The Public Meeting Index

The Town Board met on September 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM following an initial executive session for legal advice and personnel matters. The meeting covered resolutions for bill payments, budget discussions, expense authorizations for infrastructure projects, a public hearing date for parking code amendments, and personnel appointments. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the July 28, 2026 Regular Meeting/Worksession. - Approval of monthly reports for August 2026 from the Building Inspector, Highway Department, Planning Board, Police Department, Receiver of Taxes, Recreation, Supervisor, and Town Clerk. Discussion Items - Budget and Bill Payment Process: Supervisor Warren and board members discussed recurring issues with line-items showing insufficient funds (pink slips) when overall budget balances were adequate. The debate centered on the level of detail in state-mandated accounting codes, the need for budget transfers, and the timeline for processing vouchers. It was agreed that part-time staffer Judy would handle detailed coding under guidance, and department heads would receive view-only system access to monitor their lines. - Resolution 5 – AriaFiltra Expense ($6,789.16): Authorized purchase of valves for Peach Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant, with 100% reimbursement from New York City DEP. A negative balance on the designated line was noted; Supervisor Warren stated that reimbursement would correct it. - Resolution 6 – Radwell Expense (up to $5,000): Authorized purchase of a used variable speed blower VFD (opened box) for Peach Lake, not reimbursed. Discussion included the need to adjust funds from other lines to cover a negative balance. - Resolution 7 – Hach Company Agreement ($4,816): Authorized annual service of a turbidity cleaning module for Peach Lake WWTP, fully reimbursed by DEP. The charge line was specified as 050-8130.455. - Resolution 8 – Set Public Hearing on Parking Local Law: The board set a public hearing for September 22, 2026 at 7:00 PM to consider rescinding Local Law 3-2026 and amending Chapter 220 (Vehicles and Traffic) regarding parking restrictions on certain roads. Members expressed frustration with DOT's refusal to install signs and raised broader traffic safety concerns, including on Route 22 in Croton Falls. - Resolution 10 – WRT Expense ($117,510): Authorized purchase and installation of uranium removal portable exchange system at Sunset Ridge Water District. The expense will be funded through a capital account; a budget modification resolution will be presented at the next meeting. - Resolution 13 – Personnel Appointments: Jalen J. Balding was appointed as a part-time police officer at an hourly rate of $47.62 effective September 9, 2026 (probationary period 12–52 weeks). Also, a third annual step increase of $1,000 for Assessment Assistant Alexia Vasilio, effective September 1, 2026, was approved. - Worksession Item – Auxiliary Heating Solutions for Delancey Hall: This agenda item was not discussed; the board deferred it. Key Outcomes - Approved payment of town bills totaling $1,997 and highway bills totaling $49,635.36. - Authorized a tax refund of $1,243 to NAS Road Holdings LLC (two parcels). - Approved expenses for AriaFiltra, Radwell, Hach Company, and WRT as detailed above. - Set a public hearing for September 22, 2026 regarding parking code amendments. - Authorized opening a new bank account at Beacon Bank (formerly Putnam County Savings Bank) for in-lieu-of-parkland and recreation scholarship deposits. - Approved budget transfers moving funds from Supervisor contractual line to cover office supplies ($1,553), unallocated insurance ($663), legal expenses ($46.14), and vehicle maintenance ($2,000). - All monthly departmental reports were accepted as delivered. - The meeting was recessed for a second executive session (legal advice) and then adjourned.

