The Public Meeting Index

The Howard County Board of Appeals met in hybrid session (Banneker Room and WebEx) on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from approximately 9:00 a.m. to about 2:00 p.m. Vice Chair Lynn Feerkow presided. The sole substantive matter was BA829D, Donna Gorhan's appeal concerning 10450 Waterfowl Terrace, Columbia, Maryland (Council District 5, Tax Map 30, Lot 144). The agenda identifies the appeal as from the Hearing Examiner's June 15, 2026 Decision and Order dismissing the petition; the case call also identified the underlying agency action as DPZ's March 10, 2026 decision finding no zoning violations in response to the appellant's complaint (case CE 2617). A written minutes packet was not provided, but the Board approved the October 15, 2026 minutes on the record. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously the October 15, 2026 meeting minutes by motion, second, and roll-call vote (all Board members voting approved). Discussion Items - Case call and standard of review: The Board stated the appeal proceeded de novo under Board Rule 2.210A, with the appellant bearing the burden of proving by a preponderance that the agency's decision was clearly erroneous, arbitrary and capricious, or contrary to law. Each Board member confirmed having visited the subject property. - Subpoena issue: The appellant asked that absent subpoenaed witnesses be carried to November 17, 2026, and that the record remain open for their testimony; the Board later confirmed that subpoenaed witnesses remain required on November 17. - Motion to dismiss: DPZ counsel, David Moore, moved to dismiss the appeal as an untimely challenge to the 2025 building permit, arguing DPZ had already assessed the same zoning question before issuing the permit, the property owner built according to a valid permit and approvals, and allowing the later no-violation appeal would permit endless re-litigation. The appellant responded that she was appealing DPZ's March 10, 2026 decision closing code enforcement case CE 2617, that she filed within 30 days, and that the Board had jurisdiction under Section 130.0.B.4. - Closed session: The Board voted to close the meeting briefly under the Maryland Open Meetings Act, Md. Code, General Provisions § 3-305(b)(7), to consult with counsel about the motion; it then returned to open session. - Ruling and scope limitation: The Board unanimously denied DPZ's motion to dismiss. It clarified that it would not re-evaluate the issuance of the building permit; its review was limited to the March 10, 2026 no-violation decision, including whether the construction complied with the building permit or whether the inspection was mistaken. - Opening statements: The appellant argued the decisive issue was whether DPZ had a factual basis to treat the old shed as part of the house; if the shed was not part of the dwelling, the new garage was not entitled to the existing-dwelling setback encroachment under Section 128.0.B.2. DPZ argued that the structure was a properly permitted replacement of a connected part of the house occupying the same footprint, which is why DPZ found no violation. - Appellant's testimony: Ms. Gorhan testified that she was not challenging the building permit, but the March 10 closure decision. She contended the demolished shed was free-standing and nonconforming, and that the new garage protrudes further into the setback than the shed did. She also noted that the face of the permit did not list a setback number. - Jeff Goens testimony: The former DPZ zoning official confirmed that in November 2023 he responded to the property owner's emailed description and photos without a site visit or shed measurement. The Board largely limited this testimony as pre-permit and outside the scope of the 2026 complaint. - Inspector Blanding testimony: The DPZ inspector described his March 2, 2026 inspection. He measured 4.8 feet from the front corner of the garage, the closest point to the neighboring property, using a roller tape; no property line markers were present. The approved file materials, including a survey, indicated a 4.8-foot side setback was allowed, while the general side-yard setback was 7.5 feet. He took still photos and a short video, did not take other measurements along the approximately 27-28 foot garage wall, and concluded the structure was consistent with the approved permit; after review with his supervisor, no notice of violation was issued. On cross, he acknowledged that no survey marker was present at the time of his March measurement, but a later survey and property marker were in place; he would have pursued a violation if he had found noncompliance. - Evidentiary rulings: The Board admitted Exhibit 21 (inspection photos and approximately 20-second video) after DPZ stated no objection, and admitted Exhibit 5 (residential building permit) into evidence. Exhibit 30 (survey packet) was marked for identification only, not admitted as substantive evidence, with one page accepted for reference. The Board sustained relevance objections to several older documents, including the 1969 plot plan, Wild Lake association emails, and the November 2023 email exchange, as predating the 2025 permit and 2026 complaint. Key Outcomes - The Board unanimously denied DPZ's motion to dismiss. - Admitted DPZ inspection video/photos (Exhibit 21) and building permit (Exhibit 5); marked survey set (Exhibit 30) for identification only. - No final decision on the merits; hearing adjourned to November 17, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. - Record remains open for absent subpoenaed witnesses; subpoenaed witnesses remain required on November 17. - Witnesses Goens and Blanding were excused; the appeal remains pending.

