Houston, Texas — Public Meeting Index

The Super Neighborhood Alliance convened virtually on February 9, 2026, with representatives from multiple super neighborhoods and city and county officials. The meeting featured presentations on Metro's new fare system, the proposed condemnation of Hermann Park land for Ben Taub hospital expansion, and extensive discussion of upcoming changes to heavy trash pickup. Votes were taken on the agenda and meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Sherry Cortez (Harris County District Attorney's Office, Domestic Violence Bureau) reported that the DA's office completed over 560 trials in 2025, a 13% increase, and issued 38 life sentences. She encouraged community members to seek protective orders without a police report and offered resources for Teen Dating Violence Awareness. - Mark (Third Ward resident) raised concerns about a developer (KGM Properties) converting single-family homes into large rooming houses (e.g., 22 bedrooms) and described plans to sue the developer with community fundraising. - Kevin (district unknown) complained about a vacant lot at I-10 feeder and Heights Boulevard that has not been mowed for years, with 311 tickets closed without action. Herbert Sims (Department of Neighborhoods) asked for the ticket number to follow up. - Greg (super neighborhood representative) questioned the absence of weekly permit reports and suggested that super neighborhood boundaries should be reviewed due to population disparities (ranging from <5,000 to 55,000). - Willie (super neighborhood representative) voiced strong opposition to the planned shift in heavy trash pickup from 12-13 pickups per year to 4 call-in pickups, citing failure of a similar system in Sugar Land and concerns about increased illegal dumping. - Vicky (super neighborhood representative) complained about slow turnaround for the $2,000 administrative reimbursable grant, noting that approved items still face delays. Herbert Sims explained that the process is slower because it involves auditing of general fund tax dollars and that items must be clearly related to super neighborhood activities. - Carol (Super Neighborhood 45) echoed heavy trash concerns, noting no pickup since October 2025, insufficient public outreach about the March 2 rollout, and lack of clarity on how the call-in system will work for residents in apartments or without utilities. - Tamara Alexander (Super Neighborhood 83) warned that the heavy trash change is a step toward paid trash pickup and urged all neighborhoods to contact city council members. - Lindsay (super neighborhood representative) added that many residents have not seen pickups since October or November and that illegal dumping is rampant, asking for more city engagement and a dedicated meeting on the issue. Discussion Items - Metro New Fare System (Wilfredo Santa Maria, Metro Public Engagement) - Soft launched in November 2025. Old Q cards will be invalid after April 4, 2026; no new funds after March 1, 2026. - New Ride Metro fare card available online, at eight mini ride stores, and at participating retailers. - Riders can also pay by tapping credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or the Ride Metro app (QR code). - Discounts: 50% for students (K-12, university, trade school), seniors 65-69, and people with disabilities; free for seniors 70+ and decorated veterans (verified through VA). - Every 10 paid trips earns one free ride with the card. - Questions from community: Doug Smith asked if seniors need a new card (yes). Greg asked what constitutes a decorated veteran (handled by VA). Retired military Dexter asked for streamlined process. Catherine Easterly asked for discount amounts (50% off, e.g., 60 cents for local bus). - Ben Taub Expansion and Hermann Park Condemnation (Jim Blackburn, environmental lawyer) - Harris Health (Ben Taub) seeks to condemn 9 acres of Hermann Park for a 100-bed expansion, contrary to 2023 bond election language that stated expansion would be within the Ben Taub campus. - Concern about lack of transparency: seven letters sent to Commissioners Court, open records request for documents denied (case pending with Attorney General). - Opponents argue expansion can be done on existing campus (e.g., using old Ben Taub building, building upward). Flooding risk: the site is in a mapped 100-year floodplain, and building there would make the trauma center inaccessible during floods. - Tamara Alexander added that the old Ben Taub building is still usable and that the current hospital has reduced beds from 550 to 400 by choice. She noted potential flooding impacts downstream if the floodplain is built on. - Keith supported building upward, noting a structural engineer has offered free services to evaluate options. Jim Blackburn stated that Dr. Porsa dismissed alternatives and that the reverter clause in the land deed likely necessitates condemnation. - Next steps: a Chapter 26 hearing scheduled for March 19, 2026, before Commissioners Court. Advocacy urged: contact county commissioners and city council members. - Committee Report: Budget & Fiscal Affairs - Chair Jack reported the city is on track to overspend $55 million on overtime for public safety and solid waste. Next meeting March 3, 2026. - Voter Information (Melanie Young) - Early voting for March 3 primary: Feb 17-21 (7am-7pm), Feb 22 (12-7pm), Feb 23-27 (7am-7pm). Ballot by mail deadline Feb 20. - Some super neighborhoods are split into new congressional districts; urged checking voter registration. - New Business - Congratulations to new super neighborhood presidents and board member Scott Singleton (Super Neighborhood 63). - Proposed in-person meeting schedule: March at First Houston United Methodist Church (downtown), May (northeast), September (Acres Homes), December (southeast). Greg requested a location in the west. - Upcoming Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training in April. - Public Safety Announcement (Sherry Cortez, HCDAO) - see Public Comments. Key Outcomes - Vote on Meeting Agenda: Motion by Tamara Bale, second by Cheryl O'Brien. Passed with ayes; one nay (Jeff Baker initially confused). - Vote on December and January Minutes: Motion made, seconded. Approved with one opposed (Greg), who questioned whether minutes were reviewed and noted November minutes were not circulated to all prior to previous meeting. - Decision on Heavy Trash: A call to invite the Solid Waste director back to a future meeting was widely supported; informal agreement to raise the issue with the agenda committee. - Referral for Neighborhood Concerns: Herbert Sims (Department of Neighborhoods) offered to follow up on Kevin's lot mowing issue and will review the grant process for speed. He also agreed to discuss super neighborhood boundary adjustments with planning. - Next Meeting: March 9, 2026 (in-person at First Houston United Methodist Church, location details to be confirmed).

