The Sacramento City Council met on October 27, 2026, at 5:03 PM in City Hall. The meeting included special presentations, a consent calendar, public hearings on housing and street closure, a storm drainage fund review, and extensive public comment. Councilmembers absent: Mayor McCarty and Councilmember Maple. Councilmember Jennings abstained on item 5. Special Presentations - Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Councilmember Kaplan recognized Doug Carson and Melissa Manzo of the I'll Be Aware foundation. Carson noted that 1 in 8 women and 1 in 755 men will develop breast cancer. The foundation provides diagnostic testing, not research. - 50th Anniversary of Teatro Espejo: Mayor Pro Tem Guerra honored the theater company founded in 1975 by Professor Manuel Pickett. Teatro Espejo is the oldest existing teatro on a university campus west of the Mississippi. Professor Nicole Limon noted the theater's focus on social justice. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously with an amendment. Councilmember Jennings abstained on Item 5 (Mills Act contracts) due to a financial conflict of interest involving his spouse's role at St. Hope Development Corporation. - Councilmember Kaplan offered an amendment to Item 8 (Delegation to Vote for Reclamation District No. 1000 Trustees) to split the city's votes among three candidates (incumbents Howard Chan and Elena Reader, and Dard Hunter) instead of four. The amendment was included in the motion. Public Comments & Testimony On Consent Calendar Items: - Lambert Davis praised the city manager, auditor, and clerk, calling them outstanding. - Rebecca Sandoval raised concerns about the Larchwood Drive property (Item 3), demanding transparency and environmental scrutiny. She questioned the scale of proposed affordable housing and its impact on traffic and schools. - Karina Pullen criticized the city's failure to produce ADA-compliant staff reports, stating that blind residents cannot read them. She offered to help for free. - Sally Sapiro spoke on Item 4, calling the lack of affordable housing "a crime against humanity." - Alexander Hampton (North Coast Carpenters Union) urged the city to require good labor practices (healthcare, apprenticeship, local hire, livable wage) on the Larchwood project. On Matters Not on the Agenda: - Sonia Caraballo (Unite Here Local 49) presented a petition with 1,113 signatures calling for a better deal on the Rail Yards development, including 25% affordable housing, living wage jobs, and a grocery store. She thanked council for not voting on the subsidy that day. - Jesse Singh (SCUSD Trustee) reported that ICE activity occurred near Ethel Phillips Elementary School that day. He requested that Sacramento PD notify the school district within a half-mile radius of ICE operations. He noted that a family member of a student was detained at a nearby supermarket. - Alyssa Gotti and Liana H. described being detained by Sacramento PD while documenting law enforcement activity. They accused PD of collaborating with ICE and demanded action. - Yolanda Villanueva recounted being attacked at her apartment (Wong Center) and asked for help finding safe housing. - Marbella Salah urged redirecting anger at the federal level and supporting immigrant families with practical help. Discussion Items Item 13 – Q Street Apartments (TEFRA Hearing) Staff proposed a $2 million Housing Trust Fund loan and up to $38 million in tax-exempt bonds for a 198-unit modular affordable housing project at 6779 Q Street. The 12-story building will serve households earning 30-70% of area median income. Parking is limited to 38 spaces. Councilmember Dickinson questioned parking adequacy and urged providing transit passes. Developer Heidi Mather (Community HousingWorks) said marketing will highlight limited parking, and they are considering transit passes. Christine Weichert (SHRA) confirmed they will work on a parking lottery and transit pass program. The public hearing was closed, and the item was approved with no votes in opposition and two abstentions (McCarty and Maple absent). Item 14 – Temporary Closure of 21st Avenue Staff requested approval to install an electric gate to restrict public access to a dead-end street near Power Inn Road to reduce illegal dumping, vandalism, and encampments. The closure is for 18 months with an option to extend. No public objections were received. The item was approved unanimously. Item 15 – CalPERS Contract Amendment The item was continued to November 10, 2026. Item 16 – Storm Drainage Funds Review City Auditor Farishta Ahrary presented an independent fiscal stability assessment by Rough Talas/West Yost. Key findings: - The separated drainage system includes over 1,000 miles of pipes, 107 pump stations, and 76 detention basins. - Only 20-25% of pipes have been inspected; 5,800 sump station work orders have been deferred since 2016. - The funded capital plan ($13.5M/year) is below a 1% renewal rate. Current revenues are insufficient. - Under the status quo scenario, fund balances for both the 1996 fee (Fund 6011) and 2022 fee (Fund 6021) will dip below zero by 2033. To maintain solvency, rate increases of 20-40% for operations and 120-205% for capital are modeled in future years. Councilmember Kaplan noted fees have not been raised since 1996 and 2022 respectively, and inquired about utility assistance programs. Director Dalia Fadl confirmed an income-based program providing 40% reduction. Councilmember Dickinson raised concerns about the combined sewer system's long-term costs. The item was approved with no opposition. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved as amended (Jennings abstained on Item 5; Item 8 votes split among three candidates). - Item 13 (Q Street Apartments) approved. Developer to finalize transit pass and parking lottery plans. - Item 14 (21st Avenue Closure) approved. - Item 15 continued to November 10. - Item 16 (Storm Drainage Funds Review) approved, initiating a formal rate-making process. - Council Direction: Councilmembers Guerra and Kaplan directed the City Manager to improve communication with school districts regarding ICE activity and reaffirm the city's sanctuary city policy. City Manager Maraskeshia Smith acknowledged the directive. The meeting adjourned at 6:50 PM.
The Public Meeting Index
The Public Meeting IndexThe Danbury Zoning Commission held a workshop session on October 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM via Zoom and YouTube. The meeting focused on updates from the Zoning Director regarding ongoing and future zoning regulation projects, including downtown improvements, parking minimum reforms, food truck regulations, digital sign rules, and a potential data center development at the Summit. No public hearings were held, and no formal votes were taken on substantive matters. Note: The transcript records the meeting date as October 13, 2026; however, the provided metadata indicates October 27, 2026. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from September 22, 2026, were unanimously approved (motion by Commissioner O’Neill, second by Commissioner Hall). Discussion Items - Downtown Phase 2B Construction: The Director reported that the state granted final approval that morning for the next phase of downtown sidewalk and streetscape improvements (purple area on map). Construction is expected to start the week of October 27, 2026, at a cost of approximately $4 million. The total downtown project cost is about $21 million. Key areas include the walkway from the post office to Mothership and near the Ink/BI&Airstart building. The bus hub bridge repairs are nearly complete. - Parking Minimum Reform: The city is reviewing its parking requirements, which date back to the 1970s. Working with state agency CTrides and volunteer group CT Parking Reform, an analysis of actual parking needs is underway. The Director noted that current requirements are often excessive and force unnecessary variance applications. A workshop will be scheduled once the analysis is ready. - Food Truck Regulations: The city currently has no zoning regulations for food trucks. Permits are processed through other departments without clear standards, leading to inconsistent approvals. The Director indicated this is a future priority after the multifamily and parking projects. - Digital Signs: Digital signs are currently not permitted under zoning regulations, but several have been approved via variances by the BZA (e.g., Stew Leonard’s in 1990, recent approvals for Cargozzi’s and a Newtown Road shop). The Director recommended the commission develop its own regulations covering size, height, location, spacing, and glare/housing impacts to avoid reliance on variances. - Potential Data Center at the Summit: No formal application has been submitted. A neighborhood meeting is scheduled for October 26, 2026. The proposal reportedly involves a data center using fuel cells for power and new cooling technology to reduce water usage. Commissioners discussed the need for a comprehensive impact study, community benefits, and concerns about noise and electrical rates. The Chairman emphasized that the commission will evaluate the application fairly when submitted. - Other Updates: The Super 8 hotel redevelopment is progressing with a $400,000 state grant application for engineering studies. The West Side fire station project has finalized land acquisition; the site plan review is ongoing with wetland concerns, but only a small portion of the lot is needed for construction. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions were made on policy changes. - The Director will continue working on parking analysis, multifamily and food establishment regulations, and food truck and digital sign rules. - The commission will await formal applications for the data center and will expect a robust presentation and impact analysis. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 27, 2026 (per the transcript, but the metadata indicates this meeting is that date). Roll call at 7:06 PM; adjourned at 7:40 PM. Commissioners present: Potello, Hall, James, Jowdy, Chairman Hadad, and others. Absent: Bennett, Fuchs, Trata, Need James, Novus, Laughlin.
