The Public Meeting Index

The Charles County Board of Commissioners convened on October 27, 2026, with Commissioners Coates, Stewart, and Collins present (Commissioners Bowling and Patterson absent), establishing a quorum. The meeting addressed routine approvals, a new resolution for a countywide National Night Out, a letter of concern regarding the Southern Maryland Rapid Transit (SMRT) project, and several briefings including equity and access, internal audit, and a presentation from the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo). Two bills were introduced for public hearings, and the board later moved into closed session for property and litigation discussions. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the October 20, 2026 meeting were approved by a vote of 2-1, with Commissioner Coates opposed, citing a needed edit that will be brought back to a future agenda for official correction. Approval Items - Board of Education FY2027 Intercategory Budget Transfer: The board approved a $1,911,209 increase to the FY2027 general fund budget (from $555,532,999 to $555,744,208,000). The increase does not require additional county appropriation and is funded from existing FY2026 fund balances designated for open purchase orders ($744,607) and community schools/workforce development ($1,166,602). The transfer was approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026-16 – Annual Charles County National Night Out Program: Commissioner Coates introduced the resolution to create a countywide National Night Out event, particularly for communities without HOAs or resources to host their own. After discussion, the board agreed to amend the resolution to specify that the event will rotate among districts and be held at a county-owned property. The resolution was approved with those edits. - Letter of Concern – Southern Maryland Rapid Transit (SMRT) Project: The board approved a letter to the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) urging continued progress on the SMRT project into the NEPA process, rather than diverting funds to study all-day commuter bus service. Commissioner Stewart proposed language strengthening the letter to emphasize that project decisions should not be driven solely by the current federal administration's policies. The letter was approved as amended. Briefings and Presentations - Equity and Access Quarterly Update: Chief Equity Officer Miles and Coordinator Pollard reported on training programs (Leadership Series, Core Values in Action, Collaborative Problem Solving) serving over 100 staff. The Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF) will begin accepting narrative proposals from November 1 to December 15, 2026. The office plans to hire additional staff and launch projects including mental health clinics, capacity building workshops, and a transportation assistance program. - Annual Internal Audit – FY2026 Commissioner Business Expense Audit: Senior Internal Auditor Coleman and Junior Auditor Phelpin presented the audit, which found no violations. Combined spending across all commissioners was $29,061.45 out of a total $54,000 allocation (53.8% utilization). Mileage was the least used category (2%). Commissioners praised the improved financial processes and several suggested increasing the per-commissioner allocation in the future. - Introduction of Bill 2026-11 – Repeal of Heritage Commission: The board voted to introduce a bill to repeal Chapter 62 of the Charles County Code establishing the Heritage Commission, which has been inactive for over 20 years. A public hearing was scheduled for November 17, 2026 at 6:00 PM. - Introduction of Bill 2026-13 – Pre-trial Release Program and Community Service: Following a prior work session, the board introduced a bill updating the pretrial release program. Changes include screening language, third-party vendor contracts, and expanded list of ineligible crimes (including robbery with a deadly weapon, carjacking, sexual assault, and domestic violence). A public hearing was scheduled for November 17, 2026 at 6:00 PM. - Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Annual Update: MACo President (Frederick County Councilmember) and Executive Director Michael Sanderson discussed affordability, housing, energy costs, the state's fiscal situation (projected $2.5 billion shortfall for FY2028), and potential impacts on counties. Topics included the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, transportation funding, and the risk of cost shifts to local governments. Commissioners raised concerns about declining state service levels despite increased billing to counties. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from October 20, 2026 (2-1). - Approved Board of Education FY2027 budget transfer (unanimous). - Approved Resolution 2026-16 for a countywide National Night Out with rotating district amendments (unanimous). - Approved SMRT letter of concern with strengthened language (unanimous). - Introduced Bill 2026-11 and Bill 2026-13; public hearings scheduled for November 17, 2026. - Board moved into closed session to discuss property acquisitions and a potential litigation matter.

On 2026-10-27 at 04:00 UTC, the Southfield City Council held its regular evening meeting. The transcript's roll call recites October 26, 2026, but this summary uses the supplied timestamp date. A quorum was present with Councilmembers Banks, Blaine, Brightwell, Haynes, Hope, Mandelbaum, and Council President Hicks. The meeting included proclamations, public comment on Ordinance 1835, consent agenda approvals, a traffic-calming change order, public hearings, zoning amendments, and administrative approvals. Presentations and Proclamations - Terry Brock accepted the city's proclamation of November as Family Court Awareness Month. She said abuse often continues after separation through family court, cited research that abusive parents seeking sole custody succeed 70% of the time, and cited a Project Justice USA survey showing 96% of children experience negative impacts from family court proceedings. She called for awareness of litigation and legal abuse against protective parents. - The Mayor presented the Extra Mile Day proclamation for November 1, 2026 to Sharky Haddad and Priscilla Pfeiffer. Haddad was recognized for community liaison work and Chaldean Chamber of Commerce service; Pfeiffer was recognized for art curation and volunteer work with Southfield Public Arts and other organizations. Both thanked the city. - Kyle Bryce of the planning department was named October Employee of the Month for exceptional customer service and unpaid volunteer work on a commission project. - Planning staff announced the city received Michigan Green Communities Challenge gold recertification for the third consecutive year, earning 163 points, and said the city is working toward platinum designation. Appointments and Reappointments - Council approved reappointments to the City Center Advisory Board, including Matus Noakowski and Kevin Finn; the motion as read also included Hassan Jawat. Noakowski and Finn were not present. - A planned appointment to the Commission on Senior Adults was postponed to next month because of a family emergency. Public Comments & Testimony - City staff gave a follow-up on Ordinance 1835, known as the point-of-sale ordinance. No changes have been approved, and the existing ordinance remains in effect. The legislative subcommittee reviewed a proposed amendment to exempt certain inheritance transfers from the certificate-of-occupancy requirement, and it will be presented at the November 9, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting. - Vanessa B. asked for clearer communication about ordinance changes, easier website access, and options such as Zoom or email for public questions. - Stacey Dick, a 33-year resident, said she flew home from Utah after learning about Ordinance 1835. She criticized the ordinance's purpose language, said residents were not informed until the September legal notice in the Southfield Sun, and noted Councilman Mandelbaum voted no originally because residents had not been informed and because the water/sewer opt-out clause was missing. She said surrounding cities, including Farmington Hills, Oak Park, Royal Oak, and Beverly Hills, did not adopt similar residential requirements. - Louisa Sherwin, a 62-year resident, asked for review of Ordinance 1835 and said she did not like deed-transfer provisions or language about the city taking properties. - Stacey Jackson, president of the Beachwood Acres Homeowners Association, opposed Ordinance 1835 and requested a moratorium. She said the city rushed the ordinance, that the loss of four lives did not justify it, that gun violence and tenant sewage complaints had not produced similar urgency, and that the ordinance could lead to reassessments and higher property taxes. She said the city should not confuse professional courtesy with public trust. - Robin Boyer asked why residents were not notified about a development at the former Leonard Elementary school, what enforcement tools exist to ensure timely completion, what oversight and inspection checkpoints are in place, and who residents should contact about site maintenance and safety. - Vince Galant, a 13-year taxpayer and resident, said communication needs to happen before projects are proposed. He asked whether the school district and local businesses were consulted about a shared-use aquatic facility, and he urged better outreach on data centers and other large projects. - Jill Spadafora requested a moratorium on Ordinance 1835. She said the ordinance could burden children inheriting homes, criticized data centers as non-permanent-job developments, cited a West Virginia solar retraining project as a community-benefiting example, and questioned 64 flock cameras in Southfield versus 12 in Bloomfield Hills. She also said residents should not move to a city whose government supports ICE. - Joan Webb said she wanted her son to inherit her home through a ladybird deed without inspection barriers. She called the ordinance a slippery slope and requested a moratorium. - Diana Pegler, a nearly 40-year resident, said communication is a major issue, that