The Resilience Committee of the City of Houston, chaired by Councilmember Twyla Carter, met on February 5, 2026, to hear presentations from the United Way of Greater Houston’s Greater Houston Disaster Alliance and the Citizens Environmental Coalition (CEC). Two members of the public also offered testimony. No votes were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Dominic Mazoch advocated for the use of amateur (ham) radio and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) as a backup communication system during disasters, noting that cell phones can fail. He offered to give a more detailed presentation to the committee and emphasized the importance of weather radios, citing the Hill Country disaster as an example. He also suggested that committee web pages include a mission statement. - Pastor Deb Benario Martin, co-founder of Zelma Friends of North Houston and president of Super Neighborhood 45, requested support for Super Neighborhood 45, which she described as a grassroots organization working on quality of life and social determinants of health in the north side/north line area. She stressed the importance of regional work, including trailer parks and low-income apartments in super neighborhoods, and urged the committee to remember residents without transportation or digital access. Discussion Items - Presentation: Greater Houston Disaster Alliance – Brooke Campbell, Director of Community Outreach and Disaster Recovery at United Way of Greater Houston, presented the alliance’s structure, achievements, and goals. The alliance is a philanthropic partnership between United Way and the Greater Houston Community Foundation, funded by lead sponsors NBridge and Phillips 66 ($1.5 million over three years, 2023–2026). She noted that Houston has experienced 28 federally declared disasters since 1980, and more than half of residents live in census tracts with medium to high social vulnerability. Harris County has the largest number of FEMA Community Disaster Resilience Zones. The alliance launched formally in 2023, building on earlier collaborations during Hurricane Harvey, COVID-19, and Winter Storm Uri. Key achievements: $8.7 million granted to 35 nonprofits in 2024 (after derecho and Hurricane Beryl), serving over 12,000 individuals in 4,100 households, with average grant distribution time reduced from 34 to 22 days. They have executed MOUs with 18 nonprofits to disburse funds within a week post-disaster. They identified 29 highly vulnerable zip codes, 10 of which are disaster service deserts. Chair Carter praised the unified approach. - Presentation: Citizens Environmental Coalition (CEC) – Steve Stelzer, Vice President of CEC, described the organization’s role as a connector among environmental nonprofits, founded in 1971. CEC represents over 100 member organizations. Its Environmental Summit in 2024 focused on health equity and resilience. A working group, Built for Resilience, was created. CEC identified three priorities: 1) conservation and protection of natural resources (including green infrastructure and nature-based solutions), 2) recycling and reuse, and 3) modernizing energy and water infrastructure for grid resilience. CEC aims to reduce duplication, leverage expertise, and promote public awareness. An upcoming Earth Day event is scheduled for April 25, 2026, at Discovery Green. Chair Carter expressed interest in the newsletter and collaboration. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were made. Chair Carter encouraged committee members to engage with the presenters’ organizations and follow up on suggestions (e.g., ham radio communication, supporting Super Neighborhood 45). The meeting was adjourned without further action.

Meeting start: 2:33 p.m. Adjournment: 3:59 p.m. Duration: 1 hour 26 minutes Presiding: Chair Lisa Clark Quorum: 15 commissioners present (11 required) The Commission approved most platting items on the agenda, deferred or extended a few, and denied one variance request after public testimony. Director’s Report - Plat Tracker user survey open through February 28, 2026; feedback sought for system improvements. - Company name update in Plat Tracker to match LLC filings to avoid delays with Harris County. - New interim legal counsel Heather Cook was introduced. Consent Calendar - Withdrawn (no action): Item 47 (Isabella Villas), Item 59 (South Post Oak Commercial Reserve), Item 76 (River Grove LP). - Minutes of January 22, 2026 approved unanimously. - Plating activity – Sections A & B (consent items 1‑31 and replot items 32‑61): Approved as staff recommended, with abstentions recorded on items 2, 3, 28, and 41; item 10 was added and approved separately. - Sections C (replats requiring public hearing) – Items 62‑67: All approved, no public speakers except on Item 66 (Stern’s Villas, one inquiry). - Sections D (variance requests) – Items 68‑69: Approved, with discussion on the Highland Acres Homes variance (Item 69). - Sections E (special exceptions) – Items 78‑79: Approved. - Sections F (reconsideration of requirement with variances) – Items 80‑84: Item 80 (Petty Villa) deferred two weeks; Items 81‑84 approved with staff recommendation. - Sections G‑H‑I‑J (extensions of approval): Approved as a group. - Public hearing date set: March 5, 2026, for a list of 24 plat applications. Public Comments & Testimony Item 66 – Stern’s Villas: Amanda Henry, a neighbor, asked whether the new lots would be used for “second chance” or group homes; staff addressed the question after the hearing. Item 71 – Montrose Mixed Use (variance request): - Opponents: Sue Lovell (former council member, called the proposal “lies and misrepresentation”); Rocky Neaton (34‑year resident, argued the tower is out of scale, adds traffic, creates school‑zone safety risks); Sarah Frazier (Hyde Park Civic Association president, said luxury units will not improve walkability); Marian Wright (neighborhood volunteer, claimed the project doesn’t fit the mid‑rise character); Michelle Bouchard (resident, cited deleterious effects); Laura Kael (resident, called for a more pragmatic approach). - Supporters: Dennis Patel (brief “I approve this project”); Alex Mosley (positive step forward); John Cadenhead (architect, said the setback is justified by geometry and the loading berth is safely designed). Applicant Brett Hightower also spoke in favor, citing a previously approved 2018 variance (for a 14‑story building) and community support letters. Item 84 – Valo Business Park: Pradita Chavis (Chief of Staff for Council Member Martha Castex‑Tatum) asked that neighborhood integrity be maintained. Garth Ellis (Kinder Morgan right‑of‑way agent) opposed because access would require crossing Kinder Morgan’s fee property; staff noted that private agreements are outside the Commission’s review. Discussion Items Item 69 – Highland Acres Homes (partial replat): The applicant requested variances for a 10‑foot building line (vs. 20 feet) and 20‑foot right‑of‑way dedication (vs. 30 feet) on a narrow tract. Staff supported the request, noting the site’s constraints and the resulting 25‑foot curb‑to‑building distance and generous green space. Commissioners questioned a 19‑foot label on the drawing; staff clarified it was a labeling error – the build line is 10 feet. Approved unanimously. Item 70 – Kirkendall Village Section 2 (variances): Staff recommended denying the plat because two variances (30‑foot access easement as second point of access, and 12‑foot easement for a lift station) would complicate future street connections for a 251‑lot community. Harris County representatives Matt Tangan and Richard Smith explained that the neighboring final plat for Lindsey Road has not been recorded, leaving no guarantee the road would be built. Applicant Tracy Youngblood argued that the temporary access is needed until Lindsey Road is constructed and offered a commitment letter to the county. After extensive discussion, the applicant submitted a written request for a 30‑day extension. The Commission approved the extension (motion by Jones, seconded by Baldwin) to allow further negotiations with Harris County. Item 71 – Montrose Mixed Use (variance to 9‑foot building line): The proposal – a 20‑story tower with ground‑floor retail, parking, and 46 residential units at Montrose and West Clay – was resubmitted without changes after being denied one year earlier. Staff recommended denial, citing no hardship (financial considerations only), inconsistency with the mid‑rise character, pedestrian environment risks, and school‑zone curb‑cut concerns. Public testimony was overwhelmingly opposed. The Commission voted to deny the variance and approve the plat subject to the required 25‑foot building line. Vote: Motion by Garza, second by Force Pertle. All in favor except one commissioner (and possibly a second) voting “nay”; motion carried. Item 84 – Valo Business Park (variance): Staff supported the variance to avoid extending Peach Willow Road, as a bridge over drainage and pipelines would be impractical. Kinder Morgan opposed, but staff explained that access across third‑party property is a private matter. The Commission granted the variance and approved the plat unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved (all staff recommendations): Minutes, consent plating, 62‑67, 68‑69, 78‑79, 81‑84, and G‑H‑I‑J extensions. - Deferred: Item 72 (NTW USA Headquarters) two weeks; Item 73 (Paragon Place) two weeks; Item 80 (Petty Villa) two weeks for traffic study. - Extended 30 days: Item 70 (Kirkendall Village Section 2) to resolve Harris County concerns. - Denied: Item 71 (Montrose Mixed Use) variance; plat approved with 25‑foot building line. - Public hearing date: March 5, 2026, set for 24 named plat applications. The meeting adjourned at 3:59 p.m.

