The Public Meeting Index

The Franklin Township Council met on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 7 p.m. in the municipal building for its work session/regular meeting. All council members answered roll call. Mayor Kramer presided, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and Councilman Anbarasan gave the invocation. The agenda included commendations and proclamations, public discussion, council and manager reports, approval of minutes and warrants, introduction of one ordinance, a 14-item consent agenda, old business, and executive session. Commendations & Proclamations - Councilman Kharazi presented a commendation to Stasha Holzer (identified as "Stasia" in the transcript) for her Girl Scout service project. Holzer, described as the first female Eagle Scout in Franklin Township and the only female to earn both the Eagle and Gold Awards, restored informational kiosks across six township parks and trails, led community hikes, and organized a community night with the Franklin Trail Advisory, Astronomy Club, and Environmental Commission. The commendation highlighted her civic responsibility, environmental stewardship, and community leadership. Vanessa Jones Johnson, president of the Trail Advisory, and Holzer's family attended. - Councilman Anbarasan presented a proclamation recognizing October as Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month. Councilman Vassanella, who is of Italian descent, accepted the proclamation and noted that New Jersey is home to approximately 1.5 million residents of Italian ancestry. The proclamation honored the contributions of Italian Americans to Franklin Township, New Jersey, and the nation. Public Comments & Testimony - John Latracus (85 Arlington Avenue, Somerset) asked about the status of a traffic light at JFK Boulevard and Winston Drive and about installing speed bumps on Arlington Avenue. - Linda Powell (22 Buffett Drive, Ward 3) raised environmental concerns about the Northeast Supply Enhancement gas compressor station and pipeline, saying none of the gas is for local residents and the project would add pollution. She also criticized the draft NJDEP permit for the Sentinel Data Center, claiming the public was given false emissions figures, that the facility should be treated as a major source rather than a minor source, and that the permit covers 12 generators rather than the 20 cited in planning testimony. She supplied comment forms and noted NJDEP comments are due before November 9. - Jim Johnston (Ward 3) opposed the proposed house of worship at 630 South Middlebush Road, citing traffic, the scenic corridor, agricultural zoning, and the risk of setting a precedent for more non-farm development. He asked the council to get involved as he said it had with the earlier B-9 warehouse application and presented a petition to preserve the South Middlebush Scenic Corridor. - Beverly Lawson (Ward 3) questioned the 4% PILOT payment on the Davidson Road affordable housing project, asked whether the township had requested a school impact analysis, and argued that PILOT tax breaks benefit developers while shifting costs to residents. She urged the council to evaluate school impacts and consider requiring developer contributions to schools before finalizing future PILOT agreements. - A resident of 27 years, Sherlisha Lewis (name as heard), counted 258 cars in eight minutes on South Middlebush Road, asked the council to pay attention to zoning decisions and new traffic patterns, and noted that two houses of worship had already been approved within a quarter mile of each other. - A Ward 4 resident asked Councilman Wright to hold a town hall for his constituents, saying he had not answered her question at the previous meeting and had declined to answer when she asked him directly that evening. - Multiple residents spoke against the current South Middlebush Road house of worship application, citing traffic congestion, emergency vehicle access, high-holiday volumes, funerals and weddings, the use of a COVID-era traffic study, questions about international funding, and whether the proposed 20,000-square-foot facility was consistent with the stated number of worshippers. Some asked the council to intervene or request an independent traffic study; one speaker urged the council to stay out of the matter entirely, saying religious buildings bring economic benefits and diversity is a strength of Franklin Township. - Frank Sierra (Ward 2) thanked Detective Vargas for work on a missing-person case involving his neighbor, criticized Flock cameras as "useless" and "garbage," and said an independent audit by the county prosecutor's office would occur in a few weeks. He also asked questions about the Flock contract timeline, including why the contract was dated September 5, 2024, before later council resolutions, and whether the township could terminate the contract after the 60-day window. - Sanchi Sharma (New Brunswick Road) thanked Mayor Kramer for helping with a resident facing eviction, then spoke against Flock cameras, saying they infringe on the feeling of freedom, particularly for women concerned about AI-manipulated facial images. She asked a council member to make a motion to suspend or oppose Flock, or to respond directly to her arguments. - Doc Cunningham (Somerset) described seeing cameras on a bus and framed the Flock debate as a divide between those who see cameras as intrusion and those who see them as protection. He noted October 27 is National Civics Day, commemorating the first printing of the Federalist Papers on October 27, 1787, and proposed developing a "bill of insights" and a community-facing resolution to bridge the divide. - Stan Yarich (22 Hader Drive) noted the presence of EV charging stations at the Davidson/Pierce affordable housing site and said used electric vehicles can be purchased for about $5,000, making charging an affordability-friendly amenity. - Another resident praised Frank Sierra and the police for their efforts to find a missing woman, suggested a referendum on Flock, and challenged council members to be more visible, accountable, and willing to hold town halls. Council and Staff Responses & Discussion Items - The Township Attorney corrected statements about the B-9 warehouse, saying it was a planning board application, not a zoning board application, and that council members do not appear at zoning board hearings because those applications are quasi-judicial and some are appealable to the council. He noted that houses of worship applications are governed by federal law, including RLUIPA, and should be heard on the merits. - Attorney comments on PILOTs: the 4% payment for 100% affordable housing projects reflects a state law adopted roughly 18 months ago; townships cannot require applicants to speculate about the number of school children a project would generate; affordable housing plans may designate up to 30% of units as senior housing; and PILOT payments are not a loss to schools because schools submit a bill that the township pays. He said using a 4% PILOT for a 100% affordable project helped avoid approximately 400 additional required housing units. - Councilman Vassanella provided updates on JFK Boulevard/Winston Drive and Arlington Avenue. Traffic data collection for the intersection is complete, and an outside engineer is performing a warrant analysis under the Federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. If a signal is warranted, funding, potential property acquisition from two residential properties, and the 2027 budget process could be involved. Arlington Avenue is on a short list for speed hump consideration, and Councilman Wright is working on refining the township's speed hump policy. - Councilman Singh announced that the New Jersey Department of Transportation has agreed to proceed with a traffic signal at Route 27 and Princeton Highlands Boulevard and a pedestrian-actuated crossing at Route 27 and Gold Star Drive. He said the community counted 10 incidents year-to-date, the most recent crash occurring two days earlier, and that the improvements would likely come at no cost to Franklin or South Brunswick. He also proposed exploring an ordinance to restrict intentional balloon