Public Meetings - Fresno, California

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee (ATAC) held its regular meeting on October 29, 2026, at 5:30 PM (per agenda, though transcript indicates start time), in City Hall Conference Room 2165, with remote participation via Zoom. The meeting covered a presentation from the Central Valley Health Equity, Access & Longevity (HEAL) Coalition, appointment of an ATAC representative to the coalition, approval of letters of support for a Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant, adoption of the 2027 meeting schedule, establishment of two task forces, updates on Palm and Belmont, and reports from existing task forces. Committee members also gave district reports and discussed citywide active transportation issues, including safety, equity, and infrastructure gaps. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes from the September 23, 2026 meeting (Item 2 & 3.A). Public Comments & Testimony - Tony Molina (Fresno County Bicycle Coalition) commented on the HEAL Coalition presentation, asking about funding sources and the coalition's founding date. He also noted that he had attended the coalition's first meeting. Later, during Member Reports, he suggested tying the Protected Bicycle Parking Task Force to Bike Month. Discussion Items - Presentation by Central Valley HEAL Coalition (Item 5.A): Mohammed from the United Services and Equity Foundation (UCEF) presented the HEAL Coalition, focusing on chronic disease prevention and access to care for immigrant and refugee families in Fresno County. He highlighted that transportation barriers (lack of cars, unsafe walking/biking routes) prevent families from reaching clinics, jobs, and schools. ATAC members expressed interest, noting the coalition's work aligns with equity goals and invited the coalition to participate in ATAC meetings. Committee members asked about geographic distribution of need (zip codes south of Shaw, near Tower District) and the coalition's monthly meeting commitment. - Appointment of ATAC Representative to HEAL Coalition (Item 5.B): After discussion, the committee voted to appoint an ATAC representative (or representatives) to the HEAL Coalition. Multiple members volunteered, including representatives from Districts 3 and 1. The motion passed without objection. - Approval of Letters of Support for HSIP Grant (Item 5.C): Cheryl Burns, grants development manager, presented a request for letters of support for the City's applications to the California Department of Transportation's Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Cycle 13. Projects include retro-reflective backplates, high-visibility crosswalks, RRFBs, and other safety improvements. Total project cost for one signal retrofit is $3,543,700. Committee members questioned whether projects were primarily roadway or pedestrian safety oriented. The committee approved the letters of support with one abstention (Jacob Bailey), citing lack of time for review and revision before the November 2 deadline. - Adoption of 2027 Meeting Schedule (Item 5.D): The committee approved the calendar year 2027 meeting schedule without discussion. - Establishment of Biannual Report 2026 Task Force (Item 5.E): A hearing was held to adopt a resolution establishing this task force. Jacob Bailey was nominated again to lead the report, building on the previous format but incorporating key concerns (e.g., Vision Zero, pedestrian/bicyclist fatalities). The committee approved establishing the task force, with final report expected in January 2027. - Establishment of Bike Month 2027 Task Force (Item 5.F): The committee established a task force for Bike Month 2027. Members discussed incorporating the event into larger community activities (e.g., Porch Fest) to increase visibility. Volunteers included several committee members. Motion passed. - Updates on Palm and Belmont Memo (Item 5.G): Staff (Song) reported that more time is needed to study feasibility and costs for proposed low-cost safety improvements at the Palm and Belmont corridor. No new timeline was provided. - Protected Bicycle Parking Task Force (Item 6.A): The task force discussed identifying high-visibility, secure bike parking locations (e.g., near shopping centers, libraries). Members agreed to combine efforts with Bike Month events (e.g., Porch Fest) to promote practical demos. No