On February 5, 2026, the Houston Housing and Community Development (HCD) Department presented recommendations for the 9% tax credit process to the Affordability Committee. The meeting, chaired by Councilmember Thomas, ran from approximately 1:30 PM to 2:35 PM. Present were Councilmembers Alcorn, Ramirez, Davis, Flickinger, Evans Shabazz, and staff from multiple council offices. Deputy Director Derek Sellers and Assistant Director Ryan Bibbs led the presentation. Discussion Items - Scoring and Recommendations: HCD received 44 applications for 9% tax credits. Of those, 19 withdrew, leaving 25 recommended projects. The city awards resolutions of support worth 17 points in the state’s competitive scoring process. HCD uses its own scoring system (up to 25 points) considering mixed-income composition, site quality, resiliency features (e.g., generators added this year), and community engagement. An equitable dispersion policy caps the number of projects per council district (C, E, F, G capped at four; rehabs and permanent supportive housing exempt). - Waivers for Proximity: Some projects require waivers because they are within two miles of another 2026 applicant (same year) or within one mile/three years of a prior allocation. HCD recommends waivers for projects serving different populations (e.g., family vs. senior) or tied to larger revitalization efforts (e.g., $50 million Choice Neighborhood investment at Cuney Homes/Emancipation West). - Developer Vetting: Councilmember Flickinger asked about financial underwriting; HCD stated that TDHCA handles full financial review, and the city only underwrites if it later provides gap financing. Councilmember Alcorn inquired about developer track records; HCD confirmed they review reputation and property conditions for repeat developers. - Community Engagement: Councilmember Thomas stressed the importance of early community outreach. Councilmember Huffman’s office noted that for the Sunstone project in District G, they were unaware of any letters of community support included in the submission. HCD agreed to provide those letters. Mayor Pro Tem Tatum noted that one developer (CSH LOF Stancliffe LTD) had not engaged the community and requested a meeting. - Drainage Concerns: Councilmember Ramirez asked about floodplain evaluation for Sunstone. HCD explained they require projects to not be in a floodway and to mitigate if in a 100-year floodplain. The developer’s drainage plan was not yet fully vetted by the local MUD. Public Comments & Testimony - Patricia Redman (representing 870 homes in Lakes of Parkway, adjacent to the 1176 Highway 6 project): Opposed the project due to drainage and flood risks. She requested that the city withhold approval until updated engineering studies (compliant with post-Harvey Atlas 14 standards) are completed and that the one-mile/two-year waiver be denied. She noted the MUD had met with the developer and expressed capacity concerns. - Nathan Kelly (representing two ETJ projects): Expressed gratitude and offered to answer questions; no questions were posed. - Attorney Hunter (no specific project): Present to answer questions; none raised. - Sunny Lawanium (Greenspoint resident, representing a faith-based organization): Praised the city’s efforts but highlighted ongoing flooding and infrastructure needs in Greenspoint (e.g., reliance on suction pumps). He offered 5-6 acres of land for multifamily development and requested assistance from the city. Key Outcomes - The committee will forward the 25 recommended projects to the full City Council for a vote on February 11, 2026, along with the required proximity waivers. - HCD noted that an appeals process is available for developers who were not recommended, and any appeals must be resolved before the Council vote. - Councilmembers were reminded that the 9% tax credit awards by TDHCA are expected in June 2026, and some projects may later return for gap financing using the recently approved $50 million multifamily portion of disaster recovery funds (DR24). - The next regular Housing Affordability Committee meeting is scheduled for February 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM.

