Public Meetings - Monterey, California

The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting scheduled for May 14, 2026, was called to order but immediately adjourned due to a lack of quorum. No business was conducted. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

The Monterey Planning Commission met on May 12, 2026, to consider a consent agenda, public comments, and three public hearing items: a sign permit, athletic field improvements at Santa Catalina School, and a four-story mixed-use development. The commission approved all items with minor conditions. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the previous hearing (motion by Commissioner Stoker, second by Commissioner Bluth, unanimous 6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Daniel Mandez raised concerns about a street vending ticket he received, alleging procedural unfairness regarding witness testimony and measurement of distance from a statue. - Richard Russello, President of the Casanova Okno Neighborhood Association, appealed for traffic light synchronization along North Fremont Street, citing gridlock at peak hours and urging coordination with Seaside and Caltrans. Public Hearing: 2301 North Fremont Street – Sign Permit - Staff recommendation to approve a new vehicle-oriented freestanding sign for a 7-Eleven gas station. The project had minor inconsistencies with sign guidelines (size and illumination) but was found compliant with state law and the North Fremont Specific Plan. - No public testimony; applicant not present. - Motion and vote: Approved unanimously (6-0). Decision appealable within 10 days. Public Hearing: 1500 Mark Thomas Drive – Santa Catalina School Athletic Field Improvements - Proposal to replace a natural grass field with synthetic turf, add a track, retaining walls, fencing, netting, and remove six trees. The project was part of the school’s master plan and included a mitigated negative declaration under CEQA. - Applicant presentation: Barbara Ostos, head of school, emphasized health and safety benefits, no new lighting, reduced water use, and no visual impacts. - Public testimony: - Daniel Mandez objected to removal of 11 mature trees (including live oaks) and raised concerns about grading, water retention, and handling of potential archaeological finds. - David Armanosco, former trustee, expressed strong support. - Commission discussion: Commissioners praised the project's quality and community benefit. - Motion and vote: Approved unanimously (6-0). Decision appealable within 10 days. Public Hearing: 2200 and 2210 North Fremont Street – Mixed-Use Building - Proposal for a four-story building with 49 residential units (20% affordable for low/moderate income), 739 sq. ft. ground-floor commercial, and 39 parking spaces. The project utilized State Density Bonus Law for parking reduction and was subject to Housing Accountability Act protections. - Staff report by Fernanda Roveri outlined compliance with objective standards; the project was referred to commission per public request. - Applicant presentation: Paul Davis described design efforts to fit with neighborhood. - Public testimony: - Luis Osorio (former commissioner) strongly supported, citing state housing laws and need for development. - Mary Alice Cerrito Fettis (N. Fremont Business District) supported, citing revitalization. - Edward Cherazi (adjacent resident) opposed, raising traffic, parking, privacy, and safety concerns. - James Nichols raised water rights and avigation easement issues. - Mike Brassfield (Kono Neighborhood Association) voiced concerns about parking overflow and privacy. - Daniel Mandez again opposed tree removals. - Richard Russello highlighted adverse impacts on Bruce Lane traffic, parking, sight lines, and privacy. - Wendy Brickman (N. Fremont Business District) supported, emphasizing housing need. - Commission discussion: Several commissioners expressed frustration over limited discretion due to state laws but acknowledged the project meets all objective standards and provides needed housing. A condition for a Construction Management Plan (CMP) was added. - Motion and vote: Approved 6-0 with added condition of CMP to address construction logistics. Decision appealable within 10 days. Key Outcomes - All three public hearing items were approved unanimously. - The commission directed staff to add the sign permit item to the consent calendar for future meetings where appropriate. - Commissioner Blut proposed creating a citywide planting plan to replace district-specific plans; this will be discussed at the June work program meeting. - The upcoming May 26 meeting agenda will include multiple items and may require a quorum review.