releases, citing environmental harm and neighboring municipal ordinances. - Mayor Kramer delivered a detailed statement on ALPR/Flock. He said he has personally investigated complaints, reviewed technical materials and independent research, and met with the public safety director. He cited safeguards including quarterly audits, random monthly audits, and doubling the percentage of reviewed activity from 5% to 10%. He cited six September cases involving stolen vehicles, burglary, missing persons, and an at-risk individual where Flock assisted police. He said no council member had asked to stop the system and no council member wished to move forward with expanding the system, so the council's consensus was not to proceed with expansion. - Council members also discussed affordable housing, recreation fees, youth sports, YMCA collaboration, community events, and paperless water billing. The Township Manager reminded residents of a Franklin 250 ghost stories event on Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the municipal gazebo. Consent Calendar All 14 consent agenda resolutions were adopted unanimously by roll call: - Resolution 26-442 – Authorize tax and water title lien redemptions. - Resolution 26-443 – Cancel tax sale certificate No. 26-00288 for East Region Tax Auction, LLC, related to bankruptcy; Block 208, Lot 5.01; principal $918.13 and premium $2,000.00. - Resolution 26-444 – Refund water overpayment of $143.00 to 168 Minetta Road. - Resolution 26-445 – Refund invalid subsequent lien payment of $1,710.79 to RTLF-NJ IIB, LLC for 168 Minetta Road. - Resolution 26-446 – Adjust water charges for hardships/leaks: $63.70 at 332 Smithwold Road and $1,114.60 at 2 Hancock Place. - Resolution 26-447 – Release street opening bond for Permit No. 25-055, Franklin Green Owner, LLC, 1 JFK Blvd., in the amount of $3,528.00. - Resolution 26-448 – Award competitive contract for water management software to Core & Main LP for November 1, 2026 through October 31, 2027, not to exceed $50,000 per year. - Resolution 26-449 – Authorize final change order for Cedar Brook Water Main Replacement, decreasing the contract from $987,231.00 to $941,685.91. - Resolution 26-450 – Award purchase to Metro Group of NJ, LLC for two police motorcycles and accessories, not to exceed $32,588.00. In response to a council question, the township manager said the purchase would use forfeiture funds, not the regular budget. - Resolution 26-451 – Special event permit for Players Development Academy Boys College Showcase, November 27-29, 2026, at PDA Soccer Complex/Morningside Farm, from 7:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. - Resolution 26-452 – Special event permit for PDA Annual Youth Soccer Tournament U8-U14 Boys & Girls, April 2-4, 2027. The agenda lists the dates as 2027, though the attachment title says 2026. Event times are Friday 5-9 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. - Resolution 26-453 – Special event permit for PDA Girls College Showcase, May 28-31, 2027, Friday 5-9 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday 7:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. - Resolution 26-454 – Authorize out-of-state training for Sgt. Clyne and Ofc. Quigley at the NYPD Dignitary Protection Training Program, no cost, Queens, NY, November 16-19, 2026. - Resolution 26-455 – Authorize the FMBA Local 88 contract for January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2028. Ordinances & Other Official Actions - Ordinance No. 4522-26 was introduced on first reading by unanimous roll call. The ordinance approves a PILOT application and authorizes the Mayor and Township Clerk to execute a financial agreement with Somerset Street Urban Renewal Associates, L.P. for properties in the Churchill-Millstone Redevelopment Area (Block 113, Lots 1-5 and 11-27; Block 119, Lots 1-21 and 26-58; Block 122, Lots 3-6; and Block 132, Lots 9-14). The public hearing and final adoption were scheduled for November 10, 2026, at 7 p.m. - The Township Council unanimously approved the minutes of the October 13, 2026 work session/regular meeting and executive session. - Warrants totaling $19,791,128.43 were approved unanimously for payment on October 27, 2026. - Under old business, Samuel Lewis was nominated by acclamation as the Franklin representative to the county historical society, filling a 2026 board/committee vacancy. - Resolution 26-456 authorizing executive session for contract negotiations (Blue Collar Supervisors, Senior Managers, and SOA) and attorney-client privilege (YMCA) was adopted unanimously. The meeting was to adjourn after executive session. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda, warrants, minutes, and the first reading of Ordinance No. 4522-26 were all approved unanimously. - The council reached consensus not to expand the ALPR/Flock camera system; no council member moved to stop the existing system. - Mayor Kramer established, and the council approved by voice vote, an ad hoc ALPR team consisting of the Mayor, Councilwoman Francois, Councilwoman Udine, and Councilman Singh to develop statements and a public FAQ responding to resident concerns. - The township will continue the JFK Boulevard/Winston Drive traffic signal warrant analysis and will consider speed humps for Arlington Avenue as part of an updated policy. - DOT-approved safety improvements at Route 27 intersections will proceed, with design beginning after a meeting earlier that day. - The council will explore a balloon-release ordinance and continue evaluating affordable housing policy, PILOT agreements, and recreation fee structures.

The Kent County Levy Court met in regular business session at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, in the Levy Court Chamber, 555 Bay Road, Dover, Delaware. Six of seven commissioners were present; Commissioner Hall was absent. The meeting included a moment of silence for troops and first responders lost in the preceding month, approval of the consent agenda, a retirement resolution and the November 2026 Employee of the Month recognition, a Narcan administration demonstration, a public hearing with 6–0 approval of the Faith Life Church conditional-use site plan, and several funding, bid, and ordinance-introduction actions. All votes taken were 6–0 with one absence. The posted agenda had been revised before the meeting to correct the LC26-17 public hearing date to December 15, update the LC26-18 title, remove a tentatively scheduled Native American Month Proclamation, and remove a public hearing for an item not yet introduced. Consent Calendar - Adoption of the agenda — approved by roll call, 6–0. - Consent Agenda 26-16 — approval of the Levy Court Business Meeting Minutes of October 13, 2026, by a single roll call vote, 6–0. - Resolution 4184 (for the record only) — retirement of Elaine Cinque, Property Specialist II, Department of Finance Assessment Division, expressing the county’s appreciation and confirming pension eligibility; accepted 6–0. (Note: the agenda lists the honoree as “Elaine Cinque”; the transcript reads “Elaine Sink.”) Presentations & Recognitions - November 2026 Employee of the Month — Michael Helmer: dispatcher/training officer in the Department of Public Safety, Emergency Communications Division; joined Kent County in January 2017 and was promoted to Dispatcher II in January 2019. He serves on the Public Safety Drone Team, is training to become a standalone drone pilot and on the new field communications unit, and is completing a full rewrite of the department’s training manual. He resides in Commissioner Hall’s and Commissioner Pepper’s districts. - Narcan kit demonstration: Lieutenant Kenny Kelly (C Platoon paramedic supervisor and SORT team commander) demonstrated the state-supplied 4 mg nasal-spray naloxone (Narcan) kits distributed since about 2018. He explained that street drugs now include fentanyl (10 times stronger than heroin), carfentanyl (10 times stronger than fentanyl), and “Tranq” (fentanyl mixed with animal tranquilizers such as xylazine or medetomidine); Narcan reverses opioid-induced respiratory depression but not the tranquilizer, and it does not work in cardiac arrest, where CPR is required. He stated that roughly 90% of