The Carroll County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) held public hearings on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, in Westminster, Maryland. The board approved an extension of a prior conditional-use approval, approved a contractor-equipment-storage conditional use with variances, denied an expansion of a nonconforming mobile home park, and did not take up the scheduled telecommunications facility case. Public Comments & Testimony For Case 6641 (Anchor At Ziles Park mobile home park), three neighboring residents testified in opposition: - Patricia Gamola, an adjoining property owner on Westview Road, expressed total opposition. She cited a 1987 denial of an earlier expansion, a 1995 zoning decision that said enlargement would not promote orderly growth or conserve residential property values, traffic and safety concerns on Route 27, aquifer and well-contamination concerns, the location of proposed septic fields near her well, questions about an on-site storage business and untagged vehicles, open-burning/smoldering incidents, and a July 2026 real-estate listing that described approval for six additional home sites as already received. - Stephen H. Zile, a Ridge Road neighbor, urged denial. He said the 5.1-acre parcel is below the 20-acre minimum for expansion, cited the park's nonconforming status and outdated 1982 site plan, complained about lighting, trash, burn piles, unpermitted storage, untagged vehicles, and traffic accidents along Maryland 27, and submitted copies of the 1986 and 1995 zoning decisions as exhibits. - Timothy Conkling, a Kimberly James Court resident, opposed the expansion because of well-water/aquifer impacts and asked about buffering; the board responded that tree-planting and buffering details would be handled during the site-plan process. Discussion Items - Case 6597 – Vehicle Sales Lot Extension: Brad Miller requested a 12-month extension of the BZA's February 25, 2026, conditional-use approval for a vehicle sales lot at 5339 Enterprise Street, Sykesville. Attorney Kelly Schaefer Miller said the client was working with county staff on a simplified site plan and building-permit compliance, and although the full 12 months might not be needed, it was requested out of caution. The board approved the extension. - Case 6635 – Contractor's Equipment Storage Yard and Variances: Julio and Patricia Coello and Luis Adonay Coelho sought a conditional use for a contractor's equipment storage yard on 3.0029 acres at 4909 Buffalo Road, Mt. Airy. The proposed use would be passive storage only, with no employees at the site, no work performed there, no sign, and no fuel or materials storage. Variances were requested for driveway width, distance from neighboring properties, lot size, and related setbacks. Agency comments included environmental-health concerns about water supply and septic area. Board members noted the property was well maintained, the use was low intensity, and no neighbors appeared in opposition. The board approved the conditional use and variances. - Case 6619 – Telecommunications Facility: The agenda listed a request by The Towers, LLC d/b/a Vertical Bridge for a 199-foot monopole within a 50-by-50-foot fenced compound at 4506 Grave Run Road, Manchester. This case was not heard at this meeting; the transcript includes a reference to a postponed hearing expected in late January or February. - Case 6641 – Mobile Home Park Expansion: Anchor At Ziles Park, LLC requested permission to expand the nonconforming mobile home park at 3513 Ridge Road, Westminster, from seven to thirteen trailers by adding six lots. Applicant representatives Frank Samuel and Charles Knill, with surveyor John Lemmerman, said the existing park had been improved, occupancy was full, no new public-road entrances were proposed, a new well had been drilled, and septic-system upgrades had been designed. Agency and staff comments included planning-staff findings that the request was inconsistent with the 2014 Carroll County Master Plan as amended; a traffic review citing serious roadway-safety concerns along Ridge Road/Maryland 27; and an environmental-health comment requiring adequate water supply and septic-system area. The applicants also noted that they had initially requested 14 additional lots before reducing the request to 6, and the surveyor said an older county-approved site plan had shown 12 additional pads. Key Outcomes - Case 6597: Approved a 12-month extension from October 27, 2026 through October 26, 2027. - Case 6635: Approved a conditional use for a contractor's equipment storage yard with six distance variances, a lot-size variance, and a driveway-width variance. - Case 6619: No action taken; hearing postponed. - Case 6641: Denied the request to expand the nonconforming mobile home park from seven to thirteen trailers. For all decided cases, written decisions are to be issued within 30 days unless extended; any appeal must be filed within 30 days of the written decision.

The Astoria City Council held a work session on October 27, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered three main agenda items: routine agenda setting, proposed amendments to the Astoria Municipal Code (including administrative and policy-level changes), and an update on the city's Shelter First Policy. Council discussed future work session topics, reviewed draft code amendments across multiple chapters, and received detailed presentations on shelter capacity, enforcement statistics, and program progress. Key decisions included support for a final year of emergency cold weather shelter funding with an outreach effort to neighboring jurisdictions and nonprofits. Agenda Setting - City Manager Spence reviewed the upcoming work session calendar. Planned items include: review of a draft city council handbook (November 23), an update on the development review audit, and a discussion with Pacific Power about converting approximately 700 streetlights to LED. The LED project is estimated at $156,000 with a city cost of roughly $50,000, but would yield approximately $25,000 in annual energy savings (2–3 year payback). Pacific Power has a December deadline for incentive program participation. Councilor Adams asked whether this covered all downtown streetlights; staff confirmed it includes all city lights. - For December, a review of council representation on boards and commissions is planned, and a Shelter First update may be added. - Councilor Davis reported that a meeting with staff on the Parking Master Plan had occurred, discussing a methodology to objectively determine parking issues—similar to traffic speed studies. Options such as expanding striped parking, education components, and off-street resources were considered. There was also discussion about whether council should retain authority over parking decisions outside the existing parking district. Councilor Davis mentioned that Clatsop Community College has offered to use drones for parking counts (subject to FAA restrictions), similar to work they did for Cannon Beach in 2019. Astoria Municipal Code Review – Proposed Amendments Staff presented administrative and policy-level amendments across several chapters. Administrative Changes (Chapters 1, 2, 5, and licensing sections): - Chapter 1: Increase department head spending authority from $7,500 to $10,000 (staff noted 59 purchases between $7,500 and $10,000 in the current fiscal year). Increase the small procurement cap from $10,000 to $25,000 to align with ORS and improve efficiency (76 intermediate procurements identified in FY 26-27). Councilor Adams questioned why intermediate procurements ($150,000 cap) were not also updated by reference; staff explained the city's large procurement threshold of $150,000 was deemed appropriate. - Chapter 2: Update driveway permit language: replace the specific fee ($5) and title with a reference to the public works department and right-of-way permits. Move approval of driveway exceptions (outside standard dimensions) from council to administrative approval, given council's past preference. Councilor Adams noted that an appeal process exists for administrative decisions. - Chapter 5: Update Parks definitions to remove outdated references (e.g., library director) and replace the exhaustive list of parks with a reference to the Parks Master Plan list. - Licensing Sections: Repeal several outdated license categories: amusement devices (pinball), amusement places (carnivals), general licensing for boxing/wrestling/dances (“Footloose provision”), junkyards, security guards, drive-in restaurants, outdoor advertising, and auctioneers. For pawnbrokers, staff will retain the section due to existing pawn shops in the city, with clarified definitions. Policy-Level Discussions: - Liquor Control (Section 