homeowners want to pass on wealth as a legacy, and that the ordinance should be carefully reviewed and should not target specific communities. - Fred Pinkston questioned whether inspections would increase property taxes, interfere with leaving homes to children, or allow the city to take houses. He asked why apartments were exempted despite the Le Chateau fire deaths and said the city should have done community outreach instead of adopting a heavy-handed measure. He said he would vote no on future millage increases until the city respects residents. - Michelle Roberson opposed Ordinance 1835 and said surrounding communities have not adopted similar rules. She argued that commercial, rental, vacant, and newly developed properties should be the focus, not existing homeowners, and that the ordinance threatens generational wealth. - Greg Keeler criticized the city for what he called disrespectful treatment of Farmington and Berkley neighbors regarding a data center, and said the city failed to enforce septic-tank rules for 20 years. He also said a 15-year-old speaker at a previous meeting was treated poorly and removed by police instead of being guided. He reminded council that residents vote them in. - Pamela Gerald said homeowners should pull required permits and complete due diligence. She advised audience members to consult probate lawyers about quitclaim deeds and rights of survivorship, and said claims that the city wants to take homes or block generational transfers were lies. - Council President Pro Tem Hope responded to the public comments on Ordinance 1835 by apologizing, saying the intent was not to stop home transfers, take homes, or raise taxes, and promising that the wording would be corrected soon. Councilwoman Banks echoed that no one is trying to take homes, encouraged residents to consider quitclaim deeds, shared her own experience buying a home with hidden issues, and asked for kindness and better communication between residents and the city. Minutes and Consent Agenda - Council approved the Committee of the Whole meeting minutes of October 5, 2026. - Council approved the consent agenda containing: A, authorization to purchase ammunition for the police department; B, water meter reading collector preventive maintenance agreement; C, authorization to purchase a water main break truck; D, receipt of a bid for a high-speed roll-up door; and E, authorization to submit the fiscal year 2027 Oakland County Access to Transit Grant application. Before the vote, Councilwoman Banks asked about item C, and staff explained it would replace a 2006 vehicle with about 112,000 miles and provide needed capacity for in-house water main work. Discussion Items - Council approved a change order for traffic calming on the Southampton pavement and water main improvement project. Staff said residents petitioned for traffic calming, reached 65% support against the required 60% threshold, and a traffic study found significant cut-through traffic. The plan includes asphalt speed humps on blocks west of Lathrop Boulevard, two on Silver Maple, and 14-foot diameter landscaped traffic circles at three Lathrop intersections south of Ten Mile. Estimated cost was about $160,000, with negotiations expected to bring it closer to $150,000, funded from local street funds. The motion carried. Public Hearing: Commercial Rehabilitation District and PA 210 Exemption - Staff presented a request from Suites Southfield LLC for a commercial rehabilitation exemption certificate for 15815 West 12 Mile Road. The first public hearing was to establish West 12 Mile Road Commercial Rehabilitation District No. 1; a second hearing was needed for the certificate. - Petitioner Patrick Kingston said the company purchased the building for about $400,000 and committed $274,200 to rehabilitation. The building would become 21 private, appointment-based suites for accounting, insurance, real estate, counseling, education, wellness, beauty, and other professional services. Completion was expected by January 15, 2027. He said the five-year PA 210 exemption was necessary because the appraisal came in below the total project cost and the bank loan was capped by the appraisal. - Public comments included support from Earl Crum and Rosemary Allen; Vanessa Burrell asked about the assessor's letter, tax burden, and security; and Myron Thomas asked what the city gains from the abatement and whether similar benefits could extend to community organizations. - City staff responded that current taxes would continue to be paid, the assessment would be capped for five years, and the city would gain from the building being modernized and brought up to code. Staff also said the use would not be eligible for Airbnb. Council approved both the district establishment and the five-year PA 210 certificate on voice votes. Public Hearing: Conditional Rezoning at 1990 West Nine Mile Road - Staff presented PCZR 26-0005, a request to rezone the former Specs Howard building from OS office service to a combination of B3 general business and RMM multifamily medium rise. The proposal conditionally excluded gas stations, auto-related uses, car washes, hotels, motels, drive-through restaurants, outdoor sales, adult-use marijuana facilities, and similar intensive uses. - Petitioner Brian Giles said the project would create 56 rental apartments: six one-bedroom, eight three-bedroom, and the balance two-bedroom. He said the site would be gated, include 13 guest parking spaces under the current layout, one-to-one bike parking, EV charging, and no short-term rentals. He also described comparable experience, including a Grosse Pointe project with 18 apartments and eight townhomes and a prior Chicago project with 317 units. - Public comment included concerns about density, a proposed dog park, public art, dumpster locations, unit finishes, rents, and the building's visual appearance. Some council members voiced concern that the site was doing too much, while others supported adding housing. Staff reminded everyone that site plan issues would be considered later. - The conditional rezoning motion carried 5-2. Council then introduced Ordinance 1840, the accompanying zoning map amendment. Public Hearing: Accessory Dwelling Unit Text Amendment - Staff presented the ADU zoning text amendment, PZTA 26-0003. The proposal would allow accessory dwelling units in single-family residential districts, with a maximum gross floor area of 800 square feet or 35% of the principal dwelling, whichever is less. Detached units would require a 3-foot side and rear setback, a 25-foot setback from a secondary street on corner lots, a maximum height of 15 feet, and no short-term rentals. - Public comments included general support with concerns about construction costs, sewer and street infrastructure, enforcement of the short-term rental ban, and setbacks. Some speakers asked whether less expensive self-contained units could be allowed, and one resident described an illegal Airbnb next door. - Council discussion included concerns about infrastructure, taxes, lot sizes, and a desire for expert testimony. Councilwoman Banks said she was not comfortable approving the item. Council postponed the amendment to the January 11, 2027 regular meeting so it could return with additional information without requiring a second public hearing. Public Hearing: Career and Technical Education and Public Parks Amendments - Council approved PZTA 26-0004, a zoning text amendment updating vocational school language to career and technical education and adding universities as permitted uses. Council then introduced Ordinance 1850. - Council approved PZTA 26-0005, a zoning text amendment making public parks, recreation areas, and public facilities permitted by right in single-family residential districts, while private recreation facilities remain special land uses. Council then introduced Ordinance 1851. Additional Ordinances and Approvals - Council approved Ordinance 1847, amending Chapter 17 regarding garbage and rubbish. - Council approved Ordinance 1848, prohibiting the sale of Kratom to persons under 21. - Council approved travel expenses for Councilwoman Haynes for the Detroit Regional Chamber lunch on March 5 and the Michigan Municipal League Elected Officials Academy in Bay City on May 15-16. - Council approved a special meeting on December 3, 2026, at 5 p.m. Council Comments and Announcements - Councilwoman Banks reported ribbon cuttings for the International Academy on October 20, Tunnel to Towers veterans housing with 84 units on October 21, and a mural at the public services building. She also said trunk-or-treat served about 6,000 children and individuals. - Councilwoman Blaine reminded everyone about the Aquatic Center ribbon cutting on Wednesday at 4 p.m. - Councilwoman Haynes announced a Friends of the Library book donation partnership with Tunnel to Towers, a new veterans clinic with mental health and women's health services, and improvements to an Oakland County park. - The City Administrator reminded residents about water main work on the municipal campus and Halloween safety. The Clerk reported that early voting had reached 1,830 ballots cast in the first three days, and encouraged voting by mail, drop box, early voting, or precinct voting on November 3. A veterans memorial celebration was announced for November 6 at 11 a.m. in the council chamber. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 1835 remains unchanged for now; the proposed inheritance-transfer exemption goes to the November 9, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting. - Consent agenda items A-E were approved. - The Southampton traffic-calming change order was approved. - West 12 Mile Road Commercial Rehabilitation District No. 1 was established, and the five-year PA 210 exemption for Suites Southfield LLC was approved. - The conditional rezoning of 1990 West Nine Mile Road was approved 5-2, and Ordinance 1840 was introduced. - The ADU zoning text amendment was postponed to the January 11, 2027 regular meeting. - PZTA 26-0004 and PZTA 26-0005 were approved, and Ordinances 1850 and 1851 were introduced. - Ordinances 1847 and 1848 were approved. - A special meeting was scheduled for December 3, 2026, at 5 p.m.