The Museums and Cultural Arts Commission met on May 7, 2026, to discuss a new public art policy, vote on artistic wraps for Fisherman's Wharf trash receptacles, and begin planning for the restoration and replication of the city's Monterey Angels collection. The commission also received updates on several city art and historic projects. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (March 5, 2026): The minutes were approved unanimously. Commissioners noted two typos in the same paragraph. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made either in person or via Zoom. Discussion Items - Public Art Policy Presentation: Staff (Brian and intern Ariana) presented the initial research and draft framework for a new public art policy. The policy aims to create a clear, simplified process for artists, businesses, and residents to install art in public spaces—including private art visible to the public. Key points included: defining public vs. private art, addressing insurance and risk, providing a flowchart for applications, and ensuring compliance with historic preservation and neighborhood plans. Commissioners requested simplification to avoid bureaucracy and emphasized the need for a funding component. The policy will return for further review after input from the city attorney and community development. - Public Trash Receptacle Art Wraps: Staff proposed wrapping 11–12 city-owned trash cans on Fisherman's Wharf with aluminum panels depicting historic Monterey sardine can labels (owned by the city or licensed from the Monterey County Historical Society). The project is funded by Tidelands Trust funds. Commissioners supported the idea and suggested adding interpretive signage, QR codes linking to walking tours, and potentially seeking co-funding from the Fisherman's Wharf Association. The motion to approve the project passed unanimously. - Monterey Angels Fundraising and Restoration: Staff reported that the city owns approximately 100 wood angels (originating from 1956 and 1973) in varying states of disrepair. The originals are too fragile for outdoor display; 12 aluminum composite replicas have been made. The commission discussed options: restoring originals for indoor display, creating more replicas for public streets, and launching an “adopt-an-angel” sponsorship program. Commissioners Caldi and one other volunteered to form an ad hoc committee to research fundraising, licensing, and partnership models. The committee will bring recommendations back to the commission. Key Outcomes - Approved consent calendar (minutes of March 5, 2026). - Approved the Fisherman's Wharf trash receptacle art wrap project, with staff to coordinate design, signage, and potential co-funding with the Wharf Association. - Appointed an ad hoc committee (Commissioners Caldi and one additional volunteer) to develop a fundraising and restoration plan for the Monterey Angels, including exploring sponsorship, replica production, and events. - Staff Reports: Updates were provided on: - Pacific Biological Laboratories: accessibility plan approved by Historic Preservation Commission; staff exploring use of available CDBG funds from Western Flyer Foundation. - Path of History: new signs installed (Casa Serrano, Pearl District); larger sign replacement project cost estimated at $300,000–$400,000. - Utility Box Art: staff re-engaging with engineering to update maps of city-owned boxes for a potential wrapped-art program. - Granito Mural (conference center): contractor proposing full tile removal and reinstallation with safer mounting; grant applications pending. - Colton Hall Music Series and summer art programming: staff capacity and scheduling to be discussed. - Next Meeting: The June 4th meeting is canceled due to a conflict; potential rescheduling to June 11th is pending confirmation of room and staff availability. Commissioners were asked to provide availability.

The May 7, 2026, zoning administrator meeting, chaired by Zoning Administrator Levi Hill, considered two use permit applications for commercial tenant spaces. Both were approved with conditions after staff presentations and no public testimony. The meeting also included approval of the consent calendar (March 19, 2026, meeting minutes). Consent Calendar - The March 19, 2026, meeting minutes were approved as submitted after a call for public comment yielded no response. Zoning Administrator Hill, who attended the prior meeting, found the minutes accurate. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comment on any agenda item, either in chambers or via Zoom/telephone. Discussion Items - Item 3: 744 Lighthouse Avenue Suite B – Community Fit Camp LLC (Fitness Gym) - Staff Report (Christy Sabdo): The existing one-story building with three tenants is zoned PCLH (Plan Community Lighthouse Specific Plan, mixed-use neighborhood designation). The proposed gym use (assembly minor instructional service) requires a use permit. Key conditions: 65-decibel noise limit measured at property line, operating hours 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., occupancy per building/fire code. No parking required per Lighthouse Specific Plan. Use complements surrounding mixed uses. - Applicant Alfred Soto requested clarity on the 65-decibel measurement point (property line confirmed). No questions from the Zoning Administrator. - Decision: Approved with conditions as drafted. - Item 4: 700 Cannery Row Suite O – Gelato by the C (Restaurant Fast Food, Ice Cream/Gelato Shop) - Staff Report (Chris Schmidt): The site is in the Cannery Row Commercial District with a mixed-use neighborhood general plan designation. The 845-square-foot space (previously retail) will be remodeled internally with no exterior changes. Seating capacity: 24 seats. Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, 7 days a week. Staff: 1-3 employees per shift, required to park at Cannery Row garage or use alternative transportation. Water permit confirmed. Conditions include standard conditions plus an employee parking agreement. The use is consistent with visitor-serving commercial character. - Applicant Danny Halla (Beans of Eden Incorporated) expressed appreciation and hope to open by summer. No questions from Zoning Administrator. - Decision: Approved with conditions as drafted. Key Outcomes - Use Permit UP 26056 (744 Lighthouse Ave Ste B) approved with four special conditions (noise, hours, occupancy, and standard conditions). - Use Permit UP 260053 (700 Cannery Row Ste O) approved with standard conditions and a requirement for a parking agreement to satisfy the Cannery Row employee parking plan. - Both decisions are appealable to the Planning Commission within 10 days of the meeting. - Meeting adjourned with no further business.