5.030): Staff proposed making liquor license approvals/denials an administrative process rather than requiring council action, to speed up processing. Councilor Davis noted that even though liquor license renewals typically pass consent easily, a small number of residents have expressed concerns about over-approval. He suggested polling for public input occasionally. Councilor Adams preferred keeping applications on the consent calendar to maintain awareness. Chief Kelly and City Manager Spence stated there have been few public complaints; the main issue is delays when council scheduling is missed. - Parks Enforcement (Ejectment): Staff proposed establishing a clear appeal process for park ejectments, setting a standard 90-day maximum, and removing the code section allowing property seizure. Appeals would go first to the Parks Director, then to the Municipal Judge. The change aims to provide due process and consistency. Councilor Adams noted a typo on the time frame slide, suggesting flexibility up to 90 days. Staff clarified the 90-day standard removes police officer discretion. - General Occupation Tax to Business License: Staff proposed a full replacement of the general occupation tax with a business license program. This would be a community-driven process over several months: stakeholder outreach (Nov–Feb), work session (March 2027), potential council proposal (April), additional outreach (May–June), and program launch July 1, 2027. The change would modernize administration, improve data on businesses, and be revenue-neutral. Councilor Adams requested a breakdown of fee methodology (small/medium/large based on employees or revenue). Councilor Mazzarella asked about overlap with existing licenses (e.g., home-stay lodging); staff said that would be discussed during stakeholder engagement. - Right-of-Way Licensing: Staff discussed moving from individual franchise agreements to a standard license for utilities operating in the right-of-way, following a League of Oregon Cities model. This would streamline negotiations and ensure consistent terms. Councilor Davis expressed concern that providers might refuse if not offered negotiation room, but City Attorney and staff noted that the model is standard and would likely be accepted by utilities like Pacific Power and Northwest Natural Gas, which have been operating on expired agreements for years. This item will be the subject of a future work session. Astoria's Shelter First Policy Update Staff, Chief Kelly, Homeless Liaison Nicholas, and representatives from partner agencies provided a comprehensive update on the four pillars of the policy. Camping Code Enforcement (since July 15, 2026): - Statistics: 7 citations, 31 trespasses, 0 arrests. Chief Kelly reported an initial decrease in visible camping as people entered shelter, but a recent resurgence as some left shelter or returned from elsewhere. He noted that enforcement has moved to a more resistant group and that communication with shelters (e.g., CCA) has improved to verify available beds. - Councilor Adams asked about the number of tents; Chief Kelly said he has started tracking tent counts three mornings per week. - Councilor Adams inquired about bed availability for those claiming ADA needs or who have been trespassed from shelters. Chief Kelly explained that shelters have bottom bunks and accessible bathrooms, so most ADA concerns are resolved; some individuals refuse shelter even when beds are available, leading to trespasses. A current shortage of men's beds was noted. - Councilor Adams asked whether the trespass authority is effective. Chief Kelly said it is a useful tool; individuals generally leave rather than face arrest. Homeless Liaison (Nicholas): - The position was filled and began work; the first monthly report for September was provided in the packet. Nicholas described his daily work: outreach downtown, case management, helping with IDs, health insurance (OHP), connecting people to treatment and deflection programs. He uses Lifeboat's day shelter as a location for meetings. Councilor Adams asked about the need for a private space; Nicholas mentioned using Lifeboat's private rooms and also the library through liaison Suzanne. Councilor Mazarella noted the importance of having city-owned space for that purpose. - Councilor Conklin asked about deflection drug treatment; Nicholas confirmed that anyone can access the program through CBH (RAC) at no cost, not just those arrested. The program has one of the highest success rates in the state. Dry Storage Assistance Program: - Six locker boxes (providing 12 storage spaces) have been installed near the library; all six are currently assigned. Staff learned of water intrusion due to open bottoms and are exploring mitigation. There has been one arrest for storing illegal items (cameras from the library identified the issue). The program has been well-received by users, who are able to attend appointments without carrying all belongings. Nicholas reported some users are unable to store bicycles or wagons. Next steps: a check-in in November, ordering three additional boxes (two-month lead time) for installation in February 2027. Community-Based Shelter Program: - Staff identified 9 potential partner locations (nonprofits and faith-based organizations) and have reached out; responses include some no's and maybes. Councilor Davis offered to help with outreach to property owners. Councilor Adams shared a list for follow-up. Countywide Partnerships: - Staff presented regional data on shelter beds. As of September 2026, Clatsop County has 218 shelter beds: Astoria provides 150 (68.8%), Seaside 52, and 16 non-disclosed (domestic violence). Astoria's 110 low-barrier beds make up 73.3% of all low-barrier beds in the county; its 40 recovery beds are 76.9% of the county total. Astoria has approximately 1 shelter bed per 67 residents. - Monthly utilization for September: average 95.9% of low-barrier beds occupied, with 4.5% average nightly availability (1.2 female, 0.8 male, 1.5 young female, 1.0 young male beds). - Staff emphasized that the city is doing a disproportionate share and called for a regional dialogue. Next steps include a countywide elected officials meeting and possibly council representation on the Oregon Continuum of Care policy board. - Councilor Adams requested data on drug use enforcement. Chief Kelly reported several recent drug arrests (including fentanyl possession and dealing paraphernalia) and an assault between homeless individuals. He noted that state law (SB 48) and bail reform make it difficult to hold individuals for treatment; he suggested adding bail reform to legislative priorities. Emergency Cold Weather Shelter Discussion: - Councilor Davis raised the topic of contracting for a warming shelter this winter. City Manager Spence summarized past usage: 4 days in 2024, 7 days in 2025, 4 days in 2026, averaging about $1,600 per night (contract with CCA via Consejo). Often only 3–4 people stayed each night. - Council discussed whether to fund another year. Councilors Conklin, Adams, and Davis expressed support for one final year, with a clear signal that the city would not continue thereafter. Councilor Mazzarella and Mayor Fitzpatrick expressed reluctance, preferring to use funds for sustainable programs and to challenge neighboring jurisdictions to step up. - Consensus: Council directed staff to first conduct outreach to neighboring cities (e.g., Warrenton) and local nonprofits (e.g., Lifeboat) to see if they can operate an inclement weather shelter (broader than just 32°F). If no partner steps forward, staff may prepare a limited emergency cold weather shelter for the winter of 2026-2027 (likely 5–7 days at $10,000–$12,000 budget), with the understanding that this would be the city's final year of direct operation. Council also asked to explore whether Lifeboat could offer emergency shelter with funding. Key Outcomes - Staff will bring the administrative code amendments (Chapters 1, 2, 5, and licensing repeals) to council for public hearings and first readings on November 2, November 16, and December 7, 2026, as scheduled. - Policy-level items (liquor license administrative process, parks enforcement, general occupation tax replacement, right-of-way licensing) will proceed to future meetings with further council input. - Staff will coordinate with council members on community outreach regarding the community-based shelter program and emergency cold weather shelter partnerships. - Council directed staff to prepare for a possible final-year emergency cold weather shelter (contingent on unsuccessful outreach) and to report back on partnership progress. - The Shelter First Policy will continue to be monitored; monthly reports from the Homeless Liaison will be provided to council.