The Winston-Salem City Council met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. All nine council members were present. The meeting included a moment of silence for the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, an honorary resolution recognizing first responders, a city manager update on transit and community events, and action on a consent agenda and five general agenda items. City Manager Update - City Manager Pat Pate reported on the implementation of the new WSTA transit network (West Division Network) on Sunday, September 6. Director Jeff Fansler noted the changes included increased 30-minute headways for 70% of routes and two new crosstown routes (WSTA X West and WSTA X South). The first week went well with minor hiccups; staff helped confused riders. A microtransit pilot is planned for January 2027. Councilmember Andree-Bowen shared positive feedback from riding the WSTA X West route. Pate also announced: - Yard waste sticker adhesion issues resolved; new stickers ordered, and collection continues. - A new greenway guide, Long Branch Trail public meeting (Sept. 30), Salem Creek Greenway survey, and upcoming events (International Village Festival, Rural Hall area plan meeting, City Services Expo, Keep Winston-Salem Beautiful Big Sweep cleanup on Oct. 3). - The city received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for fiscal year 2026. Honorary Resolution - H-1: A resolution honoring the memory of September 11, 2001, and recognizing first responders was adopted unanimously (8 aye, with Mayor Joines not voting). Fire Chief Trey Mayo and Assistant Police Chief Jake Swaim accepted the resolution and spoke about the lasting impact of 9/11 on public safety. Consent Calendar The following items were approved by a single consent vote (8 aye, Mayor not voting) after items C-4 and C-8 were removed for separate discussion: - C-1: Grant from NC Governor's Highway Safety Program for BikeSafe Regional Coordinator. - C-2: Grant for Forsyth County Joint DWI Task Force and interlocal agreements. - C-3: Grant for WSPD Overtime Traffic Enforcement and associated budget ordinances. - C-5: Public hearing date (Oct. 5, 2026) for closing a portion of South Spring Street. - C-6: Abandonment and relocation of access easement on Tax PIN 6867-50-1123. - C-7: Supplemental NCDOT funding ($2,086,722) for Silas Creek Parkway Sidewalk Project. - C-9: Construction contract ($968,622.64) to Robbins Construction Group for Miller Park Improvements. - C-10: Approval of additional sole source vendors for FY 2026-2027. - C-11: Debt payment agreement ($42.70) with Mineral Springs Volunteer Fire Department. - C-12: FY 2026-2027 budget ordinance amendments. - C-13: Approval of city council minutes from August 17, 2026, June 22, 2026, and June 15, 2026. Discussion Items - C-4: Resolution rescinding $2,258,234 HOME-ARP funding allocation to Step Up America. - Shereka Floyd, Home Programs Manager, presented the item. The remaining budget after approved projects is $2,572,567; $2,258,234 was allocated to Step Up America and is being rescinded due to difficulty finding developers willing to partner for very low-income housing. Councilmember Adams asked about past uses of HOME-ARP funds (rental arrears, non-congregate shelter) and stressed the need for auditing compliance. The council voted unanimously to approve. - C-8: Resolution amending WSTA Extreme Weather and Special Events Fare Policy. - Jeff Fansler presented the amendment to provide fare-free service the entire operational day when thresholds are met, simplifying communication and ensuring round-trip coverage. Current thresholds are 95°F (or 100°F heat index) for heat and wind chill at or below 20°F for cold. Councilmember Joiner noted that a heat index of 104°F occurred on a 93°F day and moved to amend the policy to define extreme heat as a heat index of 100°F or above, eliminating the 95°F threshold. Fansler supported the change. The motion passed unanimously. General Agenda - G-1: Demolition of 2608 Stockton Street (Southeast Ward). Public hearing opened and closed with no speakers. Council approved unanimously (8 aye). - G-2: Demolition of 3005 Teresa Avenue (Northeast Ward). Public hearing opened and closed with no speakers. Councilmember Burke requested a list of all properties being considered for demolition with estimated costs. The motion passed 7-1 (Councilmember Joiner voted no). - G-3: Demolition of 1511 Attucks Street (East Ward). Public hearing opened and closed with no speakers. Council approved unanimously (8 aye). - G-4: Designating the Chatham Block as a Local Historic Landmark. - Michelle McCullough, Historic Resources Officer, presented. The designation covers exterior, interior, and site due to architectural significance (Harold Macland design) and commercial significance (businesses run by women, including Montaldo's). The Forsyth County Historic Resource Commission and State Historic Preservation Office recommended approval. A public hearing was held with no speakers. Council approved unanimously (8 aye). - G-5: Ordinance amending Chapter 38 to allow state/federal wildlife officers to discharge rifles at Smith Reynolds Airport for deer and wild turkey elimination, extended through August 31, 2027. Council approved unanimously (8 aye). Closed Session - The council moved into closed session (N.C.G.S. §143-318.11(a)(6)) to conduct the city manager's annual performance evaluation. Motion to enter passed 8 aye; motion to exit also passed 8 aye. Key Outcomes - Votes: All items except G-2 (7-1) passed with either 8 aye (unanimous) or, for G-2, 7 aye, 1 nay. Mayor Joines did not vote except on the consent agenda voice vote. - Directive: Councilmember Burke requested that staff provide a detailed list of all properties under demolition consideration with estimated costs. - Next Steps: The public hearing for closing South Spring Street is set for October 5, 2026. Microtransit pilot zones for WSTA are expected in January 2027. Council will receive the demolition property list at a future meeting.