budget identified yet. - World Day of Remembrance 2026 Task Force (Item 6.B): The task force reported that the event is set for November [date unclear] at Woodward Park, with speakers including a family member of a bicyclist killed in a collision and first responders. A City Council proclamation is scheduled for November 12. Committee members encouraged attendance. - Safe Routes to School Task Force (Item 6.C): The task force reported on initial brainstorming: flagship events (Bike to School Day in fall and spring), safety education curriculum, a driver's license-style bicycle education concept, and compiling best practices for bicycle buses. Members suggested linking with Bike Month and Porch Fest. - Member Reports and Comments: Members from each district reported on local active transportation projects and concerns. Highlights include: District 1 (April Henry) – bike rack designs for schools, bike safety camps, and step grant outreach; District 2 (Laura Gromis) – attendance at Clean Mobility Forum in Sacramento, shared mobility hubs, and equity issues for seniors and youth; District 3 (Aric Mine) – disparities in tree maintenance on commercial properties, sidewalk and bike lane parking enforcement, and frustration with short notice for grant approvals; District 4 (Mohammad Shaikh) – meeting with council member on Vision Zero and Fresno State transportation committee; District 5 (Paul Marquez, absent) – no report; District 6 (Diana Durham) – paving projects and design of parking lot near Fryant intersection. Jacob Bailey (Chair) reported on Bike to School Day and upcoming trauma center data updates. - Staff Reports (Item 8): - Capital Projects (Item 8.A): No new updates; staff asked for any additional project requests. - October's Traffic Collision Report (Item 8.B): Data from January to September 2026 compared to same period 2025: pedestrian collisions decreased from 186 to 164; bicyclist collisions increased from 126 to 146. Pedestrian fatalities decreased from 20 to 11; bicyclist fatalities stayed the same (number not specified), with one e-bike fatality added. Data covers January 1 to September 30. Key Outcomes - Appointed ATAC representative(s) to the HEAL Coalition (approved). - Approved letters of support for HSIP grant applications (passed with one abstention). - Adopted 2027 meeting schedule (approved). - Established Biannual Report 2026 Task Force (approved, Jacob Bailey as lead). - Established Bike Month 2027 Task Force (approved, with multiple volunteers). - Task forces for Protected Bicycle Parking, World Day of Remembrance, and Safe Routes to School continued work with specific action items. - Staff directed to provide more information on Bullock Avenue sidewalks/suite guides and Polk/Gettysburg reconstruction for walking community. - Next regular meeting: December 9, 2026.

The Fresno City Council convened on October 29, 2026, for a regular meeting and a special meeting. Note: The official published agenda listed the meeting date as October 22, 2026, creating a discrepancy with the transcript metadata. The summary below uses the date provided with the transcript. The session included several ceremonial proclamations, a lengthy consent agenda, a robust debate on the SHIELD Act, and a special meeting to approve a 90-day public safety pilot program for the Tower District. The meeting concluded at 3:32 PM. Ceremonial Presentations Scott Mosier Day: The council honored retiring Public Works Director Scott Mosier for 24 years of service. He was recognized for his role in the $140 million Veterans Boulevard project and his responsiveness to community needs. Mayor Dyer and several council members praised his leadership. Domestic Violence Awareness Month: The council proclaimed October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The Fresno Police Department filed over 7,200 domestic violence reports in the previous year, and the Marjorie Mason Center served over 7,656 adults and children. The proclamation noted over 25 domestic violence-related homicides in the city over the last five years. Other Proclamations: The council proclaimed October 22, 2026 as Fresno Idea Works Day (honoring the downtown makerspace), Mobile Food Vendors Association Day, and Greg and Dre Day (celebrating 25 years of the local radio show). The council also proclaimed the week of October 18–24 as United Against