The Joint Powers Financing Authority (JPFA) convened at 5:45 PM, followed immediately by the Berkeley City Council at 6:01 PM, on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, in the School District Board Room and via Zoom. The JPFA meeting was brief, focusing on approval of prior minutes. The City Council session included ceremonial presentations, a city manager report, a city auditor update, public comment, a substantial consent calendar, and a major discussion item on the Ashby BART East Lot affordable housing development. Consent Calendar - Joint Powers Financing Authority: Approved the minutes from the December 2, 2025 meeting without comment or opposition. Motion by Councilmember O'Keefe, seconded, passed unanimously. - City Council Consent Calendar: The council approved a large consent calendar with several modifications: - An urgency item (opposing proposed Census changes) was added by Councilmember Kessarwani and co-sponsored by Councilmember Trego, added unanimously. - Item 22B (City Manager companion report on special events ordinances) was removed at the city manager's request and Item 22A was referred to the Agenda and Rules Committee for future scheduling. - Items 20B (ProWAG guidelines), 23B, and 24B (zero waste ordinances) were adopted as the companion reports. - Items 26 (Berkeley Flea Market fall festival) and 27 (Harriet Tubman Terrace low-income housing bay cruise) received discretionary fund pledges from multiple council members totaling over $1,100. - Item 25 (amending municipal code to require competitive procurement for service contracts over $100,000) was approved; Councilmember Kessarwani clarified the award criteria are based on competence and qualifications, not solely lowest price. - Item 21 (renaming the northern end of the Berkeley Waterfront to "César Chávez Park" – cited as "Cisepue Park" in transcript) was approved; speakers noted that the United Farm Workers union had given provisional approval for use of the trademarked phrase "Sí Se Puede." Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Public Comment (JPFA & City Council): - Steve Tracy (Berkeley resident) expressed concern about rumors of Fire Chief Sprague's resignation and urged a public statement before the election. - A speaker from BCBI supported extending their contract. - A representative from Live Free thanked the council for a $200,000 allocation and invited all to a fundraising event on November 7. - Jennifer Cogley (Bayer Healthcare) reported deteriorated conditions on Grayson Street affecting vendor deliveries for medicine production, urging the council to address street safety. - Kentrell Killens urged consideration of individual circumstances in homeless policies rather than broad bans. - Della Luna criticized new crosswalk signs and red curb painting at Ashby and MLK, arguing they distract drivers and create confusion. - David (District One resident) urged passage of Councilmember Kessarwani's resolution to establish encampment buffer zones around licensed preschools and daycares, noting a special meeting on November 17. - Maria Sol encouraged more commission participation and raised concerns about Bonita House closure and safety for seniors and disabled. - A caller (number ending 211) criticized the city's failure to pass a Gaza ceasefire resolution and alleged a new housing employee from Pacifica blocked a business deal. - Jessica Prado opposed the buffer zone policy as a reactionary homeless policy that could lead to litigation under disability accommodation requirements. - Consent Calendar Public Comments: - Multiple speakers (Natasha Beary, Beatrice Leva Cutler, Philip Monrad, Sandra Curtis, Jack Mises, Stephen Sherman, Carol Morasovic, Rena Fisher, Monique Allen, Martin Bork, a public commenter, Rebecca Alcaladeira Flor) spoke in support of items 21-24, 26, 27, and 25 (with suggestions for flexibility on contract length). Several also urged prompt implementation of ProWAG boilerplate contract language for accessible public right-of-way. - A public commenter criticized the Westlaw contract waiver of sanctuary city ordinance, noting Westlaw contracts with ICE. - Marty Nicolaus raised concerns that the name "César Chávez Park" is federally trademarked by UFW and no written consent had been received; the mayor responded that city staff would obtain consent before finalizing. - Discussion Item Public Comment: - James Codlin (SAHA) expressed gratitude for the recommendation. - A tenant complained about SAHA's code enforcement violations, fire department violations, and lawsuits, urging the council to address these issues. - Maria Sol urged SAHA to be more open to dialogue on safety and security. Discussion Items - Ashby BART East Lot Developer Selection (Item 30): - Staff presented the culmination of a nearly nine-year process to develop the 1.9-acre city-owned parcel. The site was split from the Ashby BART station development; the city now owns the East Lot via an exchange agreement with BART. Key community priorities included a minimum of 300 bedrooms, 35% affordability (stretch goal 50%), 25% set-aside for people with disabilities, and a reparative framework for the historically displaced South Berkeley Black community. - The city received six proposals in July 2026. An evaluation panel shortlisted two teams: SAHA (Satellite Affordable Housing Associates, Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley, Deborah Matthews Development Consulting) and Related California with The Kelsey. SAHA was recommended as the primary developer; Related as the alternate. - SAHA's proposal includes: 341 bedrooms (100% affordable), 12 affordable townhomes for homeownership, universal design with Architecture for the Blind, generous open space, and a reparative framework including local hiring and historical education. The project leverages $8 million in Measure O funds already reserved. - Council members (Bartlett, Trego, Humbert, Blackaby, Kessarwani, Lunapara, O'Keefe, Mayor Ishi) unanimously praised the process, the team, and the focus on righting historic wrongs. Councilmember Bartlett emphasized that the project is about economic repair, not replacement. Councilmember Trego noted it was a proud moment from the 2018 Measure O bond. Key Outcomes - Joint Powers Financing Authority: Adjourned at approximately 5:58 PM. - City Council: - Approved the consent calendar as modified (including urgency item on census, adoption of companion reports, referral of special events item, and approval of all other items). - Unanimously approved (8-0) the adoption of two resolutions authorizing the city manager to enter into an Exclusive Negotiating Rights Agreement with the SAHA team (with Related as backup) and to release a $1 million pre-development loan for the Ashby East Lot. The negotiation period is anticipated to last up to 12 months, with construction closing targeted for December 2031. - Approved discretionary fund allocations from multiple council members for items 26 and 27. - Next Steps: City staff will negotiate with SAHA; the development team will engage the community during the ENRA period. The final ground lease terms must return to council for approval. The project will also require a land surplus declaration and completion of the funding stack.