The Mesquite City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers at Mesquite City Hall, 10 E Mesquite Blvd. The agenda included ceremonial awards, approval of the consent agenda, two interlocal agreements, council and staff reports, the proposed Mesquite Bulldog public art project, and a discussion of the city-owned parcel sold to Danielle's Chocolates and Popcorn. Councilman Wanless participated by phone. Ceremonial Matters - Pastor Craig Janson of River Valley Bible Church delivered the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda spells the pastor's name Janson, while the transcript spells it Jansen. - Deb Parsley, past president of Mesquite Rotary and area governor for District 5300, presented the SOAR Award to Mesquite Fire Department personnel for their response to a 21-year-old trauma patient, including needle decompression, TXA administration, and air transport coordination. The patient survived and is recovering. - Joe Solligab, Mesquite Rotary secretary, thanked partners for the 2026 Mudd Volleyball tournament, including Eureka Casino, Mesquite Entertainment, Nevada Residential Construction, and Odyssey Landscaping. The Mesquite Fire Department was recognized as the winner over the Police Department. - Councilwoman Fielding recognized Virgin Valley High School boys' doubles tennis players Justin and Logan Andris and Coach Alex Blazard for winning the school's first state tennis championship; the pair finished undefeated and, because weather shortened the state tournament, were co-champions with Truckee. Public Comments & Testimony - Dominic Olivetto, speaking for the Veterans Center, thanked city officials and staff for supporting the Atlas telehealth ribbon cutting and noted that Mesquite has more than 3,500 veterans. - Mary Mathis, president of the Mesquite Fine Arts Center, gave an update on current exhibits, the annual Lucky 13 show, Second Saturday Community Art Walks, classes, and the center's new website. - During the 5.1 discussion, Bill Mitchell, a business owner, opposed placing bulldog sculptures around town, saying it did not represent Mesquite; Ray Harkey suggested golf balls instead. - During the 5.2 discussion, Dominic Olivetto urged council to support a longtime small business, while Gary El Gordon cautioned that the property may be worth more than $110,000 and urged the city to protect its interests. - In the final public comment period, Bill Mitchell asked about a nearly $7,200 check in the check register to Red Rock Space for a police department sauna; staff responded it was a health-related item funded by a donation from the Eagles Landing golf tournament. Consent Agenda - The Mayor recused himself from the consent agenda because his company does business with the city. - Council approved the consent agenda, including the September 8, 2026 and September 22, 2026 Regular City Council minutes, the October 6, 2026 Technical Review Meeting minutes, the October 27, 2026 agenda, notifications of bills paid, purchase orders, and budget transfers. Councilman Ennis made the motion, Councilwoman Fielding seconded, and it passed. Resolutions & Proclamations - Resolution No. R26-029 – RTC Traffic Signal Interlocal Contract: The council approved Interlocal Contract No. 3309 with the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada for the CasaBlanca Resort/Mesquite Boulevard traffic signal. Staff said the project would be 100% reimbursed by RTC, would be bored under the road rather than tied to the mill and fill project, and corrected a typo in the contract scope that referenced Falcon Ridge Parkway and Bertha Howell. Councilman Parrish questioned the signal's location near a private driveway rather than at Pulsifer, citing pedestrian crosswalk safety under the underpass. Staff said the location follows traffic demand and would include a new crosswalk, with the Pulsifer crosswalk to be evaluated. Councilwoman Fielding moved approval, and the motion passed. - Resolution No. R26-030 – SNWA Water/Wastewater Sales Tax Interlocal Contract: The council approved the interlocal contract with the Southern Nevada Water Authority for distribution of the Clark County Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Sales Tax. Staff explained that the 0.25% sales tax dates to 1999 and that its sunset was removed by county action. The new agreement allows SNWA to send the city's share directly to the city and the Virgin Valley Water District separately, with no change in allocation. The city received $976,522 from this source last year. Public commenters asked whether it was a new tax; council and staff clarified it was not. Staff said the funds have paid for a $3 million solids holding tank and will fund a new sewer line from the pickleball courts to Oasis Boulevard to relieve an overloaded 10-inch line under Exit 122. Councilman Ennis moved approval, and the motion passed. Department and Staff Reports - The Mayor thanked community organizations and noted that November would have one City Council meeting, on November 17, with Technical Review on November 10. - Councilman Parrish said the police department's community events fund, used for Shop with a Cop and Trunk or Treat, was low and presented a $3,000 check to the fund. - Councilman Ennis updated the council on the Veterans Center, including the Atlas telehealth ribbon cutting and a planned monthly VA mental health van starting in January. - Councilwoman Gallo thanked the community for supporting the Alzheimer's Walk and Duck Derby. - Councilwoman Fielding promoted suicide prevention anchor boxes now at 16 locations and the 988 hotline. - Councilman Wanless praised the city's storm response and urged continued floodplain and Virgin River levee work. - Staff reported on an extreme, isolated rainfall event the prior Wednesday night that produced heavy runoff, hail, and sediment in western Mesquite; city crews cleaned public roads and assisted HOAs and Pulte Group ahead of possible additional rain. Becca reported on the ICMA conference, where over 5,600 local government employees attended and Mesquite was featured in promotional videos. Administrative Items - Mesquite Bulldog Public Art Project: The council approved the Mesquite Public Arts Commission moving forward with a custom bulldog sculpture project. The commission plans two sculptures initially, with an estimated $7,000 mold cost and about $1,200 per sculpture afterward; it is not requesting city funds. Locations discussed included Virgin Valley High School and other community or business sites. Councilwoman Fielding moved approval, Councilman Ennis seconded, and the motion passed. - 515 Isaac Newton / Danielle's Chocolates and Popcorn: The council held a detailed discussion about the contract on the city-owned parcel sold to All Enterprises Ltd., DBA Danielle's Chocolates and Popcorn. Staff recap: the original parcel was 17.69 acres; two appraisals valued the split parcel at $125,000 and $110,000; the sale price was $77,000; escrow closed March 24, 2022; and a deadline extension moved performance to March 2027. Danielle said her business has operated in Mesquite for 23 years and has invested more than $100,000 in plans, geotechnical work, health department approvals, and utility coordination. Western Alliance Bank representative Dan Wright said the proposed SBA 504 loan would place the bank first and SBA second, and the bank asked the city to subordinate its position and to remove or revise the contract clause allowing the city to take the property back if economic development thresholds are not met. Danielle offered a $77,000 cash bond or escrow; the bank offered an irrevocable letter of credit. City Attorney Adam cautioned against removing protections because the discounted sale depends on economic development under the city charter. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved, with the Mayor recused. - Resolution R26-029 approved, authorizing the RTC interlocal contract for the CasaBlanca/Mesquite Boulevard traffic signal. - Resolution R26-030 approved, authorizing the SNWA interlocal contract for water/wastewater infrastructure sales tax distribution. - Mesquite Public Arts Commission authorized to proceed with the Bulldog Public Art Project. - Council directed staff to pursue a $77,000 escrow or irrevocable letter of credit arrangement with Danielle's Chocolates and Popcorn and the bank, amend the contract including Section 3.8, and bring the amendment back for a future vote. - No final contract amendment was adopted on October 27; the 515 Isaac Newton item remained a staff direction rather than a final bank-approval action.