The Nashua Board of Aldermen's committee met on October 27, 2026 to consider six resolutions authorizing bonds for capital projects and equipment. After public comment and deliberation, the committee voted to recommend all six resolutions for final passage by the full Board. Key discussion topics included the phased approach to bonding, the separation of the library renovation from library worker contract negotiations, and the total cost of the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Kelly, Board of the Nashua Fire Commission, spoke in support of four fire-related resolutions (R26-068, 069, 070, 071), stating they represent essential investments in public safety and infrastructure. - No other public comments. Discussion Items R26-064 – Capital Equipment Bond ($5,173,428) - Alderman Kelly questioned the practice of bonding some projects partially and others in full. Director Tim Cummings explained the phased approach for building projects to obtain better cost certainty before committing full construction funding. - Alderman Clemens supported the phased approach, noting lessons from the Performing Arts Center. - Motion to recommend final passage passed. R26-067 – Library Renovation Design Bond ($3,000,000) - Alderman Thibault expressed strong support for the project but stated he would vote to table it at the full board unless the library worker contract dispute was resolved. - Alderman Clemens echoed the call for tabling due to the unresolved contract. - Alderman Greg argued the building and contract are separate issues and should not be conflated. - Alderman Johnson cautioned against involving the board in contract negotiations, noting the board plays no role in them. - Alderman O'Brien warned that tying the bond to the contract could constitute an unfair labor practice and urged the board to stay out of negotiations. - Alderman Wilshire agreed that one should not be tied to the other. - Alderman Sennett supported O’Brien’s points, stressing the slippery slope of exerting undue influence. - Alderman Kelly asked for clarification on why the library was only being bonded for $3 million while DPW was bonded for the full $43 million; Director Cummings explained the phased design-and-construction approach. - Despite many members expressing intentions to table at the full board, the committee voted to recommend final passage. R26-068 – Fire Training Facility Bond ($1,500,000) - Alderman Sennett noted that moving the current facility would cost more than this bond. - Alderman O'Brien highlighted the importance of realistic training for firefighter safety. - Alderman Johnson expressed concern about transparency, stating she had requested emails and information that were not fully provided. - Motion carried. R26-069 – Pine Hill Fire Station Design Bond ($1,000,000) - Alderman Thibault supported the project, criticizing past boards for deferring maintenance. - Alderman Clemens (not on the committee) voiced support. - Motion carried. R26-070 – Deferred Fire Station Maintenance Bond ($1,000,000) - Brief support was expressed for addressing long-deferred needs. - Motion carried. R26-071 – ERP System Bond ($9,000,000) - Alderman Sennett asked how the $9 million figure was determined; CFO Don Enright explained it was based on research and historical costs. - Alderman Sullivan asked about total cost of ownership; Enright clarified the bond covers implementation and two years of service, with annual costs of about $1.2 million ongoing. - Alderman Tebow calculated the ten‑year total at $18.6 million. - Alderman Clemens praised the proactive approach. - Alderman Sennett later stated he voted no because he wanted more clarity on what is being purchased. - The committee chair questioned why the ERP was not included in the budget, leading to discussion about bonding versus budget increases. - Motion carried (with at least one dissenting vote). General Discussion Remarks - The Chair apologized for disruptive and disrespectful behavior by an audience member toward an employee’s child earlier in the meeting. - Alderman Thibault condemned the behavior. - Alderman Sennett explained his no vote on the ERP resolution, reiterating the need for detailed justifications. - Alderman Clemens countered that bonding avoids a massive tax increase and that the project is proactive. - Alderman Greg emphasized the value of transparent communication to help the public understand the extensive deliberation preceding these bond requests. Key Outcomes - All six resolutions (R26-064, 067, 068, 069, 070, 071) were recommended for final passage to the full Board of Aldermen. - R26-071 faced one apparent “nay” from Alderman Sennett. - The meeting adjourned.

The Board of Aldermen convened a special meeting on October 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to hold public hearings on six bond resolutions totaling over $21.6 million. The items covered capital equipment, the Nashua Public Library renovation, a fire training facility, a replacement for the Pine Hill Fire Station, deferred maintenance for fire stations, and a new citywide enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. No votes were taken on the bond resolutions. The meeting was adjourned at 8:51 p.m. and was immediately followed by a budget committee meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Laurie Ortolano (Resident): Spoke in opposition to all bond resolutions. She expressed her primary objection was a lack of government transparency and accountability regarding the city's response to her right-to-know requests. She cited ongoing difficulty obtaining records, including a fire department investigative report, and expressed frustration with the administration, stating she could no longer support spending until records are opened. - Jennifer McCormick (Library Director), Linda LaFlam (Library Trustee Chair), Scott Jacquith (Library Trustee), and Patty Dresner (Library Trustee): Expressed support for the library design bond (R26067). They detailed critical building system failures (HVAC, leaking roof, non-ADA compliant features), community demand for modernized spaces, and the urgency of proceeding to avoid further cost escalation and service disruption. - Steven Scar (Resident): Opposed the library design bond. He urged the city to prioritize addressing homelessness before spending on the library, questioned the downtown location, and requested the board consider the long-term financial trade-offs and impact on taxpayers. Discussion Items - R26064 - Capital Equipment Bond ($5,173,428): Fleet Superintendent Michael Rush requested funds for plow trucks, service trucks, and foreman trucks with a 7-10 year lifespan. Treasurer Diane Maholland reported the SURF trust fund balance is approximately $3 million with projected FY28 needs around $14 million. Discussion included vehicle replacement cycles and bonding versus leasing. - R26067 - Library Design Bond ($3,000,000): Tim Cummings (Director of Administrative Services) and Kayla Gallo (Owner’s Project Manager) presented the next design phase. The total project cost is estimated at $45 million. Design development, bidding costs, and temporary space exploration are included. - R26068 - Fire Training Facility Bond ($1,500,000): Chief Steve Buxton requested funds for a new live-fire training prop, scaled down from an initial $1.98 million estimate. The facility supports ISO ratings and helps keep training resources local. - R26069 - Pine Hill Fire Station (Station 5) Replacement Bond ($1,000,000): Chief Buxton and Joe Sullivan (Left Field) presented design funding for replacing the station. A site on Alpine Road (airport property) has been identified. The station serves the city’s largest fire district. - R26070 - Fire Station Deferred Maintenance Bond ($1,000,000): Chief Buxton detailed needed repairs to boilers, HVAC, plumbing, and pavement across stations. Alderman Johnson strongly opposed the bond, calculating $420,000 in interest over 20 years and arguing small maintenance items should not be bonded. - R26071 - Citywide ERP System Bond ($9,000,000): Tim Cummings, CFO Don Enright, and School COO Crystal De Gray presented the need to replace the obsolete 16-year-old system (Lawson) by 2029. Ten vendor proposals are under evaluation. Alderman Johnson questioned the lack of a negotiated contract and the $3.7 million in interest. Alderman Sullivan asked about the budget cycle. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken on any of the six bond resolutions. All public hearings were closed. - A motion to adjourn the special meeting was made by Alderman Clemens and passed unanimously at 8:51 p.m. - A budget committee meeting was scheduled to convene immediately following adjournment.