The Houston City Council met on February 3, 2026, to consider several proclamations, hear public comments on immigration enforcement and public safety, discuss financial reports and overtime spending, and vote on numerous agenda items. Proclamations - Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex Tatum presented a proclamation to Damian Walker of Cognitive Justice International (CJI), recognizing their youth development work in schools. CJI reached over 2,000 individuals in 2025. February 3, 2026, was proclaimed CJI Day in Houston. - Councilmember Abby Kamen presented a proclamation to Antioch Missionary Baptist Church for its 160th anniversary, highlighting its history as Houston's first African American Baptist church. February 3, 2026, was proclaimed Antioch Missionary Baptist Church Day. - Councilmember Martinez presented a proclamation for the Nuestro Ambiente Latino Shaping Houston exhibition, celebrating Latino contributions to architecture and culture. February 3, 2026, was proclaimed Ambiente Day. - Councilmember Carter presented a proclamation for the Real Abilities Houston Film and Arts Festival 2026, a month-long celebration promoting inclusion of people with disabilities. The festival opened that day with the film "Deaf President Now" at River Oaks Theater. Consent Calendar - Routine approvals and unanimous actions, including acceptance of work items, purchasing, and ordinances, were adopted en bloc with several items removed for separate consideration. Public Comments & Testimony - Immigration Enforcement: Multiple speakers opposed city collaboration with ICE, citing fear, trauma, and incidents of violence by ICE agents. Hadley Hollingsworth, Matthew Banzer, Emma French, Grace Kesterson, Christine Wardwell, Sandra Burnett, and Keith Porter Sr. (whose son was killed by an off-duty ICE agent) urged the council to limit cooperation with ICE, require judicial warrants, and increase transparency. Mayor Whitmire and several councilmembers expressed condolences and committed to follow-up. - Public Safety and Traffic Stops: The RISE Coalition (Christopher Rivera, Alfredo Dominguez, Kristen Budwine, Selena Bray) presented data on racial disparities in non-safety traffic stops and proposed an ordinance to prohibit HPD from initiating stops for secondary violations. They argued that such stops waste resources, yield little contraband, and disproportionately affect Black and brown drivers. Councilmembers Pollard and Thomas supported exploring the ordinance; Councilmember Ramirez raised concerns about conflict with state law. Speakers also called for strengthening event safety ordinances after the death of Corey Young (Danetta Hill and Ray Woods). - Infrastructure and Housing: Rodney Underwood recommended eliminating parking minimums and reducing speed limits. Ruben Garza advocated for eliminating minimum parking requirements and implementing dynamic pricing. Michael Bastian requested relief from a lien on his property due to a squatter dispute. Crystal Rodriguez requested reconsideration of a plat approval over drainage concerns. John Nix requested better sidewalks, bus stops, and communal water heater regulation. - Other: Derek Shaw requested city recognition for volunteer cleanup efforts. Ryan Schornberg complained about lack of police investigation and body camera footage. Sandra Allen requested release of her son under the Sandra Bland Act. Several religious speakers addressed the council. Discussion Items - Financial Report and Overtime: Finance Director Dabowski and Controller Hollins presented the monthly financial report for December 2025. The general fund is projecting a $41.9 million revenue shortfall and a fund balance of $353.5 million (Finance) or $336 million (Controller). Overtime spending is significantly over budget: police (89% over), fire (87% over), and solid waste (70% over), totaling an estimated $54 million over budget. Councilmembers debated the accuracy of budget assumptions and the need for better planning. Some praised operational changes by department heads; others called for more aggressive cost control and a garbage fee. The council accepted the report. - Traffic Stop Ordinance Proposal: The RISE Coalition detailed a proposed ordinance to deprioritize non-safety traffic stops. Legal arguments were presented that the city has authority to regulate traffic enforcement. Councilmember Ramirez questioned potential conflict with state law; Councilmember Pollard noted the difference from the previous quota ordinance. No vote was taken; further discussion expected. - Civilian Oversight and Enforcement: Councilmembers discussed campaign finance enforcement (related to item 5) and apartment inspection reform. Councilmember Thomas announced upcoming community meetings on apartment inspection reform. Key Outcomes - Proclamations were unanimously approved. - Consent calendar items (2,3,4,8-11,13,15,18,19,20,21,23) were approved en bloc. - Items removed for separate consideration: Item 1 (West Timer corridor work) approved with discussion about repeated road work; Item 4 (Sheldon City wastewater) approved; Item 5 (campaign finance management tool) approved with praise for modernization; Item 6 (data analysis platform for HPD) approved with clarification it is not related to ShotSpotter; Item 14 (telecommunications lease) approved; Item 16 (winter storm home repair program contractors) approved; Item 17 (library contract amendment) approved; Item 22 (engineering services) approved; Item 24 (Trinity River Conveyance project funding) approved, with request for committee hearing. - The meeting adjourned in honor of retired HPD officer Janelle Scott, one of the first Black women in the police academy.

This joint meeting of the Fiscal Affairs Committee (chaired by Sally Alcorn) and the Government Operations Committee (chaired by Fred Flickinger) covered a wide-ranging agenda including quarterly financial updates, upcoming financial transactions, progress on the Ernst & Young efficiency studies, overtime usage reports for Police, Fire, and Solid Waste, a review of the Open Space Ordinance (Parks and Private Parks Ordinance), and a presentation on transitioning heavy trash collection to a scheduled on-demand service. The meeting included public testimony on financial concerns, park funding equity, and solid waste services. Public Comments & Testimony - Jack Belinski expressed concern that the city faces a $200–$300 million shortfall next year and that overtime reduction efforts have not worked. He questioned whether buyouts actually save money and whether the city is taking too much from other departments (libraries, health, parks) to fund police and fire. - Ed Pett (Friends of Columbia Tap) urged changes to park sector boundaries, noting that current boundaries (based on highways built through Black and Brown neighborhoods) trap fees in areas with high development instead of allowing equitable spending. He also said the fund should prioritize land acquisition over deferred maintenance. - Stefania Tomaskovic (SEER) expressed support for raising the fee-in-lieu (currently $700, set in 2007) and called for an equitable distribution of funding (e.g., a 70-30 split like the sidewalk ordinance). - Hermani Bañas advocated for zero-based budgeting and more community participation in park decisions. - Adam Trevino (RACIS Collab) supported raising the fee based on appraised values, noting his own property taxes have increased significantly. - Beck Edwards (Rice University) introduced a student project to build a mathematical optimization model for redistricting park sectors. - Andy Escobar (SEER) echoed support for raising the fee and equitable distribution. - Kimberly Phipps Nichols (Park Sector 14 resident) suggested exempting parks spending from the revenue cap, creating a charter amendment for maintenance funds, and considering a citywide park district instead of sectors. - Rosanna Urban (Solid Waste driver) asked for investment in new self-contained compactors at depositories to reduce illegal dumping and improve recycling