Hate Week. Consent Calendar The consent calendar included a resolution re-establishing the Immigration Legal Defense Fund (Item 2BB), which was amended to limit eligibility to Fresno residents without a criminal conviction. Councilmember Richardson initially pulled it to contested consent, but a motion by Councilmember Arias to place it back on consent was approved 5-1, with Richardson dissenting. Other pulled items included a consultant agreement for Chandler hangars (Item 2H), which was discussed and approved. The consent calendar as a whole was approved 5-1. Public Comments & Testimony Immigration Legal Defense Fund (Item 2BB): Several residents spoke in support, citing a surge in ICE enforcement and the need for legal representation. Jesus Martinez (Central Valley Immigrant Integration Collaborative) and speakers from Power California and other groups urged approval. Neil O'Brien opposed the fund, arguing it creates preferential treatment. SHIELD Act (Item 4A): This item drew significant public comment. Janice Bellucci, an attorney with the Alliance for Constitutional Sex Offense Laws, stated the organization would file a lawsuit against the city, arguing the policy violates state law and could make registrants homeless and harder to monitor. She cited a less than 1% recidivism rate for paroled registrants. Multiple other speakers, including survivors of sexual violence like Dez Martinez, strongly supported the measure, arguing that some offenders cannot be rehabilitated and that protecting children is worth the legal risk. Tower District Pilot Program: A speaker questioned the root cause of the violence, suggesting the high concentration of liquor licenses is a primary factor requiring deeper scrutiny. Discussion Items SHIELD Act (Item 4A): Councilmember Karbassi, the sponsor, argued the city must act against a state system he described as protecting sexual predators and allowing them to be imported into Fresno. He cited the case of David Alan Funston, a convicted child molester with no ties to the city, as a primary example. Councilmember Richardson supported the intent but detailed significant legal barriers in state health and safety codes. Councilmember Perea strongly supported the measure, emphasizing the need to prioritize victims. The resolution passed 6-0. Tower District Public Safety Pilot Program: Councilmembers Perea, Arias, and Esparza, along with Mayor Dyer, presented a 90-day pilot program. The plan consolidates sidewalk vendors into a market zone on Olive and Van Ness to address overcrowding and public safety hazards. It was developed following a 4.5-hour community meeting with over 800 attendees. The pilot includes upgraded street lighting (from 38W to 75W), dedicated police foot patrols, and adjusted enforcement times for parking and street cleaning based on public feedback (loading zone enforcement moved from 6 PM to 10 PM, power washing moved from 2 AM to 3 AM). Key Outcomes Consent Calendar: Approved 5-1. Councilmember Richardson cast the dissenting vote. SHIELD Act Resolution (4A): Approved 6-0. The City Attorney is directed to return with a draft ordinance by the end of 2026. Tower District Pilot Program (Special Meeting): Approved 6-0. A 90-day pilot program establishing a vendor market zone and enhanced safety protocols. Chandler Hangars (Item 2H): Approved without opposition. Hangars will be replaced without increasing space or rates to allow for a future Fresno Unified project. Community Facilities Districts (CFD 9): Two separate items to annex territory and levy special taxes were approved unanimously (6-0). Closed Session: The council met in closed session for legal consultations. No reportable actions were taken.

The Broad Preservation Commission met on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 6:00 PM (agenda noted 18:45) at City Hall. The commission considered six agenda items: a solar panel installation on a historic home, a window replacement request, and three Mills Act contract applications. Decisions included approval with conditions, a referral to subcommittee, and approvals with documentation requirements. Staff updates and public comment on preservation activities were also heard. Consent Calendar - None; no items on consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Linda (representing Heritage Fresno) presented 2027 calendars for sale ($20) and