The Jacksonville City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber, City Hall, with all 19 members present. The council approved the October 13, 2026 minutes on a 19-0 voice vote, filed nine communications from the mayor and other entities, and proceeded through quasi-judicial items, consent agenda, public comment, public hearings, readings, and introductions. Council President Howland announced that the week of November 2 committee meetings would move from Tuesday to Wednesday because of the November 3 general election, and that JSO had served a subpoena to former JTA CEO Nat Ford compelling testimony before the Finance Committee. The meeting adjourned at 8:46 PM. Presentation and Announcements - Council Member Pittman presented framed Resolution 2026-613-A honoring Duval County Public Schools for earning an A grade from the Florida Department of Education for the second consecutive year. Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier and board members accepted; statistics cited included 98% of traditional district schools earning A/B/C grades, a 97.6% graduation rate in traditional high schools, and 94% overall graduation rate, up from 80.5% in 2013. - The Council President also announced that Council Member Rory Diamond was coordinating with Mr. Ford on a date to testify, and that the Attorney General investigation and FAO Select Committee inquiry would continue. Quasi-Judicial Ordinances - Approved 19-0: 2026-0660 (rezoning at 11713 Alta Drive from RR-ARCE to RLD-100A for Jacksonville Homes, LLC); 2026-0695 (rezoning at 9520 Sandler Road from RR-Acre to RLD-70 for Jacksonville Homes, LLC); 2026-0696 (rezoning at 0 103rd Street from CO to CCG-2 for Ricky Rand); and 2026-0747 (sign setback waiver at 960 Girvin Road for the Diocese of St. Augustine, reducing the minimum setback from 20 feet to 12 feet). Ex parte communications were declared on several items. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, less item 2026-0830, was approved 19-0. Council Member Diamond pulled 2026-0830, honoring retiring broadcast journalist Phil Amato; a floor amendment was adopted and the resolution passed 19-0 as amended. - Routine approvals included the donation of city-owned property at 1725 East 22nd Street to Destined for a Change, Inc. for permanent affordable housing; an appropriation of $34,496.25 for JFRD critical care equipment, including $25,872.19 in state grant funds and $8,624.06 city match; numerous board appointments and reappointments; and recognition resolutions for National Adoption Day/Month, the 160th anniversary of Edward Waters University, Carol J. Alexander, Reverend Elizabeth Elaine Yates, and Phil Amato. Clint Noble reappointment to the Environmental Protection Board (2026-0773) was withdrawn 19-0. - Unfinished business 2026-0769, declaring October 2026 as Scouting America Page Month, was approved 18-0 after a council amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - Many speakers opposed the Finance Committee effort to divert $2.8 million of the $4.9 million Affordable Housing Trust Fund to the Tori Meadows apartment project, saying the funds were intended for down-payment assistance, utility connection help, and construction financing for homeownership. Carol Hawkins, Alan Maston, Terry Rosenberry, Reverend Madison Hilt, Carmen Dawson, Pastor John Turner, Reverend Amber Kearney, James Schwartz, Wells Todd, Etta Etlinger, Emily McMillan, and Denise Cook all urged the council to keep the trust fund intact; several noted that Vestcor, the developer behind Tori Meadows, had a high number of eviction filings. - Speakers including Jeff Bio and Suzanne Sapp supported affordable housing trust fund legislation and emergency utility assistance; Sapp identified herself with Sierra Club and the Duval Affordable Clean Energy Coalition and pushed for keeping JEA public and decisions made transparently. - Michelle Wilson and Nicole Sparks spoke in support of the urban agriculture ordinance (2026-0807) but asked for clarification separating educational programming from retail rules, more community market days, and clearer enforcement definitions. - Carnell Oliver, Vanessa Collins Hopkins, Katrina Spencer, and Denise Presley opposed or questioned the Gateway Mixed-Use PUD rezoning and called for traffic studies and deferral. - Blake Harper questioned the reappointments of library board members and raised concerns about graphic books accessible to children. - Other commenters discussed JTA financial management, code enforcement, redlining and reparations, the Emerald Trail, data centers, Amendment 3, and a campaign-shirt incident at the meeting; the General Counsel explained the electioneering and campaigning restrictions and said the person had been warned before the sergeant-at-arms was notified. Discussion Items - JEA board reappointment (2026-0203): Council Members Diamond and Salem opposed reappointing Joseph P. DiSalvo, citing JEA rate increases and DiSalvo's conduct at the February board meeting. Supporters, including Carlucci, Peluso, Clark-Murray, and Howland, defended his independence and service. The resolution was approved 12-7, with J. Carlucci, Carrico, Diamond, White, Arias, Gay, and Salem voting no. - Administrative Services Department (2026-0722): Council Member Salem's floor amendment requiring a bachelor's degree unless waived by 10 council votes failed on a hand vote after debate; a rules amendment correcting technical provisions passed. The ordinance was approved 17-2, with Carrico and Salem dissenting. - Tori Meadows development loan (2026-0752): Finance Chair Lahnen said the finance substitute attached a funding source because the bill was introduced without one and warned of $38 million in unfunded commitments by FY 28-29. Opponents called the substitute an underhanded diversion from the recently approved affordable housing trust fund. The finance substitute failed; a rules amendment passed, and the ordinance authorizing a $2,800,000, 20-year development loan for approximately 180 affordable housing units was approved 15-3, with Lahnen, Gay, and Miller dissenting. Public Hearings - 2026-0558 (rezoning at Richardson Road) was continued to November 24, 2026. - 2026-0743 (Gateway Mixed-Use PUD at Norwood Avenue and 44th Street) received four opposition speaker cards and its public hearing was closed without a vote; LUZ review was scheduled for November 4. - 2026-0748 (Kings Creek II CDD boundary contraction of 93.24+ acres) was approved 18-0. - 2026-0653 (Walnut Street FLUM amendment) was withdrawn 18-0; companion 2026-0654 (Duval Laundry PUD) was approved 18-0 as amended, with the applicant agreeing to a floor amendment prohibiting live music or amplified sound outside between 11 p.m. and 9 a.m. - 2026-0692 and 2026-0693 (Hendricks Avenue and Grandy Avenue land use and rezoning) were approved 18-0. - Numerous other public hearings were closed without speaker cards, with additional hearings set for November 10 or November 24. Key Outcomes - Votes included: minutes 19-0; quasi-judicial ordinances 19-0; consent agenda 19-0; 2026-0830 19-0 as amended; 2026-0769 18-0; JEA reappointment 12-7; JHFA homeowner mortgage revenue bonds up to $100,000,000 18-1 (Diamond no); corrections defined contribution plan 19-0; Administrative Services 17-2; Zoo capital maintenance amendment 19-0; Tori Meadows loan 15-3; SHIP appropriation of $247,929 18-0; traffic calming and e-bike signs 18-0; Homelessness Commission strategic plan deadline extension 17-0-1 (Pittman abstaining); Kings Creek II CDD 18-0; Walnut Street withdrawal and Duval Laundry PUD approval 18-0. - Second-reading resolutions and ordinances were read and referred to committees. New resolutions and ordinances were introduced, including 2026-0855 Shore Manufacturing economic development agreement with a $65,000 grant, JHFA multifamily housing revenue bonds for Leon Landing ($15,000,000), Tori Meadows ($31,200,000), and Treetop Apartments ($35,500,000), and the urban agriculture ordinance 2026-0807. - Council approved addendum 2026-0886, introducing and assigning an ordinance authorizing a preliminary engineering services agreement with Florida East Coast Railway for a 24-hour quiet zone in the San Marco area. - Council waived Rules 3.103 and 3.302 to add co-introducers to 2026-0867 (utility assistance appropriation), and approved the floor amendment as amended. - The minutes for 2026-0672 contain an internal inconsistency, listing both a 19-0 withdrawal and approval on the consent agenda; the agenda had shown committee withdrawals before final action. - The next regular Council meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2026.