The Monterey City Council met on the afternoon of March 17, 2026, to address a wide range of items including proclamations, energy updates, emergency response reports, committee appointments, facility repairs, rental inventory data, housing element progress, and a denied license agreement. The meeting lasted over five hours and included public comment on numerous topics. Proclamations - Women's History Month (March 2026): Councilmember Rash read a proclamation declaring March 2026 as Women's History Month, recognizing women's contributions and featuring a presentation by City Clerk Clementine Bonner-Klein on trailblazing women in Monterey. - American Red Cross Month (March 2026): Councilmember Smith read the proclamation. Red Cross representatives and the Fire Chief highlighted the organization's critical role, including response to the recent Casanova fire. The Chief reported that 49 households were assisted and 682 smoke alarms installed in Monterey County last year. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment: Community members spoke on street conditions (Pearl Street uplift), support for the rental registry program, a request to ban armored vehicles from the July 4th parade, and updates on local events and church activities. - Consent Calendar: No public comments or items pulled. Agenda approved unanimously. - Central Coast Community Energy (3CE): Public speaker Bob expressed caution about battery production risks and advocated for nuclear alternatives. - Appointments: Two speakers addressed the Bike & Pedestrian committee appointments, supporting the interview process and urging neutrality. - Vásquez Adobe & Gordon House Repairs: Public supported immediate action to preserve historic buildings. - Rental Inventory Program: Testimony highlighted the program's value for data-driven policy, questioned cost effectiveness, and asked about enforcement and hero stories. - 2025 General Plan Update: Multiple speakers urged the council to immediately allocate available water for housing, citing the need to avoid delays under the Cease and Desist Order (CDO). - Pecos League License: Callers supported staff's recommendation to deny, citing insufficient cost recovery and operational issues. Discussion Items - 3CE Annual Update: Sophia Schwartzky (3CE Community Relations Manager) presented progress on renewable energy, battery storage (e.g., no flex alert needed on July 4, 2024), rate reductions, and the PCIA fee. Council thanked staff and discussed advocacy for bill AB1761. - Casanova Fire Report: Fire Chief detailed the March 17 fire at 800 Casanova (86-unit building). First responders arrived in under five minutes; 8+ people rescued from balconies; mutual aid from as far as Hollister. Council praised all city departments, CERT, Red Cross, and community partners. - Committee Appointments: Subcommittee (Mayor Williamson and Vice Mayor Smith) recommended most candidates unanimously, but disagreed on the TAMC Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Committee seat. After debate, the council voted 3-2 to appoint Susie Bryan as the representative and Catherine Edgerton as alternate. - Continental Shelf MOU: Council authorized entering a MOU with Santa Cruz County to coordinate opposition to offshore oil drilling. Mayor Williamson appointed as primary representative, Dr. Rash as alternate. $1,000 allocated from planning budget. - Vásquez Adobe & Gordon House Repairs: General Services Manager presented severe structural issues (roof leaks, failed foundations, termite damage). Council approved $1,093,000 transfer from facility reserve to capital projects fund for repairs, despite depleting the reserve to $7,000. - Rental Inventory Program Annual Report: Staff reported 6,205 registered rental units (83% compliance), LLCs charge 10% higher rents, and the program helps cross‑verify rental assistance. Council discussed sunset (Jan 1, 2029), enforcement, and potential policy implications. - 2025 General Plan Annual Report: Progress on the Housing Element (77% of programs in progress/completed/continuous), water allocation barriers, and certified Housing Element. Council received the report without action, with discussion on staffing capacity and CDO impact. - Denial of Pecos League License: Parks & Rec staff recommended denial due to ongoing operational issues and lack of cost neutrality after seven years. Council voted unanimously to deny the license for the Monterey Amberjacks at Sollecito Park. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved by unanimous vote. - Tourism District Modification: Resolution approved unanimously. - Committee Appointments: Mayor's subcommittee recommendations approved (with the exception of Bike/Ped committee) by vote 3-2 (Smith, Barber, Rash for Catherine; Williams, Garcia for Susie). Final action: Susie Bryan (rep) and Catherine Edgerton (alternate) - Continental Shelf MOU: Authorized; Mayor appointed rep, Dr. Rash alternate; $1,000 contribution. - Building Repairs: $1,093,000 transferred from facility reserve to capital projects for Vásquez Adobe and Gordon House repairs. Motion passed unanimously. - Pecos League License: Denied unanimously. - Proclamations: Both adopted with public recognition. - Council Comments: Mayor shared a police ride-along story, thanking MPD for professionalism. Closed Session - Real property negotiation (601 Wave Street) and anticipated litigation regarding affordable housing unit (300 Glenwood Circle). No public comment submitted.

On March 12, 2026, the Monterey Historic Preservation Commission held a regular meeting. The commission approved the consent calendar, received updates on the Lower Presidio Historic Park, accepted the Certified Local Government (CLG) annual report, and discussed upcoming events. All commissioners were present. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes from the February 12, 2026 meeting as written. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made in person or online. Discussion Items - Lower Presidio Historic Park Update: Planning Manager Levi Hill presented an overview of the park's history, current lease with the U.S. Army (expiring 2046), and challenges including erosion on the hillside. The Army has secured federal funding to build a retaining wall or soil management system on its property. The city is considering options such as seeking national monument or historic site designation, exploring federal management, or continuing the lease. The commission discussed the importance of public access, volunteer docent programs, and the need for sensitive treatment of archaeological sites. Commissioner questions focused on the Army's future plans, the process for event permits, and the potential for a National Park Service takeover. - Certified Local Government (CLG) 2024-25 Annual Report: Principal Planner Fernando Boveri presented the annual report required by the State Office of Historic Preservation. Highlights included a fully staffed commission with good attendance, three major projects reviewed (1078 West Franklin, La Aida Cafe, and Hellam House), and commissioners exceeding the required one hour of training. Commissioner Corvello requested a correction to add his M.A. in history to the commission membership list. The commission voted to accept the report with the suggested change. - Planning Update: Staff reported that no items are currently scheduled for the April 9 meeting, but that could change. Upcoming events were noted, including the Neurodiversity and Disabilities Awareness Month art show, Monterey Parts Cutting Day, and the Rhythms and Resistance concert. Key Outcomes - Vote: Unanimously approved the consent calendar (minutes). - Vote: Unanimously accepted the CLG annual report with the correction to Commissioner Corvello's credentials. - No action: The Lower Presidio Historic Park update and planning update were informational only. - Next steps: Staff will continue to work with the Army on erosion mitigation and pursue federal legislation for a special resource study. The commission will be notified if any new items appear on the April agenda.