overdose patients refuse hospital transport, that Good Samaritan provisions protect those who call 911 in good faith, and that free naloxone kits and resources are available through a state QR code. - September new hire introductions: Alexis Hicks (Wills Clerk II, Register of Wills; began September 21, 2026; resides in Commissioner Hertz’s and Pepper’s districts) and Andrea Torellis (Wills Clerk II, Register of Wills; began September 28, 2026; resides in Commissioner Hall’s and Pepper’s districts). Public Comments & Testimony - Public comment periods opened at the start and end of the meeting drew no speakers, in person or online. Public Hearing: CS-26-06 — Faith Life Church - Application: conditional-use/site-plan approval to add 3,500 sq. ft. to an existing detached building for a place of worship, on approximately 1.74 acres on the east side of Ends Road, southwest of Hartley. The site is zoned AR (agricultural residential), is currently residential, and lies outside the Growth Zone Overlay District (Parcel WD-00-090.00-01-25.02-000). Public notice appeared in the October 7, 2026 edition of the Delaware State News. - Staff position: Sarah Kiefer stated that the plan complies with all required conditions of approval and that the Regional Planning Commission (RPC) recommended approval with conditions: add a bike rack, provide three handicapped spaces, and use native plant species in the landscape plan. - Applicant position: Kevin Minick (Minic Engineering, Greenwood, DE), representing Bishop Fisher and Faith Life Church, spoke in favor, agreed with the staff report, and requested approval. - Opposition: none offered, in person or online. - Decision: motion by Commissioner Hertz, seconded by Vice President Scott, to grant conditional approval based on the RPC recommendation report dated October 27, 2026, the October 1, 2026 public hearing testimony, and testimony given that evening. Approved 6–0. New Business - Ordinance LC26-17 introduced (CZ-26-04, Five Star Builders, Inc.): an ordinance to amend the Comprehensive Plan Map designation and the Official Zoning Map of Kent County; public hearing set for Tuesday, December 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Vice President Scott initially read the date as December 17 and corrected it to December 15, matching the agenda revision. - CDBG FY26 funding resolutions (action items from the October 20, 2026 workshop): Resolution 4178 (Authorization to Submit Applications), Resolution 4179 (Administrative Match), and Resolution 4180 (Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing) were approved together by roll call, 6–0. - Change order over 40% — case 23-09 (Harris): Change Order No. 2 in the amount of $13,993 for a housing rehabilitation contract increases the total to $35,591, which is 65.67% above the original base contract amount. Approved 6–0. - Recreation storage building bid award (action item from the October 20, 2026 workshop): Director Shepherd requested award of a storage building with a lean-to add alternate for shelter and shade at the park (identified in the transcript as “Kessel Ring”). The combined bid total was $144,353 from Eastern Shore Pole Building (Harrington, DE), funded through the FY25 General Fund Capital Budget and Parks Contingency. Awarded 6–0. - 2027 EMS vehicle procurement: Chief Tinger requested approval to purchase two 2027 Chevy SSV package Tahoes for conversion into emergency response vehicles, using the State of Delaware contract and funds in the approved FY27 EMS Capital Budget. Commissioner Sweeney stated that re-approving an item already in the approved budget, with no major cost change, was a “waste of time,” and asked that such items not be brought back unless costs change. The motion to approve the purchase and issuance of a purchase order passed 6–0; the quoted amount was read as “10,009 sixty-six dollars.” - Resolution 4183 introduced: extending the Kent County Stormwater Maintenance District for Fork Landing West pursuant to Chapter 52, Title 9 of the Delaware Code and Section 90.4E(10), Chapter 187 of the Kent County Code; public hearing set for November 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM. - Ordinance LC26-18 introduced: Recorder of Deeds fee schedule update, amending Kent County Code Vol. I, §128-44, Chapter 128 Fees, Part 2 Fee Schedule, Article XI, to add a fixed fee to revoke a Transfer on Death Deed; public hearing set for November 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Key Outcomes - All roll call votes passed 6–0, with Commissioner Hall absent. - Conditional-use/site-plan approval granted for Faith Life Church (CS-26-06). - Approved: Consent Agenda 26-16; Resolution 4184; CDBG Resolutions 4178, 4179, and 4180; Change Order No. 2 for case 23-09 Harris; the recreation storage building bid award ($144,353); and the purchase of two 2027 EMS Tahoes. - Public hearings scheduled: Ordinance LC26-17 on December 15, 2026; Resolution 4183 and Ordinance LC26-18 on November 17, 2026. - No executive session was held; the meeting was adjourned by motion and second. - Commissioner Angel suggested that future agenda introductions be placed on commissioners’ desks to save staff time and printing costs (noting that the first introduction had the wrong date). - Commissioners noted attending the Farmington Volunteer Fire Company’s 75th anniversary banquet the previous Sunday (the company name is transcribed as “Farm Can”).

The Fort Smith Board of Directors held a study session on October 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Blue Lion, 101 North 2nd Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas. The agenda included a citizens forum; an agreed-upon procedures update on Parrot Island Waterpark; proposed 10-year Public Works and Sidewalk CIP, five-year Streets/Bridges/Drainage CIP, and Water/Wastewater CIPs; and a preview of the November 2, 2026 regular meeting agenda. No formal votes were taken, and no minutes were available. Public Comments & Testimony - Shane McKinney described a long-delayed alley repaving after a sewer project, arguing the city is not managing projects well and cannot handle the much larger consent-decree program without measured management. - Janie Pugh urged early voting, humorously noting the Nov. 3 election date, campaign mailers, Rogers Avenue construction, and local ballot measures. - Patrick McGuire asked the board to reaffirm the 2024 Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority dissolution resolutions, obtain a legal assessment of trust completion provisions, and begin a public transition plan with regular progress reports. - Dan Williams praised Police Chief Danny Baker and asked that Baker be involved in choosing and endorsing his successor. - A resident presented a proposal for a ward-by-ward, plain-language interactive CIP dashboard, stating the city already owns the software and that transparency would rebuild public trust. - Stephen Cox distributed Fayetteville's data center ordinance, reviewed state Acts 851, 373, and 548, and questioned whether data centers would generate significant local revenue without stronger protective ordinances. - Joe Elskin supported the Parrot Island direction, suggested reallocating some sidewalk funds to Northside neighborhoods, and opposed road-widening projects such as Massard Road and Chad Colley. - Casey Millspaw, former Parks Commission chair and small-business owner/city director candidate, called for lower business costs and barriers and for open, inclusive processes. - Sharon Lockwood raised privacy and wiretapping concerns about Flock cameras and asked whether data centers could be used for surveillance. - Joey McCutcheon criticized the Parrot Island agreed-upon procedures as inadequate for $35,000 in taxpayer money, alleged pay raises for top administrators while firefighters lagged, and criticized the handling of the homeless issue. - Crystal Ivy praised civic engagement, stressed the urgency of water infrastructure funding, and called for transparency on cybersecurity and inclusion of the Ebbing Air National Guard Base community. - Glenn Forte proposed using the Bell Point Schoolhouse for a structured transitional housing and employment facility with