The Tacoma City Council met on October 27, 2026, for a regular meeting that included a consent calendar, two proclamations, a Tacoma Public Schools partnership report, resolutions on labor and property transfer, a property-maintenance code ordinance, first readings of franchise and property-tax ordinances, and the first public hearing on the 2027–2028 biennial budget. The council adopted an agenda modification to hear the City Manager’s report after proclamations, and a special Transportation Benefit District meeting was scheduled immediately after adjournment. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was adopted by voice vote, including Resolutions 42048–42052; final reading of Ordinance 29122, vacating a portion of South MacArthur Street right-of-way to cure a sign encroachment; and first reading of Ordinance 29126, vacating air rights at 735 North 2nd Street to construct balconies, set over to a date to be determined. - Resolution 42048 accepted an $850,000 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grant for shelter expansion and site preparation at the Stability Site project. - Resolution 42049 accepted a $3,739,551 HUD grant for formula-based entitlement programs and authorized agreements with Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnership Program, and Emergency Solutions Grant. - Resolution 42050 accepted a $395,052 Department of Justice Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant, split equally with Pierce County, for community-based violence interventions (retroactive to Oct. 1, 2024 through Sept. 30, 2028). - Resolution 42051 accepted a $637,000 Washington State Department of Commerce grant for the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates program (retroactive to Sept. 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027). - Resolution 42052 awarded a contract to Vets Power Electric LLC for a new energy-efficient HVAC system at the Fire Training Center for $447,200 plus a 15% contingency, for a projected contract total of $514,280 plus applicable taxes. - Minutes of the Landmarks Preservation Commission, Planning Commission, Public Utility Board, and Tacoma Creates Advisory Board listed on the agenda were filed with the City Clerk. Proclamations and Recognitions - National Immigrants Day (Oct. 28, 2026): The council proclaimed National Immigrants Day. Representatives of immigrant and refugee service organizations spoke in support, including TRAC Associates, the Slavic Association of Tacoma, and the Multicultural Child and Family Hope Center. One speaker noted that one in five families in Tacoma speak a language other than English at home. Councilmember Sidalga, who identified himself as a foreign-born immigrant, stressed the importance of welcoming communities and noted that 78% of foreign-born individuals in Pierce County live outside Tacoma. - National Co-Op Month (October 2026): The council proclaimed October 2026 as National Co-Op Month. Speakers highlighted the number of local cooperatives, including 18 credit unions, 7 resident-owned housing cooperatives, 18 consumer cooperatives, and 10 preschool cooperatives. One speaker reported that worker cooperatives recycle about 80% of revenue into the community, compared with roughly 30–50% for a typical privately owned business. Councilmembers spoke in support of cooperatives as a way to keep money local and expand ownership. City Manager Report: Tacoma Public Schools Partnership - Superintendent Dr. Josh Garcia, School Board Director Elizabeth Brombright, and Director Kim Messersmith presented an update on Tacoma Public Schools–City partnerships. - Beyond the Bell and Club B reported 2,729 student registrations, about 2,100 unique students, 287 programs at 46 school sites, and 38 community partners. - Summer Teen Late Nights served about 2,000 unique students, a 47% increase, with 12,000 visits and meals at approximately 9–10 sites. - Jobs 253 provided paid internships to 815 students, distributing over $400,000 in pay. - Mental health providers supported by the city served over 10,000 youth on TPS sites last year. - A new Tacoma Police Department youth engagement officer program was launched, and the city supported TPS construction projects completed in 2026, including the Maritime Skill Center, Lowell Elementary Replacement Project, Galt site and soccer pitch, Foss High School renovations, and Jenny Reed Elementary renovations. Public Comments & Testimony Pre-budget public comment - Tyler Daniels spoke on Communications item 26-0949, expressing concern about environmental toxicity from industry and what he described as historic inaction by the city; he said he planned to leave Tacoma and would provide the clerk a list of concerns. - One virtual attendee initially attempted to comment on the budget during the general public comment period and was redirected to the budget hearing later in the agenda. 2027–2028 Biennial Budget Public Hearing - Steve O’Bann, on behalf of True Bay Healthcare, supported full funding for the St. Anne’s expansion, describing the existing 61-bed facility as serving formerly homeless residents with complex care needs and at 30% AMI or less; he said 57% of residents come from Tacoma and the facility is at capacity. - Michael Mira, on behalf of the Affordable Housing Consortium of Tacoma Pierce County, supported the $1.5 million St. Anne’s request and said the project addresses all five urgencies identified in local homelessness plans. - Amanda DeShazo, executive director of the Tacoma Pierce County Affordable Housing Consortium, voiced strong support for the St. Anne’s investment as a one-time capital cost for permanent supportive housing. - Numerous speakers supported preserving the HOPE team, including Denise Gentile, Teresa Power Drudis, Barb Church, Julie Andrzejewski, Jonathan Pottle, Megan Salvage, Fenn Pelletier, Marilyn Kimmerling, Rob Crable, Calista Brown, Anita Arnold, and a virtual speaker signed in as Tacoma Tenants. They described HOPE team members as credentialed behavioral-health responders, argued the HEAL program is not equivalent, and called for an independent alternative-response study before any cuts. - Laura Swanzarek from Tacoma on the Go supported continued investment in safe, connected, and equitable mobility and asked that Connect Tacoma funds be allocated transparently with attention to Vision Zero high-risk corridors. - Chris Aberhart and Leon Nettles supported continued investment in safe streets and cycling infrastructure, with Nettles speaking as executive director of Second Cycle. - Lydia Zapeda and Norma Ramirez urged the council to fully fund the Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs recommendation of $170,000 annually — $140,000 for legal services and $30,000 for phone calls — for people detained at the Northwest ICE Processing Center. Zapeda said over 5,000 people passed through the facility in 2025, and Ramirez said about 85% of detainees navigate cases without a lawyer. - Alma Viegas also supported the $170,000 detention-center funding request and said the city’s budget choices reflect priorities. - Sally Perkins asked the council to require written answers before the Nov. 17 budget vote on how one-tenth of 1% public-safety sales tax funds are allocated in line with RCW 82.14.460. - Tyler Daniels, speaking again during the budget hearing, criticized the budget’s scarcity mindset and alleged city personnel practices had cost over $150,000 in private counsel; he urged investment in infrastructure and policy implementation. - Bridget Demerson, a virtual speaker, said her business, Levons Road, was displaced from a city-backed Tacoma Housing Authority commercial space project and asked the council to enforce independent oversight of economic development funds. - Gloria Garcia, a virtual speaker, said no budget funds should be used to fight voter-approved landlord fairness measures and suggested enforcing disabled-parking fines as a revenue source. Discussion Items - Resolution 42053 – IBEW Local 483 trouble crew overtime: Labor Relations Division Manager Dylan Carlson explained that Tacoma Power operates three 24/7 trouble crews and has struggled to fill vacancies. The Letter of Agreement changes overtime rules so that crew members working overtime immediately before a regular shift, or receiving less than eight consecutive hours off, receive overtime pay for the regular shift. The Public Utility Board approved the agreement Oct. 14, 2026. The council adopted the resolution by voice vote. - Resolution 42054 – Surplus Tacoma Water properties: Staff presented the no-cost transfer of three vacant properties in unincorporated Pierce County to Pierce County for affordable housing: 0.97 acres at 9512 East 17th Avenue, 1.037 acres at 10240 18th Avenue South, and 0.679 acres at 10737 Ainsworth Avenue South. Pierce County was the only party expressing interest; one property will go to Housing Pierce County for rental housing and two to the Pierce County Community Development Corporation for homeownership. The transfer includes a 50-year covenant and reserved easements. The council adopted the resolution by voice vote. - Ordinance 29125 – Property Maintenance and Nuisance Code: Councilmembers discussed the final reading of the ordinance adding new Chapter 2.24 and amending Titles 1, 2, 5, and 8. Councilmember Sidalga said the code update is necessary but not sufficient, noting the city has only two code enforcement officers. Deputy Mayor Bushnell supported the ordinance as a step toward voluntary compliance and future proactive enforcement. The ordinance passed on roll call and takes effect Jan. 1, 2027. - Ordinance 29127 – Verizon Business Services telecommunications franchise: The first reading would grant MCI Communications Services LLC dba Verizon Business Services a non-exclusive ten-year franchise to construct, operate, and repair a telecommunications system. It was approved by the Government Performance and Finance Committee on Oct. 20, 2026, and set over for final reading Nov. 17, 2026. - Ordinances 29128–29131 – 2027 property tax levies: Finance staff presented four first-reading ordinances covering the regular property tax and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) levy. The regular levy would increase by the 1% limit, with a certified 2027 amount of $82.7 million including about $9.1 million from the voter-approved Connect Tacoma lid lift. The EMS levy would increase by the full 6%, producing $24.3 million before additional revenues, subject to the 50-cent per $1,000 assessed-value limit. Staff corrected a prior slide error identifying Sound Transit, not Pierce Transit, as the transit agency levying 16 cents per $1,000. All four ordinances were set over for final reading Nov. 10, 2026. - 2027–2028 Biennial Budget presentation: Finance Director Andy Cherullo presented a $5.3 billion biennial budget covering all departments and utilities, with a $696 million general fund and about 4,200 employees. The general fund structural deficit started at $40 million and was closed to zero through department reductions, elimination of over 100 positions, and proposed new revenues; the projected 2029–2030 deficit fell from $75 million to $18 million, and projected 2031–2032 deficits fell from over $100 million to $40 million. Community survey results rated emergency services, schools, and parks high, while code enforcement, street conditions, crime, and cost of living rated low. Proposed new revenues include business-license fee restructuring, a parking excise tax, and the previously approved one-tenth of 1% public-safety sales tax. The proposed budget also included eliminating the CSO program and the HOPE team, along with targeted investments in fire apparatus, police equipment, litter and graffiti cleanup, cybersecurity, and permanent supportive housing beds. Council Comments and Committee Reports - Chair Rumbaugh reported that the Community Vitality and Safety Committee met on Sept. 24, Oct. 8, and Oct. 22, 2026, covering the human services RFP recommendations, resiliency hub collaboration, Tacoma Housing Authority, and the Tacoma Area Commission on Disabilities. The next committee meeting is Thursday, Dec. 10, 2026, and will include Police Advisory Committee interviews and a presentation by federal lobbyist Jennifer Cavino on the Road to Housing Act. - Councilmember Sidalga invited the community to a Diwali celebration. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted, including grant acceptances, the HVAC purchase resolution, and ordinance first and final readings as listed; Ordinance 29126 was set over to a date to be determined. - Resolutions 42053 and 42054 adopted by voice vote. - Ordinance 29125 passed on roll call, effective Jan. 1, 2027. - Ordinance 29127 set over for final reading on Nov. 17, 2026. - Ordinances 29128, 29129, 29130, and 29131 set over for final reading on Nov. 10, 2026. - The first public hearing on the 2027–2028 biennial budget was held. Budget amendments are expected to be brought Nov. 3; the Nov. 10 meeting will include the second public hearing and amendment votes; final budget adoption is scheduled for Nov. 17, 2026. - The regular council meeting was adjourned; the Transportation Benefit District special meeting was scheduled to convene immediately after adjournment.