On March 9, 2026, a subcommittee composed of Mayor Tyler Williamson and Vice Mayor Ed Smith held a public meeting to interview applicants for several city boards, commissions, and committees. The meeting began with a moment of recognition for a fire that occurred in Monterey that day, which impacted senior residents and resulted in at least one casualty. The subcommittee expressed gratitude to first responders. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Applicant Interviews - Charlie Cho (applied for Appeals Hearing Board): Heard about the opportunity via email and neighborhood association. Background in software and internet security. Attended one appeals meeting as an appellant. Emphasized analytical skills and willingness to research thoroughly. Demonstrated collaborative approach by listening and finding common ground. - Michael D. (applied for Appeals Hearing Board and Measure P/S Oversight Committee): Heard via Monterey Matters email. Background in education (public school teacher, adjunct psychology instructor). Preferred Measure P/S for its practical focus on street repairs. Had not attended meetings; noted a potential scheduling conflict with current semester (teaches Thursdays at 11:20 a.m.) but expected flexibility. Emphasized focusing on shared goals to resolve disagreements. - Catherine Edgerton (Kate) (applied for TAMC Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee): Heard via Monterey Weekly. Background as a writing instructor at Naval Postgraduate School. Pedestrian commuter and recreational cyclist. Had not attended meetings but read minutes. Volunteer with League of Women Voters and poll worker. Stressed importance of inclusive communication and evidence-based decision-making. - Susie Bryan (applied for TAMC Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee): Heard via city website. Background in bike tourism and experience living in car-free cities. Attended one previous meeting. Enthusiastic about bike infrastructure and emphasized listening to diverse community needs. Hoped to reflect community needs accurately. - Diane (applied for TAMC Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee): Heard via neighborhood newsletter. Background in creative field, former school board member, avid cyclist and walker. Had not attended meetings. Emphasized staying focused on mission, listening, and being open to new ideas. Also shared insights from umpiring experience about consistency and positioning. Key Outcomes - The subcommittee completed interviews with five applicants on March 9, 2026, and will conduct two additional interviews on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. - After all interviews, Mayor Williamson and Vice Mayor Smith will deliberate and make recommendations to the full City Council. - The City Council will consider the appointments at its meeting on March 17, 2026. - The public is invited to attend that meeting.

The Monterey Museum Commission met on March 5, 2026, to consider two deaccession proposals for art and furniture items from the city's collection. Commissioners also received updates on the Western Flyer Foundation's funding status for the biological laboratories, the Lower Presidio Park erosion project, and park improvements. The meeting was chaired by Commissioner Rukowski, with Commissioners Turgein, Fuller, and Evans present; Commissioner Caldy was absent. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the consent agenda, including two sets of minutes with minor typographical corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments, either in person or via Zoom. Discussion Items - Art Collection Deaccession: Ryan (staff) presented a proposal to deaccession 11 artworks from the city's museum collection, citing lack of storage capacity, deterioration, and items outside the collection scope (Monterey or peninsula artists). Items included a donation of an Abraham Lincoln print (unknown artist), large fiber artworks (e.g., 42x42 inches, 54x76 inches, 15x9 feet), deteriorating “Path of History” wood panels (six 4x8 ft panels, one 2x8 ft panel, one 2x4 ft panel), and an aerial photo from 1978 (65x79 inches, two panels). Many were originally displayed at the Monterey Conference Center or other city buildings and are now stored in the city garage, which has moisture issues. The city lacks funds for restoration or display. Funds from sales would go to the museum trust for acquisitions and preservation. Staff recommended selling art through an auction house specializing in art, and donating the Path of History panels and the aerial view to local nonprofits (e.g., Stanton Center, Old Monterey). The commission encouraged this approach. - Furniture Deaccession: Ryan also presented a proposal to deaccess 12 furniture items from Folten Hall, including a broken captain's chair (1951 purchase, right arm broken), a Windsor barrel back chair (1950 purchase, does not fit current décor), fiber chairs (1958 gift, unsuitable for seating), a cave bottom chair (purchased to match a judge's desk but not part of a collection), a rocking chair, a pain chair (1965 donation, broken), and a Bonifacio Adobe bench (donated by Carmel Monastery, broken). Two roll-top desks (1968 purchase, one damaged) were also included, as staff believes funding should focus on other projects. Staff recommended offering the Bonifacio bench to historic organizations (e.g., state parks) and selling other items. The commission supported this. - Western Flyer Foundation Update: Staff clarified that an article in the Herald about the biological laboratories incorrectly implied full funding. The Western Flyer Foundation has only $214,000 from HUD through Jim Fanetta's office, not $2 million. The project lacks full funding, construction plans, or architect design. It was previously presented to the Historic Preservation Commission for adoption of a historic preservation report only. - Lower Presidio Park Erosion Project: Staff reported that the Army has published an environmental report with three options for stabilizing erosion on Lighthouse Avenue: an 8-foot wall, a 3-to-4-foot low retaining wall (similar to what the city built on its property), and minimal grading with plants and drainage. City Council favored the low retaining wall option. The Army is funding all work and will maintain one lane of traffic during construction. The Army is accepting public comments by March 9, 2026. A letter from the mayor was approved and submitted. - Triangular Area Across from Stokes Adobe: Commissioner Rukowski noted that the Parks Department placed unusual items (e.g., an upturned jar) in the triangular area across from Stokes Adobe behind the Museum of Art. She suggested adding benches and a rotating sculpture, similar to Elkins Park, and noted that the Museum of Art could handle curation with city permission. - Lower Presidio Park Gathering: Commissioner Rukowski reported a well-attended gathering at Lower Presidio Park despite rain, with many public comments. A second meeting is being planned. - Concert Series: The commission noted upcoming concerts on April 4 and May 2 (Saturdays at 4 p.m.), which have been fully attended. A fall season is expected, with potential art events in summer. Key Outcomes - The commission unanimously approved a motion to deaccess all listed art and furniture items, directing staff to return to the City Council with a consent item outlining the deaccession methods (auction for art, donation for Path of History panels and aerial view, and appropriate disposal for other items). For furniture, staff was encouraged to evaluate donation of the Bonifacio bench to state parks or other historic organizations, and to sell the remaining items via auction to benefit the museum trust fund. - No votes were taken on the Lower Presidio Park or Western Flyer Foundation updates; these were informational only. - The next commission meeting is scheduled for April 2, 2026.

The Board of Library Trustees met on February 26, 2026, to discuss the Memory Lab project, fund development trends, the FY2027 trust fund budget, and advocacy messaging. All trustees were present. The meeting included a presentation on the new Memory Lab, a detailed review of library fundraising and trust fund balances, and approval of the upcoming budget. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. Items included routine approvals; the minutes from the previous meeting were not yet available and will be carried over to the next meeting. Discussion Items - Memory Lab Presentation: Assistant Library Director Brian Edwards presented plans for a facilitated Memory Lab to allow patrons to digitize home media (VHS, 8mm film, slides, photos, etc.). The lab will be named the Copeland Memory Lab in honor of the recently deceased Dennis Copeland, a longtime local history volunteer. The service will be by appointment, staff- or volunteer-assisted, and will require a waiver to avoid copyright issues. The equipment was purchased with MC Gibbs funds from the prior fiscal year. - Fund Development Trends: Edwards presented a multi-year overview of library fundraising, showing that the MC Gibbs campaign raised $85,764 in 2025, with a $12,537 match from the Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC), totaling $98,301. The library trust fund balance stands at $806,143, and the CFMC endowment is at $486,453. Interest income from the trust fund was $17,000 this fiscal year. The library has seen a steady increase in donations and grants, though state and federal grants are becoming more constrained. - Trust Fund Budget for FY2027: Edwards proposed a trust fund budget with $2,200 in revenue and $2,200 in expenditures, including $25,000 for staff support, $30,000 for library materials, $30,000 for equipment outlay, and $100,000 for special projects (MC Gibbs funds). He requested board approval with the ability to increase certain line items (e.g., contractual services, programs, materials) if the general fund is reduced by 5-10% due to the city's structural deficit. The board discussed the need for evening hours and the difficulty of funding them from the trust fund, but agreed to support the budget as presented. - Advocacy Talking Points: Trustees Janey and Marsha presented a draft of advocacy messaging to communicate the library's needs and achievements. The discussion focused on condensing the content, including quotes from patrons, and making it accessible for different audiences. The board agreed to have a smaller working group (Chair Delorme, Trustee Silvera, Edwards, and McGee) refine the talking points and bring them back for further review at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved: The FY2027 trust fund budget was approved unanimously, with the understanding that Edwards may adjust certain line items if needed based on general fund reductions. - Next Steps: The advocacy talking points will be refined by a working group and presented for further discussion at the March meeting. The Memory Lab is expected to launch in the coming months, with a naming recognition for Dennis Copeland to be formalized at a future meeting. - Other: The board welcomed intern Ariana from Middlebury College. The library will host a memorial for Dennis Copeland on Sunday, March 2, 2026, in the library community room.