sobriety, job, rent, and savings requirements. - A resident cited a $45,000 misappropriation lawsuit involving a Parrot Island employee and asked how the city will finance water transmission and treatment upgrades. - Chris Cadelli criticized the board for talking without action on Parrot Island, consent decree funding, 36% unaccounted water, nonworking meters, and budget priorities; he urged zero-based budgeting and honesty about future taxes and rates. - A later speaker thanked a police department staffer for a FOIA response, asked for data center ordinance protections, and questioned whether executive-session committee appointments violate open-meetings/FOIA law. Discussion Items Parrot Island Waterpark Agreed-Upon Procedures Update - Internal Audit Director Amanda Strange and Audit Advisory Committee Chair Deana Infield presented the Forvis Mazars agreed-upon procedures engagement covering 2025 and some 2024 operations of Parrot Island Waterpark. - The presentation explained why the Audit Advisory Committee chose agreed-upon procedures rather than a GAAP financial statement audit or forensic audit, citing timing, cost, and the ability to tailor procedures to specific board and citizen concerns. - Reported findings included monthly revenue recorded in the general ledger being less than revenue reported in financial statements for several operating months, invoices from 2024 deferred into 2025, more than $230,000 in outstanding vendor payables, less than $5,000 in cash on hand, and unresolved questions about a missing $8,000 check and concession operations. - Staff did not characterize those items as fraud, noting a law enforcement investigation with a special prosecutor is ongoing and that computer equipment containing financial records had been confiscated. - The Audit Advisory Committee recommended monthly financial reporting improvements, a revenue recognition policy for season passes, a capitalization and depreciation policy, a monitoring process for city-funded entities, internal audit procedures, and internal control documentation from the new management company. - City Administrator Jeff Dingman said the report has been shared with Sebastian County, a new waterpark management company has been selected and is being negotiated with, and the draft agreement incorporates recommendations from the agreed-upon procedures report. - Dingman also discussed a slide-project change order requiring an additional appropriation of roughly $1.9 million. Directors directed him to hold conversations with the prospective new operator about funding options before bringing another appropriation request to the board. - Several directors expressed frustration, with Director George Catsavis questioning whether a forensic audit should have been pursued and whether red flags should have prompted stronger action. Staff noted personal bank records and criminal investigation matters are outside the scope of an internal audit. Public Works 10-Year CIP and 2027 Sidewalk Program - Public Works Director Matt Meeker presented the 10-year vehicle and equipment replacement plan for Streets and Traffic Control, totaling $1,120,000 in recommended 2027 replacements, including dump trucks, an excavator, a brine machine, pickup trucks, and an aerial bucket truck. - The proposed capital equipment replacement fund contribution is $1,300,000 per year. - The 2027 Sidewalk Program includes 3.21 miles of new sidewalk construction and 1.04 miles of sidewalk repairs, totaling 4.25 miles. Rouse Custom Homes has offered a public-private partnership to fund material costs for sidewalks on Boston Street and South 62nd Street. - Sidewalk funding comes from state turnback sales tax revenue and building permit assessment fees. Directors requested future connectivity from the South 62nd/Fresno area to Bonneville school. Streets, Bridges, and Associated Drainage CIP - Engineering Director Todd Mittge presented the five-year CIP with a 10-year look-ahead, funded by the voter-approved 5/8 cent sales tax. The 2027 beginning balance is $64.06 million, with $19.59 million in expected sales tax revenue and $38.46 million in planned expenditures. - Projects include street overlays and reconstruction, intersection and signal improvements, new roadway construction, neighborhood drainage, levee and bank stabilization, storm system mapping, and operations support. - Multiple directors opposed the proposed Jenny Lind Extension, calling it unnecessary, a potential raceway through a neighborhood, and a project without neighborhood buy-in. Staff said the 2027-2028 money is mostly for design and acquisition and that a developer had offered to donate land. Directors asked staff to consult with Sebastian County and hold public listening sessions before proceeding. - Directors supported prioritizing the Jenny Lind Streetscape sidewalks and connectivity for students, and several supported exploring a Riverfront Drive connection to Interstate 540 to move truck traffic off city streets. - The proposed creation of up to two internal roadway paving crews, with roughly $12-13 million in 2027 equipment and startup costs, drew requests for more return-on-investment data before board approval. - Director Neil Martin asked whether heavy front-loaded spending could be pushed into later years to preserve fund balance. Water and Wastewater CIPs - The 2027 funded Water CIP totals $5.9 million, including repair of the 48-inch Arkansas River crossing tunnel at Knox Street. The packet memo dates the tunnel to the 1950s, while the presentation said 1930s. Staff reported a visible leak of about 12 gallons per minute, roughly 6.3 million gallons per year, and plans to use smart-ball technology to inspect the tunnel. - Other funded water items include construction inspection for the 48-inch transmission line Phase 2A1 and design/property acquisition for Phase 5 in preparation for another federal grant application. - An unfunded urgent water needs assessment projects large future costs, including $35.5 million for transmission system work in 2027 and negative fund balances beginning in 2028 without additional funding. - The 2027 Non-Consent Decree wastewater CIP totals $40.38 million, and the Consent Decree wastewater CIP totals $69.374 million. The 2027-2036 Consent Decree plan totals approximately $515 million, with total estimated expenditures to complete the Consent Decree of approximately $592.7 million. - Directors questioned how the remaining consent decree and water transmission work will be financed beyond the 2018 revenue bonds and sales tax reallocation. CFO Andy Richards and resident Levon Morton discussed possible bond refinancing, debt service coverage ratios, and the need for a written financing plan. - Dingman said the financial plan will be completed on time, and directors requested a detailed spreadsheet showing the funding path. - Discussion of the proposed consent decree program manager contract drew strong board positions that it must include savings incentives or performance-based compensation; several directors said they would vote no without that structure. November 2, 2026 Regular Meeting Preview - The board reviewed the preliminary agenda for the November 2, 2026 regular meeting. The meeting was moved to Monday, November 2, because election day falls on Tuesday, November 3. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the study session. - The board directed the City Administrator to discuss slide-project funding with the prospective new waterpark operator before submitting an additional appropriation request. - The City Administrator confirmed a new waterpark management company is being negotiated with and that agreed-upon procedures recommendations are being incorporated into the proposed management agreement. - Several directors opposed the Jenny Lind Extension and asked for neighborhood engagement and county coordination before further work. - Directors requested additional data on internal paving crews and a written bond financing spreadsheet before making commitments. - Directors signaled conditions on the consent decree program manager contract, including savings incentives, before they would support it. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 2, 2026.