The Testing and Recruiting Committee of the Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission met on September 8, 2026, at 4:30 PM in City Hall Room 301-B. Commissioners present: La Nelle Ramey (Chair), Ramon Evans (Vice-Chair), and Miriam Horwitz. Commissioner Dana World-Patterson was excused. Executive Director Leon Todd also attended. The committee received updates on firefighter/cadet and police officer/aide recruitment and hiring efforts, including detailed demographic data and new initiatives. Consent Calendar - FPC212690: Resolution approving the July 7, 2026, meeting minutes. Motion by Commissioner Evans, second by Commissioner Horwitz. Voice vote carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present in person or online for public comment. The public comment portion was closed without testimony. Discussion Items - Firefighter and Fire Cadet Recruitment (FPC212691): Edwin Shocker (HR Rep for Fire) and Annika Kramer (HR Assistant) presented. Key points: - Fire cadet applications have grown year-over-year; the current recruitment cycle is tracking similarly to 2025 (353 viable applicants at peak). - Female representation in cadet classes has declined: from 7.69% in 2022 to 0% in the latest recruitment (all male). Female candidates experienced a disproportionate drop-off of about 80% at the written test stage versus 50% for males. - The new Fire Express testing model (mobile-friendly, no scheduling) aims to increase participation from the current 23% to a target of 35%. - Partnerships with Women in Fire and targeted outreach to female athletes (e.g., rugby leagues) are underway. FPC recruiter Jocelyn Morales is contacting high school counselors weekly. - For the August 2026 firefighter class, the class was 96% male, 4% female. The department noted that family legacy hires (sons/daughters of current firefighters) can skew demographics. - Commissioner Evans suggested using media like Milwaukee Tonight and in-school cafeteria competitions for recruitment; staff will follow up. - Police Officer and Police Aide Recruitment (FPC212692): Executive Director Lee Todd presented. Key points: - Applications for police officers increased from 1,200 in 2024 to 1,800 in 2025, and year-to-date 2026 has already reached 1,817 (about 50 per week). - Despite more applicants, new hire classes have remained in the 30–40 range (Class 1: 40, Class 2: 30, plus 5 laterals). The eligible list for the December 2026 class has 101 candidates, with 84 still in process; a class of 50+ is anticipated. - Average sworn strength (excluding recruits and grant-funded) has increased incrementally since Act 12 (2023): +10 FTEs in 2024, +1 in 2025. - Demographics: Class 2 (August 2026) had over 20% female; the eligible list for December has only 10% female – a concern. - New initiatives: a three-month recruitment cycle (closed Aug, reopens Oct), MKE Badge Bound events, a new express exam (June 2026), a bifurcated PRT, and a new vendor (NTN). - A new recruitment video was shown (available at joinmilwaukeepd.com). - Commissioner Evans suggested a focus group with applicants who did not complete testing, possibly incentivized with gift cards. Staff noted past surveys had low response but may revisit with the new online testing. - A potential public safety track at Pulaski High School, with MATC involvement, is in early discussion. Key Outcomes - The committee approved the July 7, 2026, meeting minutes. - No formal action was taken on the recruitment communications; they were received as information. - Staff will consider Commissioner Evans' suggestions for expanded media outreach, focus groups, and gift card incentives for testing feedback. - The committee will continue to monitor recruitment and hiring metrics, with the next update expected at a future meeting.

The Clayton County Board of Commissioners held a work session on September 8, 2026, at 5:30 PM. Only one commissioner was present initially, later joined by Commissioner Hambrick. The meeting covered three main agenda items: the Fresh Hope mobile hygiene program, the 2027 employee benefits plan, and a proposed cell tower development program. No votes were taken; the session was for discussion and information gathering. Discussion Items - Fresh Hope Lather and Load Program: Brandy Cousin Sims and other representatives from Leadership Clayton class of 2026 presented the Fresh Hope initiative, which provides mobile showers, restrooms, and laundry services to unhoused and underhoused individuals. They reported that at their first event on July 11, 2026, eight individuals were permanently housed within 16 days. At a subsequent event on August 15, 2026, they served 27 showers and 40 families with laundry, with over 150 total participants. The program partners with Hearts to Nourish Hope, Ujima Wade, and others. They requested a board endorsement, not funding, and asked for support to establish intergovernmental agreements with municipalities. Commissioners asked about sustainability beyond the Leadership Clayton class and were told the group is seeking 501c3 status and partnering with Hearts to Nourish Hope. The board indicated they would consider the request. - 2027 Benefits Plan Year: HR Director Pam Ambles and consultants from Marsh McClellan Agency (MMA) presented the 2027 employee benefits renewals. Medical trends projected a $2 million increase, partially offset by moderate plan changes. Proposed changes include increasing the low deductible plan deductibles from $1,000/$2,000 to $1,500/$3,000, raising out-of-pocket maximums, and increasing the spousal surcharge from $50 to $75 per month. The United Healthcare self-funded medical plan initially showed a 16% increase but was reduced to about 10% with plan changes. The Kaiser plan had a 5% increase initially, expected to lower after matching plan changes. Medicare plans for retirees had modest increases. The wellness platform will transition from Sonic Boom to Wellable, saving $57,800 annually, with a new quantum health front door. The dental plan will add adult orthodontia, increasing costs by $90,000. Commissioners emphasized the need to communicate changes to employees and noted the conflict between a 2% COLA for employees and rising healthcare costs. No vote was taken; formal action will occur at the next meeting. - Clayton County Cell Tower Program: Director Mendoza introduced Matt Forkas from Milestone Towers, who proposed a program to develop cell towers on county-owned properties to address coverage gaps and generate revenue. Milestone would finance, construct, and manage the towers at no cost to the county. A 40-year ground lease was proposed, but the county attorney noted that the board cannot commit to a straight 40-year term; typical structures involve initial terms with renewal options. Revenue estimates: $12,000 per year for the first tenant, $9,500 for each additional tenant (three major carriers), plus a one-time $30,000 site payment at construction. The tower footprint would be 50x50 feet. Milestone agreed to hold town hall meetings for community input. Commissioners questioned the lease term, potential impact on future county development, and the need for competitive bidding. The presentation was informational. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the work session. - The Fresh Hope program was presented for consideration; the board will deliberate further. - The 2027 benefits plan changes and wellness platform transition will be placed on a future agenda for a vote. - The cell tower program proposal will be reviewed for legal and procurement requirements before potential action.