capacity. - Jet Velinski emphasized the need for a firm launch date for the new heavy trash program, a single phone number (311), and a dedicated funding source (trash fee) to address budget shortfalls. - Gabriela Hamdia (Environment Texas) advocated for a solid waste fee to improve reliability and announced a letter with petition signatures. - Felix Kapoor asked about illegal dumping plans and emphasized the need for equity in any proposed fee, concerned residents should not have to choose between doctor visits and trash pickup. - Malachi Key (Air Alliance Houston) criticized the Houston Recycling Collaboration, stating that plastic waste is going to an unpermitted facility and urged scrutiny. - Benjamin Broadway questioned the equity of the city budget (60-63% to police and fire) and asked about the fate of the avalorum tax and whether a trash fee would go to general revenue or solid waste. Discussion Items - Quarterly Financial Update (Finance Director Melissa Dubowski & Deputy Controller Will Jones): The general fund ending fund balance is projected at $336 million for FY26 (13% of expenditures), $17.5 million lower than earlier estimates. Revenues are $41.9 million below adopted budget, expenditures $9.5 million higher. Sales tax receipts for November were $70.8 million (0.3% lower than prior year). Investment pool is $6.5 billion, yielding 4%. Swap fair value was negative $52 million. The city's commercial paper and variable rate debt exposures were reviewed. - Upcoming Financial Transactions (Melissa Dubowski): Presented routine renewals for GO commercial paper series E1 ($100M, expiring July 2026) and series J ($125M, expiring May 2026). Also reviewed variable rate demand bonds for the combined utility system (series 2004 B2 expiring March, series 2004 B4 expiring June). Staff will seek renewal quotes and bring items to council in spring/summer. - Ernst & Young Efficiency Study (Melissa Dubowski & Chief Procurement Officer Jed Greenfield): Category councils have been launched to identify overlapping contracts and renegotiation opportunities. A spend dashboard was demonstrated. Example: top fleet vendor has eight separate contracts with differing pricing. A contract for portable restrooms will be brought to council soon showing savings from consolidation. Councilmembers raised concerns about small business opportunities and alignment with climate action goals; staff confirmed reporting will continue and small business opportunities will be incorporated. - Overtime Usage – Police Department (Chief Harden): FY26 year-to-date overtime actuals are $13.9M against a $14.8M budget. Overtime is down 23% from last year due to operational changes. Main drivers are operations (holidays, weather events) and airport system (reimbursed). Attrition: 72 departures vs. 181 new cadets (a net gain). All sergeant and patrol spots are now filled. Response times for code one calls improved to under 6 minutes. Discussion included the cost of disaster overtime (warming centers cost $1M/day citywide), protests (0 to $100K per protest), and the impact of council district safety funds. Chief confirmed such funds are welcomed but must align with captains' priorities. - Overtime Usage – Fire Department (Chief Munoz): FY26 year-to-date overtime is $40.8M, including $3.7M in reimbursable disaster/special event costs. Head count is up 103 from last year. Staff is now able to send more firefighters to paramedic school (backfilling requires overtime). Response times improved by 20 seconds; unit availability improved 92% (from 121 units out of service to 21 in December). Recruitment and retention are strong: projected to exceed attrition. Councilmembers asked about the impact of the shift schedule (current 46.7-hour workweek) and whether changing it could reduce overtime; chief said studies could be reviewed but contractual obligations remain. - Overtime Usage – Solid Waste Department (Director Larryus Hassen): FY26 year-to-date overtime is $3.4-3.5M, on pace with prior years. Main causes: daily route catch-up, fleet availability, absenteeism, and transfer station wait times. New hires: 19 drivers added. Head count dropped from 447 to 385, partly due to early retirement buyout. Re: heavy trash, a new scheduled on-demand service was previewed (see below). Councilmembers noted challenges with delayed pickups and communication of routes. - Controller's Overtime Presentation (Deputy Controller Will Jones): Presented overtime data across all three departments. FY25 actuals exceeded adopted budget by $71.4M (95% from police and fire). FY26 projected overrun: $54.2M. For fire, the projected $81M is 40% above the five-year average, a significant shift. The top 10 overtime earners in fire can nearly triple their salary. Overtime does not count toward pension. Audits scheduled: police by May 2026, fire after. Will Jones noted that natural disasters are becoming the norm and should be better budgeted. - Open Space Ordinance (Parks & Private Parks Ordinance) – Planning Director Von Tran, Parks Director Kenneth Allen, Legal Section Chief Tammy Kim: - Background: Ordinance adopted 2007 to ensure park space as Houston grows. Developers must dedicate land or pay fee-in-lieu ($700/unit, unchanged since 2007). Fees are collected and spent within 21 park sectors. Since 2007, $100M collected; $47M spent on improvements; $36M committed; $13-14M remaining. 199 of 383 parks have been improved. Land acquisition: 65 acres acquired for $14M. - Need for update: State law Texas Local Government Code Chapter 212 (eff. Jan 1, 2024) imposes new requirements. Land dedication capped at 10% of development area; fee collection delayed until certificate of occupancy; calculation change. Minimum fee option likely around $1,260/unit. City must align to avoid litigation and preserve park funding. - Councilmembers and public raised concerns about frozen fee since 2007, inequitable sector boundaries, need for more land acquisition vs. deferred maintenance, and desire to use funds more broadly (e.g., citywide). Next steps: further analysis and proposed amendments. - Solid Waste – Transition to Scheduled Heavy Trash Service (Director Larryus Hassen): - Current system (crew driving every street) is inefficient. New program: residents call 311 to schedule pickup; collection within 5 business days; up to 4 collections per address per year. Launch target: March 2, 2026. Training of drivers on new work order system is underway. Six neighborhood depositories are promoted to reduce illegal dumping. - Route optimization software (previously unused) now implemented; drivers have a target of 950 cans per day. Recycling contamination reduced from 49% to 38.7%. - Contractor support: $2M authorized, 33% used, 6 trucks active, 3,255 tons collected. - Landfill capacity: McCarty 9 years, Blue Ridge 73 years, others 16-30 years. - Councilmembers expressed support but concerns about communication, illegal dumping, feasibility of citywide rollout, and need for sustainable funding (e.g., a trash fee). Director asked for council help in educating the public. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; all items were informational and for discussion. - The Ernst & Young efficiency study will continue, with quarterly updates and contract savings tracked. - HPD and HFD overtime will be monitored; departments will look for savings in other line items to offset overruns. The Controller's audits are scheduled. - The administration will bring forward amendments to the Open Space Ordinance to comply with state law (Chapter 212), with further committee discussion at upcoming meetings. - Solid Waste will proceed with the scheduled heavy trash service, with a tentative launch of March 2, 2026, pending successful training and public outreach. The director committed to sharing the Burns & McDonald cost service study with council. - Next Fiscal Affairs Committee meeting: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 10 AM. Next Government Operations Committee meeting: Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 2 PM.

