Deborah Knight

The City Council meeting commenced with the call to order and roll call, confirming a quorum with one member attending remotely. The initial segment included the pledge of allegiance and public comments. Residents primarily voiced concerns regarding the Davis properties annexation process, citing concerns over outdated data, process sequencing, and inadequate notice to adjacent property owners, particularly concerning environmental impacts like habitat preservation. Another speaker addressed the escalating, unregulated use of loud explosives throughout the year, beyond permitted holidays like the Fourth of July, asking the Council to enforce existing regulations. A third resident requested the city consider creating a time capsule for America's 250th birthday celebration. Another resident raised concerns about insufficient park access and equity in the northern part of Monroe compared to other areas. Finally, several residents spoke about pedestrian safety, requesting better visibility, such as flashing lights at main crossings due to increased foot traffic. The session concluded with an oath of office ceremony for newly elected and reelected officials.

The meeting involved several key agenda items, notably the discussion and presentation regarding proposed amendments to the middle housing code. A public hearing for the Davis Properties pre-annexation zoning proposal was formally postponed to the January 12, 2026, planning commission meeting to allow for further staff analysis and public participation. The commission discussed defining cottage housing and middle housing terms. Revisions to the land use matrix were proposed to allow duplexes, fourplexes, townhomes, and cottage housing in R7 and R15 single-family zones. Specific attention was given to cottage housing development standards, including dwelling unit size (proposed maximum 1,400 sq ft), building height, parking requirements (two spaces per unit, with shared parking allowed for clusters), and maintenance of common open spaces via HOA or covenant. The commission also reviewed proposed supplemental requirements mandating that new development in R15 provide 20% affordable housing units, defined by existing affordable housing chapter metrics.

The meeting included public comments regarding the response to historic flooding, with updates on resource deployment and coordination with regional partners. A recognition was held for Council Member Scarboro, highlighting his service and contributions. The council also addressed a park board appointment, specifically the confirmation request for Ryan Olsen to the parks board.

The Monroe City Council held a special business meeting. The council discussed open carry of firearms in city parks, and the city's ability to restrict the use of open carry or concealed carry in public parks. Also reviewed was the automated traffic safety camera program, specifically the equity and location analysis conducted by city staff. The council discussed the potential timelines and fiscal considerations for the program.

The City Council of the City of Monroe passed a resolution repealing the existing finance policy titled 'Incurring Expenses While Conducting City Business' and adopting the updated 'Incurring Expenses While Conducting City Business Policy' No. 2025-006. The updated policy incorporates recent guidance from the Internal Revenue Service, General Services Administration, and State Auditor's Office, establishing guidelines and procedures for the authorization and reimbursement of business expenses incurred by City representatives.