Public Meetings - Columbia, Missouri

The Columbia City Council held a pre-council meeting on November 3, 2026, to review updates to the special event ordinance and permitting process, and to discuss the city's internal audit and oversight functions. Staff from multiple departments presented and answered council questions. No formal votes were taken. Discussion Items - Special Event Ordinance Revision Update – Julie Osmus (Assistant Director) and Megan Gross (Event Services Specialist) presented an overview of recent improvements to special event permitting, including the adoption of the e-Proval system (in use for four months), fee increases for application and street closures (first since 2011), clarified safety plan requirements, new alcohol management policies (two-drink maximum, pop-top removal, ban on glass), standardized parade routes, elimination of a redundant $35 license fee under Chapter 1341, and new walk-through inspection policies. A streamlined neighborhood block party application is being developed. Council members expressed support for reducing regulatory burdens on small events, with several suggesting a tiered approach based on event size and complexity. Valerie raised concerns about accessibility enforcement, Sharon argued that requirements for barricades and insurance may discourage block parties, and Christina asked about the handling of alcohol violations and the role of adjudicated offenses in permit decisions. The mayor highlighted the possibility of public input on barriers to block parties. Discussion also touched on whether council approval is needed for events on football weekends and whether the process could be simplified for routine events. - Internal Audit and Oversight Functions – Finance Director Mike Johnson and IT staff Mark reviewed the city's audit landscape, including the integrated annual audit (AGH), performance audits contracted with Ruben Brown (eight audits total, roughly $350,000), and compliance audits for NERC CIP, CJIS, HIPAA, PCI, and cybersecurity insurance. They compared internal audit functions in peer cities (Shreveport, Temple, Daytona, Springfield, Kansas City) and outlined a potential in-house office costing $272,000–$255,000 for 3–4 staff performing 2–3 audits per year, noting that specialized performance audits would still require external contractors. Council debated the merits of internal vs. external auditing. Christina questioned the independence of the current fraud hotline (handled by city manager and finance staff). Council agreed to revisit the topic during budget discussions; the city manager will prepare an RFP for renewal of external audit services in the interim. - Meeting Practices – The mayor briefly proposed ideas for improving council meeting efficiency, including a first-read/second-read schedule, a hard stop at 10 p.m. with continuation the next day, and limiting staff report lengths. No decisions were made. Key Outcomes - Staff were directed to continue developing the streamlined block party application and to explore a tiered regulatory approach for special events. - The city manager was asked to prepare a renewal RFP for external performance audit services while the council considers the feasibility of an internal audit office. - No formal votes took place during the pre-council session.

The Columbia City Council held its regular meeting on November 2, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at 701 E. Broadway and adjourned at approximately 10:40 p.m. The agenda was amended to allow Councilmember Carroll to abstain on B326-26, remove withdrawn B283-26, move B287-26 from consent to old business, move R198-26 from consent to new business, and move B294-26 through B296-26 from consent to old business. The council recognized two Animal Control Officers, tabled one public hearing, advanced stormwater and roundabout projects, approved a major parkland donation, rejected a short-term rental CUP, directed staff to draft a Power4STL agreement, and received reports on the McKinney Building, mental health commission feedback, the Community Trend Manual, and FY2026 fourth-quarter finances. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as amended. It included final plats for Woodrail Terrace Plat 3, Columbia Insurance Plaza Plat No. 1, and Jefferson Cottages Plat No. 1; a design adjustment for Tuscany Ridge Plat No. 5; a CUP for an assembly or lodge hall at 5605 Pergola Drive (B288-26); a 20 MW solar virtual power purchase agreement with Clean Energy Design Group; storm-drainage easement acquisitions along Braemore Road, Highland Drive, Summit Road, and Fairview Road; FY2027 University of Missouri arts-programming agreements; FY2026 CDBG and HOME award agreements; several public-safety and health grant agreements; a $4.6 million FY2026 end-of-year budget appropriation; and resolutions setting hearings for PCCE 28 and 31, a 161 kV transmission line, Adopt-a-Spot agreements, a Segal pay-market survey, Columbia Neighborhood Watch, and a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for Rock Quarry Park. Galloway Jones voted yes on all consent items except B288-26. Public Comments & Testimony - Marcus Richardson, scheduled public comment, presented 2026 Community Trend Manual statistics: the highest-earning 20% of households receive more than half of all household income, the lowest-earning 20% receive less than 3%, and 35 of every 100 Black children live in poverty compared with about 6 of every 100 white children. He asked the council and city manager to make reducing economic