The Quality of Life Committee of the Houston City Council met on February 2, 2026, in a hybrid format. The committee heard presentations on a municipal settings designation (MSD) for a contaminated property, three public service contracts for homeless and youth programs, an update on the 419 Emancipation facility, and the new enforcement process for prohibited yard parking. Public comments were received on the yard parking issue. Public Comments & Testimony - Ann Collum (Glenbrook Valley Civic Club, 20+ years resident) expressed frustration that HPD stopped enforcing the prohibited yard parking ordinance without notice to neighborhoods. She stated that the change created a gap, with 311 and HPD transferring calls back and forth, and that enforcement must be communicated to affected communities. She urged the city to restore DRT enforcement or improve the new system. - Gina Sylvester (former president of Robindale HOA) questioned the transfer of enforcement from HPD to Public Works, raised safety concerns for code enforcement officers, and highlighted other unenforced parking ordinances (commercial vehicles, vehicles on easements, 24-hour street parking). She suggested that code enforcement could also address other nuisance issues like illegal heavy trash. - Ron McLean and Susan McClellan (Overbrook neighborhood) reported over 250 yard parking violations in their community. They argued that the problem severely reduces property values (by up to 25%), costing the city millions in lost tax revenue. They criticized the lack of communication about the transition, the limited number of inspectors (4) for 221 approved areas, and proposed using drone surveillance, towing, and stronger fines. They urged the committee to tour the neighborhood to see the scale of the issue. Discussion Items - Municipal Settings Designation (MSD) for 3511 West 12th Street – Cassandra Walker (Houston Water) presented an MSD application for a 5.745-acre former metal fabrication site. The property has shallow groundwater contaminated with 1,1-dichloroethylene from a former oil-water separator; the source has been removed, and quarterly monitoring shows the plume is stable or decreasing. The MSD would prohibit use of groundwater for drinking, allowing redevelopment. Public drinking water is available. A public hearing was held; no public comments were made. The application will proceed to City Council and then to TCEQ. - Public Service Contracts – Melody Ball (Housing and Community Development) presented three items: - 3A: Disaster Recovery Homeless Services Program – Guidelines for $41 million in CDBG-DR funds (from 2024 Derecho and Hurricane Beryl) to support shelter, case management, and housing for individuals and families impacted by the storms. - 3B: Catholic Charities Out-of-School Time Program – A first amendment providing an additional $100,000 in CDBG funding to extend the program through March 2027. The program serves low-to-moderate income youth (K-5) in the Alief ISD area, offering after-school academic support and a summer component. Performance: 100% promotion rate, 85% academic rating, 90% social-emotional rating. As of Oct 2025, 31 clients served, 51% of funding spent. Catholic Charities has been a partner since 2003. - 3C: Covenant House Homeless Youth Program – A third amendment providing $545,534 in combined ESG, HHSP, and CDBG funds to extend services through March 2027. The program serves unaccompanied young adults (ages 18-24) with meals, clothing, mental health support, and housing. As of Nov 2025, 145 individuals served (81% over goal), 76% of funding spent. Housing outcomes: 41% exited to subsidized/unsubsidized housing, 38% to transitional housing, 14% to emergency shelter, 7% other. Covenant House has partnered since 2009. - Director’s Report: 419 Emancipation Facility – Housing Director provided an update on the 80-bed facility (co-ed, no children) designed as a centralized access point for people experiencing homelessness, focusing on triage, treatment, and transformation. The city will close on the property on February 9, 2026, with roof repairs paid by seller via price reduction. Operating costs estimated at $12–14 million/year; $10 million/year from CDBG-DR funds for three years. Additional funding expected from state/federal mental health grants, CDBG, general fund, and philanthropic sources. The operator selection process (NOFA) is underway; a selected operator will be presented to the committee on March 2 and to City Council on March 18. Anticipated opening before June 2026. Security will include HPD’s HOT team and a direct line for neighbors. Traffic mitigation (crosswalk) and community engagement are ongoing. - Prohibited Yard Parking Enforcement – Christian Ann (Houston Public Works) presented the new enforcement plan. The ordinance (Article 10, Sections 28-301 through 28-305) applies only to neighborhoods that have opted in (221 approved applications, covering 18,500 parcels out of 1.2 million). Enforcement began January 12, 2026, with 311 phone-in complaints. A dedicated team of 4 inspectors (from the Junk Motor Vehicle team) will respond, first with education (door hangers/violation notices), then a 48-hour checkback, and citations ($150/day) for non-compliance. As of the meeting, 21 complaints received, 19 resolved through voluntary compliance. Safety concerns (de-escalation training, coordination with HPD DRT) were noted. Plans to add online portal and photo uploads in Q2 2026. Key Outcomes - The MSD public hearing was closed; the application will advance to City Council for approval. - The three public service contracts (3A, 3B, 3C) received committee discussion; no formal vote was taken, but they are expected to proceed to City Council for approval. - The 419 Emancipation facility will close on February 9, 2026; the operator selection will be presented to the committee on March 2, 2026, and to City Council on March 18, 2026. The target opening is before June 2026. - The prohibited yard parking enforcement program is now active via 311 phone calls. The committee directed Public Works to improve communication with HOAs and civic clubs about the transition, and to consider expanding enforcement to include other parking violations (commercial vehicles, easement parking, etc.). An online reporting portal with photo uploads is planned for Q2 2026. - The committee will reconvene in early March 2026.

