Amy Gates

The board conducted a swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed and reappointed members. The primary agenda item involved a public hearing regarding a resolution to extend the term of the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone Number 2 by ten years and to approve an amended and restated project and financing plan. The proposed amendments incorporate updated infrastructure project costs, provisions for the use of funds, and realignments with an existing development agreement for the Preston Harbor project. A citizen provided testimony expressing concerns regarding the financial implications and long-term commitment of the extension.

The board discussed a request for a certificate of appropriateness for exterior improvements to the Rialto Theater. Proposed work includes removing rotten exterior steps and creating an ADA-compliant entrance, removing a box office addition to restore the original 1960s configuration, painting the facade with a classic beige and black color scheme, and replacing missing bulbs on the marquee. The board also reviewed the removal of refrigeration panels on the upper facade to investigate the condition of the underlying windows for potential repair or replacement.

The board discussed several items, including the approval of grant submissions for the Music on Main Concert Series and sponsorship outreach strategies to mitigate potential budget deficits. Discussions also covered plans for a Good Morning downtown business owner and stakeholder event, focusing on departmental participation and survey implementation to gather feedback. Finally, the board deliberated on the scheduling of the Meet Me on Main event, considering the completion of the D3 project and the timing of other community festivals.

The committee held a public hearing to discuss and make a recommendation for the approval of the 2026-2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) annual action plan. Key topics included the program's funding allocation for the year, the finalization of a Section 108 loan payment, and the proposed distribution of funds across various programs, including minor and emergency rehabilitation, program administration, a new relocation assistance program for individuals displaced from substandard structures, and code enforcement. The committee reviewed the proposed budgetary breakdown and formally recommended the action plan for final adoption by the city council.

The City Council meeting included a proclamation for Juneteenth. The Council held public hearings to discuss zoning requests, including a motion to table a rezoning request for 2016 West McGregor Drive until a future meeting. Additionally, the Council approved a rezoning request for 315 West Coffin from multi-family residential to local retail and granted a conditional use permit for the property to operate as the Paloma Event Center, subject to conditions regarding hours of operation, parking, and landscaping plans.