hardship a clear priority, work with community organizations, set measurable goals, and provide long-term solutions rather than grant funding; he said he had appeared in April and had heard nothing since. He also acknowledged the recent death of David P. Ballinger and said he stood with the NAACP and SCLC. - Karen Seeger, a Ward 2 property owner, supported the Glenn/Rhonda/Andy stormwater project, describing severe basement flooding even in minor rains and neighbors shoveling water at 2-3 a.m.; she said the project was a good first step. - Eugene Elkins raised concerns about roundabout driver confusion and close calls, asking for stronger awareness and signage; Shane Loose supported roundabouts generally but questioned project prioritization, mentioning Providence/Nifong. - B326 public testimony supported the Frank Morris Trust donation: Rick Matheny, trustee, described the trust’s prior donations and the planned Boone Horizon Trails; Beth Kelly, KOMODA board member, supported city acceptance and noted 450 volunteer hours in city parks year-to-date; Braden Benz and Mike Burden also supported, citing youth and adaptive mountain-biking opportunities. Burden asked supporters in the audience to stand. - David Switzer, Ward 4 and Water and Light Advisory Board member speaking for himself, expressed strong support for R198-26. - General public comment: Nick McKay thanked the council and asked that urban-camping concerns from First Ward businesses remain a priority; Eugene Elkins raised affordability, tax, and recycling-education concerns; Dr. Les Gray urged more precise and empathetic language and action on poverty and food insecurity. Public Hearings - PH30-26 Creekside Community Improvement District: continued and tabled to December 7, 2026, at the applicant’s and staff’s request while they work through issues; public comment will be available then. - PH36-26 Glenn Drive, Rhonda Drive, and Andy Drive stormwater project: staff said the mid-1960s subdivision has only two inlets and a single 24-inch culvert, which is inadequate; basements flooded two or three times last August alone. The project includes about 1,400 feet of new stormwater pipe, 20 stormwater structures, a 600-foot rock-line channel, and a 270-foot grass swale; the cost estimate is $700,000. Easements will be required, followed by appraisals and offers. An August 6 informational meeting drew 10 property owners or residents, most of whom seemed in favor. Council authorized staff to proceed with final design by voice vote. - PH37-26 Green Meadows Road and Bethel Street roundabout: staff said a roundabout reduces vehicle conflict points from 32 to 8 and pedestrian conflict points from 24 to 8; the intersection carries over 1,100 vehicles in the PM peak hour, has had seven right-angle crashes in 10 years, and would improve level of service from D to A. Design speeds are about 20 mph or less; fire truck, school bus, and WB67 semi turning movements were modeled. Staff said Providence/Nifong is a MoDOT intersection outside city purview; this project is in the 2025 capital improvement sales tax, with roundabouts costing about $1 million to $1.2 million and roughly $10 million in public works funds available annually. Council authorized staff to proceed by voice vote. Staff said no rapid rectangular flashing beacons are planned at this time. Old Business - B283-26 Fair Lane/Rice Road rezoning: removed from the agenda because the applicant withdrew the request. - B326-26 Frank W. Morris Memorial Trust donation: staff described an 80-acre parcel on Stanley Poe Road, adjacent to Stewart Park, with 7.85 miles of natural-surface trails, a 40-car parking lot with 38 standard and 2 accessible spaces, a two-stall restroom, cross-country trails, downhill flow trails, an enduro zone, and adaptive beginner and intermediate mountain-bike features. Staff estimated the donation value at $3.8 million; a trustee referred to a $4 million valuation. The trust provided $90,000 for long-term maintenance and pledged $100,000 in trail-maintenance equipment if the city closes by the end of 2026; the target closing was December 15. Staff described Stewart Park as 100 acres at one point and 120 acres later. The park would be named Boone Horizon Trails. Approved 6-0, with Carroll abstaining. - B287-26 short-term rental at 813 Donnelly Avenue: staff said the request was for a 210-night STR with up to six transient guests in an R-2 single-family home; no established STRs were within 300 feet; the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 7-0. Council discussion focused on density, affordable housing, and issuing a CUP before use. The motion failed 4-3, with yes votes from Hartman, Peters, and Sample and no votes from Buffalo, Carroll, Elwood, and Galloway Jones. - B294-26, B295-26, and B296-26 JAG and equipment agreements: tabled to December 7, 2026, for additional questions. New Business - R202-26 Mayor’s Task Force on the African American Heritage Trail Historic Preservation Overlay: staff said the city owns several original buildings on the trail and that HPO designation is normally initiated by property owners. Council amended the resolution to allow work sessions with the Historic Preservation Commission and Planning and Zoning Commission and to dissolve the task force after council action on an HPO rather than after report acceptance. Passed unanimously. Council members were asked to submit appointment suggestions by the December 7 meeting. - R198-26 Provenance Engineering water utility maintenance and CIP implementation plan: staff said the $92,820 lump-sum agreement would use water utility funds and was procured through the pre-qualified engineering services list. Public speaker David Switzer supported the agreement. Passed unanimously after discussion of contracting and long-term planning. Reports - McKinney Building: staff reported total estimated renovation cost just under $5.3 million, including more than $4 million in construction and $1.2 million in owner’s costs. The city issued an RFEOI for a fundraising and capital-campaign firm; six responses were received by October 16 and are under review. Estimated phase-one costs were $20,000 to $65,000 over 3-5 months; phase-two retainer costs were estimated at $6,500 to $10,000 per month over 18-24 months, potentially reimbursable from campaign proceeds. Council approved moving forward with next steps by voice vote. A question about the building’s exterior wall drew no new update beyond public works monitoring. - Mental health commission: the public health director reported that three of four consulted bodies recommended adding or converting a mental-health position on an existing commission, while one recommended a freestanding mental-health commission. No immediate action was taken; later discussion led to a broader council review of boards and commissions. - Business Loop CID FY2026 report: received as information; no CID representative was present. - Power4STL and Office of Violence Prevention: staff reported that Power4STL, a St. Louis community-health organization focused on trauma and violence intervention, would train local community-based organizations and provide a liaison; the cost was $50,000 per agreement year on a year-to-year basis. Council discussed procurement, sole-source justification, and long-term local costs. Council directed staff to draft an agreement and bring it back for consideration, with estimated future costs included. - Community Trend Manual: the fifth annual report showed a population projected at around 136,000 by 2030 at 1% growth; overall household income around $66,498; white household income around $68,000 versus African American household income around $45,500; persistent racial disparities in poverty, unemployment, and educational attainment; a median home price of $335,000 and home prices up almost 33% since 2021. Council discussed child poverty, public-health funding, educational attainment, housing, and transit ridership. No formal action was taken. - Monthly Finance Report: Q4 FY2026 total pooled cash was up 1%; operating cash was down 3% year-to-date but up 4% quarter-to-date; the general fund was down 11% year-to-date and 15% quarter-to-date, with reserves about $18 million over target; restricted cash was down 6% year-to-date and up 2% quarter-to-date; the ARPA balance fell from $15.4 million to $3.2 million and was updated to about $200,000 remaining; capital projects showed the railroad fund at negative $483,000 pending grant drawdown. No action was taken. Introductions and First Reading - First reading only: PR203-26 2027-2032 Strategic Plan; PR204-26 2027 state legislative priorities; B302-26 rental certificates of compliance; B303-26 Richland Road and Rolling Hills Road rezoning; B304-26 713 Hunt Avenue rezoning; B305-26 Lake George Senior Living PD revision; B306-26 Marshaye Devereaux-Martin Addition Plat 1; B307-26 Hunter’s Landing Plat 1-A; B308-26 Broadway Farms Plat 13-C; B309-26 Cambridge Place Plat 4 performance contract; B310-26 MoDOT crash-data license; B311-26 landfill expansion engineering amendment and $332,122 appropriation; B312-26 measles vaccination response; B313-26 equitable sharing; B314-26 downtown CID public-safety agreement and $970,000 appropriation; B315-26 airport exit-lane breach control and $438,000 appropriation; B316-26 Office of Violence Prevention coordinator position and $75,000 appropriation. No votes were taken. General Comments - Jackie announced a Near East No Cat grief and loss workshop on November 14 from 12 to 3 p.m. at the Beacon of Light Center; acknowledged Rev. Ballinger’s 43 years as pastor and 58-year marriage; and advanced a council discussion on reviewing and restructuring boards and commissions and possibly creating a charter and policy commission. Council voted to increase the Youth Advisory Council from 15 to 17 appointees. Council agreed to wait until the November 16 meeting to appoint a three-member council subcommittee, with staff noting open-meeting and quorum requirements. Steve Sheltmeyer was appointed to the Mayor’s Task Force on the USS Columbia, replacing Ann Clark, with no objections. A council member requested a report on special taxing districts, TDDs, and CIDs, referred to Finance and Audit. Staff comments focused on rebuilding public trust. Adjourned at 10:40 p.m. Key Outcomes - Tabled and continued PH30-26 Creekside CID to December 7, 2026. - Authorized final design for the Glenn/Rhonda/Andy stormwater project and authorized staff to proceed with the Green Meadows/Bethel roundabout. - Approved B326-26 Boone Horizon Trails donation 6-0 with one abstention; approved R202-26 as amended and R198-26 unanimously. - Rejected B287-26 short-term rental CUP 4-3; tabled B294-26 through B296-26 to December 7, 2026; approved the consent agenda with Galloway Jones voting yes on all items except B288-26. - Directed staff to draft a Power4STL agreement; approved McKinney Building next steps; advanced an increase in Youth Advisory Council appointees from 15 to 17; took no formal action on the Community Trend Manual or monthly finance report.