The City Council convened on January 27, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. for its regular evening public session. The meeting featured extensive public testimony on immigration enforcement, solid waste operations, and other community concerns. Council approved numerous items including appointments, budgets, and contracts. Discussions also covered the city's response to a recent freeze and upcoming events. Consent Calendar - Items 1-9 & 11: Approval of appointments to reinvestment zone boards, operations and maintenance budgets for water projects, extension of injury leave for a police officer, and other routine items. Passed unanimously. - Items 12, 15, 27, 28, 34, 35: Approved separately after consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Hadley Hollingsworth, Maya Fletcher Bai, Brent Sullivan, Joseph Panzerelli: Expressed strong opposition to ICE operations, arguing that ICE violates constitutional rights and that HPD collaboration with ICE endangers communities. Called for HPD to end cooperation with ICE. - Monica Hatcher: As a first-generation immigrant and CCW permit holder, expressed fear of denaturalization and violence, and urged the council to defund ICE and fund immigrant legal services. - Jordan Clark: Highlighted the contributions of immigrants as essential workers and criticized HPD-ICE collaboration, stating "these are the people that ICE is targeting." - Lindsay Williams: President of Super Neighborhoods 64 and 88, reported on the Union Pacific Norfolk Southern merger. Noted that the Surface Transportation Board rejected the application on January 16 due to major deficiencies, crediting the super neighborhood's letter requesting a full system evaluation. - Jay Bustos: Criticized the council for inaction on ICE, urging protection for all residents regardless of documentation status. - Nicholas Ron Hale Jr.: Referenced Fred Korematsu Day and argued that ICE does not follow the same rule of law as HPD, creating fear among those who look like him. - Alandra Andrade: Expressed outrage at the council's perceived complicity, stating that residents are "disgusting" for not doing enough to protect immigrant communities. - Frida Adame: Identifying as undocumented, demanded that the city condemn ICE operations and end HPD collaboration, stating "if you don't condemn it, you condone it." - Vianna Trong: A Vietnamese American citizen, reported that her father was wrongfully detained by ICE on January 11, two weeks before his scheduled check-in, and asked the city to oppose deceptive enforcement. - Taylor Brown: Clarified that SB4 does not require HPD to seek out undocumented individuals but requires compliance with immigration detainers only when already in lawful custody for a criminal offense, noting that many traffic stops are non-criminal and should not lead to ICE handovers. - Solid waste employees (Kerry Johnson, Russell Harrison, Craig Senior, and others): Described challenges including increased work hours (six 10-hour days), lack of PPE, stolen tools, and need for better public compliance with 8-cubic-yard limit. Stressed the need for more resources and a city ordinance addressing parking on collection days. - Chidi Chupa: A taxi operator, opposed the airport's plan to allow Uber in taxi lots, saying it would push them out of business. - Rain Eatman: Thanked the mayor for opening warming centers but criticized lack of protection for vulnerable residents from ICE, urging the mayor to follow examples of Minneapolis, Chicago, and New York. - Stephanie Padilla: Representing Immigrant Youth Texas, stated that immigrant communities are living in fear and accused the city of contradictory statements while continuing collaboration with ICE. - Nora Pears: Member of UH YDSA, criticized the mayor for not taking a strong stance against ICE, referencing the murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretty in Minneapolis, and demanded local government fight back. - Jessica Dugan: Discussed the HISD takeover and announced a sick-out and board meeting on February 12, 2026, asking council members to attend. - Aubrey Contreras: Member of the ICS Collaborative, requested a commitment from the city to stand against ICE violence and asked for a moment of silence (not held). Discussion Items - Mayor Whitmeyer's Remarks: Reported that over 1,000 individuals used warming centers during the freeze. Announced that First Robotics agreed to bring their convention back to Houston for seven years due to the expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center, with a $500 million economic impact. Also noted BARC rescued 91 dogs. - Councilmember Castillo: Thanked residents and city departments for freeze response. Announced a Melrose Park Town Hall on February 1 and a Love Your Pet Month in February. Suggested improvements to security and website timing for evening sessions. - Councilmember Davis: Decried the conduct of speakers the previous night as disrespectful, but emphasized support for the process and noted his wife is from Colombia, stating he understands immigration concerns. - Councilmember Flickinger: Marked the 40th anniversary of the Challenger disaster. Highlighted the Quasar Awards and BayHouston Economic Partnership. - Councilmember Thomas: Recounted District F's freeze response: provided 462 hot meals, 17 locations, 67 walk-ins, pet food, and supplies. Admitted the city lacks a complete grasp of homelessness. Announced the "Super Bowl of Housing" meeting on February 5 for 9% tax credits. Also noted her staffer's work on Black maternal mortality rates. - Councilmember Castex-Tatum: Announced a rescheduled shred day on January 31 in District K. - Councilmember Martinez: Thanked volunteers and emphasized the need for factual information to counter ICE-related fear. Stated commitment to the immigrant community and urged collective effort. - Councilmember Pollard: Called for updating the website meeting time to 5:00 p.m. and for better transitioning warming center guests to permanent housing. Stated that immigration enforcement should focus on dangerous criminals, not undocumented individuals who are not committing crimes. - Councilmember Alcorn: Announced a joint committee meeting on February 3 to discuss the quarterly financial report, open space ordinance, and solid waste operations. - Councilmember Salinas: Thanked citizens for speaking, acknowledged the difficulty of the messages, and condemned the murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretty, vowing to prevent such incidents in Houston. - Councilmember Carter: Urged media to report responsibly and partner with the city to calm fears, noting that no one was turned out of warming centers without a plan. Praised HPD for escorting a homeless person to shelter. - Councilmember Evans-Shabazz: Reported that the Third Ward warming center had 48 of a 50-person capacity, and Sunnyside was over capacity. Announced a Martin Luther King Jr. lecture series and a community meeting on non-permitted structures. Proposed ending minor traffic stops to reduce ICE interactions, stating we can do something to help. Key Outcomes - Consent and ordinance items: Items 1-9, 11-12, 15, 18-25, 27-28, 32, 34-35 approved unanimously. - Union Pacific Merger: Referenced as rejected by the Surface Transportation Board on January 16, 2026, following local opposition. - Freeze Response: Warming centers operated successfully; plans for next freeze noted. - Next Meeting: The next council session was announced for January 28, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