The Grand Island City Council met at 7:00 PM on October 27, 2026, in Council Chambers, 100 E First Street, Grand Island, Nebraska. Mayor Steele presided and roll call was taken; Councilmember Conley was absent. The council sat as the Board of Equalization, approved the consent agenda, held two public hearings, referred a blight study, and approved a parking assessment ordinance. Agenda item 10A, the VenuWorks/Heartland Event Center Operations Funding Request, was removed from the agenda pending further analysis and input from the legal department. The mayor adjourned the meeting after about 21 minutes. Board of Equalization - Parking District 3 Benefits - The council convened as the Board of Equalization and approved Resolution 2025-BE-6, determining benefits for Parking District 3 (downtown off-street parking). Finance Director Chelsea Steinkey explained that the district was established in 2019 to fund maintenance of public off-street parking in the downtown central business district. The total proposed assessment is $80,000.12, approximately 0.0488 cents per square foot of building area. Property owners who provide quality private parking spaces can apply for a $15 per space credit. The amount equals the prior year's budgeted amount, with no increase in the total collected. Consent Calendar - The council approved consent agenda items A through P in a single motion. These included: approval of the October 13, 2026 meeting minutes; payment of claims totaling $7,940,266.90 for October 14-27, 2026; reappointment of Tom Barnes to the Regional Planning Commission; appointment of Geri Pagel to the Library Board; approval of the 2027 City Council meeting schedule; Fire Department storage building bid, mobile radios, PPE purchase, and Zoll Z Vent portable ventilator purchase; purchase of single-axle and tandem-axle flatbed trucks for the Streets Division; amendment of Resolution No. 2026-270 for a 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup for the Solid Waste Division; GIPD impound office buildout at 510 S. Stuhr Road; final plats for 5T Second Subdivision (4.783 acres) and Baxter Acres Third Subdivision (6.62 acres) in the ETJ; and approval of purchasing cooperatives. Public Hearings & Testimony - No members of the public came forward to speak on any agenda item during either public hearing. - Hearing 8A - Legacy 34 7th & 8th Subdivision: Planning staff presented a zoning change from RD-Residential Development and R2-Low Density Residential to RD and CD-Commercial Development for property northeast of Legacy Drive and north and south of Weaver Street in the Prairie District. The changes would allow commercial development, including a daycare where apartments had previously been planned, with RD retained for townhouse-style apartments. Staff said the Planning Commission recommended approval and the proposal is consistent with the comprehensive plan. The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. The council suspended the rules and approved Ordinance 10,095, Resolution 2026-292 (Legacy 34 Seventh Subdivision), and Resolution 2026-293 (Legacy 34 Eighth Subdivision). - Hearing 8B - Veterans Village Rezoning and Preliminary Plat: Planning staff presented a rezoning from LLR-Large Lot Residential to B2-General Business for property between the BNSF Railroad Mainline and Airport Road (U.S. Highway 281), and between Broadwell Avenue and Webb Road in northern Grand Island, including part of the Good Life District. Staff said the area had been zoned large lot residential since at least 2004 and was shown as mixed-use commercial on the future land use map. B2 permits a variety of uses, including sports complexes, parks, schools, and churches, while excluding heavy manufacturing and most agricultural uses. The preliminary plat for Veterans Village includes soccer fields, a YMCA site, potential sports complex, commercial node, apartments, housing, mixed-use development, and a school site. The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. Councilmember Nickerson asked about drainage and gas main concerns raised by Webb Road neighbors; staff responded that drainage is planned largely to the east and north to lake property and that the gas main is below ground in an easement on the west edge. Councilmember O'Neill asked for confirmation that housing is allowed in B2; staff confirmed B2 permits housing at up to 42 units per acre, same as R4, while the proposal includes roughly 1,600 housing units at about 8 units per acre total. The council suspended rules and approved Ordinance 10,096 and the preliminary plat for Veterans Village Subdivision. Requests and Referrals - The council approved referring a Blight and Substandard Study for proposed CRA Area 44 to the Hall County Regional Planning Commission. Staff explained the 9-acre site is on North Road, immediately north of Cedar Hills Park, bounded by North Road on the west and property owned by Mr. Reef on the east, with development challenges for compatible industrial use. The request is only a referral to begin the study process; it does not grant tax increment financing. The study is expected to go to the Planning Commission on December 2, 2026, and return to the Council around December 15, 2026. Ordinances - Ordinance 10,097, approving assessments for Parking District 3 (off-street parking), was approved after suspension of the statutory rules. Finance Director Steinkey explained that this ordinance formally approves the assessments following the Board of Equalization action earlier in the meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved Resolution 2025-BE-6 (Parking District 3 benefits). - Approved the consent agenda items A through P. - Approved Ordinance 10,095 and Resolutions 2026-292 and 2026-293 for Legacy 34 7th and 8th Subdivisions. - Approved Ordinance 10,096 and the Veterans Village Subdivision preliminary plat. - Approved referral of the CRA Area 44 blight/substandard study to the Hall County Regional Planning Commission. - Approved Ordinance 10,097 for Parking District 3 assessments. - Removed the VenuWorks/Heartland Event Center Operations Funding Request from the agenda pending legal department analysis. - The transcript records each motion as adopted by voice vote; no numerical roll-call tallies were stated.
The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met in study session on October 27, 2026, to receive information on General Plan Amendment No. 25-001, Zoning Text Amendment No. 25-002, Local Coastal Program Amendment No. 25-001, and Environmental Impact Report No. 25-002, related to the Palm/Goldenwest Specific Plan Amendment. The item was informational only; no public hearing or formal action was taken. Staff and the applicant, California Resources Corporation (CRC), presented a proposed land-use framework for the 92-acre CRC portion of the specific plan, located east of Pacific Coast Highway near Dog Beach. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the public comment period. Study Session Presentation - Staff planner Joanna Cortes explained that the proposed amendment affects only the 92-acre CRC portion of the Palm/Goldenwest Specific Plan, not the existing 54-acre Boardwalk residential community. The site is currently one of the city's largest remaining oil fields. - The proposal would add residential uses and expanded open space while retaining hotel and visitor-serving commercial uses. Staff described three planning areas: 16 acres of commercial visitor uses; residential medium density on 22.4 acres and 30.8 acres; and open space including a 1.2-mile esplanade along PCH and a 1.15-mile green belt. - Staff stated the current commercial entitlement is approximately 614,000 square feet; the amendment would reduce it to 348,000 square feet. Maximum average daily trips would be capped at 10,000, down from 21,909. A 75-foot habitable structural setback from the Boardwalk community would be maintained. - The applicant, CRC Senior Vice President Bob Grunström, said CRC is the largest oil and gas producer in California and that the long-term highest and best use for this oceanfront property is not continued oil drilling. He noted existing operations include onshore facilities, platform Emmy offshore, and obligations in the Bolsa Chica wetlands. - Land-use consultant Ed Mountford said the project was shaped by the Coastal Act, market studies by Jones Lang LaSalle and WATG, and extensive community outreach with over 1,000 residents. He noted the Coastal Commission has final approval authority and that CRC has had four or five meetings with Coastal Commission staff. - The applicant proposed up to 350 hotel rooms, 25% of them affordable; 10% of residential units affordable, with an employee preference; approximately 23 acres of public open space; a non-gated community; a 12-foot-wide multi-use path; and about 100 public parking spaces in the esplanade with revenue going to the city. - The applicant estimated $3.2 billion in project value at build-out, $12.2 million in gross annual fiscal benefit to the city, $9.2 million net annual fiscal benefit, 1,700 construction jobs, 100 permanent jobs, about $10 million in park fees, and about $8.3 million in school fees. - Note: In the staff presentation, the maximum residential units were stated as up to 1,800. The applicant's presentation stated a maximum of 800 dwelling units. The record does not reconcile this discrepancy. Commissioner Questions and Concerns - Commissioners asked about the number of stores and restaurants, parking revenue, signals and turning movements on PCH, possible widening of PCH, pedestrian bridge options, transit stops, underground parking, and whether the 800 units were already counted in the city's housing element. - Commissioner Thienes raised concerns about trip generation assumptions, the need for a 16-acre hotel site, unclear public/private street maintenance language, a 10-year conservancy grant term, Palm Avenue width and parking, HOA maintenance of the PCH median, differing setbacks for privacy walls, storm drain capacity language, the need for a water supply assessment, and the lack of detailed site-level planning. - Commissioner Goldberg asked about the transportation hub reference, confirmed future discretionary coastal development permits would provide another public review opportunity, and suggested commissioners tour the site. Staff and the applicant said site tours could be arranged. - The chair reminded commissioners to refrain from expressing opinions on the merits or indicating future votes to avoid due process concerns. Key Outcomes - No formal action, motion, or vote was taken; the item was a study session for future consideration. - Staff announced a tentative study session on the draft EIR for November 10, 2026, and a tentative public hearing for December 8, 2026. - The next regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting was set for November 10, 2026.