The Community Affairs Committee met on September 8, 2026, at 10:30 AM to consider two agenda items: the reappointment of Amy Carroll to the Public Art for Neighborhoods Selection Committee and a budget hearing for Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS). The meeting included a unanimous vote on the reappointment and a detailed budget presentation followed by public comment. Discussion Items - Reappointment of Amy Carroll to the Public Art for Neighborhoods Selection Committee – Carroll, a professional artist with 27 years of experience and a committee member since inception, spoke about her continued interest. Councilor Cahill noted an attendance record showing three missed meetings, but Carroll disputed the accuracy, stating she had attended all but one canceled meeting. The committee moved to approve the reappointment. - Budget Hearing for Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) – The director presented IACS’s priorities, staffing, and accomplishments. Highlights included: - A newly hired veterinarian (starting December 1) with a $300,000 salary, projected to save $375,000 annually by reducing outsourcing. - A 60% growth in volunteers (from 161 to 258) since last year, attributed to the new shelter and a volunteer coordinator. - A 17% increase in adoptions and improved live outcomes. - Workplace safety improvements: injury claims dropped from a peak of 65 to 42 among a workforce of 74. - A total budget increase of about $2.1 million, primarily for personnel, supplies, professional services, vehicles, and chargebacks. - Staffing: 74 employees after six recent hires; plans to hire additional kennel staff using vacancy savings (attrition reduced from 15% to 5%). - Revenue from adoption fees ($60 each) and other fees is expected to increase significantly in 2027. Councilors asked about savings from the veterinarian, workplace safety details, volunteers, kennel staffing, spay/neuter costs, public outreach, and the Citizens Academy. Director and CFO James Finnlayson responded, noting that kennel staffing remains a priority and that a new Public Information Officer (PIO) could enhance community outreach. Public Comments & Testimony - Donna Casamento (CEO of IndyHumane, board member of Operation Indy Animals and Indiana Coalition of Animal Welfare Professionals) – Expressed strong support for investing in IACS, emphasizing the need for adequate staffing and dedicated funding for accessible spay/neuter services to prevent overpopulation. She stated that prevention saves taxpayer resources. - Chris Roberson (volunteer since 2002, IACS board member, resident of Councilor Gibson’s district) – Commended the director’s leadership, highlighted the acute need for more kennel staff due to labor-intensive cleaning systems in the new shelter, and urged funding for community outreach to enforce the unaltered animal registry ordinance. - Union President (Local 725) (representing IACS workers) – Praised the positive atmosphere under new leadership, confirmed understaffing, and requested council support for additional staff and resources. Key Outcomes - Reappointment Vote: The committee voted unanimously (all ayes) to recommend Amy Carroll’s reappointment to the full council with a “do pass” recommendation. - Budget Hearing: No vote was taken on the IACS budget; the matter will be heard again at a future meeting. The meeting adjourned after closing remarks thanking the director and staff for their progress.