This meeting was convened to discuss and refine the city's legislative priorities for the 2027 Missouri legislative session. City Manager's Office staff DeAndre Thompson led the presentation, with contributions from city lobbyists Susan Henderson and Kara Stark. The council reviewed proposed updates to both general and specific priorities, provided feedback, and directed staff to finalize the list for adoption. Discussion Items - General Priorities (2027 Updates): Staff presented revisions to the general priorities list. Key changes included: - Adding support for wastewater treatment, drinking water, and conveyance systems under "infrastructure maintenance and expansion." - Under "economic growth," adding language on sports tourism (amateur sports) and industrial site readiness. The council requested adding elder care alongside child care, and broadening to cover adult supervision needs. - Adding a new priority on "energy reliability, affordability, and growth," emphasizing peak demand and diverse energy portfolios. - Specific Priorities (2027 Updates): - Public Safety: Retained support for aligning state law with federal law on minor handgun possession and for state emergency response funding. Added support for community violence prevention and youth development programs. The previous item on reporting lost/stolen guns was dropped due to low legislative prospects, but council affirmed support if introduced. - Community Mental Health: Added substance use treatment and telehealth services to the existing priority. - Affordable and Attainable Housing: Revised to include "attainable" and expanded language on rental/homeownership opportunities, preservation, infill, and leveraging public-private investment. Discussion touched on mobile home regulations and predatory contract-for-deed practices. - Transit Funding: Not included as a standalone priority due to expected legislative headwinds; considered encompassed under economic growth or other categories. - Short-Term Rentals: Removed as a specific priority, as it falls under the general local control priority. - I-70 Expansion and Pedestrian Access: Council members inquired about ensuring pedestrian and bicycle access in I-70 design. Staff noted ongoing negotiations with MoDOT, with some successes (e.g., sidewalks at St. Charles Road, Clark Lane, underpass lighting) but acknowledged funding limitations. It was suggested that future advocacy focus on continued cooperation. Key Outcomes - The council directed staff to add language on elder care and inclusive care (covering adults needing supervision) to the economic growth priority. - Staff will draft a final priority list reflecting the evening's feedback and present a resolution for adoption by the council. - A reception with state delegates and partners is planned for early December 2026 to communicate the adopted priorities. - Council requested that future presentations clearly track changes from the prior year's list.

The Columbia City Council met on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 701 E. Broadway. All seven council members were present. The meeting included recognition of a youth delegation, public comments, discussion and votes on animal shelter property purchase, a rezoning, and a short-term rental conditional use permit, approval of a consent agenda, and reports on demolition permits, social media policy, and the weatherization program. The meeting adjourned at 11:14 PM. Special Item - The council recognized the youth delegation that traveled to the sister city Hakusan, Japan, during summer 2026. Representatives presented a gift to the city, and the mayor thanked participants for strengthening international ties. Appointments to Boards and Commissions - Voice votes approved appointments to the Board of Adjustment (Linda Olson), Citizens Police Review Board (Denise Balazic), Collegiate Advisory Council (Favor Nozor as Stevens College representative), Housing and Community Development Commission (Frankie Minor as Ward 5 representative, term ending 2029), Plant Pest Advisory Board (Anthony Roberts), and Substance Use Prevention Advisory Commission (James Bayless). - A roll call vote was taken for the Commission on Cultural Affairs; Diana Moxon, Jamie Sheppers, Stacy Thompson, and Molly Robison were appointed to fill the four vacancies. Public Comments & Testimony - Matthew Schacht (1816 East Broadway) updated council on Vidwest's negotiations with the city. He stated that staff communicated no plan to update the service contract; Vidwest has about six months of reserve funds before closure. He urged the council to provide a public answer on the future of community media funding and noted that many constituents have contacted them. - Therese Folsom (111 North Greenwood) introduced the new organization “Neighbors for Safe and Healthy Environments.” She reported that 80 million pounds of pesticides are applied to U.S. lawns annually (ten times the per-acre rate used in agriculture), harming health, pets, and pollinators. She requested warning signs when the city sprays and encouraged adoption of the “Parks for a Sustainable Future” program from Beyond Pesticides, which offers free technical training. Her group will meet November 10, 2026. - Suzanne Price, Caitlin Smith, Dr. Kevin Shaw, Jessica Thiel, Dr. Amy Berling, Emily Nelson, Pam Sisson, and others spoke on B269-26A, urging caution about costs, quality of veterinary care, and collaboration with the Central Missouri Humane Society. - Caleb Colbert and Anthony Conway (Cars for Missouri) supported B274-26, explaining the nonprofit’s mission and need for the property. Christian Queen opposed the rezoning, calling it commercial creep in a residential neighborhood. - Doris O’Hara, Hunter Winger, Christian Queen, Christine Gardiner, and Chelsea Petrie spoke on B276-26, debating parking, compliance history, and the impact on neighborhood character. - James Roart Grunder and Matt Fetterly (Save the Katie Station Coalition) urged the council to defer any new demolition delay ordinance until the city’s Historic Preservation Plan is completed, warning of unintended consequences. - Eugene Elkin suggested improving event communication via the city newsletter. Discussion Items - B269-26A: Animal Shelter Property Purchase – Public Health Director Rebecca Rosslett presented the need for a municipal shelter at 1300 Boone Industrial Drive. The purchase price is $995,000 (funded from general fund reserves). The county will cover one-third of ongoing costs. The current contract with the Central Missouri Humane Society (CMHS) is $236,000 annually; the city will