highlighted upcoming preservation events, including a veterans cemetery cleanup on November 7, 2026, and suggestions for Preservation Month in May 2027. She also noted the condition of the Dale Brothers coffee can sign on the Benham Building and the relocation of the welcome sign to Mariposa. Discussion Items - File ID 26-1398 (Solar Permit for JR Turner Home, 815 E Dudley Ave): Staff reported that the solar permit was automatically issued through the state’s SolarApp system, which has since been updated to flag historic resources. Panels were installed on the front roof slope, visible from the street. Staff recommended approval under a finding of categorical exemption (Class 31) because panels can be removed without permanent damage. Commissioner concerns about precedent and consistency with Secretary of the Interior Standards were discussed. The commission voted 4-1 to approve with the recommended finding. - File ID 26-1414 (Window Replacement for George and Adelphia Rowell Home, 153 N Effie St): The applicant requested replacement of a 16-light first-floor window with a single-light window and modifications to two upstairs bedroom windows due to functionality and energy efficiency. Staff found the proposed changes inconsistent with Secretary of Interior Standards. Commission discussion focused on preserving historic character, potential repair options, and use of city mitigation funds. Motion to table the item and refer to the Architectural Review Subcommittee for further study passed unanimously (5-0). - File ID 26-1401 (Mills Act Contract for TW Patterson Building, 1214 Tulare St): Staff presented the application with a work plan including fire sprinklers, lighting, and potential future remodel. A commissioner requested updated documentation (DPR form) with current condition photos before finalizing. Motion to approve with condition that site visit photos be added to the DPR file passed unanimously (5-0). - File ID 26-1345 (Mills Act Contract for CW Harlow Residence, 986 N Roosevelt Ave): Similar to the previous item, a commissioner requested updated photos. Motion to approve with condition of adding site visit photos to the file passed unanimously (5-0). - File ID 26-1344 (Mills Act Contract for Melba Apartments, 745 E Home Ave): The applicant, Caitlin Robinson, described deferred maintenance and planned improvements. Motion to approve with condition of adding site visit photos (dated) passed unanimously (5-0). - Staff Updates: Brewer Adobe condition unchanged; property owner non-responsive, staff exploring enforcement options. Regular permit reviews ongoing with RingCon support. No new mitigation applications in September. - Chair Report: Commissioner noted apparent unpermitted window replacements at 313 N Blackstone (historic property 38) and requested code enforcement follow-up. Also requested future updates on adaptive reuse projects (Bixler, Berkeley, Ryan Camp buildings). - Architectural Review Subcommittee: No meeting in October; next scheduled for November 18, 2026. Key Outcomes - Approved solar permit for JR Turner home (4-1). - Tabled window replacement request for Rowell home; referred to Architectural Review Subcommittee (5-0). - Approved Mills Act contracts for TW Patterson Building, CW Harlow Residence, and Melba Apartments, each with condition that site visit photographs be added to the official DPR file (all 5-0). - Directed staff to investigate unpermitted alterations at 313 N Blackstone and provide updates on selected adaptive reuse projects.

The Fresno Planning Commission met on October 22, 2026, to consider two agenda items: a vesting tentative tract map and planned development permit for a 17-lot residential subdivision, and a text amendment to allow additional housing types in the Office Zone District. Both items were approved unanimously. The meeting also included commissioner reports, a special meeting announcement, and the debut presentation of Planner Saul Perez. Consent Calendar - The meeting began with approval of the meeting agenda by unanimous vote (Commissioners Holt, Giles, Shergill, Diaz, and Vice Chair Lyday voting yes). Commissioner Reports - Chair Bray announced upcoming Sikh Heritage Month proclamations: November 3 at 9:00 a.m. at the County of Fresno, and November 5 at 9:00 a.m. at the City of Fresno. - Chair Bray praised the “Pave Now Pay Later” program for