At a special meeting on September 8, 2026, the Sarasota City Commission held the first public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget, unanimously approving six resolutions setting millage rates and budgets for the City, the Golden Gate Point Streetscape Special District, and the Downtown Improvement District. The Commission also unanimously adopted an ordinance updating the Capital Improvements Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, including level-of-service projects and the school board's five-year capital schedule. Public Comments & Testimony - Citizen's Input – Dan Lobeck (City resident, business owner, homeowner): Expressed strong opposition to proposed amendments to the Transportation Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, arguing they would eliminate current developer requirements to fund road improvements and would embrace bumper-to-bumper congestion. He claimed public input opportunities were scant and that staff had engaged in improper one-on-one lobbying of commissioners. He submitted a legal letter purporting to show that the city can still require developer contributions even with a multimodal fee. - Public Hearing – Martin Hyde (speaker): Stated the budget increase of 6.1% ($18 million) is double the rate of inflation. Criticized past city management missteps (referencing "Yuppie Tower" losses, parking revenue shortfalls of $80,000/month due to not raising rates 50 cents/hour, performing arts center design costs, Bobby Jones clubhouse design costs, and unbudgeted staff raises). Cited potential liabilities including an eight-figure lawsuit payout (Ziegler), FLOCK camera misuse litigation, and stormwater interlocal agreement termination. Opposed the budget as fiscally unsustainable. - Public Hearing – Dan Lobeck: Criticized the budget for not funding $1.5 million in parking garage elevator repairs, forcing the city to raise Sunday and night parking fees. Proposed cutting $3 million for the 10th Street road diet (calling it illogical given nearby 500-unit development), $1.39 million for removing 100 parking spaces on Main Street, and $6 million for the Sarasota Performing Arts Center from the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) – arguing the center was not approved by voters. He suggested redirecting funds to the garage repairs. Discussion Items - Budget Presentation (Kelly Strickland, Director of Financial Administration): Reported the total proposed FY2027 budget is $322.363 million, an increase of $18.8 million (6.19%) over the prior year. The proposed General Fund millage is unchanged at 3.2730 mills; the aggregate millage rate (including special districts) is 3.3430 mills, 1.92% above the rolled-back rate. Citywide debt service millage decreased to 0.1305 mills. Golden Gate operating millage unchanged at 0.6148 mills; debt service decreased slightly to 0.4977 mills. Downtown Improvement District millage unchanged at 2.0000 mills. The final public hearing is September 21, 2026. - Questions on Aggregate Millage: Vice Mayor Ohlrich and Mayor Trice asked how the aggregate millage rate is calculated. Ms. Strickland explained it is a composite derived from assessed values and revenues across all three taxing districts, as required by the Truth in Millage (TRIM) state law. - Discussion on Ordinance 26-5607 (David Smith, Manager of Long-Range Planning): The ordinance updates the comprehensive plan's Capital Improvements Chapter (CIP) by incorporating projects from the five-year CIP adopted with the budget and the school board's capital schedule. Commissioner Ahearn-Koch asked why the Whitaker Bayou Bridge was not listed; staff clarified it is a Florida DOT bridge, not in the city's CIP. The John Ringling Causeway is also DOT-maintained, but appears tied to Bird Key Bridge work; staff will investigate. She also asked that the MLK/Myrtle roundabouts be split into two separate projects in city documents to align with the MPO's approach; staff committed to making the adjustment next fiscal year. Key Outcomes - Resolution 26R-3417 (City Millage): Approved unanimously (5-0). Sets General Fund operating millage at 3.2730 and debt service millage at 0.1305. - Resolution 26R-3418 (City Budget): Approved unanimously (5-0). Adopts the total city budget of $322,363,000 for FY2027. - Resolution 26R-3419 (Golden Gate Point Streetscape Millage): Approved unanimously (5-0). Sets operating millage at 0.6148 and debt service millage at 0.4977. - Resolution 26R-3420 (Golden Gate Point Streetscape Budget): Approved unanimously (5-0). Adopts the district's budget. - Resolution 26R-3421 (Downtown Improvement District Millage): Approved unanimously (5-0). Sets operating millage at 2.0000 mills. - Resolution 26R-3422 (Downtown Improvement District Budget): Approved unanimously (5-0). Adopts the district's budget. - Ordinance 26-5607 (Capital Improvements Chapter Update): Approved unanimously (5-0). Updates level-of-service projects and incorporates the school board's five-year capital schedule.

