - Approved 3-1-1: Unrestricted Parking on Laguna Hills Drive (Item 5.2.2). Councilmember Pazold dissented; Councilmember Wheeler abstained. Staff directed to return with a resolution to implement the changes. - Approved Unanimously: CDBG Curb Ramp Project (Item 4.4). - Received and Filed: Public Safety Update (Item 5.3.1).

The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM with Councilmember Ashbeck absent. The flag salute was led by participants in the American Legion Boys & Girls State programs. The meeting included presentations, consent calendar approval, three public hearings, council comments, and a closed session on labor negotiations. Presentations & Proclamations - American Legion Boys & Girls State Certificates: Thirteen students from Clovis high schools were recognized for participating in the state-level civic education programs. Donna Wallace (American Legion Clovis Post 147 Boys & Girls State Chair) and Gloria Jean Sinopoli (Auxiliary Girls State Chair) presented certificates. One student shared that the program taught him the complexity of government and the importance of local voting. - Youth Commission Appointments: Chad McCollum and Briana Parra presented 21 youth commissioners for the 2026-2027 school year. Out of 54 applicants, 9 were reappointed and 12 newly appointed, representing schools including Buchanan, Clovis High, Clovis East, Clovis North, University High, and Phillips School of Entrepreneurship. The commission will meet monthly, plan service projects, and represent youth at city events. The council unanimously approved the appointments. Consent Calendar Items 3–14 were approved unanimously by a single motion. Notable consent items included: - Approval of August 17, 2026 meeting minutes. - First Amendment to the real property lease with PG&E for the Clovis Fire Training Center. - Participation in the State of California CAL-Card Purchasing Card Program through U.S. Bank. - Measure C Extension Local Transportation Pass Through Revenues certification for 2026-27. - Revision of the Measure C New Technology Reserve Grant from a one-year ($84,473) to a five-year ($466,142) project. - Update of the FTA Drug and Alcohol Policy for Clovis Transit. - Adoption of the Parks Maintenance Specialist classification with a salary range of $6,225 to $7,567 per month. - Rejection of a general liability claim on behalf of Vincent Espudo. - Authorization of the 2026-2027 Alcohol Policing Partnership grant agreement ($79,000). - Waiver of bidding for two frontloading and two sideloading refuse trucks ($2,095,095.56) and a Case 521G XT Wheel Loader ($222,074.09). Public Hearings Item 15: Williamson Act Contract Cancellation (AC2026-001) Associate Planner Marissa Parker presented a request to cancel a 1.16-acre portion of Land Conservation Contract No. 4826, located near the south side of E. Perrin Avenue, between N. Minnewawa Avenue and the N. Clovis Avenue alignment. The parcel, owned by Great Bigland, LP with Bonadelle Homes as applicant, became a remnant due to the planned Clovis Avenue alignment and is no longer feasible for agricultural use. A notice of non-renewal was filed in 2021. The cancellation fee (12.5% of fair market value) is $47,125, payable to the state. Staff found that all five required Williamson Act findings could be made. The council approved the resolution unanimously, with one absence. Item 16: 2025-2026 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) Housing Program Manager Claudia Cázares and Staff Analyst Holly Greathouse presented the CAPER for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Highlights from the 2025-26 program year: - Home Repair Grant Program: assisted 10 homeowners, expended $134,873. - Clovis Senior Center: increased average daily attendance by 200 persons using $47,035 in CDBG funds for enhanced services. - Marjorie Mason Center: served 314 persons in Clovis with $49,834 in CDBG funds for case management, legal advocacy, and safety planning. - Public infrastructure projects: Ashland-Helm Alley Reconstruction ($179,000) and ADA Sidewalks project on Sierra ($212,000) were completed. - Program administration: $142,151. - Clovis Culinary Center: funded 13 participants, who generated 26 full-time and 42 part-time jobs. Staff noted that some five-year goals were not fully met (e.g., housing rehabilitation reached 44% of households due to increased costs and staff turnover; public service goals reached 46% due to a HUD-mandated program switch). CDBG entitlement allocations ranged from $748,745 (year 1) to $710,759 (year 5). The council commended staff and unanimously approved the report for submission to HUD. Item 17: Annexation 77 to Community Facilities District No. 2004-1 (Police and Fire Services) Deputy Finance Director Angela Papazian explained that the annexation involved territory at the southeast corner of Willow and Shepherd (MFRDR 2021-002). The process included a public hearing and a special landowner election. No written or oral protests were filed. One ballot was received, representing 18 votes in favor; the property owner