road improvements on Shaw Avenue and Shields Avenue, noting positive progress on infrastructure. Discussion Item ID 26-1378: Vesting Tentative Tract Map 6561 & Planned Development Permit P26-00807 - Staff Presentation: Planner Saul Perez (first commission presentation) introduced the project: a 17-lot subdivision on 4.9 acres located north of East Nees Avenue between North Chestnut and North Willow Avenues. The site is zoned RS3 with a planned land use designation of single-unit residential low density. The proposed density is 3.43 dwelling units per acre, consistent with the allowable range of 1 to 3.5 units per acre. The project includes a private gated entrance, modified RS3 standards (lot size, width, coverage, setbacks), and a 6,800-square-foot centrally located private park. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Presentation: Lauren Smith (Harbor and Associates Engineering) noted the project is consistent with the General Plan and already zoned for the proposed use. - Public Testimony: Kieran McDonnell (project applicant) spoke in favor, distributing exhibits about his experience with infill development. He emphasized his history building in downtown Fresno, noted the success of a recent 12-unit rental project at Arthur and Clinton Avenues (fully rented in two weeks), and presented examples of similar infill projects. The vice chair redirected Mr. McDonnell to focus only on the pending application, clarifying he was speaking as the applicant. - Commissioner Comments: Commissioner Shergill expressed support, noting Fresno’s rapid growth and housing shortage, and encouraged staff to welcome developers. No other questions. - Vote: Motion to approve by Commissioner Shergill, second by Commissioner Diaz. Unanimous approval (Commissioners Holt, Giles, Shergill, Diaz, Vice Chair Lyday – 5-0). Discussion Item ID 26-1346: Text Amendment P26-02730 – Additional Housing Types in the Office Zone District - Staff Presentation: Planner Saul Perez presented the amendment to implement Program 2 of the City’s 2023–2031 Housing Element (adopted 2024, certified by the State in 2025). The amendment would permit detached single-family homes, duplexes, and other housing types (currently RM1/RM2/RM3 allowances) on vacant or underutilized office-zoned parcels, in addition to the multifamily uses already allowed under ordinance 2025-23. Eligible sites are at least 500 feet from a school, as mapped. The project is exempt from CEQA under Revenue and Taxation Code Section 21080.19. Staff recommended approval. - Public Testimony: James Sponsler spoke in opposition. He argued the amendment was done in a “check the box” manner, without smart planning, and specifically criticized two large sites in southwest Fresno: one near Roding Drive and Whitesbridge in Airport Zone 4 (noise from Chandler Field), and another on land currently occupied by the Darling and Rendering industrial plants. He asked for exclusions for airport takeoff zones and active industrial sites. - Staff Rebuttal & Questions: Staff confirmed that the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan’s density limitations would override the city code in airport zones, and that any future subdivision would require discretionary review by the Planning Commission. Commissioner Diaz asked about public input; staff noted the public hearing notice was posted. Commissioner Giles asked whether the amendment would help address the housing shortage; staff and colleagues answered yes, noting the Housing Element’s data on income tiers and demand for both single-family and multifamily housing. Commissioner Calandra sought clarification about mixed-use (office and residential) on the same parcel; staff confirmed both uses may coexist. Commissioner Giles made a motion to approve, seconded by Commissioner Shergill. - Vote: Unanimous approval (Commissioners Holt, Giles, Shergill, Diaz, Vice Chair Lyday – 5-0). Key Outcomes - All items approved unanimously: The 17-lot subdivision (Tract Map 6561 and PDP P26-00807) and the text amendment (P26-02730) both passed with 5 votes in favor. - Deferred details: No additional conditions or staff reports were stipulated beyond staff recommendations. - Next meeting: The secretary reminded commissioners of a special meeting on November 9, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. (Monday), with agenda to follow.