The Chesapeake City Council convened at 6:30 PM on September 8, 2026, following a 5:15 PM work session on cannabis sales regulation. The regular meeting included a public hearing, approval of multiple property acquisitions and grants, and extensive citizen comments on voting precinct changes, public safety, and development issues. All votes were 9-0 unless otherwise noted. Work Session: Cannabis Sales Regulatory Framework City Manager and Planning Director Jimmy McNamara presented the state's new adult-use cannabis retail market framework, established by HB30 as part of the biennial budget passed June 29, 2026. The law mandates eight license types (cultivation, processing, testing, transport, delivery, retail, dual-license, and microbusiness) and prohibits localities from banning cannabis businesses. Localities may regulate through conditional use permits, zoning buffers, hours of operation, and design/odor requirements. The state will begin accepting license applications February 1, 2027, with retail sales starting July 1, 2027. Councilmembers discussed local control limitations, tax implications (local sales tax up to 3.5% remitted quarterly), police training for DUI enforcement, advertising restrictions (500-foot buffer from schools), and potential impacts on children and public parks. Staff was directed to prepare ordinance amendments for adoption by January 1, 2027, and to research neighboring cities' approaches. Councilmembers expressed concerns about the state forcing localities to allow cannabis sales. Consent Calendar The consent agenda included acknowledgments of three zoning requests (Reserve at Wexford, Tidewater Express Inc., Royal Farms), four resignations, and six city manager items: acceptance of grants ($12,561 from Library of Virginia, $40,000 from Beazley Foundation, $19,861 from VA Dept. of Criminal Justice Services, $395 from U.S. Dept. of Justice, and $500,000 for Firearm Violence Intervention with four part-time positions), and donation of four sets of hydraulic rescue tools to Courtland Volunteer Fire Department. Item 5 (Firearm Violence Intervention grant) was removed from the consent agenda at Councilmember Newins' request and subsequently approved as an emergency item (9-0). The remainder of the consent agenda was approved 9-0. Councilmembers Newins and Jefferies disclosed personal interests as city employees. Public Hearing - T-Mobile Lease Amendment (910 Hollowell Lane): One citizen, Vic Nichols, spoke questioning whether the lease would allow Flock cameras (ALPRs). The council approved the resolution 9-0. Citizens' Comments on Agenda Items Three speakers addressed agenda items: - Vic Nichols criticized the lack of SMART goals in the firearm violence grant and the clarity of funding in property acquisition items. - Jeff Staples (Deep Creek) expressed concern about the cost and timeline of extending water/sewer lines across the Northwest River to serve data centers, suggesting estimates need revision. - Ozanne Duran opposed using the High Priority One-Time Fund for property acquisitions, arguing the city should bond long-term assets instead, and raised concerns about lead service lines in historic neighborhoods. Regular Agenda Items (All approved 9-0) - Item 7: Resolution to design a utilities easement across the Northwest River for water and sewer lines (MOA with VA Dept. of Conservation and Recreation). - Item 8: MOU with FBI for joint task force collaboration. - Item 9: Acquisition of 307 Albemarle Drive from EDA for $100. - Item 10: Acquisition of 911 Cedar Road (1.259 acres) for $1,600,000 to provide office space; FY27 CIP amendment and $1,830,000 appropriation from High Priority One-Time account (approved as emergency). - Item 11: Acquisition of four parcels (528 & 532 Albemarle Dr., 500 & 504 Cedar Rd.) for $1,100,000 each totaling $3,300,000, plus $4,125,401 appropriation for the Albemarle Drive at Cedar Road Office Acquisition project (approved as emergency). A correction was noted for the address of 504 Cedar Road. Citizens' Comments on Non-Agenda Matters Eleven citizens addressed non-agenda topics: - Voting Precinct Changes: Darlene Staten Flora, Antonia Fauntleroy, Adam Billett, and Timothy Ruth (Crestwood at Parkside Civic League) protested the reassignment of 72 homes from Crestwood Precinct 5 (0.3 miles away) to Lake Drummond Precinct 39 (6 miles away), which also changed their congressional district. They argued the move violates contiguity and community of interest. City Attorney clarified the city has no authority to change precincts as the state Supreme Court drew the districts; residents were advised to contact state legislators. - Public Safety at Wawa: Catherine Ninos (employee) described large vehicle gatherings on weekend nights causing safety hazards, blocked access, and forced closures from midnight to 3 AM. She requested a coordinated city response. - Property Access: Willie Graves stated a planning department waiver allowed a developer to skip building a required stub street, potentially landlocking his 1.8-acre property worth $1 million. He threatened legal action. - Data Center Taxation: Ozanne Duran opposed a proposed 2% tax rate on data center equipment, calling it a giveaway compared to the 4%+ rate in Northern Virginia and the full rate paid by residents. - Speed Limits: Marquila Moore cited state code 46.2-874 setting 25 mph in business/residential districts and requested lowering speeds accordingly, asking for follow-up reports to be posted online. - Vacant Properties: Rosalind Wooling requested action on two overgrown vacant properties in her neighborhood. - Additional: Vic Nichols (brief follow-up on cannabis buffers, data centers, and ALPR concerns) and Brian Madden (Tidewater Express representative requesting double advertising, covered under New Business). New Business Council approved a concurrent (double) advertising request for the Tidewater Express Inc. rezoning (PLN-REZ-2025-023) to meet its development timeline, with a vote of 8-1 (Councilmember Ritter opposed). The request was made on the first meeting of the month as required. Key Outcomes - All regular agenda items and resolutions passed 9-0. - Consent agenda approved 9-0 with City Manager Item 5 removed and subsequently approved as emergency (9-0). - T-Mobile lease amendment approved 9-0. - Property acquisitions totalling $5,955,401 (appropriations of $1,830,000 for 911 Cedar Road and $4,125,401 for the Albemarle/Cedar office acquisition) were approved as emergency actions. - Concurrent advertising for Tidewater Express approved 8-1. - Closed meeting held from 6:51 PM to 7:08 PM to discuss property acquisitions (certified 9-0). - Meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM.