vote was unanimous. The council then approved: - Resolution 26- annexing the territory and calling the election (Item A) – approved unanimously. - Resolution 26- declaring the results and directing recording of the special tax lien (Item B) – approved unanimously. Council Comments & City Manager Updates - Councilmember Baskin: Reported on the North Kings water meeting, noting that enforcement of Sigma issues will be handled by FID (Fresno Irrigation District) rather than city personnel. - Councilmember Bessinger: Raised a constituent request for public notice before large-scale trail spraying; staff will follow up. Also suggested outreach to Fresno Unified students (e.g., Hoover High) for the Youth Commission, and expressed interest in visiting Southern California cities that have converted malls to multifamily housing. - Mayor Pro Tem Pierce: No additional comments. - Mayor Monatua: Announced BSN graduations at Samuel Merritt and Unitech; the 25-year celebration of TOLEDO'S; the grand opening of Eggbread (first franchise in Clovis); a youth soccer tournament hosted with Clovis East; opening of Desi Baz Bazaar (Indian grocery store); retirement of Jesse (30 years of service); a tour of the Heart Group development; the Clovis Passport event; cadet training collaboration with Clovis PD; and an EMS cohort graduation. - City Manager: Promoted upcoming events: Family Fun in the Park at St. Gabriel Park (Wednesday), Planning Commission special meeting (Thursday), 9/11 memorial ceremony with speaker Andy Isolano (Friday), and the Clovis Community Watch kickoff (September 14). Closed Session The council convened in closed session under Government Code Section 54957.6 to confer with labor negotiators regarding the Transit Employees Bargaining Unit. No reportable action was taken. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items and public hearing items were approved by a vote of 4-0 (with Councilmember Ashbeck absent). - The Youth Commission appointments were confirmed unanimously. - The CAPER report will be submitted to HUD. - Annexation 77 to CFD 2004-1 was finalized, allowing imposition of the special tax for police and fire services.

The Minden City Council met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM at 520 Broadway Street. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Nick Cox, followed by a prayer from Councilman Levon "Charlie" Thomas and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilwoman Latasha Mitchell. All council members were present. There were no additions to the agenda. Public comments were permitted prior to each vote. Consent Calendar - Minutes (Items 1-2): Unanimously adopted the minutes of the August 3, 2026 workshop and regular session. Public Comments & Testimony - Joven Hardy (709 Rebecca Street, District C): Questioned a $788 utility bill for 74,324 gallons of water, seeking information on the SMART meter system and the dispute process. Mayor Cox offered to meet after the meeting to discuss her account. - Nisa Murray (703 Sibley Road): Announced the second annual Angel Baby Fun Run and Halo Fest in October for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Invited the council and community to participate. - Unidentified Citizen (female): Expressed fear for her safety, alleging that people are following her, knocking on her door, and entering her yard. She stated that she reported these issues to Councilman Carlton "Buddy" Myles and the police chief but received no help, and that police once hospitalized her for nine days. Mayor Cox again offered to meet after the meeting. Discussion Items - Audit Presentation (Item 3): Tim Green of Allen, Green & Williamson, LLP presented the FY 2024-2025 audit. He explained that the city received a dual opinion: an "ugly opinion" (disclaimer) for not including the city marshal and city court, but a clean, unmodified opinion for the primary government (the city). Financial highlights: $25.6 million in operating revenues for proprietary funds (electric, sewer, water), a $500,000 operating deficit, and a $3 million net position loss due to the power vendor change, leaving a $22 million fund balance. Two of three prior-year findings were cleared; a repeat finding on controls over financial reporting remained. New findings included bank reconciliation issues and payroll attendance documentation. The city will need to retest all 14 statewide agreed-upon procedures in the next year. - Resolutions (Items 4-10): Unanimously adopted: - (4) Credit card signatory power for Deputy Chiefs Christopher Cheatham and Tokia Harrison. - (5) Local services agreement with the Haughton Fire Prevention Bureau for interim building inspection services after the building official retired. - (6) Agreement with LA DOTD for annual airport maintenance funding (State Project H.016951). - (7) Acceptance of Grant No. H.016342 for bidding, design, and Phase I construction of airport wildlife perimeter fencing. Work to start September 2026. - (8) Ratification of Mayor Cox's acceptance of FAA Grant No. 3-22-0032-020-2026 for perimeter