The Benicia City Council met on October 27, 2026, in Council Chambers at Benicia City Hall; the agenda called for a 6:00 PM start and a 7:30 PM adjournment. All five Council Members were present, and remote participation was available via Zoom. After a closed-session report that the Council took no reportable action, the Council adopted the agenda, heard public comment, approved the consent calendar, adopted the data center zoning ordinance on second reading, approved CalPERS retired annuitant appointments, and declared a local emergency for the El Niño season. Consent Calendar - Item 14A (Title 17 zoning amendment for data centers) was pulled from the consent calendar by request and considered separately. - The remaining consent item, 14B (waiver of reading of ordinances), was approved unanimously. Proclamation - Mayor Steve Young read a proclamation designating November 18, 2026 as Ruby Bridges Day / Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day in Benicia, honoring Ruby Bridges' 1960 integration of William Frantz Elementary School and encouraging student participation. - A community advocate who helped establish Benicia's observance said racial discrimination still affects children in Benicia and called on the community to act; a student named Avi spoke about the need for diverse schools, teachers, and equal resources. City staff announced that the VIBE team and city employees would participate in the walk at school sites. Public Comments & Testimony - During non-agenda public comment, a resident urged the Council to revisit the Industrial Safety Ordinance fee structure, saying the program spent roughly $500,000 in its first year while collecting only about $70,000, and called for a fee structure and a funded community air monitoring program, citing a two-year Valero agreement to bring in refined products. The Mayor said he would raise the issue with air district staff twice that week and ask staff to bring options back. - Marilyn Bardet, a B Camp Benicia Community Air Monitoring Program board member, said B Camp had helped design a community-wide networked monitoring program, did not receive a major grant, and cannot sustain operations after January 1 without new funding; she asked for help seeking emergency CARB funding and other air district grants. Pat So Smith, another B Camp board member, warned that B Camp's website, used by the public during odor or leak events, would be shut down without revenue. - During the data center discussion, most public speakers opposed allowing data centers in Benicia or urged a moratorium. Concerns included water and electricity consumption, AI risks, toxic coolants, 24/7 noise, and experiences elsewhere where promised benefits did not materialize. One speaker noted California already has 280 data centers; another raised the risk that a smaller developer could later sell to a large tech company. A written comment from an absent resident described the draft ordinance as restrictive and containing, in his words, 'poison pills' that would prevent any data center from being built. - On water, a speaker asked about Valero's usage and drought policy. Staff said Valero historically used about 4 million gallons per day and currently uses about 2 million gallons per day. The speaker argued the city should protect industrial and commercial water supply and consider rate-design alternatives in the December water rate study. - During the El Niño item, a resident asked whether the city would assist Rancho Benicia residents if flooding recurred; staff said emergency response is the same regardless of whether a park is private, and park management has improved pumping. Another resident asked about the predicted Kelvin wave; staff said it raises water levels but infrastructure cannot be moved, so flood response would follow the same road-closure and notification procedures. Discussion Items - Data Center Zoning Ordinance (14A): Staff reported that the Council had introduced the ordinance one week earlier and directed that the Planning Commission be the review authority for all data center use permits. The new ordinance closes a loophole that made data centers a by-right use in parts of the industrial park. It creates a conditional use permit process for data centers between 5 and 20 MW, imposes a 55 dB noise limit, prohibits fossil-fuel generators, and requires structural noise mitigation. Staff noted the ordinance is far below hyperscale size and is intended to serve industrial park users, but does not require co-location. City Attorney Stock explained that an immediate emergency moratorium was not legally advisable because the city has no pending application; Government Code Section 65858 requires a current and immediate threat tied to imminent entitlement approval, and he cited an Imperial County moratorium struck down in August. Councilmember Birdseye said she works for NRDC and brought model guardrails to the city; she supported the ordinance with a commitment to amend it as technology evolves. A council member who had voted no the previous week expressed continuing concerns about battery storage, noise, and the speed of decision-making, but supported closing the loophole to prevent a hyperscale application in the 30-day period before the ordinance takes effect. The Mayor noted the ordinance can be amended after adoption, and an emergency moratorium could be considered if an application arrives. - CalPERS Retired Annuitant Appointments (15A): The interim Human Resources manager presented two resolutions for retired annuitants. Mark Menesini, who retired effective October 21, 2026, would serve as interim police chief because the department is down four officers, has four officers on extended leave, and lacks sergeant bench depth. Stacy Hatfield would remain temporarily after her December 3, 2026 retirement to train fire department administrative replacements; the city lost all of its fire department administrative staff within a few days. The city is actively recruiting, and CalPERS limits hours to keep the appointments in compliance. A retired teacher spoke in support, citing CalPERS' COVID-era exception for retired teachers. - El Niño Local Emergency (15B): Deputy Public Works Director Neil Leary presented the resolution. Governor Newsom proclaimed a statewide emergency on September 21, 2026, and NOAA's October 8, 2026 forecast showed a greater than 83% chance of strong to very strong El Niño conditions continuing into 2027. The declaration authorizes emergency procurement and response for flooding, erosion, landslides, power outages, and infrastructure damage. A collapsed 12-inch sewer main under Industrial Way near Park Road was discovered October 8; a temporary bypass with 24-hour pumping is in place, one travel lane remains closed, and repair costs are estimated at $1.8 million to be funded through wastewater operating and capital accounts. Public Works has restocked sandbag stations, ordered pre-filled sandbags, coordinated mutual-aid pumps with Solano County, and prepared treatment plants for 24-hour staffing. Key Outcomes - Adopted the meeting agenda and the consent calendar (14B) unanimously. - Adopted the Title 17 data center zoning ordinance on second reading, 5-0. It becomes effective 30 days after adoption; future amendments were discussed for backup power and battery safety, drought-related water conservation, and staff noted a request to consider clustering and residential separation standards. - Approved both CalPERS retired annuitant appointments, 5-0. - Adopted the El Niño local emergency declaration and authorized emergency contracting procedures, 5-0. - The next regular meeting is November 17, 2026; the November 3 meeting was canceled because it is election night.