The Green City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting featured two study session presentations: a year-in-review of The Core recreation facility and a strategic plan for growing the visitor economy. Council adopted several pieces of legislation, including regulations for vape and smoke shops, a grant application for the Quick Response Team, and a service department equipment trade-in. Public comment was heard on street signage and lighting pole maintenance. Consent Calendar - Approval of October 13, 2026 Council Meeting Minutes (TMP-5534): Approved unanimously (7-0). - Reading of Correspondence: October 21, 2026 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting agenda and September 9, 2026 Civil Service Commission meeting minutes were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Betty Cohen (Briarwood/Maplewood area resident for 38 years) requested the City replace a dilapidated street sign at Briarwood and Maplewood that is no longer readable. She also asked about maintenance of faded street lighting poles in her development. Director of Service (likely present) responded that the sign would be replaced upon a service department request, and the lighting pole issue would be referred to the appropriate utility provider. No formal action was taken. Discussion Items - Core Year in Review Presentation: City staff (Zach Kaufman, Katie Chaporsky, Christy Lunfeller) presented an overview of The Core’s first year. Key statistics: membership more than doubled since grand opening; 30+ fitness classes per week (up from 17); 76% newsletter open rate (national avg. 29%); 37,000 views on promotional video; Silver Sneakers/Renew Active members visit an average of 6 times per month; 62% of overall membership are Green residents; youth organizations used the facility for 532 hours from January to April 2026, serving over 1,200 athletes. Council asked about maximum membership capacity and rental options. Staff noted capacity is still being studied and rentals are increasing (62% of rental transactions occurred in September-October). - Strategic Plan for Growing the Visitor Economy: Steve Chandler (ChandlerThinks) presented the plan developed for the Community Improvement Corporation (CIC). Key findings: Green has 754 hotel rooms with 65-70% occupancy (above national average); visitors provide an estimated $763 per household in tax relief; weaknesses include limited destination identity and low visibility (95% of Akron-Canton Airport users don’t know it is in Green). Four key initiatives: Define Green (create a story), Organize Green (designate a champion/coordinator), Connect & Promote Green (regional partnerships, packaging assets), Invest Green (provide resources). No immediate ask of Council; administration will continue implementation. Council members expressed support and noted the importance of distinguishing visitor economy from mass tourism. - New Legislation on First Reading: - 2026-R53: Resolution to apply for a $100,000 Quick Response Team (QRT) grant from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office (zero city match). Discussed in Public Safety Committee; passed first reading with bypass of committee and three-reading rule due to Oct. 31 deadline. Adopted 7-0. - 2026-28: Ordinance repealing and replacing Chapter 37 (Earned Income Tax). Referred to Finance Committee. - Committee Reports and Second/Third Reading Items: - Finance Committee: Recommended adoption of 2026-R52 (declaring service department sewer jet equipment surplus, trade-in for $50,000, net cost $324,672). Bypassed three-reading rule and adopted 7-0. - Environment & Parks Committee: Heard public input on 2026-27 (Public Art Plan). Time granted for second reading. - Planning, Community & Economic Development Committee: - 2026-22AAA (Vape and Smoke Shop regulations) adopted 7-0 as amended three times. - 2026-23 (Residential driveway width restrictions) adopted 7-0. - 2026-24 (Rezoning 27.8 acres at Massillon & Stein from I-1 to R-2) withdrawn at applicant’s request. - 2026-25 (Zoning and ROW fee schedule amendments) second reading, time granted. - Rules & Personnel Committee: 2026-26 (Service awards update) adopted 7-0. - Transportation, Connectivity & Storm Water Committee: Discussed roadway issues (Park Ridge concrete contractor, geofencing for construction alerts). No legislation. - Intergovernmental & Utilities Committee: No items. Key Outcomes - 2026-R53 (QRT Grant) – Adopted 7-0. The City will apply for $100,000 from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office to fund the Quick Response Team social worker position (currently 24 hours/week), with zero local match. The grant deadline is October 31, 2026. - 2026-R52 (Sewer Jet Trade-In) – Adopted 7-0. Authorizes trade-in of obsolete service department equipment for a replacement sewer cleaner/hydro excavation machine. Trade-in allowance: $50,000; net cost: $324,672. - 2026-22AAA (Vape/Smoke Shop Regulations) – Adopted 7-0. Establishes definitions, conditional zoning districts, and operational restrictions (hours, proximity to schools/churches/daycares) for vape and smoke shops. - 2026-23 (Driveway Width Restrictions) – Adopted 7-0. Limits residential driveway widths within 10 feet of the public right-of-way to 24 feet (two-car garages) and 30 feet (three-car garages). - 2026-24 (Massillon & Stein Rezoning) – Withdrawn. The applicant requested withdrawal; Council concurred. - 2026-26 (Service Awards Update) – Adopted 7-0. Updates employee service award policy (last updated 1992) to allow administration flexibility in purchasing gifts at no additional cost. - 2026-27 (Public Art Plan) – Second reading continued. Committee heard public input; time granted. - 2026-25 (Fee Schedules) – Second reading continued. - 2026-28 (Earned Income Tax Repeal & Replace) – Referred to Finance Committee. - Mayor’s Report: Announced Arlington Corridor construction updates, free trial days at The Core, charter amendments on Nov. 3 ballot (Issues 21-26), and upcoming community events (trick-or-treat Oct. 31, Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 11, volunteer breakfast Nov. 14). - Council Business: Christmas recess set for Tuesday, December 22, 2026 (no meeting).