fencing. - (9) Request for LA DOTD Division of Aviation funds for airport improvements per the Capital Improvement Program application. - (10) Annual certification of compliance with the Off-System Bridge Replacement Program. - Ordinances (Items 11-13): - (11) Ordinance No. 1172 – Annual Bridge Maintenance Report: Unanimously adopted. - (12) Ordinance No. 1173 – Fireworks Ordinance Amendment: Changed the cutoff time for fireworks on July 4th from 10:00 PM to midnight. Vote: 4-1 (Councilman Andy Pendergrass voted no). - (13) Ordinance No. 1174 – Beautification/Property Maintenance Ordinance: Established a city beautification crew. After a 10-day notice, if property owners fail to mow grass or remove trash, the city may do so and assess a $500 fine for grass and $250 for trash removal. Unanimously adopted. - Personnel (Item 14): Unanimously approved promotion of Lieutenant Spencer Tippen to Police Captain, upon recommendation of Police Chief Jerry McGuyer. - Final Plat Approval (Item 15): Unanimously approved a lot split of property owned by Maximar Properties, LLC at 700 Main Street, as recommended by the Planning Commission. - Reports (Items 16-18): - Budget/Financial Report for July 2026: Presented by City Clerk Melaney Sanders. Sales tax collections for June 2026 were $746,918.08, a 12.13% decrease from June 2025 ($850,009.39), attributed to lower electrical equipment sales and delinquent payments. Alcohol tax reached 94% of budget; cell phone/gas franchise fee at 87%. No motion required. - Fire Report for August 2026: Not presented due to a structure fire. - Police Report for July 2026: Presented and accepted unanimously. - Announcements: Mayor Cox announced citywide fire hydrant flow testing from September 9-11, 2026, which may cause temporary dirty water. Councilman Carlton "Buddy" Myles announced National Night Out on September 22, 2026. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously except Ordinance No. 1173 (fireworks), which passed 4-1. - The audit for FY 2024-2025 was accepted unanimously. - The promotion of Spencer Tippen to Police Captain was approved. - The final plat for the Maximar Properties lot split was approved. - Budget, police, and other reports were accepted. - Mayor Cox offered to meet individually with citizens regarding utility billing and public safety concerns.

The Hobbs City Commission met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City Commission Chamber. The meeting included public comments, a detailed discussion on long-term financial sustainability, and several action items. The commission approved all consent agenda items and most action items, with two airline subsidy resolutions passing 6-1. Consent Calendar - Resolution No. 7823: Adopting Uniform Advisory Board Parliamentary Procedure Guidelines. - Resolution No. 7824: Deleting obsolete library books. - Resolution No. 7825: Authorizing an electrical power line easement with Southwestern Public Service Company. - Resolution No. 7826: First Amendment to Infrastructure Development Agreement with Property Management Plus, LLC. - Resolution No. 7827: First Amendment to Infrastructure Development Agreement with Stuard Development, LLC. - Resolution No. 7828: Partial relinquishment of ground leases for Lot 8A of Hobbs Industrial Airpark South. - Resolution No. 7829: Authorizing grant submission to the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. - Item 7: Purchase of 27 NEMA TS2 traffic signal controllers from MoboTrex, LLC for $155,986.56. Public Comments & Testimony - Angelica urged the city to keep park lights on until midnight, opposed Flock cameras (citing misuse by law enforcement), and criticized McDonald's for using city water to clean parking lots during water restrictions. - Lorraine Viegas questioned the purpose of additional smart water meters, expressed concerns about water rights sales (11.6 million barrels annually), and called for more public engagement and town halls beyond the Westminster 5G tower issue. Discussion Items - Long Term Financial Sustainability Options: City Manager Manny Gomez, Assistant City Manager Todd Randall, and Finance Director Deb Corral presented an analysis of the city's revenue challenges. Key points included: - The city is not in a crisis but faces structural revenue shortfalls due to House Bill 6 (HB6), which reduced gross receipts tax (GRT) revenue from oil and gas businesses. - Since HB6, the city's GRT rate has remained essentially unchanged since 2002, while costs have risen. The current GRT rate is 6.5625%, one of the lowest in New Mexico. - Revenue has flatlined, with significant volatility (e.g., a 32% drop in 2021). The city relies on a 30% reserve (mandated minimum 8.33%) to buffer swings. - Unfunded capital needs total $363 million over five years, including $100 million for road maintenance, $10 million for facilities, $49 million for water/sewer infrastructure, and $200 million for fleet replacement. - Options to increase revenue include raising the local option GRT (up to 0.6125% without a public vote, generating $14.7 million/year) or going to a