This was the third annual Dr. Laverne Ford Wimberly Black Educator Awards ceremony, organized by the Greater Tulsa African American Affairs Commission (GTAC). The event celebrated Black educators in Tulsa, featuring remarks from city and school district leaders, and the presentation of five awards. The meeting took place in the evening. Opening Remarks by Brian Humphrey (GTAC Chair) - Humphrey welcomed attendees, recognized the education committee for organizing the event, and explained the commission's mission focused on education. He honored Dr. Laverne Ford Wimberly for allowing use of her name. Mayor Monroe Nichols' Address - Mayor Nichols apologized that he might leave early to attend a vigil for domestic violence survivors and victims. He praised educators as the foundation of the city's success, noting their roles beyond teaching (therapist, mentor, housing coordinator). He announced the city's goal through the Office of Children, Youth and Families: to put 15,000 additional Tulsa children on a path to economic mobility, supported by a children's cabinet and action alliances. He acknowledged the additional challenges faced by educators of color. Councilor Vanessa Hall Harper's Address - Councilor Hall Harper recounted the history of GTAC: community advocacy began in 2014, and the commission was created by city ordinance in 2017. She credited Margaret Love for fighting for its creation. She distinguished between "instructors" and "educators," emphasizing the pedagogy expertise of teachers. Superintendent Dr. Ebony Johnson's Remarks - Dr. Johnson thanked GTAC for honoring Tulsa Public Schools (TPS) educators. She noted that TPS serves over 31,000 African American students. She shared a personal story about Dr. Wimberly supporting her when she worked at a steakhouse, and expressed gratitude for trailblazers who inspired her. She acknowledged challenges facing TPS (state audits, financial constraints, school closures) but affirmed confidence in the district's future. Dr. Laverne Ford Wimberly's Remarks - Dr. Wimberly thanked GTAC and praised educators and administrators for their dedication. She said "educators affect eternity" and encouraged honorees to continue leading with courage and teaching with heart. Senator Regina Goodwin's Remarks (via late arrival) - Senator Goodwin, who arrived after leaving another event, thanked educators and recalled the early struggles to establish the commission. She said none of us would be where we are without good teachers. Award Presentations - The education committee co-chairs (Mike Kelvon and another commissioner) announced five awards selected from 26 nominations: - Outstanding New Educator: O'Neadiza Zaleya (KIPP Tulsa University Prep High School) - Difference Maker Award: Derek C. Morton (Excellence Academy) - Guiding Light Award: Tracy Manuel (former Tulsa Teacher of the Year, later Oklahoma Teacher of the Year) - Excellence in Education Award: Erica Ware (Tulsa Legacy Charter) - Trailblazer Award: Dr. Ebony Johnson (Superintendent, Tulsa Public Schools) - Each honoree received a plaque, a certificate signed by the mayor, and over $100 in gift cards. Several honorees gave brief remarks. Closing Remarks by Raquel Wilson (GTAC Vice Chair) - Wilson, a former KIPP teacher, encouraged attendees to honor educators in their lives and invited them to join the GTAC education committee. She announced refreshments catered by India's plate. Key Outcomes - Five educators were recognized and received awards. - Mayor Nichols reiterated the city's goal of 15,000 children on a path to economic mobility. - GTAC's education committee called for new members to continue honoring and supporting educators.

The Golden City Council met on October 27, 2026, for a Study Session (5:00 p.m.) and Regular Business Meeting (6:30 p.m.). The study session included updates on wildfire management, Historic Preservation Board authority, and the 2026 drought response. The regular meeting featured several public comments, a Clear Creek season recap, subcommittee updates on an investigation and city manager recruitment, adoption of consent items, proclamations, and a public hearing on wastewater pretreatment. Consent Calendar - Ordinance No. 2297 (Lead service line prohibition) and Ordinance No. 2299 (Supplemental Budget) were introduced with second reading set for November 10, 2026. - Resolution No. 3367 (furniture procurement), Resolution No. 3368 (Friends of Dinosaur Ridge license agreement), and Resolution No. 3369 (appointment of Deputy Judge Michelle Weaver) were adopted unanimously. Proclamations - Proclaimed October 28, 2026 as National First Responders Day. - Proclaimed November 2026 as Veterans Treatment Court Month. Public Comments & Testimony - South Golden Road Complete Street: Multiple residents (Ellie Owen, Carl Gould, Jenny Irving, Mike Schwartz) advocated for splitting the project to prioritize the "South Golden Speedway" section. They asked council to use the $200,000 in budgeted local funds for the planning phase regardless of federal grant status and to reduce the speed limit. - Clear Creek Tubing: Mitch Batilla (Adventure West) reported a successful season with 85% of customers taking a shuttle and volunteer trash cleanup. - 2122 Jackson Street Development: Eric Palmer expressed concerns about zero-setback driveways and snow management, questioning the impact of development approvals on existing residents. - Google Fiber: Eric Vera questioned the shallow installation depth. Staff noted it follows state-allowed micro-trenching standards. - Water Restrictions: Eric Vera criticized the approval of new housing units alongside mandatory water conservation. Study Session Discussions Wildfire Management Update Staff (Claire Nowak, Sean Jones, Anne Beierle) presented progress on an egress route for Beverly Heights (CDOT permit in 4-6 weeks, construction target January 2027 with $300K in proposed budget), evacuation zone mapping (Know Your Zone campaign in Q1 2027), a tree canopy study, and a CWPP update. Council expressed strong support for the multi-departmental approach. A rebate program pilot for home mitigation is planned for 2027. Historic Preservation Board Authority Senior Planner Lauren Simmons presented three pathways based on a focus group recommendation. The focus group recommended Pathway 3 (full board authority over major adjustments in historic districts). Council generally favored Pathway 3, emphasizing the need for a clear appeal process to city council. Drought Response Review Staff reported that the drought order reduced outdoor water use by an average of 10% (20-30% after a clearer amended order limiting events). 92% of violations were for irrigation. Reservoir storage ended the season at 78%. The golf course reduced usage by 26%. Council directed staff to return in Q1 2027 with an updated Drought Management Plan. Regular Meeting Discussions Clear Creek End-of-Season Recap Management Analyst Claire Nowak reported 497 citations (primarily for alcohol), a 69% increase in July 4th tubing traffic, and significant challenges from littering and bank erosion. The Creek Subcommittee (Councilors Pfau and Kaczynski) described user behavior as "atrocious" and supported stronger enforcement. Councilor Cameron stated the city "has failed" regarding the creek and advocated for an additional patrol officer, strict bank access restrictions, higher fines, and a potential creek health fee. Subcommittee: Third-Party Investigation Councilors Knecht and Pfau reported the investigation is roughly halfway through its planned interviews (11 individuals noticed), with a more substantive update expected in November. Subcommittee: City Manager Recruitment Mayor Weinberg and Mayor Pro Tem Vitry announced the posting has received 50 applicants from 15 states. Key dates: Post closes Nov 2nd; semi-finalist packets to council by Nov 20th; community meet/greet Dec 11th; council interviews Dec 12th; target vote on selection Dec 15th. Key Outcomes - Ordinance No. 2298 Adopted: Wastewater pretreatment requirements were adopted on second reading, with compliance extended to March 31, 2029, for food service establishments under the new FOG program. - Study Session Direction: Staff were directed to pursue Pathway 3 for Historic Preservation Board authority and to return in Q1 2027 with an updated Drought Management Plan. - Consent Calendar Approved: All consent items were approved unanimously. - Proclamations Made: National First Responders Day and Veterans Treatment Court Month were officially proclaimed.