The Planning and Zoning Board of Rio Rancho met on October 27, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. Vice Chair Robert Gabaldon presided in the absence of Chair Scottie Richardson. The board voted on six action items, including two variances and a zone map amendment that drew significant public comment. Consent Calendar - The Board unanimously approved the Consent Calendar, which included the October 13, 2026 meeting minutes and the 2027 Regular Meeting Calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Public comment was heard exclusively on Item 8 (Zone Map Amendment for ABQ Living Inc.). - Tommy Blanton (663 Cottontail Rd) expressed concerns about traffic congestion on Grande Vista Road and NM 528, urging the board to address traffic patterns before approving new development. - Dwayne Fuller (adjacent neighbor) stated he was against uses involving diesel trucks and loud manufacturing but would support quieter commercial businesses. - Cecilia Flores (6062 Cottontail Rd) raised concerns about road widening, lack of turning lanes, noise impacts on Explorer Academy, and the potential use of hazardous chemicals. - Stacy Schaefer (6054 Cottontail Rd) voiced opposition due to the vague definition of manufacturing, preferring existing storage or professional office uses, and cited heavy existing traffic from CNM and area schools. - Eric Fionsi (6110 Jackrabbit Rd) argued he was inadequately notified (living downhill but outside the 100-foot notification radius) and expressed fears about stormwater runoff and chemical contamination. Discussion Items - Item 6 - Variance (Jeffrey and Michelle McQuerry): The applicants requested a variance to allow a 280 sq ft metal gazebo to remain within the 5-foot side setback. Staff recommended denial. The applicant stated the structure was built on pavers and they were unaware of the permit requirement. The Board voted to approve the variance 5-1, with Commissioner Lampson dissenting. - Item 7 - Variance (Claire Ramirez): The applicant requested a variance for a shed encroaching 2.5 feet into the rear setback. Staff recommended approval. The shed was found to be pre-existing (constructed between 2002 and 2004). The Board voted to approve the variance 5-1, with Commissioner Lampson dissenting. - Item 8 - Zone Map Amendment (ABQ Living Inc.): The applicant requested to amend the Special Use (SU) zoning of a 5.82-acre site to add warehousing and light manufacturing uses. Staff recommended approval. The applicant clarified they intend to develop a modern office-warehouse facility. In response to board questions, the applicant and staff distinguished the request from heavy manufacturing, noting that any development would require a future traffic impact analysis and a site plan with strict design requirements. Key Outcomes - Item 4 (Lomas Encantadas Preliminary Plat Extension): Approved unanimously (6-0). - Item 5 (UNM Preliminary/Final Plat): Approved unanimously (6-0). - Item 6 (McQuerry Variance): Approved 5-1 (Commissioner Lampson opposed). - Item 7 (Ramirez Variance): Approved 5-1 (Commissioner Lampson opposed). - Item 8 (ABQ Living Zone Map Amendment): Approved unanimously (6-0). The Board will recommend approval to the Governing Body. The applicant must undergo a site plan review and traffic analysis before development permits are issued.
The Planning and Zoning Commission met on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 505 Butler Place, Park Ridge. Chair Hanlin presided. Commissioners Schubert, Hutchinson, McMillan, Coogan, Hanlin, Papracky, and Shepherd were present; Commissioners Karstens and Gilpin were absent. The Commission approved minutes, unanimously approved a continued site plan review, discussed B-4 Uptown land-use options, and received a City Council liaison report. Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the October 13, 2026 meeting minutes without amendments. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public came forward for non-agenda public comment. During the 245 Vine Avenue case, only the applicant's team spoke. Development Case: ZPR-26-10 - Site Plan Review at 245 Vine Avenue - This continued case was originally scheduled for the July 28 meeting. The applicant appeared before the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) on July 23 for two variances: an additional townhome (two were permitted; three were proposed) and a parking variance. The parking variance became moot under the People Over Parking Act. On October 19, the City Council overturned the ZBA's negative recommendation and approved the additional townhome use; the Commission's review was therefore limited to site plan standards, not the use itself. - The project would replace the existing two-story, four-unit apartment building, which has no garage, with three new two-story townhomes on an 8,200-square-foot lot. The building footprint is about 4,200 square feet. Each townhome would have two bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, 1,300 to 1,450 square feet above grade, a full basement, and about 250 square feet of private outdoor space. A detached three-car garage with one exterior parking space is proposed at the rear, accessed by a driveway. - Applicant's attorney Brianna Skelly, on behalf of property owner Patrick Coyle, requested approval. Architect Ramon Contreras testified that the project would meet landscaping requirements. Commissioner questions focused on missing landscape-plan details, and the motion included a landscaping compliance condition. - A motion to approve the site plan as described in the staff memorandum and attachments for ZPR-26-0010 passed unanimously, 7-0, with the condition that the applicant comply with all landscaping requirements. Discussion Item: Potential Permitted Land Use Types in B-4 Uptown Subdistricts - Staff Planner Claudia Hampel explained that medical/dental clinics are currently permitted in B1, B2, and B3; a special use in B4 Uptown Core and Uptown Commercial; and unavailable in the Transitional subdistrict. Examples include therapists, IV hydration/vitamin clinics, Botox establishments, dentists, physical therapists, and family medicine. Permanent makeup is classified as a personal services establishment, not a medical/dental clinic. - Existing non-conforming medical/dental uses in B4 would continue to operate under Section 15 of the zoning ordinance regardless of any future change. - Staff presented three flexible considerations: (1) allow medical/dental clinics as a special use in Transitional; (2) keep special-use oversight on ground floors but allow different regulation for above-ground floors, similar to personal services and office regulations; and (3) create a distinct medical retail or med-tail definition, a concept deferred during the Uptown Master Plan process. - Staff noted that she found about seven medical/dental special-use applications in the last five years, but many inquiries come informally from realtors and property owners and never become formal applications. - Commissioner Hutchinson asked whether a future separate text amendment about medical and adult-use cannabis co-location could intersect with this discussion; staff confirmed it is a completely separate use and would not be affected by this item. - Commissioner positions generally favored consideration two, with continued special-use oversight for ground-floor medical/dental uses, and asked staff to explore consideration three. Commissioners also discussed the difficulty of enforcing retail-percentage definitions and the need to research how other communities handle definitions and enforcement. - No formal vote was taken. Staff will bring back a broader proposal, likely at the first January 2027 meeting, covering a possible medical-retail definition and enforcement approaches. City Council Liaison Report - City Council Liaison Joseph Steinfels reported on the October 19 City Council and Committee of the Whole meetings: - Commissioner Karstens was reappointed to the Planning and Zoning Commission. - The Mayor issued a proclamation recognizing Community Planning Month. - The Historic Preservation Commission presented a property-by-property study of the pretzel area of historic interest; no formal historic district was proposed, and the City Council's moratorium on historic district creation remains in place. - The City Council rejected the ZBA's negative recommendation on the 245 Vine Avenue major variance and approved the third townhome; the parking variance was stricken under the People Over Parking Act. - The Committee of the Whole discussed adding public parking to the substantial community benefit list because the People Over Parking Act removes parking requirements. A legal question exists about whether municipalities can enforce a developer's promise to provide parking; the city attorney and director are reviewing it, and the issue may come back to P&Z for a recommendation. - A new lease has been entered for the Uptown Metro train station vendor after the previous lease fell through. - A proposal for a hotel and multi-unit residential building on Third Street will be presented at the November 4 City Council meeting. - An affordable housing and inclusionary zoning discussion is expected at City Council; if it leads to zoning code changes, the matter would return to P&Z through a public hearing. - P&Z members raised questions about applicants negotiating changes at Council hearings and about resident concerns regarding repeated continuances. The city planner noted that substantive changes could be referred back to the Commission. - The liaison said the eminent domain matter is moving through Cook County court, likely on a roughly two-year timeline. - The liaison also announced a Veterans Day ceremony on November 11 at 11:00 a.m. at Hodges Park. Key Outcomes - Approved the October 13, 2026 minutes unanimously. - Approved ZPR-26-10 at 245 Vine Avenue unanimously, 7-0, with a landscaping-compliance condition. - Directed staff to continue working on a B-4 medical/dental clinic text amendment, including a possible medical-retail definition and enforcement research; no binding action was taken. - The Commission adjourned by unanimous motion. Upcoming P&Z meetings were listed as November 10 and December 15, 2026, subject to change.