public vote for a higher increase (up to 1.0625%, generating $25.5 million/year). - Mayor Jonathan Sena expressed support for a GRT increase as an investment in public safety, infrastructure, and the city's future. - Commissioner Smith noted the rate was 7.1875% in 2004 and called for a return to that level to cover operating costs (targeting 90% of GRT for operations) and address capital needs. - Commissioner Fields urged exhausting all efficiencies before raising taxes, citing the burden on citizens. - Commissioner Calderon appreciated the presentation and looked forward to staff bringing back options. - Commissioner Mills emphasized the choice between growth (like Midland/Odessa) and decline (like Snyder, TX or Encino, NM). - Staff was directed to prepare a range of options and consider a public work session before bringing an ordinance for publication. Key Outcomes - Resolution No. 7830: Authorized submission of grant applications to the New Mexico Finance Authority Water Trust Board for three water/sewer projects (total $1.3 million, 100% grant). Passed 7-0. - Purchase of Smart Water Meters: Approved $572,780 for final phase of water meter upgrade (790 meters, 3/4-inch to 6-inch) via state pricing agreement. Passed 7-0. (Commissioner Mills suggested a data privacy policy for future use of smart meter data.) - Purchase of Fleet Vehicles: Approved $131,801.50 for two replacement utility vehicles (F-250 and F-450). Passed 7-0. - Resolution No. 7831: Authorized MOA with Lea County for commercial airline subsidy (United) for FY2027 (city share $2,720,982, already budgeted). Passed 6-1. - Resolution No. 7832: Authorized MOA with Lea County for JSX airline subsidy (total $2.8 million, mostly grant-funded; city share $275,000). Passed 6-1. - Resolution No. 7833: Approved professional services agreement with Hobbs Municipal Schools for middle school athletic programs ($75,000, plus $75,000 for facility upgrades). Passed 7-0. Upcoming Meetings - Monday, September 21, 2026, 6:00 PM - Monday, October 5, 2026, 6:00 PM - Monday, October 19, 2026, 6:00 PM

The Faribault City Council met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included the swearing-in of a new council member and a fire captain, recognition of life-saving efforts, and approval of the preliminary property tax levy for 2027 along with several resolutions for infrastructure and cannabis licensing. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda – Amended to move Resolution 2026-273 (Appointment of Kymn Anderson) to immediately follow the agenda approval. The amended agenda was approved unanimously. - Approval of Minutes – Minutes from August 25 (regular and two closed sessions) and September 1, 2026 were approved. - Consent Agenda (Items 6A-6J) – Approved unanimously, including claims lists, board minutes, hiring firefighters, utility billing policy update, purchase agreement for 20 1st Street SW, tuition reimbursement agreement, purchase of a 2026 John Deere 4066R compact utility trailer, creation of an administrative coordinator position, acceptance of a donation to Parks and Recreation, and a special assessment hearing for 2025 Miscellaneous Street Reconstruction. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received. Discussion Items - Swearing-In of Chris Bauer as Fire Captain – Fire Chief Dusty Deeds administered the oath. Bauer has served 25 years with the department, 10 full-time. Badge number 2160. - Faribault Police Department Award Presentation – Police Chief John Sherwin recognized city employees, citizens, and first responders who saved a man in cardiac arrest at the community center on August 6, 2026. Recipients included: Julie Weir, Rochelle Anderholm Parsh, Devin Pawararick, Stacy Zensen, Mary Tatke, Kevin O'Brien, Chloe Christiansen, firefighter Rick Martinez, firefighter John Vargo, police officer Christopher Ferris, paramedic Javier Barajas, and EMT Michelle Bauer. Certificates were presented. - American Red Cross Award Presentation – Melanie Cheetah, Executive Director of the Southern Minnesota chapter, presented awards to six individuals as the "Faribo Community Center Life Saving Response Team": Kevin O'Brien, Mary Tadi Taji, Rachelle Anderholm Parsh, Stacey Zensen, Devin Pawarek, and Chloe Christensen. The survivor, who was visiting from Arizona, watched via livestream. - Ordinance 2026-12 – Zoning Map Amendment for 17575 38th St NW – Second reading approved unanimously (roll call vote 7-0). Rezones property from TUD to I1 Light Industrial. Summary publication also approved. - Resolution 2026-261 – 2027 Preliminary Property Tax Levy – City Administrator Jessica Kinzer presented the levy overview. Total levy of $16.5 million, an 8.58% increase for property owners. Market value grew 5.4%; net tax capacity increased 3.5%. General fund expenditures nearly $27 million. LGA is 26% of general fund revenue, property tax revenue is the largest. The preliminary levy uses 55.95% of available tax dollars (highest since 2018). Fund 240 (Community and Economic Development) requests $403,000; tax abatement fund $188,000; debt service funds reduced. No new debt proposed for 2027. The HRA and EDA max levies are $465,000 and $456,000 respectively. The final levy will be set December 8, 2026. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026-262 – Faribault EDA 2027 Preliminary Tax Levy – Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026-263 – Faribault HRA 2027 Preliminary Tax Levy – Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026-270 – Westwood Drive Stormwater Treatment Structure – Approved plans, specs, and bid date for Contract 2026-15. Estimated cost $230,000 from stormwater utility fund. Will meet MS4 permit requirements for water quality treatment. Bid opening end of September, likely spring 2027 construction. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026-273 – Appointment of Kymn Anderson to Vacant City Council and Mill Towns State Trail Joint Powers Board – After a procedural correction, the appointment was approved unanimously. Anderson was sworn in earlier in the meeting. - Resolution 2026-276 – Cannabis Mezzobusiness for Faribo Greens LLC – Approved unanimously. Faribo Greens (located at 1512 30th Street NW) requested upgrade from micro business (up to 5,000 sq ft canopy) to mezzobusiness (up to 15,000 sq ft canopy) due to increased demand. No retail endorsement currently; manufacturing endorsement held. All planning regulations met. - Resolution 2026-271 – 2025 Miscellaneous Watermain Improvements – Approved plans, specs, and bid date for Contract 2025-07. Four segments of watermain replacement or looping, total estimated cost $1.375 million. Directional drilling. Funding re-budgeted into 2026. Bid opening October 13, 2026. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Kymn Anderson was sworn in as a new council member and appointed to the Mill Towns State Trail Joint Powers Board. - Chris Bauer sworn in as Fire Captain. - Life-saving awards presented to six city employees and first responders; Red Cross awards given. - Preliminary tax levies for City, EDA, and HRA set at maximum amounts for 2027. Final levy will be set December 8. - Westwood Drive stormwater treatment project approved for bidding. - Faribo Greens cannabis mezzobusiness license upgrade approved. - Two Rivers Siphon Improvements contract awarded to Geislinger & Sons, Inc. for $1,850,719 (with $176,000 in value engineering savings to be formalized). Approved. - 2026 ReLEAF Tree Removal Program contract awarded to CARS Tree Service for $173,737. Grant-funded program removes diseased ash trees for income-qualified homeowners; 114 trees identified. - Upcoming meeting: September 9 Council Chat at Central Park (5:00 PM).

The Greeley City Council held a special meeting on September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM to consider a resolution approving a pre-annexation agreement between the City and GlobalAI (Colorado) LLC, and to authorize the City Attorney to prepare related documents. The pre-annexation agreement establishes an 18-month framework to negotiate potential annexation of a property in unincorporated Weld County, historically served by Greeley water under a contract expiring March 2027. The council voted 6-1 to adopt the resolution, with Councilmember Huddleston dissenting. Discussion: Resolution Approving Pre-Annexation Agreement with GlobalAI City staff (Joan Hall) presented the pre-annexation agreement, emphasizing that it does not annex the property, establish zoning, or approve a development plan. Instead, it creates a contractual framework for the city and GlobalAI to work through annexation and related issues by March 31, 2028. Key terms include continued water service conditioned upon annexation, GlobalAI assuming responsibility for infrastructure transition, and preservation of the city's regulatory authority. Councilmember Huddleston expressed concerns about water use, noting that the developer's plans (to be discussed with Weld County) involve cooling towers that may not be closed-loop. He questioned how water consumption would be limited, as the agreement does not specify a maximum acre-foot allowance. Staff responded that the developer intends to use existing buildings and that the city will further investigate the cooling system over the 18-month period. Councilmember DeBoutez raised numerous concerns, including water use, energy sources and emissions, treated water quality monitoring, noise impacts on nearby residents and wildlife (along the Poudre River), long-term remediation plans for the property, and community benefits beyond tax revenue. Councilmember Olson noted that he has forwarded all emails received about the data center to community development staff for preparation of answers. Key Outcomes - Resolution approving pre-annexation agreement (Item 4): Passed 6-1. Voting aye: DeBoutez, McDonald, Olson, Rudy, Roth, Hall. Voting nay: Huddleston. Huddleston stated he did not feel the issues were adequately resolved and noted the upcoming Weld County meeting. - Motion authorizing City Attorney (Item 5): Passed 7-0 on a voice vote. - The meeting adjourned at 6:14 PM.