end that contract in 2027 because CMHS requested a $5.5 million capital contribution. The city plans to issue RFPs for animal care and veterinary services. Staff noted the shelter will only hold animals required by law (bite cases, stray dogs, cruelty victims) and will not adopt out animals. Council discussed surge capacity, the cost comparison (break-even at 32 years), and the importance of animal welfare. Public testimony included concerns about the rush, adoption outcomes, and the value of maintaining collaboration with CMHS. Council members expressed that the purchase is a necessary first step to ensure animal control space. The vote was 7–0 in favor. - B274-26: Rezoning at 702 W. Sexton Road – Community Development Director Clint Smith outlined the request to rezone from R‑2 to M‑C for a 0.3‑acre parcel. The applicant, Cars for Missouri, plans to operate a vehicle repair program and live on site. Staff analysis showed limited redevelopment potential and existing adjacency to commercial zoning. Planning and Z Commission recommended approval (6–0). Council debated the loss of affordable housing and commercial creep into the neighborhood. Councilmember Galloway Jones voted no. The ordinance passed 6–1. - B276-26: Conditional Use Permit for Short-Term Rental at 7 N. Glenwood Ave – The property, a duplex, started operating as a short‑term rental before city regulations took effect. A citation was issued in early 2026; the applicant did not immediately comply. Planning and Zoning voted 3–3, resulting in a recommendation of denial. Council heard from neighbors who valued residential character and from the applicant, who described obstacles to obtaining a license. Councilmembers noted the density of STRs in Ward 1. The motion to approve failed 3–4: Councilmembers Peters, Buffalo, and Elwood voted yes; Galloway Jones, Hartman, Carroll, and Sample voted no. - REP52-26: Administrative Delay on Demolition Permits – Staff reported that the city can impose a nine‑month administrative delay on demolition permits for properties on the National Register of Historic Places. A motion passed (voice vote) to direct staff to draft such legislation while the city completes its Historic Preservation Plan (expected early 2027). Some council members cautioned about property rights, but the motion carried. - REP53-26: Social Media Limited Public Forum – Christopher Ave and City Attorney Earl presented options for establishing a limited public forum on city social media pages. Staff manage four main accounts and 20+ departmental pages with one social media coordinator. Council discussed staffing, consistency of moderation, and third‑party tools. A motion was made and approved (voice vote) to direct staff to draft an ordinance, along with research on other cities’ experiences. - REP54-26: Weatherization Program Update – Bill Rato reported that $1 million in ARPA funds had been fully expended, completing 177 projects (146 insulation, 31 HVAC). Estimated savings range from 10–22% on utilities. New eligible repairs have been added, and two grant applications have been submitted: $875,000 to the Federal Home Loan Bank (pending) and a successful HUD lead‑hazard grant (approximately $4.6 million) that will also address energy efficiency. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - B269‑26A (Animal Shelter Property) – Passed 7‑0. The city will purchase the property and proceed with RFPs. - B274‑26 (Rezoning) – Passed 6‑1. Property rezoned to M‑C. - B276‑26 (Short‑Term Rental CUP) – Failed 3‑4. Conditional use permit denied. - Consent Agenda – All 13 items approved unanimously (roll‑call vote). Items include B273‑26, B275‑26, B277‑26, B278‑26, B279‑26 ($43,000,000 for metering infrastructure), B280‑26, B281‑26, B282‑26, R189‑26, R190‑26, R191‑26, R192‑26, R193‑26. - Demolition Delay – Motion approved to draft legislation for a nine‑month administrative delay on NRHP properties. - Social Media Policy – Motion approved to draft ordinance for a limited public forum. - Future Action – Legislation on demolition delays and social media policy to be brought back for adoption; Historic Preservation Plan to be presented in early 2027; ongoing discussions on community media funding and animal shelter operations. The meeting adjourned at 11:14 PM.

The Citizens Police Review Board met on October 14, 2026, to approve routine items, discuss an annual aggregate report from the police department, elect a vice chair, reschedule the next meeting due to a holiday, and enter closed session. Seven board members were present, with one member not reapplying for their term. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Moved and seconded, approved unanimously by voice vote. - Approval of Open Session Minutes (September 9, 2026): Moved and seconded, approved unanimously with one abstention from a member who was absent at the prior meeting. - Approval of Closed Session Minutes: Moved and seconded, approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Old Business – Annual Aggregate Report: The board was provided with an aggregated report from the police department prior to the meeting. No questions or comments were raised. - Election of Officers: The board discussed postponing the election of chair until a full board is present, as one member (Steven) was absent and had reapplied. A motion was made and seconded to nominate Denise as vice chair. Denise accepted the nomination. The board voted by voice vote, and Denise was elected vice chair. The chair position was not filled at this meeting. - New Business – Next Meeting Date: The regular November meeting date falls on Veterans Day (November 11, 2026), which is a city holiday. The board considered alternatives, including November 12, 18, or later. After discussion of member availability and the appointment schedule for new members on November 16, a motion was made and seconded to move the meeting to November 18, 2026. Approved by voice vote. - General Comments by Members and Staff: One board member announced that they did not reapply for their position and that this would be their last meeting. They expressed gratitude for the service and community involvement. Staff reminded members of interest in attending the NACOL conference (November 8–12) by the end of the week. Key Outcomes - The agenda, open session minutes, and closed session minutes were approved. - Denise was elected vice chair of the board. - The next regular meeting was scheduled for November 18, 2026. - The board voted unanimously (7-0) to enter closed session to discuss records protected from disclosure under RSMo 610.024(14) and 590.502.