This summary is based on the raw transcript; no agenda or minutes were available. Councilmember Adams participated by Zoom. The meeting opened with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a Red Ribbon Week proclamation, then proceeded through the consent agenda, two pulled items, a public hearing on the Mesa Town Center Improvement District, and citizen comments before adjourning. Opening, Proclamation, and Ceremonial Items - Pastor Tony Frazy of Gateway Bible Church gave the invocation. - The Pledge of Allegiance was led by East Valley Young Marines Private Vincent Andruzi and Private Gabriella Andruzi. - The Mayor proclaimed Red Ribbon Week in Mesa, recognizing the East Valley Young Marines for drug-prevention efforts and community service. Antoinette, a parent of two Young Marines, thanked the Mayor and Council for the recognition. Consent Calendar - Mr. Christopher read the consent agenda. No items were initially pulled; Councilmember Taylor later asked to pull Items 7A and 7B for discussion. - The consent agenda included approval of prior meeting minutes; a liquor license for Andy’s Downtown Garage; a Glock handgun contract for the Police Department; pool treatment chemicals; seven automated side-loading refuse trucks; LED traffic-control modules and sensors; storm drain pump maintenance; fire extrication equipment; wastewater inspection and electric infrastructure design services; intergovernmental agreements for Proposition 202 funds, Arterial Life Cycle Program reimbursement, and waste-collection mutual aid; a development agreement with MGC Pure Chemicals America; a retail development tax incentive notice for the Craftsman project; introduction of zoning case 25-895; and an ordinance authorizing the City Attorney to purchase insurance coverages. - Item 5D was removed from the agenda. The remaining consent items were approved unanimously by one motion. Discussion Items - Items 7A and 7B — Historic preservation text amendments: Councilmember Taylor pulled the items to confirm they would not slow or block the Buckhorn Baths redevelopment. She noted community excitement for the project, said the existing museum building has been inspected and is not architecturally sound, and wanted demolition and rebuilding in the Pueblo Revival style to remain possible. Staff responded that Buckhorn Baths is on the National Register of Historic Places, which does not restrict development; a local landmark designation would add protection. The text amendments are intended to consolidate and streamline the process and would not prevent Buckhorn Baths from moving forward through a certificate of appropriateness. The Mayor clarified that the item was an introduction with intent to adopt on November 2. Councilmember Taylor then moved to approve Items 7A and 7B; the motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony For citizen comments, the Council allowed three speakers for three minutes each; because the topics were not on the agenda, state law generally prevented the Council from responding. - Jacob Given: A Mesa native, former Falcon Field flight-school employee, and private pilot. He said he had supported the proposed airport landing fees when small private pilots were exempt from the first five or ten landings, but a new letter removed those exemptions. He asked the Council to consider alternatives used elsewhere, including a $2 per flight-hour tax on flight schools that raises $7.8 million per year for Deer Valley and has been in place for 16 years. He also asked whether sales taxes spent at the airport are allocated back to the airport and noted the airport’s economic value — about $811 million annually and 1,200 jobs. He agreed the airport should be self-sustaining but urged the Council to restore exemptions for small private pilots and to consider other revenue sources. - Jason Smith: A father of a child on the autism spectrum and an advocate for people with disabilities. He praised the city’s adaptive recreation programs and its community engagement course, but said Mesa lacks a dedicated disability advisory board or committee. He recommended creating a disability advisory committee made up of individuals with disabilities, parents, caregivers, advocates, and community stakeholders to advise on parks, playgrounds, transportation, public facilities, city services, employment, and emergency preparedness. He described it as a partnership rather than another layer of bureaucracy. - State Senator Lauren Kuby: She was recognized as the third speaker, but no substantive public comment from her appears in the transcript. The Mayor then moved the meeting toward adjournment. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda, minus pulled Items 7A and 7B and removed Item 5D, was approved unanimously. - Items 7A and 7B, the historic preservation text amendments, were approved unanimously. - The Council held a public hearing on the continuation of the Mesa Town Center Improvement District; no one requested to speak. A motion to approve Item 9B, continuing the district for an additional five years, passed unanimously. - The meeting adjourned by unanimous vote. The Mayor reminded everyone to vote.

The Mesa City Council convened a study session on October 27, 2026. Councilmember Adams was excused; all other council members were present. The session included a review of the evening's regular council meeting agenda, reports from council members on community events and conferences attended, and a discussion of upcoming meetings. (Note: The raw transcript header identifies the meeting as taking place on October 26, 2026, conflicting with the assigned meeting date of October 27, 2026.) Discussion Items - Agenda Review: The council reviewed the evening's regular meeting agenda. Staff requested the removal of Item 5D, an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with the Flood Control District. The request was made because ongoing discussions indicated that additional funding may be available for the project. The item will be brought back with updated figures. - Current Events and Conference Reports: Council members shared updates on recent activities. - Councilmember Taylor attended the Polaris Academy gala (an autism school with three Mesa campuses) and the Arizona Ballet. - Vice Mayor attended the Polaris Academy gala, community Halloween events, and the Dia de las Muertes closing ceremony. - Councilmember from District 4 attended the Xenodrome ribbon cutting (a Mesa-based drone manufacturer), the Dia de los Muertos festival (noting its 20th anniversary and status as the second largest in the United States), and the Arizona Forward Thrive in 2035 sustainability summit. - Councilmember Duff noted Mesa staff leadership in the Women Leading in Government conference and reported a $3 million appropriation for the United Food Bank's expansion, citing food scarcity affecting approximately 1 million Arizonans. - Future Schedule: City staff outlined the upcoming schedule, including the regular council meeting following the study session, a study session on Thursday, and another study session and council meeting the following Monday. Upcoming events include Halloween activities at libraries and the Haunted Hangar at Falcon Field. Key Outcomes - Agenda Item 5D Removed: The IGA with the Flood Control District was pulled from the evening's agenda to allow for further funding negotiations. - Meeting Adjourned: The study session was adjourned unanimously following a motion by Councilmember Duff.

On Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Hearing Room 2 at 250 Broadway, the Committee on Criminal Justice, chaired by Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, met jointly with the Committee on Women and Gender Equity, chaired by Amanda Farías, for an oversight hearing on maternal health and criminal justice. The committee heard testimony from Correctional Health Services (CHS), the Department of Correction (DOC), the Board of Correction, public advocates, and community witnesses. No votes were taken; the legislation considered was laid over by the committee. The roll call for the Committee on Criminal Justice was: present – Brooks-Powers, Cabán, Feliz, Morano, and Narcisse; absent – Salaam; conflict – Brewer. Also attending were Councilmembers Farías, Hudson, Aldebol, Santosuosso, Gutiérrez, and Public Advocate Williams. The agenda and minutes identify the matters considered as Oversight T2026-2617, Int 0902-2026, Int 1144-2026, Res 0464-2026, Res 0497-2026, and Res 0498-2026. Opening Statements - Chair Farías opened by describing the crisis at the intersection of maternal health and incarceration. She stated that three out of four incarcerated women are of childbearing age, that communities of color make up almost 90% of New York City jail admissions while comprising 52% of the city’s general population, and that Black women are three times more likely than white women to die because of pregnancy. She also cited a 2025 Arnold Institute report finding that 52 incarcerated people were reported pregnant by correctional health services last year and that interviews revealed gaps in mattresses, nutritious food, outdoor time, safety from hazards such as mace and mold, lactation support, and pregnancy information. - Chair Brooks-Powers stressed that pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period require consistent care that does not disappear upon incarceration. She outlined the hearing’s focus on intake screening, coordination between CHS and DOC, mental health screening for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, borough-based jail planning, and data on maternal health care in custody. - Public Advocate Williams testified that incarcerated pregnant and postpartum people must receive timely, dignified care consistent with standards from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He voiced support for Int 902 and Res 497 and Res 498, noted that New York banned shackling during labor in 2009, and referenced cases including a woman who gave birth while shackled in a Brooklyn courtroom and a woman restrained on Rikers Island. He added that these incidents overwhelmingly involve Black and brown women. - Councilmember Hudson spoke in support of her resolutions, Res 497 and Res 498, saying no one should be shackled in labor and no one should be forced into a courtroom days before giving birth. Agency Testimony and Discussion - CHS Chief of Nursing Nancy Arias testified that CHS has been the direct provider of physical and mental health services in DOC custody since 2016. She reported that women are about 8% of the patient population; as of September 2026, 82% of women in CHS care were enrolled in mental health services, 47% were diagnosed with serious mental illness, and 34% had an opioid use disorder. She stated that there were 52 pregnant individuals in CHS care last calendar year. CHS described pregnancy testing and reproductive health histories at intake, referrals to a CHS obstetrician, prenatal care at Rose M. Singer Center, coordination with Elmhurst Hospital for labor and delivery, mental health screening for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and discharge planning. On Int 902, CHS said the bill largely aligns with current practices but should be refined so it does not legislate clinical decision-making, and CHS asked to discuss the provision requiring procedures to identify postpartum status when a patient does not proactively disclose it. - DOC Assistant Commissioner Valerie Graysock and Deputy Commissioner Nell Cologne testified about DOC’s doula program and nursery. Through a contract with the Caribbean Women’s Health Association, doulas provide non-medical support twice weekly; from January through June 2026, the program served 20 women and provided over 400 hours of support. DOC operates a voluntary residential nursery at Rose M. Singer Center where eligible mothers may remain with infants until the child’s first birthday. - In response to questions, DOC and CHS reported: 53% of initially scheduled on-island obstetric appointments were non-productions in calendar year 2025 and 40% off-island, compared with 37% and 43% in 2024, and 27% and 69% in 2023. Fifteen individuals gave birth while in DOC custody between 2023 and 2025. DOC reported zero incident reports involving restraints on pregnant or postpartum people in the past three years. The nursery has a maximum occupancy of about 15; one infant currently lives there, and eight infants have lived there since 2022. DOC said there were 482 women in custody and that the borough-based jail plan currently places about 450 beds for women and gender-expansive people at the Queens detention complex; Chair Brooks-Powers challenged the decision to concentrate women in one borough. - Chair Brooks-Powers also raised concerns about deadlocking and involuntary individual lock-ins, following a September 23, 2026 committee hearing. DOC referenced a Department of Investigation review that did not substantiate deadlocking allegations, said reporting obligations for emergency lock-ins remain, and committed to follow up on questions about white paper tags on cell door switchboards and related discipline. - Councilmember Narcisse, a former nurse, stressed the importance of rapid response when a pregnant person goes into labor, noting that delays can create complications and risk to the baby. Board of Correction Testimony - Marisa Singdon Hernandez, interim executive director and general counsel of the Board of Correction, testified alongside Katrina Blackman and Chen C. Augustin. The board described monitoring of maternal and mental health care in city jails, complaints received from pregnant and postpartum people, and concerns about housing in general population. Director Augustin reported that two pregnant women told the board they were present when chemical agents were deployed in their housing area, and one woman with asthma was in the shower during an incident. - The board recommended that DOC designate a dedicated dormitory for pregnant people, review the nursery application process to reflect current procedures and remove outdated language, expedite the interdisciplinary review process, and update minimum standards to explicitly address infant clothing and materials for children in the nursery. The board also said expanding state law to give it broader access to medical records for vulnerable populations would strengthen oversight. Public Comments & Testimony - Hannah Mae Powers, health and safety policy analyst for Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, expressed support for Int 902, Res 464, Res 497, and Res 498. She cited data that approximately one in five perinatal women experience maternal mental health disorders, and that among women of reproductive age in carceral populations, 43% meet lifetime criteria for serious mental illness, 53% for PTSD, and 82% for substance use disorder. - Rachel Bronstein, senior director of policy at Her Justice, expressed support for Int 1144 and urged the city to take an expansive view of gender-based violence data, including data from service providers and legal systems rather than law enforcement alone. She also encouraged analysis of survivors seeking divorce and noted the opportunity presented by Intro 1175. - Jillian Majoleschi, director of the Women’s Defense Project at Brooklyn Defender Services, strongly supported Res 497 and noted that the state Senate and Assembly had passed the anti-shackling bill. She called for trauma-informed gynecological care, because many of her clients have experienced sexual violence and are fearful of exams. - Isabella Seda, social justice community organizer at New Hour, supported Res 497 and asked that no chapter amendments be made, supported Res 498, and asked that Res 464 be broadened beyond postpartum psychosis to include the range of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. On Int 902, New Hour agreed data collection is needed but said health protocols should be established by health care professionals, not DOC. - Olivia Picard, staff attorney with the Vols Incarcerated Mothers’ Law Project, strongly supported Int 902 and described clients who have experienced separation from newborns and fears about parental rights while in custody. - Liz Suavola, chief impact officer at the Women’s Prison Association, supported the legislation, urged passage immediately, and called for reducing the footprint of incarceration and closing the Rose M. Singer Center. She said it costs about $500,000 per person to incarcerate someone at Rikers and that the number of women incarcerated at Rikers recently surpassed 500, nearly double what it was five years ago. - A speaker identifying as Ziata, a member of the Center for Equity, Health and Justice, called for closing Rikers Island and the Rose M. Singer Center, reducing the jail population, and holding the mayor accountable to the closure law, saying that incarceration is putting a bandage on a wound that must be aggressively treated. - Khalil Tucker testified on behalf of a family member who has been detained on Rikers Island for 3,000 days. He urged the committee to conduct a full audit of DOC and CHS, freeze funding, hold a hearing on Rikers Island, and subpoena DOC and CHS leadership, saying people are not being held accountable. Key Outcomes - No legislation was voted on. Int 0902-2026, Int 1144-2026, Res 0464-2026, Res 0497-2026, and Res 0498-2026 were heard and laid over by committee; Oversight T2026-2617 was filed by committee. - DOC and CHS committed to follow up in writing on several requests, including DOC’s written restraint policy, data on white paper tags and deadlocking allegations, the racial demographic breakdown of pregnant people in custody, the age of pregnant people in custody, and nursery-related data. - The Board of Correction recommended updated minimum standards, a dedicated housing area for pregnant people, and a revised nursery application process, and the council indicated it would pursue follow-up information. - A discrepancy was noted in the transcript: Chair Brooks-Powers’ opening remarks at one point referred to “resolution numbers 467, 497 and 498,” while the agenda and minutes identify the resolutions as 464, 497, and 498.

Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Morgridge (Riverstone Senior Life Services): Morgridge detailed severe problems following her center's NYCHA building converting to RAD/PACT with a private landlord (PRC). She stated the landlord caused them to lose their property liability insurance twice (first by demanding they claim PRC's water damage on their policy, and second due to illegal fire panels PRC refused to remove). PRC is pressuring them to sign a license agreement containing an eviction clause for failure to maintain insurance, a situation PRC themselves caused. She characterized non-profit providers as an afterthought in the RAD program. - Patricia Lynch (Millennium Development): Lynch described struggling to provide basic services amidst unresolved leaks, lack of heat, and broken elevators. She stated that when issues are reported, responsibility is often passed between agencies, leading to significant delays. She noted that many OACs lack formal MOUs or lease agreements, impairing their ability to make improvements and leading to FDNY citations. She called for clear ownership and urgency in resolving building issues. - Bridget Lee (Weinberg Center for Elder Justice): Expressed support for Int. 1083 but urged the council to strengthen it by requiring advisor training in elder abuse and financial exploitation red flags. - Anita Kwok (United Neighborhood Houses): Testified that the promised interagency coordination between DFTA and NYCHA has not materialized effectively, leading to prolonged repair timelines and providers being asked to undertake maintenance without funding or site control. - Rosemary Salazar (University Settlement): Described a specific case where NYCHA refused to connect a fire panel to the FDNY alarm system, deferring responsibility to the provider despite historical practice. Discussion Items - Repair Protocols & Coordination: DFTA Comm. McKenzie and NYCHA COO Trimble described the repair workflow (provider calls NYCHA CCC, ticket assigned, NYCHA fixes building systems, providers fix interiors). They reported bi-weekly and quarterly meetings to review open tickets. Chair Zhuang raised a specific example of a leak at LaGuardia/Dykeman OAC that providers reported as ongoing for two years. Chair Banks questioned the effectiveness of the process, noting the absence of a formal written maintenance agreement between NYCHA and DFTA, which he argued contributes to responsibility being passed between agencies. - Infrastructure & Capital Needs: NYCHA stated it received 1,700 work orders from OACs in the past year, with approximately 250 still open and an average 12.8-day response time. NYCHA identified 60 current FDNY violations and 2 DOB violations at OACs. Officials acknowledged the closure of Latimer Gardens OAC due to a roof leak, stating the required roof replacement is an unfunded capital project with roughly a 4-year timeline if funded. DFTA stated they rely almost entirely on discretionary funding from elected officials for capital improvements, having completed 56 projects in FY26 thanks to a $5M Council grant. Councilmember Restler highlighted stalled $6M in capital funds from the Brooklyn Borough President, which NYCHA attributed to past staffing shortages now resolved. - RAD/PACT Conversions: Chair Banks queried whether OAC rehabilitation is guaranteed in PACT deals. COO Trimble noted that while it is always the intent, Section 8 funds cannot be used for community spaces, making such renovations dependent on available city subsidy. She confirmed that Council capital funds allocated for OACs in developments that later convert to PACT are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. - Financial Literacy Bill (Int. 1083): Councilmember Hudson, the bill's sponsor, discussed implementation with the administration. DFTA supports the intent but estimates the cost for an advisor at every OAC for 20 hours per month to be between $2-3 million. Comm. McKenzie suggested shared or mobile advisors could be an alternative. Public testimony supported the bill while requesting amendments for specific elder abuse training. - Safety, Compliance, and Security: Councilmember Ossé raised ADA compliance. The agencies could not provide a count of non-compliant centers or a total cost estimate but committed to surveying the 105 OACs. Chair Banks stressed that the 60 open FDNY violations are unacceptable and providers should not face penalties for NYCHA's infrastructure failures. NYCHA and DFTA committed to working actively to cure the violations. Key Outcomes - Legislative Status: Introduction 1083 (Financial Literacy Advisors) was heard and laid over by the committee. Oversight Resolution T2026-2463 (OACs in NYCHA Facilities) was heard and filed. - Data Commitments: NYCHA and DFTA committed to providing the committees with a comprehensive breakdown of open repair tickets, a list of needed capital projects across the 105 OACs, an assessment of ADA compliance status and costs, and a follow-up report on specific facilities like LaGuardia/Dykeman and William Hodson. - Directives for Agencies: Chair Zhuang and Chair Banks directed the agencies to develop clearer protocols for maintenance responsibility to ensure providers are not fined or forced to close due to unresolved NYCHA infrastructure problems. They emphasized the need for a formalized repair agreement. - Future Policy: The committees expressed intent to explore dedicated capital funding streams for OACs in upcoming budgets and to continue refining Int. 1083 based on testimony submitted.

