Randal Holmes

The committee meeting featured a presentation on the Small Business Navigator program, an initiative developed with ARPA funding to provide resources, coaching, and networking connections for small businesses. The discussion covered the program's hub-and-spoke model, the role of core partners in providing workshops and seminars, and the focus on serving solopreneurs and main street businesses. Performance statistics were reviewed, highlighting successful outcomes such as hiring new personnel, receiving grants, and resolving administrative bottlenecks for local business owners.

The committee discussed several items, including approval of an amendment to the professional services contract with the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe to cover additional event management costs associated with the city's 250th anniversary celebration. Public comment was held regarding the inclusion of 'The Rock' project on the Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan list. The committee also discussed the termination of a professional services contract with Urban Alchemy related to street outreach and shelter operations, citing funding realities and plans for a more coordinated citywide encampment response strategy.

The Planning Commission discussed a request for a general plan amendment and rezoning for property located at 1372 Boland Lane, 2743 Boland Circle, and 2745 Boland Circle. The staff recommended denial of the general plan amendment due to inconsistency with the Santa Fe River Corridor Plan, but recommended approval for a less intensive rezoning to C1 or mixed-use. The discussion covered zoning definitions, dimensional standards, utility connections, and environmental overlay requirements.

The committee held a follow-up discussion on the Alternative Response Unit (ARU) request, including updates on working group meetings, job description adjustments, and upcoming consultations with external experts. Discussions also covered efforts to improve communication with the community regarding the ARU program and facts about its transition. Additionally, the committee approved a state special appropriation grant for firefighter recruitment equipment and discussed amendments to the union agreement between the city and the local firefighters association, focusing on staffing levels, leave policies, and promotional requirements.

The committee meeting included the recognition of the Employee of the Month, a presentation on external requests for the infrastructure capital improvements plan, and the approval of an amendment to a professional services contract for the city's 4th of July celebrations. Additionally, the committee adopted the 2028-2032 infrastructure capital improvement plan and discussed a procedural waiver required for a bill related to the Santa Fe Homes program.