The Board of Adjustment met on October 13, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was a variance request for a freestanding sign, but the matter was tabled for the second consecutive meeting. The meeting also included extensive discussion about member attendance and quorum issues. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved by a motion from Mr. Minshew, seconded by Ms. Rogers, with all present voting aye. - The minutes of the September 15, 2026 regular meeting were approved with a correction: a reference to "July 2014 to 2026" was changed to "July 14, 2026" as noted by a board member. Motion by Mr. Minshew, seconded by Ms. Rogers, all in favor. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke during the public hearing or general comments period. Discussion Items - Case 236-2026 – Variance Request (Tabled): Caleb Colbert, attorney for McLarty RE LLC, appeared on behalf of the applicant seeking a variance from Section 29-4.8 of the Unified Development Code. The applicant wishes to install a 30-foot-tall freestanding sign with 128 sq. ft. of sign area located 10 feet from the property line shared with I-70 Drive SW, whereas the code requires a minimum setback of 32.5 feet from that property line. At the hearing, Mr. Colbert requested that the matter be tabled again, and the Board tabled the case without further discussion. - Attendance and Quorum Issues: Following the tabling, Board members and staff discussed persistent attendance problems. Staff (Pat) explained that despite efforts to secure a quorum, two regular members (Ms. Gaines and Ms. Bryan) did not respond or attend, and alternates were not all available. The regular member Ms. Zia was absent due to work commitments. Only four members were present, which is a quorum of four, but not the usual five-member board. The applicant's attorney and an opposing party (Mr. Drewing) had traveled for the meeting and were inconvenienced. Staff emphasized that attendance is a recurring issue, with the Board meeting only about half of its 12 scheduled meetings. The chair noted that the next meeting scheduled for November 10, 2026 (note: the printed agenda listed December 8, 2026 as tentative; the transcript records the chair stating November 10). The chair and staff discussed the possibility of mandatory alternate attendance and enforcement. No formal action was taken on attendance policy. Key Outcomes - Case 236-2026 was tabled again to a future meeting. It will be re-agendized for the next meeting, tentatively November 10, 2026 (though the printed agenda listed December 8, 2026). This discrepancy in meeting dates should be noted. - No votes were taken on any other substantive matters. - The Board will continue to address attendance issues with the legal department and board leadership.

On October 13, 2026, the Columbia Water and Light Advisory Board held a work session from 6:01 PM to 8:28 PM to discuss the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) with a focus on electric generation capacity. City utilities staff presented six scenarios and addressed a looming capacity gap caused by expiring power purchase agreements and aging gas units. No formal votes were taken, but consensus emerged on pursuing a diversified portfolio and issuing requests for proposals (RFPs) for new generation. Discussion Items - Presentation Recap: Staff recapped the IRP, emphasizing capacity (peak load) versus energy. A one-year extension of the Dynergy capacity contract covers the 2027 gap; the Sykston PPA may continue into the early 2030s, buying time. Urgency remains as any new generation takes years to permit and build. - Scenario Analysis: Six scenarios were presented: - Scenario 1 (Self-owned): Heavy reliance on city-owned batteries and gas turbines, minimal market purchases. - Scenario 2 (External/Batteries): Mostly power purchase agreements and battery tolling, leading to summer overbuild due to lower winter accreditation. - Scenario 3 (Nuclear): Includes small modular reactors; highest current costs. - Scenario 4 (All Renewables): Results in up to 16 times overbuilt energy, making it financially and logistically infeasible (needing 50,000+ acres for solar). - Scenario 5 (Market Risk): Purchasing all capacity from MISO auctions is extremely volatile (cost per megawatt-day skyrocketed from $4.75 in 2020 to $719.81 in 2024). - Scenario 6 (Realistic Diversification): Combines solar (20 MW PPA at $55/MWh, well below market), batteries (potential 20 MW, six- to eight-hour), gas, wind, and bilateral capacity. Staff highlighted this as the most achievable path. - Accreditation Challenges: MISO’s capacity accreditation for renewables is low and declining, especially in winter (solar could be 0% by 2043). Even four-hour batteries see deteriorating accreditation; staff recommends six- or eight-hour batteries to remain viable. - Peer Utility Comparison: Other Missouri and comparable utilities (Ameren, Liberty, Lansing, Ames) are predominantly adding gas and batteries, with limited renewables, confirming similar trends. - Cost Considerations: Levelised costs over 20 years were shown, but many costs (land, decommissioning, financing) were excluded. The solar deal at $55/MWh is considered excellent, but future renewable procurement is expected to be much higher. Key Outcomes - The advisory board and council members expressed general support for a diversified, proactive approach, mixing owned generation and PPAs. - Staff was directed to begin drafting an RFP for generation projects (e.g., batteries, gas turbines) and explore expansions at existing sites. - Quarterly reports to council on capacity planning progress were committed. - A follow-up work session is scheduled for December 2026 to refine the RFP and continue detailed discussion. - Emphasis was placed on rate stability and community engagement as long-term cost impacts are likely.