The Grand Rapids City Commission met on the evening of October 27, 2026, to consider three rezoning ordinances, a wage settlement ordinance, a budget amendment, a contested noise ordinance amendment for the Acrisure Amphitheater, and a litigation settlement. The amphitheater noise exemption dominated public comment, drawing dozens of residents for and against the measure. All agenda items passed, with the noise ordinance amendment passing 6-0 by roll call vote. Consent Calendar - Approved the previous meeting's minutes and passed the consent agenda unanimously. - Received and filed the comptroller's warrant report for September 22 through October 12, 2026, in the amount of $71,680,271.61, along with the small claims report. - Received and filed the treasurer's report (September 23 - October 12, 2026) and the supplemental fiscal year 2026 year-end investment portfolio summary as of June 30, 2026. - Received and filed petitions and communications, including 17 communications opposing the proposed Section 9.66 noise amendment, 8 communications supporting it, FOIA appeals, a Community Relations Commission resignation, and a sewer backup claim of $17,000. Public Comments & Testimony First public comment period (specific agenda items): Opponents of the Acrisure Amphitheater noise exemption: - Lucas urged commissioners to vote no, calling the project a "giant sellout to greedy corporate interests," criticizing the sound study, Live Nation, and Legends Global, and proposing a 10 p.m. weeknight / 11 p.m. weekend compromise for all entertainment venues. - Gabby Mells (Second Ward, Eastern and Cherry Street) said the noise "invades our spaces, our minds, and our peace" and argued the venue should not bypass the ordinance. - Kane Farrier (First Ward, up the hill from the zoo) said a variance is not the answer and the venue should be held to the law's noise limits and hours. - Hannah White said her two-year-old son Felix was kept awake by a concert near Leonard and Fuller. - Tom Flickinger (First Ward, under two miles away) said the existing limits "worked" after the court ruling, urged protecting the 11 p.m. cutoff, and asked the commission to vote no or postpone the decision. - Giles Hoffren (First Ward) said the disparity between the city's urgency to accommodate the venue and its reluctance to address resident concerns was "impossible to ignore," adding that residents are asking the city "to govern." - Danny Hipmer (Plaza Towers) described failed attempts to work with Grand Action 2.0 and the planning director since 2023, called the 2023 hearing "illegitimate" due to false sound-study projections, and asked the commission to table or vote no. - Kip Paul (retired Army sergeant, downtown senior building) said the noise bounces off apartment walls, noted the future soccer stadium will add more noise and traffic, and asked commissioners to "vote like you live there." - Alyssa (West Fulton and Southwest Seward) said she hears the amphitheater inside her ground-floor apartment with windows closed and demanded the venue follow the noise ordinance: "no one is above the law." - Peter Steensma (Plaza Towers) used a measurement analogy, arguing the amphitheater was designed using a "speech ruler" for a full-spectrum music problem. - Gavin Frodi (near the zoo, cellist) said amplified sound in an amphitheater is "overkill" and asked that the venue follow the same rules as everyone else. - Nick (Second Ward, Monroe Northeast, four miles away) said he attended about 10 shows but should not hear concerts inside his home with windows closed; "same rules for everybody." - Adam Fuller (Creston, Ward 2, over three miles away) presented data from Surveyofsound.com: 114 resident reports, 90 describing hearing sound indoors (nearly four out of five), 44 rated high or extreme (nearly half), spanning 15 separate evenings, with reports coming from neighborhoods several miles away and residents as far as eight miles away. He asked the city to retain ordinance protections and establish enforceable standards before next season. - Marco Sadini Johnson said he moved from Bridge Street because of noise, hired an attorney, and spent $20,000 on sound-blocking windows. He said the community's biggest concern, noise, was never mentioned when the ordinance extension was discussed, and urged "people over profit." - Mindy said the pattern showed everyday citizens opposing the exemption while business-oriented speakers supported it, and asked who the commission is making decisions for. - Hal Fruth (Plaza Towers) said he has direct line of sight to the stage, must raise his voice and turn up the TV to hear over concerts, criticized the lack of concern shown by officials on October 6, and demanded transparency on sound-monitoring data. - Susan Ward (Second Ward, Knapp and Plainfield, 32-year resident) said her windows rattled and her cat growled during a Wednesday night concert; she loves the facility but asked for noise control. - Blake Edmonds (First Ward) said voting no or tabling would show residents they have been heard. - Andrew Thiel (Northeast Side) said, "If it's 10 o'clock for us, 10 o'clock for them." - Another speaker said the amphitheater should not be exempt, cited $16 concession drinks, and argued the commission represents Grand Rapids residents, not out-of-town visitors. Supporters of the Acrisure Amphitheater noise exemption: - Sue Brown (downtown, less than a mile away) said she has no problem with the noise, loves the energy, and wants to "keep it as it is. Loud for some." - Michael Cagen (Plaza Condominiums, 15th floor, 28-year downtown resident) supported the exemption, noted out-of-town visitors spending money, and said police, fire, and ambulance sirens are louder than the venue. - Paul (downtown business owner and DeVos Place trade show host) supported the exemption and cautioned against lowering decibel limits, noting every six decibels halves sound pressure. - Kara Wood (Plaza Towers resident and executive director of Grand Action 2.0) said the overwhelming sentiment from her neighbors has been excitement and pride, and that the amendment protects the original intent of the exemption and provides certainty for residents, businesses, and event organizers. - Rick Wynne (chair of the Convention Arena Authority and city resident, blocks from the venue) supported the amendment, citing 48 shows and 400,000 attendees in the opening season, plus free community events including a world-record closing ceremony. - Josh Lunger (Second Ward resident, senior vice president of advocacy, Grand Rapids Chamber) urged support, citing positive feedback from businesses on Bridge Street, Leonard Street, Uptown, Easttown, and Division. - Tanya Price (Third Ward, recently moved from Colorado near Red Rocks) supported the amphitheater and the city's balance of community and business development, while suggesting mitigation such as a 10 p.m. rather than 11 p.m. end time. - Russell Mstead (West Side, musician and music lover) said the noise is not a nuisance to him and he loves the venue, but acknowledged others are adversely affected and proposed compromises: earlier end times, tree buffers, and acoustical engineering work. Other first-period comments: - Pastor Walter Slaughter was redirected to the general public comment period because his topics (Islam in the area, crime) were not agenda items. - Daniel opposed the $12,000 grant from the "Voters Not Politicians Education Fund," questioned Clerk Hondorp about dead people and non-citizens voting, and opposed three liquor license resolutions on religious and moral grounds, citing scripture and decades of ministering in a hard-side neighborhood. - Shiona Nodewski and Sheena Woss (Community Relations Commission) asked whether funds from the United Way Rapid Response Fund (fiscal item 5) could be used to help residents in each ward prepare emergency kits, citing an Indiana blackout event. - Cindy Hicks (First Ward) expressed disappointment that leadership does not listen to constituents and said her calls to the mayor and city manager about gun violence were not returned. Second public comment period (general comments): - Lucas again criticized the "layers of corporatism" in Grand Rapids, called the amphitheater a case study, urged attendance at the CAA meeting on November 6 and the Kent County Commission meeting on November 19, and criticized the handling of the First Ward vacancy. - Hal Fruth asked the city to require the CAA to engage directly and meaningfully with affected residents on noise solutions. - Chloe (volunteer, Grand Rapids Rapid Response to ICE) said ICE is taking at least five people a day, including 10 the prior day and 9 that day (19 people within two days), that GRPD has arrested at least six protesters, and asked the commission directly: "What are we going to do about it?" - A resident of 1150 Plymouth Avenue NE said the landlord has not shoveled the public sidewalk in 10 years despite 10 complaints, endangering an 81-year-old electric wheelchair user and an 82-year-old who fell, and asked the city to compel the property owner. - Matthew Scott made religious remarks, said he and his group vote according to scripture, and thanked the commission. - An unnamed speaker criticized two September "insurrections," questioned whether protesters were paid, made statements about abortion and the election, and addressed Commissioner Kilgore directly. - Jennifer, from