The Hollywood Planning and Development Board met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM in City Hall. The meeting lasted until the early morning of September 9, 2026, due to lengthy public comment and deliberation. The board considered six major agenda items, including a 30-unit multifamily project, a 394-unit development with a variance, the comprehensive Hollywood Beach Overlay District (HBOD) with companion items, and a recommendation for the controversial 1301 South Ocean Drive project. Over 150 public speakers registered across the items, with overwhelming opposition to the overlay and the 1301 project. Consent Calendar - Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes – Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 1 & 2 (Development Projects) – Minimal public comment; no opposition recorded. - Items 3, 4, 5 (Hollywood Beach Overlay District, TIDE hotel rooms, Flex units) – 97 speakers registered; nearly all opposed the overlay. Key themes: fear of overdevelopment, loss of beach character, inadequate infrastructure (flooding, evacuation, sewer capacity), insufficient public engagement, and concerns about height (especially 20 stories along A1A and 34 stories at Hollywood Beach Resort). Many speakers urged a workshop or referendum. Only one speaker (representing a hotel owner) spoke in favor, citing the need for redevelopment. - Item 6 (1301 S Ocean Drive) – 91 speakers registered; all opposed the project. Speakers cited deed restrictions (public land for open space), safety risks from construction on a narrow barrier island, lack of independent studies, and the rushed use of the Live Local Act. Several referenced the existing litigation and the Broward County Planning Council’s 13-2 rejection. Discussion Items - Item 1: 25-DP-26 (2455 Polk Street) – A 4-story, 30-unit multifamily development (45 ft tall, 29,568 sq ft) in the MC-1 district. Staff found full compliance with zoning. Board approved design and site plan unanimously. - Item 2: 25-DPV-91a (2200 Jackson Street) – A 394-unit multifamily development with a variance to reduce a corner setback from 15 ft to 2 ft 10 inches to accommodate city/county right-of-way dedications. The project includes 50% moderate-income affordable units (197 units). Board approved the variance, design, and site plan with an additional condition: give Hollywood residents a leasing preference to the extent allowed by law. Vote: unanimous. - Items 3, 4, 5 (Hollywood Beach Overlay District – 26-TZ-18, 26-F-70c, 26-F-70a) – Staff presented a comprehensive voluntary bonus program allowing extra height, hotel rooms (TIDE), transferable development rights, and flex units in exchange for public benefits (resiliency fund, public open space, design guidelines). The board heard hours of public opposition. Board members debated the framework’s merits; some supported it as a proactive response to state preemption (Live Local, SB 180), while others wanted more time for study. After motions and amendments, the board voted to approve the overlay with conditions: - Reduce maximum height along A1A from 20 stories to 15 stories (20 stories only for landmark properties). - For the Hollywood Beach Resort (Precinct 4), reduce maximum height under the unified master plan from 34 stories to 30 stories. - Public art shall not be used as a bonus for additional height. - The companion items (2,300 TIDE hotel rooms and 500 flex units) were also approved. Vote on overlay: 4-2 (Christine Corbo, Joseph Stadlin, Richard Blatner, Stephen Morales in favor; Bob Glickman and Massimo Gramanzini opposed). - Item 6: 25-RESO-73a (1301 S Ocean Drive) – A quasi-judicial recommendation on height, setbacks, and lot coverage for a proposed Live Local development on city-owned land (formerly a community center). The applicant did not waive quasi-judicial formalities. A party intervener (Keep Public Lands Public Inc. and Kathy DeBona) was granted limited participation. Staff recommended approval of 375 ft height, zero setbacks, and 96% lot coverage. The intervenor argued the project violates deed restrictions and is inconsistent with the comprehensive plan. After public comment, the board voted unanimously to recommend to the City Commission a height of 15 ft, a 100 ft setback from Ocean Drive, 15 ft side setbacks, and a 230 ft setback from Surf Road (effectively preserving the existing park and community center). This recommendation is non-binding but will be forwarded to the City Commission. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (25-DP-26): Approved (design and site plan) – unanimous. - Item 2 (25-DPV-91a): Approved (variance, design, site plan) with condition for Hollywood resident preference – unanimous. - Items 3, 4, 5 (26-TZ-18, 26-F-70c, 26-F-70a): Approved with conditions reducing A1A height to 15 stories and Hollywood Beach Resort height to 30 stories, and prohibiting public art as a bonus. Vote: 4-2. The companion items (TIDE hotel rooms and flex units) also passed 4-2. - Item 6 (25-RESO-73a): Recommended denial of the requested height, setbacks, and lot coverage; instead recommended 15 ft height, 100 ft ocean setback, 15 ft side setbacks, 230 ft surf road setback – unanimous. - Other: The board noted the need for a future workshop on the overlay but did not set one due to statutory deadlines. The City Commission will consider the overlay on September 16, 2026, and the 1301 recommendation likely at its October 7, 2026 meeting.