This Pre-Council meeting on October 13, 2026 (transcript states October 5th, creating a date discrepancy) focused on a detailed presentation by the Columbia Police Department regarding downtown crime statistics, resource deployment, enforcement strategies, and the relationship between reported crime and actual crime. The discussion aimed to contextualize a reported 47.8% increase in downtown reported crime over the past 12 months, with emphasis on understanding confounding variables such as increased enforcement, staffing, and proactive policing efforts. Discussion Items - Crime Data Interpretation: Police analyst Mark presented a framework showing that actual crime is unknown, with reported crime only a proxy. Of 120,000 annual calls for service, only 12,000 result in police reports. Self-initiated activity (officer-discovered) and dispatch calls (311/911) form the known crime universe. Staffing, response times, victim reporting rates, and enforcement priorities significantly impact the proxy. - Downtown Beat (70D) Data: All subsequent data focused on the downtown beat (south of Park, north of MU campus, east of Providence, west of WA Street). The 47.8% increase in all reported crimes downtown was attributed largely to redeployment of resources and increased enforcement, especially after a June 2025 bystander shooting. By removing Group B offenses (trespassing, liquor law violations, disorderly) and crimes against society (drug/weapons possession), the trend flattens; violent crime (FBI definition: homicide, rape, robbery, aggravated assault) is flat year-over-year, and property crime decreased 25.4%. - Calls for Service and Arrest Data: Public calls for service remained relatively flat, while self-initiated calls surged starting June 2025. Arrests and citations showed dramatic rises, particularly in September 2025 (41 to 217 citations in the beat). Council members cautioned that calls for service are a workload measure, not a crime measure. Staffing levels and overtime use (forced and voluntary) were discussed, with an estimated $60,000–$100,000 in overtime from October to December 2025 for downtown enforcement. - Shots Fired Analysis: Shots fired (confirmed by shell casings or corroborated witness) have a distinct nighttime pattern: since 2019, zero downtown from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., one from 6–9 p.m., nine from 9 p.m.–midnight, 28 from midnight–3 a.m., and five from 3–6 a.m. Citywide shots fired have declined significantly. The department emphasized that officer presence alone did not deter shootings; enforcement of minor ordinance violations (open containers, marijuana) before they escalate has been key. - Winter 2025 Proactive Detail: A partnership with MSHP, Boone County Sheriff, and MUPD resulted in 3,013 self-initiated activities, 140 arrests, and 490 citations during the detail period. Noteworthy arrests included juveniles with stolen firearms, a felon in possession whose prior involvement was a 2019 downtown shooting. No shots fired occurred during the detail. - Perception vs. Data: Several council members expressed concern that the focus on downtown might neglect other areas, as downtown represents only a small fraction of citywide shots fired and overall crime. The chief acknowledged that downtown's late-night hours and large crowds drive both resource allocation and public concern, but the department aims to balance deployments. The upcoming encrypted radio system (expected spring 2027) was mentioned as potentially affecting media-driven crime perception. Key Outcomes - No formal votes: The meeting was informational with no decisions taken. - Direction for future updates: Mayor suggested establishing a quarterly cadence of public safety updates (not solely in response to incidents), possibly incorporating the Block by Block program updates. - Continued enforcement and staffing challenges: The department will continue using a mix of forced/voluntary overtime and redeployment, but noted staff retention concerns and the need for more applicants who pass background checks. - Reaffirmed strategy: Enforcing minor offenses to prevent escalation to violence (especially open containers and marijuana use) remains central. The community support docket and homeless outreach team (HOT) were noted as key components, with HOT having over 400 enforcement actions in 2025. - Note on date discrepancy: The agenda/minutes were unavailable; the transcript header states the meeting date as October 5th, 2026, but the instruction for this summary specifies October 13th, 2026.