The Houston Planning Commission convened at 2:32 PM on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at City Hall Annex (900 Bagby) with a quorum of 15 commissioners present. Chair Clark presided. The meeting covered approval of previous minutes, semi-annual reports on impact fees, and a lengthy consent agenda followed by public hearings on plat applications and variance requests. The meeting adjourned at 3:32 PM. Consent Calendar - January 8, 2026 Minutes: Approved unanimously. - Capital Improvements Advisory Committee – Water/Wastewater Impact Fees: The January 2026 semi-annual report (reporting period May 1–October 31, 2025) documented $27,144,778 in revenue and interest from water and wastewater impact fees. The current fee of $4,286.93 per service unit is 38.60% of the maximum allowed. A total of 5,0841 service units for water and 723 service units for wastewater generated the fees; 647 single‑family residences below median housing price were exempt. The Commission authorized appropriation of the total revenue and interest to debt retirement. Approved unanimously. - Capital Improvements Advisory Committee – Drainage Impact Fees: The January 2026 semi-annual report documented $822,851.24 in drainage impact fees purchased during the reporting period, with a total of $8,223,446 since program inception. Approved unanimously. - Platting Activity – Sections A and B (Consent and Replat Items Not Requiring Notification): Items 1–29 (consent) and 30–70 (replat) were presented as one group. Commissioners abstained on items 4, 5, 14, 15, 24, and 26. The remaining items were approved as recommended by staff. The only contested item was Item 29 (Willow Parish), a private‑street development with 44 lots and 8 reserves in the Acres Home area. A speaker (Helen Ripple) requested tabling, arguing the plat did not conform to the general plan and would remove all trees with minimal landscaping. Staff responded that the plat is a “shall approve” under state law (Chapter 42) because it met all requirements; a variance for a 15‑foot right‑of‑way had already been granted. The Commission approved the plat unanimously. - Extensions of Approval (Items 91–96) and other administrative items (Sections G–J): Approved unanimously with Commissioner Motes abstaining from Item 93. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke during the public comment period (Roman numeral 5). Discussion Items Plat Approvals with Public Hearings (Items 71–81) All items were presented by staff and opened for public hearing. No speakers appeared for most items; all were approved on staff recommendation. - Item 71 (Centenario Homes at Farmer) – Replat to create two single‑family lots. Approved. - Item 72 (SIFAR Fire Station No. 15) – Replat for one unrestricted reserve in Harris County ETJ. Approved. - Item 73 (Homewood Estates) – Replat to create two single‑family lots. Approved. - Item 74 (Moore Street Living) – Deferred per applicant’s request to meet notification requirements. - Item 75 (New Haven Villas) – Replat to create two single‑family lots. Approved. - Item 76 (Plaza Estate at Noble) – Replat to create six single‑family lots and one parking reserve. Approved. - Item 77 (Shadow Creek Estates, Lego Woods, Section 1, Partial Replat No. 1) – Replat for one single‑family lot in the ETJ. Staff noted one public comment but deemed the plat “shall approve.” Approved. - Item 78 (Swiftwater Estate) – Replat for one single‑family lot. A neighbor (Melanie Erdialis) spoke in opposition, citing flooding concerns and asserting that deed restrictions limit lot size to 50 feet wide and prohibit a mobile home. She requested deferral. Staff legal counsel stated the original deed restrictions expired in 1997 and a renewal attempt was procedurally invalid, making the restrictions unenforceable. The Commission approved the plat. Commissioner Garza advised the speaker that she could pursue deed restriction enforcement in court and consider a minimum lot size application. - Item 79 (Tidwell Square) – Replat for four single‑family lots; previously deferred to address deed restrictions. Applicant provided revised drawing meeting the restrictions. Approved. - Item 80 (Windsor Place Edition Partial Replat No. 4) – Replat for one single‑family lot with a variance request for a 6‑foot building line (instead of 10·ft) along Haddon Street to allow a remodel connecting an existing duplex and garage apartment. A neighbor (Susan Kissler) objected, claiming the proposal had changed since a neighborhood meeting and that representations were not truthful. The applicant’s representative (Nathan Dietrich) confirmed the change – eliminating a planned fourth garage bay – and that the 6‑foot line matches existing conditions. Commissioner Motes noted a CenterPoint condition requiring a 10‑foot clearance for overhead facilities but acknowledged the existing structure already sits at 6 feet. The variance was granted and the plat approved on staff recommendation. - Item 81 (Roxton Estates) – Replat to create two single‑family lots. Approved. Subdivision Plats with Variance Requests (Items 82–90) - Item 82 (City Place GP) – Approximately 660‑acre general plan in the ETJ requesting a variance to exceed maximum intersection spacing along the western boundary. Staff supported the variance; Harris County Engineering had no objection. Granted and approved. - Item 83 (E Street at Carby) – 24‑acre unrestricted reserve in the ETJ requesting a variance to not require a north‑south and east‑west public street. Staff supported due to constraints (pipeline, flood control channel, low density). Variance granted and plat approved. - Item 84 (Facio Villas) – Three single‑family lots off a shared driveway; originally requested a zero‑foot building line but later amended to meet Chapter 42 without a variance. Two public comments received (one opposing, one supporting). Approved without variance. - Item 85 (Jubilee Section 22) – 64 single‑family lots in the ETJ requesting a variance to allow lots to front on a green space instead of a public street, with vehicular access from a 20‑foot public alley. Staff supported the design as pedestrian‑friendly. Variance granted and plat approved. - Item 86 – No action taken; a 30‑day extension to February 5, 2026 had been previously approved. - Item 87 (North Shore Partial Replat No. 1) – Two residential lots (each over one acre) requesting a variance to not extend multiple stub streets through the tract. Staff supported, noting sufficient exit points. Variance granted and plat approved. - Item 88 (Quinn Meadows) – Variance request to allow residential lots to take access from a 20‑foot private alley. Deferred per applicant’s request. - Item 89 (River Grove General Plan) – Over 136‑acre property in Kingwood area proposing a hotel‑type resort with marina access. Variance requested to not provide a public east‑west street. City Councilwoman Sally Alcorn requested deferral for further review and coordination with applicant. Staff also noted comments about flooding, wildlife (bald eagle exclusion zone), and design concerns. Deferred for two weeks. - Item 90 (Wayne Beck Enterprises) – Nearly 12‑acre property in the ETJ requesting variance to not provide a north‑south street. Same variance had been granted in August 2025; a reserve change required reconsideration. Staff supported; Harris County Engineering had no objection. Variance granted and plat approved. Establishment of Public Hearing Date - The Commission set a public hearing for February 19, 2026 on the following plats: Claremont Place Section 1 Partial Replat No. 13, Concrete Dolphin Family Partial Replat No. 1, Darling Villas Replat No. 1, Montgomery Enclave, and Rose Hill Pines. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous with no opposition recorded. - Variances granted for intersection spacing (Items 82, 83, 90) and lot frontage (Item 85). - Variance granted for a reduced building line on item 80. - Deferrals: Items 74 (at applicant’s request), 88 (at applicant’s request), and 89 (at Councilwoman’s request). - Director’s Report announced that beginning February 1, 2026, all public notices from Planning & Development will be sent in postcard format, and a survey on the new plat tracker website will be conducted. - Commissioners commended staff for professionalism and solution‑oriented work.