The Fresno City Council convened in regular session on October 22, 2026, immediately followed by a special meeting. With Councilmembers Perea and Vice President Maxwell absent, the body conducted six ceremonial proclamations, approved a large consent calendar, directed the study of a sex offender housing ordinance (SHIELD Act), and established a 90-day safety pilot program for the Tower District. Extensive public comment focused on the re-establishment of the Immigration Legal Defense Fund and the SHIELD Act. Ceremonial Presentations and Council Reports - Scott Mozier Day: The council proclaimed October 22, 2026 as Scott L. Mosier Day, honoring the retiring Public Works Director for 24 years of service. Mayor Dyer and Councilmembers praised his leadership on the $140 million Veterans Boulevard project and his responsiveness to community needs. - Domestic Violence Awareness Month: A proclamation was presented noting over 7,200 domestic violence reports filed with Fresno PD last year and over 7,656 adults and children served by the Marjorie Mason Center, which provided over 76,000 nights of safe shelter. Over 25 domestic-violence-related homicides have occurred in Fresno in the last five years. - Fresno IdeaWorks Day: Councilmember Perea recognized the downtown makerspace, which contributed 4,060 volunteer hours in 2024. - Mobile Food Vendor Association Day: Councilmember Arias detailed the association's origin following the 2021 shooting of a vendor and their ongoing advocacy for safe, licensed street vending. - Greg and Dre Day: Recognized retiring radio hosts Greg Hoffman and Andre Covington for 25 years of broadcasting. - United Against Hate Week: Mayor Dyer and the Community Liaison Office proclaimed the week of October 18–24. - Councilmember Reports: Councilmember Richardson announced a video explainer on state propositions and discussions on winter warming center policies. Mayor Dyer and Councilmember Arias reviewed a four-hour community meeting in the Tower District with over 800 attendees addressing public safety. Consent Calendar - Approved by a vote of 5 to 1, with Councilmember Richardson dissenting primarily over the Immigration Legal Defense Fund (Item 2BB). - Key approvals included: $4.3 million in city funds and a parcel for the Senior Affordable Modular Housing Project; $950,000 for the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission Advance Peace Program; agreements for airport concessions, police equipment, and the 20th, 21st, and 23rd Appropriation Amendments. - Item 2BB (Immigration Legal Defense Fund): Re-established with an amendment limiting eligibility to Fresno residents without a criminal conviction. The item was placed back on the consent calendar following a procedural motion. Public Comments and Testimony - Immigration Legal Defense Fund (2BB): Supporters included Jesus Martinez (Central Valley Immigrant Integration Collaborative), Marbella Hernandez, Zara Marin (Power California), Shar Thompson (Tenants Together), and Lourdes Medina. They argued the fund is critical for due process and family stability amid federal enforcement surges and that the one million dollars is a necessary step. Neil O'Brien opposed the fund, arguing city funds should benefit all residents equally rather than creating a special benefit for one group. - SHIELD Act (4A): Janice Bellucci (Alliance for Constitutional Sex Offense Laws) and Nicholas Arnolds opposed the directive, arguing it would defy state law, lead to costly litigation, and increase homelessness among registrants. Roger Honeycutt stated that a vast majority of registrants are law-abiding and cited a recidivism rate of less than one percent. A survivor of sexual abuse spoke in favor of tighter regulations, emphasizing the lasting trauma to victims. - Tower District Pilot Program: Lisa Flores questioned the concentration of liquor licenses and the efficacy of passive policing. - Unscheduled Communication: Brandy Vegas requested more predictable meeting schedules for community engagement. Lisa Flores urged the city to prepare warming centers for the anticipated El Niño season. Discussion Items - Habitat for Humanity Disposition (9:05 AM): The council held a joint meeting to approve the transfer of 0.18 acres at 33 East Atchison Street to Habitat for Humanity for affordable housing. Approved unanimously in two votes (6-0). - CFD No. 9 Annexations (9:10 and 9:15 AM): Two hearings to annex territory and levy special taxes for Community Facilities District No. 9 were approved unanimously (6-0). - SHIELD Act Directive (Item 4A): Councilmember Karbassi introduced a resolution to initiate a study of regulations on sex offender housing operators. He argued the city must act against a "cottage industry" importing violent predators with no local ties, citing the case of David Alan Funston. Councilmember Richardson supported the study but warned of strong state preemption under California Health and Safety Code Section 1566.3, which limits local zoning authority over small residential care facilities. Councilmember Perea strongly supported the directive, focusing on the wellbeing of victims. The directive passed 6-0. - Tower District Pilot Program (Special Meeting): The council reviewed a 90-day safety pilot program for the Olive Avenue corridor following three recent shootings. The plan creates a designated vendor market zone, increases street lighting from 38 to 75 watts, and adjusts loading zone enforcement to begin at 10 PM. The resolution passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Discrepancy Noted: The agenda listed two major land-use hearings (Central Southeast Specific Plan, ID 26-1243, and SW Fresno Rezone, ID 26-1244) as continued to December 3, 2026. However, the City Clerk announced during the meeting that these items were tabled without a return date by Councilmembers Karbassi and Arias. - Consent Calendar adopted (5-1). - SHIELD Act study directive adopted (6-0). - Tower District 90-day pilot program adopted (6-0). - Closed session concluded with no reportable actions.