The Eloy City Council held a special meeting on October 27, 2026, at approximately 5:30 p.m. in the Eloy City Council Chambers, 595 North C. Street, Eloy, AZ 85131. The meeting was procedural: the Council convened, voted unanimously to enter executive session for legal consultation, later reconvened in open session, and adjourned without taking further public action. No public comments or policy discussion took place. Call to Order and Roll Call - Mayor Sutton called the meeting to order and requested a roll call. - Present: Councilmembers Vadraska, Garcia, Galindo, Curtis, Vice Mayor Tarango, and Mayor Sutton; Councilmember Snyder participated by telephone. - Also designated to be present for the executive session were the city clerk, city manager, city attorney, and Dan Simon, who was added to the designated participants during the discussion. Executive Session Authorization - Mayor Sutton stated the purpose: Council consideration and possible action to enter executive session, designate the parties present, and set the length of the session; the session would not be open to the public. - The executive session was authorized under A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(3) and (4) for discussion/consultation for legal advice concerning permitting, zoning, and development agreement issues involving energy-intensive projects and developments, including negotiations conducted in order to avoid litigation. - The agenda listed the session as potentially involving consultation with the City Manager, City Planning Director, City Attorney, City Staff, and the public body. - A motion was made and seconded to proceed. All Councilmembers voted “aye”; no one opposed. The Mayor adjourned the open meeting for the time being. - No specific length for the executive session was announced in open session. Return from Executive Session and Adjournment - The Council reconvened in open session. - Although the agenda included a possible motion to instruct the City Manager, City Staff, and City Attorney to proceed as directed in executive session, no such motion was made. - A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and passed unanimously by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Unanimous vote to enter executive session with designated parties. - No announced action or instruction to staff after the executive session. - Unanimous vote to adjourn the special meeting. Note on Date Discrepancy - The meeting agenda lists the date as Tuesday, October 27, 2026, but the opening of the transcript states “Tuesday, October 22nd, 2026.” This summary follows the agenda date of October 27, 2026.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting occurred on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., but the instruction for this summary requires the date October 27, 2026. The discrepancy is noted. The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) held a regular meeting via Zoom, chaired by Juan Rivas. The board approved minutes from October 8, 2026, and conducted a public hearing on Application 26-17 for variances at 29 East Pembroke Road. The applicant requested multiple variances to allow a church in an existing building built in 1845. After discussion, the board voted to continue (table) the application to the next meeting pending submission of a floor plan. Consent Calendar - Minutes of October 8, 2026: Approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Discussion Items - Application 26-17 – 29 East Pembroke Road: Attorney James Jowdy Jr. represented the contract purchaser, Egresia Evangelica Desgate Rescue Evangelical Church (a church). The property is in an RA20 zone, has approximately 1.060 acres, 322 feet of frontage on East Pembroke Road and Hayestown Road, and an existing 8,310 sq. ft. building (built 1845) formerly a restaurant. No building expansion is proposed. - Requested Variances: 1. Front yard setback reduction from 50 ft to 45.7 ft (52 inches less) due to pre-existing nonconforming building location. 2. Front yard parking permitted between principal building and public street (Hayestown Road) because dual frontage constrains parking. 3. Vehicular access from Hayestown Road (a non-collector street) – both entrances historically used by the restaurant. 4. Removal of northernmost parking island (64 inches wide) to allow two-way traffic flow. 5. Allow existing stockade fence (8–10 ft high) to serve as required screening/buffer; installing prescribed buffer would reduce parking. - Hardship Argument: Attorney Jowdy argued that the combination of dual frontage and pre-existing building location creates a unique hardship, not self-created, and the variances are the minimum relief necessary. He noted no building expansion or intensification. - Church Operations: Pastor Alessandro W. Diaz testified that the church currently operates elsewhere in Danbury and would hold about four services weekly: Sunday (120–130 attendees), Monday women’s meeting (20–25), Friday youth day (20–25), Wednesday Bible study (35–40). Maximum attendance 130. - Parking: The site plan shows 52 parking spaces. Attorney Jowdy stated this exceeds the zoning requirement of one space per four seats (based on 130 people, about 33 spaces needed). Board member Mr. Rickert asked about a parking survey; attorney confirmed 52 spaces shown. - Board Questions & Concerns: - Mr. Delusha noted that several neighboring properties also have dual frontage, so the hardship may not be unique. He expressed safety concerns about vehicular access from Hayestown Road, which is used to bypass heavy traffic. - Mr. Williams requested a floor plan showing sanctuary capacity, Sunday school rooms, etc., to better evaluate the use. The applicant agreed to provide one. - Mr. Rickert asked if attendance numbers were hard (based on current church) – Pastor confirmed yes. - Motion to Table: Mr. Williams moved to continue Application 26-17 to the next regular meeting (November 12, 2026) to allow review of a floor plan. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Application 26-17 (29 East Pembroke Road): Tabled (continued) to the next ZBA regular meeting on November 12, 2026, pending submission of a floor plan detailing interior layout (sanctuary, classrooms, etc.). The associate planner will coordinate with the applicant on required schematics. - Next Regular Meeting: Scheduled for November 12, 2026.