The Naperville City Council met on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, for the second of three 2027 budget workshops. No final actions were taken. Staff reviewed the proposed 2027 operating budget, a 9.375 FTE staffing package, agency budgets for Naper Settlement and Naperville Public Library, and downtown parking options. The proposed 2027 budget totals $724 million, a 5.6% increase over 2026, with $677 million in projected revenues; the city property tax rate is again projected to decline from its 50-year low. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill Simon, president of Naperville Preservation Inc., expressed support for increasing historic preservation staffing to at least a half-time position and for obtaining national preservation training, citing national statistics of 116,000 new jobs, $6.8 billion in rehabilitation investment, and $1.8 billion in government tax receipts. He mentioned a $15,000 consultant proposal as an alternative. - Steve Rubin, representing downtown advisory and neighborhood organizations, expressed support for building the Nichols Library parking deck, arguing downtown restaurants are funding roughly two-thirds of the project and that about 160,000 square feet of additional downtown development is expected. He called the $90,000-per-space estimate unreasonable and urged a growth mindset. - Katie Wood, Downtown Naperville Alliance, expressed support for the Nichols Library deck, citing about 325 downtown businesses, $300 million in annual sales, $22 million in sales tax revenue, $7-8 million in property tax revenue, 3,500 parking spaces, and 9.5 million annual visits, with 65% of visitors from out of town. She said option C's 30-space surface lot is disappointing after nearly 20 years of restaurant-funded parking contributions. - Chris Mason, chef/owner of Allegory, expressed support for constructing the Nichols Library Parking Deck, noting more than 9 million visitors and 65% nonresident visitors, and noting downtown restaurants have contributed $15 million to the food and beverage fund since 2008. He asked the city to honor the commitment to use those funds for parking. - Mary Lou Worley, a resident, questioned the proposed 9.375 FTEs plus an indirectly funded FTE for the Riverwalk South extension, the $6.8 million construction estimate, the city's 100% reimbursement of added park district costs, and whether the Riverwalk extension is a want rather than a need. She urged the council to balance taxpayer spending. Discussion Items 2027 Budget Overview - The 2027 recommended budget is $724 million, up 5.6% from 2026, including $703 million in expenses and $21 million in transfers. Total revenues are projected at $677 million, up 3.1%. Charges for services remain the largest revenue source, with public utilities generating about 44%, or nearly $300 million. - General fund revenues are estimated at about $181 million excluding interfund transfers, a 4.8% increase. State-shared taxes are up $3.7 million, grocery tax is projected at $7.2 million, and property tax is forecast to rise $2 million as equalized assessed value grows. - General fund expenses increase 4.5% excluding transfers; personnel is the main driver. The budget assumes a 3% COLA and 1% merit pool for non-union staff, plus $413,000 for the next phase of compensation-study adjustments. - Health insurance premiums are budgeted to rise 6.7% and dental premiums 4.8%; employer medical contributions are $16.2 million, a 5.3% increase. Pension contributions exceed $25 million: $11.4 million for police, up 4.5%; $9.3 million for fire, up 1.7%; and about $5 million for IMRF. The IMRF rate drops from 7.8% to 6.29%. The 2025 audit reported police and fire pensions 95% funded. Proposed Staffing - Departments requested 20 FTEs; the proposed budget includes 9.375 FTEs: 5.375 in the general fund, 3 in the water utility fund, and 1 in the electric utility fund. Utility-funded positions would be paid by ratepayers, not property tax. - Proposed general fund positions include a senior traffic engineer ($160,000), code enforcement officer ($146,000 plus $40,000 vehicle), DRT project manager ($150,000), forestry field supervisor ($141,000 plus $74,000 vehicle), assistant city attorney for FOIA, and conversion of a part-time fire communications specialist to full-time ($67,000 net). - Staff said the code enforcement team has four employees for 153,000 residents, below the 6-7.5 officers benchmarked for a city of that size. Forestry requests have increased 37% since 2021. FOIA requests are increasingly complex, driven by body-worn camera footage and AI-assisted requesters. - A council member cited a slide figure of $140,000 for the FOIA attorney position, while the budget figure discussed was $90,584 in salary and benefits; the transcript does not show staff explicitly reconciling the two figures. - Council discussion included skepticism about adding an attorney for FOIA, with one council member urging AI-based tools and saying technology should be the answer from here. The city attorney said Naperville has explored software options and is pursuing legislative reform. - Council members also noted historic preservation currently receives only 15% of one assistant planner's time, and several members asked staff to examine whether historic preservation staffing should be increased. The city manager said preservation has not risen to the level of reallocating resources, but staff could evaluate it after the budget process. - One council member said he generally opposes recurring general fund obligations but supported the traffic, code enforcement, DRT, and forestry investments, while expressing dislike for the FOIA position and questioning the fire communications role. Fire and communications staff explained the fire communications position would support public information, emergency management, and public education, following the police department's embedded-communicator model. Other Operating Fund Requests - Downtown Naperville Alliance marketing funding totals just over $520,000, a 2% increase, plus a proposed $100,000 general fund supplement for marketing in the Jefferson Avenue and Main Street construction area. Precedent includes $50,000 in 2022 and $100,000 in 2024. - Neighborhood Development Partnership requests $1.4 million, a 3.3% increase, including a $550,000 economic development grant. The SECA-funded restaurant marketing grant remains flat at $185,000. - NCTV funding is $918,000, an increase of $3,000, with declining PEG cable revenue offset by general fund support. Naper Settlement - Naper Settlement presented a balanced 2027 operating budget, a projected 13.5% increase in earned operating revenue, and a property tax levy request of $4,094,549, a 2.5% increase. Operating expenses rise 2.9%, driven by personnel, with no new positions requested. - Highlights included the Inventing Agriculture exhibit, the 250th anniversary exhibit, Camp Naper at 110% capacity, and grants supporting intergenerational programs, teacher institutes, and free or reduced-cost field trips for about 4,600 students. - The Heritage Society requested $145,000 for a facility condition assessment and feasibility study of more than 30 historic buildings. The board chair said there is no plan to move buildings, but the assessment is needed because the structures have never been comprehensively evaluated. The request had passed the Naperville Settlement Museum Board by 5-1. One council member said she voted no on the museum board and would support the $50,000 site assessment portion, but not the full $145,000 feasibility study at this time. Naperville Public Library - The library is requesting an 8% increase to its property tax levy, with a proposed 8.1% expense increase. Property taxes fund 96% of the library budget. - Survey results showed 97% of respondents rated the library excellent/good; 81% of Naperville households have a library card; the library sees about 1.2 million visits per year. - Planned changes include consistent Sunday hours of 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. year-round, adding about 300 open hours annually, and a new internship program for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. - Capital work includes HVAC replacement at the 95th Street Library, with 60% from the city capital fund and 40% from a $550,000 state DCEO grant secured by State Representative Janet Yang Rohr. The library director said parking at Nichols Library remains the number one complaint from patrons. Downtown Parking Options - Staff presented three options: - Option A: complete the remaining downtown streetscape by 2031, then build the Nichols deck by 2032; total cost $62.4 million. - Option B: advance the Nichols deck to completion by 2030 and delay streetscape to 2033; total cost $62.2 million, relying on prior concept design. - Option C: replace the deck with a surface lot west of the library, adding about 30 spaces by 2028, with about $50,000 in engineering and $500,000 construction, and a total streetscape-and-surface-lot investment of $25.3 million. The deck would add about 500 spaces. - Several council members said they could not make a decision until the downtown parking study data is released in November. One council member leaned toward the surface lot, noting the loss of about 130 existing library parking spaces during deck construction would be hard on downtown businesses. A downtown business representative acknowledged that two years of lost spaces would be difficult and would require creative mitigation. - Another council member asked for historical garage occupancy data to inform the decision. The mayor noted the parking fund is restricted and the food-and-beverage tax that funds it sunsets in 2033, with more than $20 million potentially needing to be used only for parking. - No straw poll was taken on parking. Key Outcomes - No binding votes were taken at the workshop. - A nonbinding straw poll showed support for the following proposed positions: senior traffic engineer; code enforcement officer; DRT project manager (9 hands); assistant city attorney for FOIA (9 hands); full-time fire communications specialist (8 hands); electric system controller (8 hands); two wastewater treatment operators (9 hands); and water utility supervisor (9 hands). - The forestry field supervisor position was deferred to Budget Workshop III for additional information after council discussion about whether the $200,000 might be better spent accelerating tree trimming. Staff agreed to provide more details. - The downtown parking decision was deferred until the parking study and historical usage data are available; staff may bring back a placeholder option and a decision in January 2027. - Staff will bring follow-up material on the Naper Settlement feasibility study, including whether the settlement buildings could be included in the city's broader facility condition assessment. - Next steps: Budget Workshop III on November 10, 2026; the 2027 budget public hearing and vote on December 1, 2026; and the property tax levy approval at the last council meeting in December 2026.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on October 27, 2026, starting at 4:04 PM and adjourning at 7:29 PM. All seven council members were present: Mayor Mark Stapp, Vice Mayor Jeff Okrepkie, and Council Members Eddie Alvarez, Caroline Bañuelos, Victoria Fleming, Dianna MacDonald, and Natalie Rogers. The meeting featured extensive public comment and deliberation on immigrant community protections, automatic license plate readers (Flock cameras), wastewater bond financing, and capital improvement projects. Consent Calendar - 13.1 Accepted the completed Vegetation Management Education and Inspection Program (Resolution RES-2026-119). - 13.2 Approved a $22,500 amendment to the professional services agreement with Holly (Civic Calling Corporation) for a labor costing module, bringing the total contract amount not to exceed $118,500 (Resolution RES-2026-120). - 13.3 Approved a professional services agreement with Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP, for specialized labor relations and employment legal services in an amount not to exceed $600,000. Vice Mayor Okrepkie noted this item was processed as a motion rather than a resolution. The motion carried 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Civil Rights for Immigrant Communities: Over 20 speakers addressed the council, including members of the Sonoma County Sanctuary Coalition (such as Renee Saucedo, Gabriel Hernandez, Nicolas Valdez, and Isabel Lopez), Rev. Ranwa Hammamy of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation, and pastor Lindsey Bell-Kerr of Christ Church United Methodist. Speakers universally urged the council to pass an ordinance instead of a resolution, arguing an ordinance would provide stronger, enforceable legal protections for non-collaboration with ICE. Multiple speakers expressed fear in the community and stated that a resolution represented an insufficient response to the current political climate. - Capital Improvement Program: Duane De Witt expressed concern that funding was being allocated to road repairs in the wealthy Oakmont neighborhood while older roads in Roseland and west-side neighborhoods remained underfunded. Nancy Lanz questioned the amount of city spending on pickleball and tennis courts compared to a lack of investment in dog parks. - Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPR/Flock): Over a dozen speakers, including Jenny Gilpin of the Civil Liberties Task Force, expressed strong opposition to Flock cameras. Speakers cited privacy violations, the potential for abuse by police, data sharing with ICE, and racial profiling. Many demanded that the contract be terminated immediately rather than waiting for a study session. - Farm Animals Within City Limits: Jack James and Cameron spoke in support of allowing home gardens, farm animals, and local food production to build community food sovereignty and climate resilience. - Non-Agenda Matters: Tom Sawyer spoke about significant errors in the FEMA flood maps to be adopted in 2027. Alyn Wolves, Merlin, and In Lee urged the council to stop weekly sweeps of homeless encampments, particularly ahead of the predicted rainy season. Discussion Items - Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Status Update: Deputy Director Christa Siegenthaler reported that 14 projects have been completed since December 2025, including park renovations, road safety improvements, and the Lower Colgan Creek Restoration Phase 3. Currently, 20 projects are in construction. Councilmember Alvarez requested a breakdown of investments by city district, and Councilmember MacDonald requested a public-facing dashboard with project statuses and funding sources. The item was received and filed. - Community Safety and Civil Rights for Immigrant Communities: Staff presented a history of council actions and a preview of a draft resolution aimed at establishing a comprehensive framework for non-cooperation with ICE, consistent with SB 580. A division emerged on the dais: Councilmembers Bañuelos and Fleming advocated strongly for an ordinance, citing its stronger legal standing and the original council intent. Councilmembers Alvarez and Rogers emphasized that concrete action and community solidarity were more critical than the specific legal mechanism. Vice Mayor Okrepkie and Mayor Stapp supported the resolution for its speed and urgency. City Manager and City Attorney staff explained that a resolution could be adopted much faster (requiring no labor meet-and-confer) as it governs internal policy, while an ordinance would require lengthy union negotiations. The council broadly agreed to move forward with the resolution on November 10th and committed to a detailed discussion on pursuing an ordinance at that time. - Issuance of Wastewater Revenue Bonds (Series 2026A): CFO Scott Wagner and financial advisor Craig Lynch presented a plan to issue $50 million in bonds. The funds will finance $35 million in electrical infrastructure improvements at the Laguna Treatment Plant, refund outstanding 2014A and 2016A bonds, and partially defease 2002B bonds. The restructuring is expected to release $7 million in cash reserves and save an estimated $12 million in anticipated debt service costs over the near term by compressing a 30-year financing into an 11-year term. Key Outcomes - Immigrant Community Resolution: Council directed staff to present the draft non-cooperation resolution at the November 10, 2026 meeting, and to provide a detailed breakdown of the timeline, legal implications, and feasibility of pursuing a stronger ordinance for future consideration. (Discussion, no formal vote). - Automatic License Plate Readers (Flock): The council voted 7-0 to place a study session on a future agenda to discuss ALPRs prior to any contract renewals (Motion by Alvarez, seconded by Rogers). - Farm Animals Within City Limits: The council voted 6-0-1 (Councilmember Fleming abstained) to add a review of the city ordinance regarding farm animals to a future agenda (Motion by MacDonald, seconded by Bañuelos). - Wastewater Revenue Bonds: The council voted 7-0 to adopt Resolution RES-2026-121, authorizing the issuance and sale of the Series 2026A Wastewater Revenue Bonds. - Consent Calendar: The consent agenda, covering items 13.1 through 13.3, was approved unanimously, 7-0. - City Attorney’s Report: The city attorney reported an active litigation caseload of 47 matters, with 6 assigned trial dates and 5 cases on appeal. No settlements were finalized in September 2026.