Wyoming, Michigan, said police are part of the community family, asked for positive officer stories to be shared, and used a "time out" analogy for disruptive meeting behavior. - Shiona Nadevsky returned to promote free "Know Your Rights" presentations, veteran art programs, and Community's Children programs, sharing her daughters' educational and career successes. - A taxpayer advocate said local billionaire oligarch families control local government, listed grievances (amphitheater, affordable housing, soccer stadium, ICE, Flock and ALPR surveillance), and urged passage of the "Privacy, Safety, and Dignity for All" ordinance. - Griffin criticized GRPD behavior at a vigil for Mario David Coronado Juarez, said ICE and GRPD collaborate, and asked the commission to pass the six sanctuary policies. - Cindy Hicks returned to discuss unlisted Flock cameras near her home, data storage, trauma from police violence, and the murder of her neighbor following her previous warning. - An unnamed speaker identified five intersections with Flock or ALPR cameras, reiterated the D-Flock coalition's four demands (cancel the contract, remove hardware, sign no new ALPR contracts, adopt a future ban), and supported Cosecha's six sanctuary policies. - Joshua (First Ward) said he is a tired civil rights activist, cited Mario Coronado Juarez's cousins being taken, and demanded productive action on ICE and Flock rather than "half-assed attempts." - Kim (Third Ward) urged voting for Abdul El-Sayed, criticized the county's detention millage passed on primary day, and asked how the city is preparing for the new First Ward commissioner. - Alex (Rapid Response to ICE volunteer) said GRPD directly protected ICE as it transported Mario's family to the Baldwin detention center, accused GRPD of illegally closing public sidewalks during protests, and said, "Every single day there's a delay, blood is on your hands." - Brielle (First Ward) listed powers the city has (banning 287G agreements, opposing detention centers, ending Flock, passing the Privacy, Safety, and Dignity ordinance) and asked whether the commission will "do your job." - An unnamed speaker described 13 years of accompaniment work in Guatemala, said he stood in front of a GEO Group van to block the transport of Mario's cousins, and argued GRPD collaboration makes the city complicit in "state terrorism." - Another unnamed speaker linked Flock and Axon cameras to Trump, Jeffrey Epstein, and Peter Thiel, and defended the MN 15 and Michigan 8. - John said "we will get through this" is an abdication of responsibility, described conditions at the Baldwin detention facility, and urged ordinances prohibiting GRPD assistance to ICE and use of Flock data. - Mary (Third Ward) urged the six sanctuary policies as a mental health prevention measure for trauma, anxiety, depression, and suicide risk. - Matt (Third Ward) called Flock cameras an "80-20 issue," noted hundreds of cities have removed them, and said policing "is supposed to be hard." - Dustin asked the city to help coordinate a cleanup of city-owned property around the Norton Indian Mounds, saying he has sponsorship from his employer, MDOT, Kent County, Republic Services, and the Grand Rapids Public Museum, but had not received a call back in three weeks. - Rachel (Second Ward) urged support for the sanctuary policies and asked how many seats will be empty at holiday tables because of deportations. - Phyllis (Ward 1) called the city's surveillance policy a "gesture," cited cities that removed Flock cameras, and demanded the contract be canceled. - Sharon Smith (First Ward, off Cesar Chavez) discussed her white privilege, police discretion, and asked the city to stop GRPD collaboration with ICE. - An unnamed speaker condemned GRPD racism and brutality, mass public surveillance, and urged adoption of the sanctuary policies. - Mark returned to urge everyone to vote, criticized the Trump rally in Port Huron, and warned against complacency. - Shannon Tannis said she was pulled over on 28th Street, discovered the speed limit has not changed since 1983, and plans an audit of traffic citation revenue, noting judges receive 24% (about $9.6 million) from traffic citation revenue. Discussion Items Noise Ordinance Amendment — Section 9.66 (Acrisure Amphitheater Exemption): - The amendment clarifies that the uses and activities listed in Section 9.66, including Acrisure Amphitheater sounds between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., are exempt from any prohibition, limitation, or restriction in the noise control article. City staff and the city attorney explained that the amendment restores the original 2023 intent after a court ruling this summer produced an interpretation that was unintended and unworkable. - Under the restored framework, the amphitheater remains regulated by its special land use permit, which includes decibel limits at specific on-site locations, a monitoring system, and city manager authority to grant limited extensions for extenuating circumstances (used once during the season). - Commissioner Belchuk read the current and proposed language into the record, noting the change from "not prohibited noises" to "exempt from any prohibition, limitation, or restriction." She acknowledged the venue's economic and community benefits, noted the city holds bonds on the project, and said the vote was about restoring intent while broader community conversations continue. - Commissioner Asassi, who served in 2023, affirmed the original intent and objected to characterizations of the amendment as a loophole or bypass, saying such language questions her character and ethics, and said she stands by every vote she has taken. - Commissioner Purdue said the amendment keeps limitations and rules in place and makes them clear and predictable, and said enforcement and due diligence did occur during the season. - Mayor LeGrand said continuity is important, that the amphitheater builds community, and that ongoing conversations with residents will continue. - City Manager Mark Washington offered to invite CAA representatives to a future briefing before the next concert season to discuss operational plans and responses to resident feedback. Zoning Ordinances: - 834 Livingston Avenue NE: Rezoned the northerly 2,441.8 square feet from SD-SD Special District Open Space to TNLDR Traditional Neighborhood Low Density Residential. The parcel will be combined with 801-811 Coit Avenue NE for a multifamily development following the September 22, 2026, conveyance of 4,567 square feet of city-owned property. Passed unanimously by roll call. - 1911 Fuller Avenue NE: Rezoned the northernmost 21,998 square feet from MCN-LDR to MCN-MDR to facilitate a multifamily development of approximately 64 dwellings combined with 1951 Fuller Avenue NE. Passed unanimously. - 1951 Fuller Avenue NE: Rezoned from MCN-C and MCN-LDR to MCN-MDR. The roughly 2.7-acre site could support approximately 78 units; the Planning Commission approved it 7-0 on September 10, 2026, with no public testimony. Passed unanimously. Salary Ordinance — ECO3 Wage Scale: - Amended Appendix A following grievance settlement 26-42, adjusting the F step only of the ECO3 (Emergency Communication Operator) position after voluntary mediation with the Police Officers Labor Council, with wages retroactive to the first full pay period. Passed unanimously with immediate effect. Budget Ordinance Amendment 4 (FY2027): - Recognized and appropriated four fiscal initiatives: $300,000 from the Grand Rapids Community Foundation for years three and four of T2C Studio services integrated with the Challenge Scholars Program; $160,000 from Fans of Valley Field for Sullivan Field improvements; $70,000 from trustee Richenthal for the "Colleges Possible" campaign; and $300,000 from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund for the Grand River Edges Trail Leonard to Ann Segment 3. Passed unanimously with immediate effect. Litigation Settlement — Stubbs v. Taylor and City of Grand Rapids: - Approved as a walk-on item (rules suspended) a $60,000 settlement of a no-fault action presented earlier that day. Passed by voice vote. Key Outcomes - The Section 9.66 noise ordinance amendment passed 6-0 by roll call vote: Commissioners Kilgore, Asassi, Purdue, Knight, and Belchek and Mayor LeGrand all voted yes. - All three rezoning ordinances passed unanimously by roll call. - The ECO3 salary ordinance and the FY2027 budget amendment passed unanimously and both took immediate effect. - The $60,000 settlement in Stubbs v. Taylor was approved. - The city administration committed to inviting CAA representatives to a future briefing before the 2027 concert season to discuss operations and noise feedback. - The clerk's office reported election statistics: 6,047 early votes cast and 19,535 absentee ballots returned as of 7 p.m., approximately 16% turnout, with nearly 15,000 absentee ballots already tabulated. Voter registration remains open until 8 p.m. on election night, November 3, with the clerk's office operating from DeVos Place on November 2-3. - The city manager said he is working with the ACLU on draft sanctuary-related policies, described the draft as not ready for prime time, and shared a personal account of assisting an immigrant at the ICE office, calling the federal immigration system a humanitarian and moral crisis requiring federal legislative fixes.