The Public Art Steering Committee (PASC) met at 5:30 p.m. on October 27, 2026, in the Council Chambers at 955 School St., Napa. Staff presented the NatureCulture: Art in the Open program update, the Art in Parks FY2026-2027 project proposals, and general public art program updates. The committee approved the August 25, 2026 minutes and approved the four proposed Art in Parks projects. No public comment was offered. Approval of Minutes - PASC unanimously approved the August 25, 2026 regular meeting minutes as submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. NatureCulture: Art in the Open - Program Update - Sarah Winski, Public Art Coordinator, presented this informational item. NatureCulture is a two-year rotating temporary art exhibition series at the Oxbow Preserve; the inaugural edition is called Art in the Open. - According to the staff report, the RFQ for Bay Area artists ran May 1 through June 7, 2026, and 25 applications were received. The oral report said the RFQ ran through June 1, creating a minor discrepancy. - An Art Selection Panel reviewed proposals on a 1-5 scale for artistic quality and originality, site specificity, environmental considerations, and feasibility. The panel recommended that all four selected artists proceed. - Selected artists and proposals: Delia deVer and Kristi Moya, Napa-raised artists with Chiricahua Apache heritage, proposed a woven basket of local flora at site 5 with on-site weaving in March 2027; Mia Feuer proposed "Blending," a roughly six-foot-tall sculpture of three children becoming a steelhead trout, belted kingfisher, and caddis fly on site 2; Packard Jennings proposed a reimagined triumphal column reduced from 32 feet to about 16 feet to avoid creating an osprey nesting or habitat-removal issue; and Seongmin Yoo proposed a monumental woven nest with three deer as a "doorway to the underworld." - All installations will be along the ADA paved pathway in non-flooding areas of the Oxbow Preserve. Installation is planned for completion by March 2027. The program budget is approximately $30,000 from the General Fund, not the Public Art Fund. - In discussion, a committee member noted a separate indigenous cradle basket project at Oxbow Commons led by Lowell Downey; staff said the projects are separate but complementary and may have aligned timing. Committee members encouraged staff to publicize the on-site weaving and consider school or community engagement opportunities. Staff noted the selection panel had requested good signage and an audio guide for each artwork. Art in Parks - Project Proposals FY2026-2027 - Winski presented four proposed projects. City Council confirmed PASC's earlier recommendations on June 5, 2026, including $60,000 for sculpture in FY2026-2027, $60,000 for sculpture in FY2027-2028, $55,000 for park amenities, and $75,000 for land/sound art. The recommended $20,000 for the Nimbus Arts Stone Stacking project would reduce the available sculpture budget for new proposals to $40,000. - The proposed projects were: - Artistic bike racks: up to three artist-designed racks at Fuller, Laurel, and Westwood Hills; $30,000. - Interpretive art panels: local flora and fauna illustrations for existing message boards at Fuller, Alston, and Westwood Hills; $5,000. - Artistic benches: up to two benches at Fuller, Monarch, or O'Brien Park; $20,000. - Functional/thematic sculptures: up to three sculptures at Monarch, Westwood Hills, and Kennedy Park; $40,000. - Committee members broadly supported the proposals, praised the park choices, and liked the functional art component. One member suggested leaning away from Fuller Park because it recently received playable art; staff explained Fuller was recommended because of an upcoming bathroom renovation and new pathway and interpretive area near the Rose Garden, and said the feedback would be considered. Another member countered that all parks are equally important and that Fuller serves non-child constituencies. - The committee moved, seconded, and approved the four new projects for FY2026-2027 and supported staff efforts to continue planning. The motion carried by voice vote with no opposing votes. General Public Art Program Updates - Vianne De Santiago, Public Art Intern, presented the oral program updates. - The "Napa Tapestry" by Danielle Davis is fully installed along 2nd Street ending at Main Street's pedestrian scramble. Its patterns are based on traditional textiles from six groups who shaped Napa, as listed in the oral report: Wappo, Swift, Chinese, German, Mexican, and Italian. - Día de los Muertos street banners are up on 2nd and Main Streets, with 12 new banners plus 16 from last year, 28 in total. The Napa Día de los Muertos festival is scheduled for November 7 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. Lowrider car altars are returning, with an expanded area on Brown Street including a small stage and bathrooms. - Two public art walking tours are scheduled: November 10, 9:30-10:30 a.m., focused on Circulation/Weavers with about a 1.5-mile walk, and December 5, 12:00-1:00 p.m., focused on the 2nd Street Art Corridor. - Volunteers Bob and Ruben Zomke began sanding and re-oiling the "Meandering Redwood" bench at Oxbow Preserve as part of their annual volunteer maintenance. - Committee comments: the chair praised the bump-outs and pedestrian scramble but shared public comments that the white bollards can look dull and that surfaces can appear dirty; she suggested exploring coatings to more closely approximate the original thermoplastic design and improve cleanability. Another member said the bollards are a safety feature but may be the least attractive element. Members also praised the fifth year of Día de los Muertos, the marketing of public art tours, and the diversity of community celebrations. Key Outcomes - The August 25, 2026 minutes were approved unanimously. - The four Art in Parks FY2026-2027 projects - artistic bike racks, interpretive art panels, artistic benches, and functional/thematic sculptures - were approved. Staff will continue planning and plan to return with draft RFQs in early 2027 and publish RFQs in spring 2027. - The NatureCulture update was received as information; no formal action was taken. Staff will complete artist agreements and installation by March 2027 and will consider ways to publicize on-site art-making. - The next regular PASC meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 22, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.