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) met on October 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall. The chair announced that future meetings would begin at 6:00 p.m. The board had one agenda item: a variance request (ZBA-26-29V) for property at 401 Center Street. After hearing a staff report, applicant testimony, and public comment, the board voted 4-0 to approve the variance. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board approved the minutes from the August 25, 2026 meeting as written on a motion by Bob Sisson, seconded by Dixon Hicks. All members present voted in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Evan Krager (400 Center Street) spoke in support, stating that the applicant’s improvements have greatly enhanced the neighborhood and that the property had been neglected by the previous owner. - Anna Bandini (38 East Second Street), mother of the applicant, spoke in support, highlighting her son’s efforts to navigate the permitting process and his commitment to restoring the home. - Brian Vay (403 Center Street) expressed support, noting that the addition is a positive improvement and does not negatively impact adjacent properties. He also remarked on the historical context of the neighborhood and advocated for maintaining the original structure. Discussion Items - ZBA-26-29V – Variance for 401 Center Street: The applicant, Julian Bandini, requested a variance to reduce the required 25-foot front setback along Sherman Avenue to 7 feet 8 inches to permit an enclosed porch addition (69 square feet) that had been constructed without a permit. - Staff Report: Planner Sherry Kelly presented the staff report recommending denial. She noted that while the addition does not extend beyond the existing building footprint, the property shares characteristics with other lots in the zone, and the applicant had created the non-conformity by building without a permit. Staff found that the variance criteria were not met, particularly because the lot conditions are not unique and a rear addition could be possible. Staff also noted that the landing and stairs would comply with encroachment allowances if the variance were granted. - Board Questions: Board members asked clarifying questions about the building envelope, the distinction between open and enclosed porches in the code, and the applicant’s timeline of permit applications. The board also discussed the fact that the original porch was three-sided and that the enclosed wall did not move closer to the street. - Applicant Testimony: Mr. Bandini acknowledged his mistake in building without a permit but emphasized that the property (a 587 sq ft home built in 1932 on a 39-ft wide corner lot) offers limited expansion options. He argued that the variance is the minimum necessary and that he would complete all required permits and inspections. He addressed each of the seven statutory criteria, asserting that the constraints of the site justify relief. - Board Deliberation: The board discussed the uniqueness of the property (pre-dating current zoning, corner lot conditions) and balanced the staff’s concerns against the applicant’s demonstrated need and the support from neighbors. Chair Racheff made a motion to approve the variance with modified findings, citing that the variance is not contrary to public interest, the lot’s circumstances are unique, the variance is the minimum necessary, and the applicant did not create the underlying condition (the original house and porch placement). Key Outcomes - The board approved variance ZBA-26-29V, reducing the Sherman Avenue front setback from 25 feet to 7 feet 8 inches, by a vote of 4 in favor, 0 opposed. (Members voting: Hicks, Sisson, Hand, and Colar.) - The approval was conditioned on the applicant working closely with the planning department to obtain permits and inspections for the completed work. - The board’s decision departed from the staff recommendation, finding that the combination of the property’s age (1932 construction), corner lot configuration, and the limited buildable area constituted unique practical difficulties that justified the variance.

The Leesburg Town Council held its regular meeting on October 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. The meeting included consent items, resolutions, public hearings on telecommunications license renewals, and an appeal of a Board of Architectural Review (BAR) decision regarding property at 7 Royal Street SE. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved 7-0. It included a cathodic protection system rehabilitation for a 24-inch reuse water main, endorsing performing artists for the 2026 Mistletoe Market, Title VI Policies and Implementation Plans, a request for the conveyance of remaining portions of Tolbert Lane (Route 654), and a fitness equipment purchase contract for the Ida Lee Park Recreation Center. - Minutes from the October 5 Work Session (approved 6-0-1, with Council Member Steinberg abstaining) and the October 6 Regular Session (approved 7-0) were adopted. Public Comments & Testimony - Petitioner Session: Kevin Ash described his development record in Leesburg, stating he has completed seven projects over 15 years. He noted that four of his developments received Historic Design Excellence Awards. His remarks were concluded when his allotted three minutes expired. - Telecommunications Public Hearings: No members of the public signed up or spoke on the license agreements for ZAYO or Lumos Networks (dba SEGRA). - BAR Appeal Public Hearing: The appellants delivered a five-minute argument against the BAR's approval for 7 Royal Street SE. They argued that staff omitted the issue of a second-story expansion over a severely non-conforming footprint. They contended that the intended residential and commercial use influenced the design's mass and scale. They specifically opposed the front-yard parking pad, the loss of historic circulation, the cumulative site impact, and accused the design of creating an inappropriate "campus" appearance through unified fencing. Discussion Items - SCADA Server Purchase: Staff presented a request for a $1,589,398 supplemental appropriation to purchase servers ($1,218,000 from Maine Micro) and network hardware ($712,000 from DSI Tech) for the water and wastewater SCADA replacement project. The existing systems have been in operation since 2002 and pose cybersecurity risks. Councilmember Kurkowski asked about the replacement lifecycle; staff expects 20 years from the new system. Councilmember Steinberg confirmed the current hardware is up to 24 years old. - Telecommunications License Agreements: - ZAYO (Fiber AssetCo, LLC): Staff presented a renewal agreement, noting the previous license had expired in 2021 due to an inadequate internal tracking system. As a pass-through entity with no voice lines, ZAYO pays an annual fee of approximately $14,645, which has been paid retroactively for the lapse period. - Lumos/SEGRA (Lumos Networks 2, LLC): An amendment to the existing license was presented to allow for extension of their fiber network. The amendment does not extend the license term beyond its 2027 expiration. - BAR Appeal – 7 Royal Street SE: - Staff Clarification: Preservation Manager Lauren Murphy addressed questions from the continued hearing. She clarified the BAR does not regulate use, noise, traffic, or private viewsheds. The driveway is not historic (approved in 2006), but a 10-foot historic private access easement from the 1890s exists. She stated the flexibility on rear elevations is standard for reversible new construction. - Council Deliberation: Councilmember Steinberg asked about the application of non-conformity rules and the relevance of a separate application for 9 Royal Street. Councilmember Kurkowski questioned the concept of "reversibility." The Mayor expressed a strong concern about the new front-yard parking, citing the adopted guidelines directing parking to be located on the side or rear. Staff responded that the BAR considered the neighborhood context, where multiple properties have visible front parking. - BAR Chair Testimony: Councilmember Cummings called BAR Chair Ms. Aikman to the podium. She argued that overturning the BAR's decision would undermine the board's partnership with applicants, which relies on being fair, flexible, staying in its lane, and providing certainty that approvals will not be revoked. - Applicant Position: Contract purchaser Kevin Ash stated there is no room to relocate parking to the rear of the property. He argued that of the 14 structures on the street, nine have parking accessing Royal Street. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved (7-0). - SCADA Server Purchase: The resolution was approved (7-0), amending the budget and authorizing the hardware purchases. - Commission Appointments: Caitlin Toreau (Commission on Public Art), John Tingle (Economic Development Commission), and Jose Masquera (Technology and Communications Commission) were all confirmed (7-0 each). - Telecommunications License Agreements: The renewal with ZAYO (motion by Cummings, second by Nasi) and the amendment with Lumos/SEGRA (motion by Cummings, second by Steinberg) were both approved (7-0). - BAR Appeal (7 Royal Street SE): Councilmember Cummings moved to uphold the BAR's decision approving the Certificate of Appropriateness. The Mayor stated she would vote no, citing the parking guideline violation. The motion passed 5-2, meaning the appeal was denied and the BAR's approval stands. - Future Work Session Items: Councilmember Cummings secured support for discussions on (1) incentives for converting short-term to long-term rentals, and (2) a feasibility study for a 300-spot downtown parking garage. Councilmember Kurkowski secured support for a work session on initiating streetscaping for the Crescent Design District. - Closed Session: The Council voted unanimously to enter closed session to discuss personnel matters, zoning matters, and encroachment on town-owned airport property. A certification motion regarding the closed session subsequently passed.