The Fresno Building Standards Appeals Board met on October 22, 2026, to consider code enforcement continuances, a contested first administrative citation, and an appeal of a building official’s denial of an alternate means and methods request. No public comment speakers came forward, and the board voted on all agenda items before adjourning. No agenda or minutes were available in the source materials; this summary is based on the meeting transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers came forward under public comments, and no unscheduled oral communications were offered under item 11. Continued Matters - The board was advised that there were no continued matters on the agenda. Discussion Items Item 8A – Code Enforcement Case E25-16660 - Deputy City Attorney Christina Pinya requested a six-month continuance, reporting that the property owner had hired a draftsman and was preparing plans for the entire house. - The board approved the continuance on a motion by Mr. Vincent, seconded by Mr. Ransom. Item 8B – Code Enforcement Case E25-13A3 / 3436 North Virginia Lane - Deputy City Attorney Calvin Massey requested a continuance to December 15, 2026, stating that the appellant and homeowner were present, had consulted with development and planning, and needed to obtain a permit but were making progress. - The board approved the request on a motion by Mr. Ransom, seconded by Mr. Mir. The transcript also refers to this matter as “item 26-1361”; the agenda and minutes were not available to resolve the discrepancy. Item 8C – First Administrative Citation, 220 North Weber Avenue / 1827 West Clinton Avenue (Case E26-04602) - Deputy City Attorney Sarah Papasian presented the city’s case. She said the notice and order had been confirmed by the board in June, a progress hearing in early August found no progress, and fines were doubled. Inspector Amparo then issued a first administrative citation on August 21 for exterior siding replaced without permits. The city argued the violation existed, notice was properly served, and the violation remained after the deadline. - The city reported that 10 permits were later obtained: permit applications were started September 30, four permits issued once balances were paid, and the remaining six issued October 12 after fees were paid. No inspections were scheduled as of the hearing. - Ryan Port, representing appellant BDHOV et al., did not dispute the timeline but disagreed with its characterization. He argued all items in the original notice and order had been corrected by October 12, 2026; five of seven items were corrected within the original compliance period, the hazardous tree took longer because a specialist was needed, and permits were the remaining item. He also cited emails with the city, including an October 15 email from Inspector Jennifer Brown stating no further enforcement would be taken before December 14, 2026, and asked the board to dismiss the citation. - In rebuttal, the city said the notice-and-order arguments were not relevant to the citation hearing, noted a gap in communication from mid-May to late August and no action from mid-May to mid-September, and said the October 15 email anticipated the requested continuation rather than conflicting with it. - A board member observed that both sides were discussing a December 14/15 completion date and that a 60-day continuance would push the matter past the board’s December meeting. The board voted to confirm the first administrative citation and set a progress hearing for December 15, 2026. The motion passed on a unanimous voice vote. Item 8D – Water’s Edge Apartments Alternate Means and Methods Appeal - One board member recused from this item. - Ashley Atkinson, Assistant Director of Planning and Development, presented the staff recommendation. The project is a 72-unit multifamily development at 330 South Clovis Avenue. The applicant had requested permission to install two separate six-inch sanitary sewer lines at a one percent slope instead of the code-compliant eight-inch pipe, with 557 and 612 drainage fixture units on the two lines respectively. The building official denied the request under California Plumbing Code provisions regarding obstruction of flow and maximum loading. Staff recommended upholding the denial. - Ken Vang of Van Consulting Engineers, for the applicant, explained that the existing sewer line in Clovis Avenue is shallow, existing electric and gas utilities prevented installation of a proposed eight-inch line and manhole configuration, and the connection had to be made with a wye, requiring a six-inch line. He said the split system would still have adequate capacity: a six-inch pipe has capacity of about 126,000 gallons per day while the project would generate about 26,000 gallons per day. He argued the city standard manhole design would prevent blockages and that the proposal provided an equal