The Venice City Council held its regular meeting on October 27, 2026, beginning at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting included recognition of community service, public comments, consent agenda approvals, public hearings on zoning and a data center moratorium, new business items including budget amendments and airport-related resolutions, and a discussion of tabled initiatives under Senate Bill 180. The meeting also featured farewell remarks and recognitions for outgoing Mayor Nick Pachota and Council Member Ron Smith, who were both honored for their service. Recognition - Mayor's Pillar of the Community Award presented to Roger Effron for his leadership on the Citizen Advisory Board and hurricane response efforts. - Council Member Ron Smith recognized for his service from 2023 to 2026, including efforts on tax relief, neighborhood protection, and coastal access. - Mayor Nick Pachota recognized for his seven years on council and four years as mayor, noted for achieving infrastructure projects, home rule advocacy, and community leadership. Vice Mayor Boldt presented the recognition and praised Pachota's foundation for future work. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Smith (Gentleman of Jazz) thanked the city for use of Centennial Park Gazebo for free concerts, highlighting the amenity and support from events staff. - Madeline Zubeck (homeowner, South Fork of Deertown Gully) formally requested the city expand the $200,000 airport environmental review to include comprehensive physical testing at all outfall locations, deep core sediment sampling, sequential sampling in the connecting canal, actionable remediation recommendations, a biological study for wildlife impacts, a full island-wide traffic micro-simulation, and air sampling for jet exhaust particulates. She submitted a community audit guide. - Christine Davis (homeowner) submitted a certified lab report showing petroleum hydrocarbons and PAH compounds migrating from the airport through a culvert into Deertown Gully. She argued the city is ultimately responsible as airport owner and called for more testing and mitigation, stating the airport's stormwater treatment claims are not accurate. - Ronald Ammel (homeowner, Bellaggio on Venice Island) requested council direct airport staff to petition the FAA to change Runway 05's traffic pattern from left to right to reduce noise over neighborhoods, and to expedite the planned remote tower to control departure headings. He expressed support for the airport as an asset. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: minutes of October 13, 2026 regular meeting; authorization for the Mayor to execute a $150,000 FDEM subaward for a Watershed Master Plan; and approval of a $204,010 WCIND grant agreement for Police Marine Patrol. Public Hearings - Ordinance 2026-33 (First Reading) – Rezoning 1936 E Venice Avenue from Sarasota County OUE-1 to City OPI (Office, Professional, Institutional) for Calvary Bible Church. Staff recommended approval, noting the change aligns with existing future land use. One speaker, Mike Rafferty, requested council defer the rezoning and instead direct staff to study a dedicated worship zoning district to protect places of worship. Council discussed the suggestion; motion carried unanimously, with direction to staff to study the idea and bring back a report. - Ordinance 2026-32 (Final Reading) – Imposing a 12-month moratorium on applications for large-load customer facilities (including large-scale data centers). No public comments. Passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Budget Amendment (Ordinance 2026-37) – Increased FY27 budget by $594,929 in revenues and expenditures. Approved unanimously on first reading. - Resolution 2026-18 – Approved Amendment No. 4 to the FDOT grant for the Venice Municipal Airport Master Plan Update. Unanimous. - Resolution 2026-20 – Approved Amendment No. 3 to the FDOT grant for design and construction of a General Aviation Terminal Building. Unanimous. - Resolution 2026-19 was removed by staff prior to the meeting. - Senate Bill 180 Tabled Initiatives (Item 26-0801) – City Manager Clinch presented a list of five items paused due to SB 180 restrictions. Kelly noted that impact fee increases are not recommended pending litigation in other counties, as two adverse rulings found such increases to be land development regulations subject to the law. Council accepted the list unanimously. - City Logo (Item 26-0802) – Mayor Pachota proposed adopting a modified centennial logo as the official primary logo, replacing the previous “burden sun” design. Staff will develop implementation guidelines and recommend a phased approach to minimize costs. Council approved the motion unanimously. Key Outcomes - Zoning Map Amendment (25-56RZ) – Approved on first reading; staff directed to study a dedicated worship zoning district. - Data Center Moratorium – Adopted unanimously. - Budget Amendment – Approved on first reading. - Airport Grant Agreements – Approved. - SB 180 Tabled Initiatives List – Accepted. - New Official City Logo – Adopted; staff to prepare updated resolution and implementation plan. - Farewells – Multiple council members expressed gratitude to outgoing Mayor Pachota and Council Member Smith. The meeting adjourned at approximately noon prior to an executive session.