The Columbia Planning and Zoning Commission met on October 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The commission considered two rezoning cases, approved the previous meeting minutes, and received updates on upcoming work sessions and future agendas. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Moved by Commissioner Gray, seconded by Commissioner Stanton. Approved unanimously. - Approval of Minutes (September 24, 2026): Moved by Commissioner Gray, seconded by Commissioner Stanton. Approved 7-0-2 (Commissioners Gribal and Trachtenberg abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - Case 246-2026 (Richland Road Rezoning): Kevin Murphy of A Civil Group, agent for the owner Dean Bergstrom, spoke in support of the rezoning. He stated the owner's intent is to develop a pickleball facility, argued the site is a needed commercial node in a fast-growing area, and noted that the East Area Plan and Columbia Imagine have identified the intersection as a commercial node. He confirmed there are no plans for residential development on the site. - Case 247-2026 (Hunt Avenue Rezoning): Tyler Ashe of Simon & Struemph Engineering, agent for the owner LMFC Investments, LLC, spoke in support of the rezoning. He stated the applicant intends to develop a two-family dwelling and noted the property is vacant and was previously improved with a structure demolished in 2019. No other public testimony was offered on either case. Discussion Items - Case 246-2026 – Rezone 6.6 acres from PD to M-C (Mixed Use – Corridor): The request involves property located 430 feet west of the intersection of E. Richland Road and S. Rolling Hills Road, south of Richland Road. Staff presented a detailed history of the site, which was originally part of a 2010 annexation as Tract 3 of the PD (PUD-7) with a planned density of 46 dwelling units. In April 2026, City Council approved a new PD plan for the adjoining Vantage development, eliminating commercial from Tract 2 and adding 240 residential units. The applicant now seeks M-C zoning to reintroduce commercial opportunity on a smaller parcel (6.6 acres). Staff noted that surrounding zoning includes PD to the east and northeast, RS (county) to the west and south, and R-1 to the north and northwest. The nearest commercial is over half a mile north. Staff argued the rezoning would address a lack of commercial services in the area and that the site’s location 430 feet from the future roundabout provides better ingress/egress for commercial uses than the original commercial tract. - Commissioner Questions & Concerns: Several commissioners raised concerns about the intensity of uses permitted under M-C zoning (e.g., car dealerships, outdoor concert venues, racetracks) compared to the less intensive C-1 zoning that had been on the original commercial tract. Commissioner Gray asked about ingress/egress differences between residential and commercial. Commissioner Graybaugh questioned whether the owner had ever expressed interest in residential development. Commissioner Lowe inquired about pursuit of MN zoning instead; staff explained the applicant initially considered MN but needed outdoor recreation (pickleball) uses only allowed in MC. Staff and the applicant emphasized that the site’s small size and environmental constraints (a drainage way) limit development potential, and that the proposed MC zoning is consistent with the comprehensive plan and supports economic development. - Vote: Motion to approve by Commissioner Stanton, seconded by Commissioner Gray. Roll call: Stanton (yes), Stockton (yes), Trachtenberg (no), Walters (yes), Brodsky (no), Darr (yes), Graybell (yes), Gray (no), Lowe (yes). The motion carried 6-3. A recommendation of approval will be forwarded to City Council. - Case 247-2026 – Rezone 0.44 acres from R-1 to R-2 (Two-family Dwelling): The request involves property at 713 Hunt Avenue, located approximately 270 feet south of the intersection of Hunt Avenue and Patsy Lane. Staff reported the site is vacant and is a legal lot (lot 47 of Alamo Place) approximately 90 feet wide and 213 feet deep (19,000 sq ft). Under R-1 zoning, the property could accommodate a single-family dwelling with an accessory dwelling unit (2 units). Rezoning to R-2 would allow a two-family dwelling, single-family attached units, or cottages, potentially yielding up to four units if subdivided. Staff noted that some nearby R-1 lots are already developed with duplexes, and the site is within a Tier 1 growth area, supporting infill development and diverse housing options. No public opposition was expressed. - Commissioner Discussion: Commissioner Stanton expressed support for adding diverse housing stock. No other concerns were raised. - Vote: Motion to approve by Commissioner Stanton, seconded by Commissioner Gray. Unanimous vote (9-0). A recommendation of approval will be forwarded to City Council. Key Outcomes - Case 246-2026: Approved 6-3; recommendation to rezone 6.6 acres from PD to M-C. - Case 247-2026: Approved unanimously; recommendation to rezone 0.44 acres from R-1 to R-2. - Upcoming Meetings: A work session is scheduled for October 22, 2026 (5:30–8 PM) to review the Change.org petition and set a work program. The next regular meeting is November 5, 2026, with two conditional use permit items: an animal hospital/kennel (old Thomson Center property) and a short-term rental CUP on Southwood Drive. - Staff Reports & Future Agenda: Staff will provide a Gantt chart for the remainder of 2026, including topics such as comprehensive plan updates, data centers, code maintenance, and rules of procedure. The November 5 agenda will include the two CUP cases and no other scheduled items.