or better solution consistent with alternate means and methods provisions. - The building official, Bill, responded that the City of Fresno sewer master plan does not apply to private property and that the proposal does not meet the California Building Code. - Board members discussed whether the alternate means and methods section of the code allowed approval, whether the proposal was constructible, and whether a requested slope reduction was below code minimums. The appellant’s engineer responded that the code allows alternate means and methods and that the flow calculations were adequate. General contractor Corbin Raven, also a primary owner, stated his support and said the proposed pipes would use only about 20 percent of their capacity. - A motion was made to approve the alternate means and methods request and allow the project to continue. After a request to clarify the record, the board confirmed it was approving the appeal and declining to uphold the building official’s denial. The motion passed on a unanimous voice vote. Reports and Adjournment - The secretary reported no report. - There were no unscheduled oral communications. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 1:48 p.m. Key Outcomes - Item 8A: Continued for six months. - Item 8B: Continued to December 15, 2026. - Item 8C: First administrative citation confirmed; progress hearing set for December 15, 2026. - Item 8D: Appeal granted; building official’s denial overturned; alternate means and methods request approved. - Public comment period closed with no speakers; meeting adjourned.

Note on date discrepancy: The official meeting date provided is October 21, 2026, but the transcript references October 20, 2026. This summary uses the provided date. The District 4 Project Review Committee met on October 21, 2026, to consider a conditional use permit for a new restaurant, receive workshops on climate adaptation and a development code text amendment, and make routine approvals. Meeting was called to order at 5:30 p.m. and adjourned at 6:21 p.m. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: Motion to approve the agenda for October 21, 2026, moved and seconded, passed unanimously. - Minutes Approval: Minutes from July 21, 2026, approved by motion, second, unanimous. Discussion Items - Conditional Use Permit P26-02419 (110 West East Shaw Avenue): Cesar Rodriguez of CR Design Bill presented for clients from Southern California seeking to convert a former bank building (previously a comic book store) into a restaurant with a drive-through, indoor/outdoor seating, and charcoal/wood cooking. The project will employ about 30 people. Committee members raised concerns about alcohol license concentration (staff clarified restaurant licenses are not restricted by zone) and traffic (access is via a side road, not directly from Shaw). No public comment. The permit was approved unanimously. Opening is expected around November 16, 2026, pending PG&E connection. - Workshop: Climate Adaptation Plan and Environmental Justice Element: Ashley Atkinson, Assistant Director for Planning and Development, presented an overview of two policy documents that will update the General Plan. The Climate Adaptation Plan focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for heat, drought, floods, and wildfires. The Environmental Justice Element aims to address public health disparities in frontline communities. Committee member Padilla emphasized the need to include the airport area (District 4) in frontline designations due to air pollution impacts from flights and nearby businesses. Atkinson stated they would follow up on airport-specific policies and noted that the public draft is expected before the end of 2026, with Planning Commission and City Council review in early 2027. No funding is attached; implementation requires future council action. - Workshop: Text Amendment P26-02359 (Housing Element Compliance): Planner Adrian Azadoran Gilbert presented amendments to the Development Code to align with the 2023-2031 Housing Element (adopted December 2024, certified January 2025). Changes include objective design standards, compliance with state laws on density bonus, parking reductions near transit, emergency shelters, low-barrier navigation centers, residential care facilities, ADUs, and missing middle housing. Committee members asked about parking incentives, live-work unit definitions, and low-barrier navigation centers. The amendment applies citywide and is in draft form; committee feedback will be incorporated. Key Outcomes - Conditional Use Permit P26-02419 approved unanimously (motion by Senecal, second by Addington). - Next meeting scheduled for November 17, 2026. - Staff to follow up on airport-area policies in the Climate Adaptation Plan and Environmental Justice Element. - Text amendment will be revised with committee input and brought back for further review.