The Boca Raton City Council held a tentative budget hearing on September 8, 2026, at 5:15 PM. The meeting included a presentation on the proposed FY2026-2027 budget, millage rates, and capital improvements plan (CIP), followed by public comment and votes on three resolutions. Council members present: Mayor Andy Thomson, Deputy Mayor Michelle Grau, Councilmember Yvette Drucker, Councilmember Stacy Sipple. Councilmember Jon Pearlman was absent. The meeting adjourned at 6:52 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Earl Starkoff (3260 St. Charles Way): Expressed general support for the budget, noting that it was the result of months of work. Suggested that staff begin a formal operational improvement process to identify efficiencies for future budgets, separate from current year decisions. - William E. Crone (903 NE 2nd Street): Opposed the overall trend of increasing fees and taxes, stating that "everything is increasing except the residents" and called for a "diet" on city expenditures. - Mike Liebelson (398 NE 3rd Court): Commended staff for a world-class presentation but argued that property tax collections have increased 57.4% over five years while CPI rose only 14% and population 1%. He urged focus on recovering the $80 million sent to Palm Beach County for PBSO services, which he called five times the impact of Amendment 3. - Albert Kakacci (1499 W. Camino Real): Agreed with Deputy Mayor Grau on the need for parity between resident and non-resident user fees, and encouraged collaboration with the Beach and Parks District. - Mike Liebelson (again): Stated that non-residents should pay a capital charge for using facilities funded by resident property taxes, and reiterated the county reimbursement issue. - Steve Griffith (123 N. Ocean Boulevard): Supported increasing beach parking rates and suggested returning to a gatehouse attendant on the west side of Red Reef to charge the same fees as the east side. Discussion Items - Tentative Budget and Millage Rates Presentation (Mike Middleman, OMB): The proposed operating millage rate of 3.6476 mills (unchanged from FY26) is 4.39% above the rolled-back rate of 3.4941. Due to SB4F, a four-fifths (4/5) supermajority vote is required for adoption; if not achieved, the council can adopt the rollback rate with a simple majority. If no millage rate is adopted, no property taxes can be collected. The fire services assessment for residential properties would increase from $155 to $224 per year—the first increase since FY22. 41,413 notices were sent; 19 formal objections were received. 90% of commercial and 96% of industrial properties will see fee reductions due to a shift to per-structure billing. The general fund budget includes 24 new full-time positions, primarily for fire station 8 staffing (12 firefighters, 4 lieutenants, 4 EMS captains, 1 vehicle technician). Public safety accounts for 62% of the general fund. The CIP proposes $212 million in FY27, with top projects including wastewater upgrades ($28.5M), water treatment improvements ($49M), and the resident-led memorial park enhancement ($7.5M placeholder). - Amendment 3 Impact Discussion: Staff noted that if passed in November, Amendment 3 would phase in $15-16 million in revenue reductions over FY28 and FY29, with no impact on the current budget. The council intends to develop a mitigation strategy rapidly after the vote. - User Fee Schedule Presentation (Jean Michel Noll): Proposed CPI-based increases (3.4%) for cemetery, water/sewer, and stormwater fees. Other increases include development services fees, public works franchise fees (first rise in 10 years), police and fire rescue fees, recreation services fees (camp, golf, beach parking, dog beach, etc.), and parking citation fines. The Financial Advisory Board recommended approval on August 17, 2026. - Resident vs. Non-Resident Fee Concerns (Deputy Mayor Grau & Councilmember Sipple): Both raised concerns that residents are competing with non-residents for limited facilities and that the city should verify residency for travel teams and sports leagues. They requested a comprehensive review of the fee structure. Staff confirmed that a joint meeting with the Beach and Parks District is scheduled for October 27, 2026, to discuss policy alignment. Mayor Thomson and Councilmember Drucker noted the increases were modest and appropriate for now, but supported future policy discussions. Key Outcomes - Resolution No. 102-2026 (Proposed Millage Rates): Adopted 4-0. Sets operating millage at 3.6476 mills and debt service at 0.0163 mills, total 3.6639 mills. - Resolution No. 103-2026 (Tentative Budget): Adopted 4-0. Approves the FY2026-2027 budget as presented. - Resolution No. 104-2026 (Fire Services Assessments): Adopted 4-0. Imposes fire assessments at the proposed rates (residential $224, with commercial/industrial decreases). - Resolution No. 105-2026 (Amended User Fee Schedule): Adopted 4-0. Approves the updated fee schedule effective October 1, 2026. - Next Steps: Staff will bring a comprehensive review of resident vs. non-resident fee policies and cost recovery to the council in future cycles, with initial discussions at the October 27 joint meeting with the Beach and Parks District. The final budget hearing is scheduled for later in September.