Carbondale Council Approves Minutes as Members Address Voting Privileges and Conflicts

The Carbondale Planning and Zoning Commission convened on August 28, 2025, with a focus on procedural matters and community engagement. The meeting began with attendance confirmations, noting the absence of member Jeff Devlin, while all other members were present, including Anne Kramer and Franco Palumbo, who served as an alternate.

A key discussion point was the voting privileges and conflicts of interest. Jared Moore led this segment, clarifying that Anne would be a voting member for the evening due to the absence of one regular member. Notably, a disclosure was made regarding a potential conflict of interest involving the owner of a local restaurant, prompting one member to abstain from discussions related to that agenda item.

The commission proceeded to approve the minutes from the previous meeting, with members expressing gratitude for the thorough documentation provided by Kaye, the secretary. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Jared and seconded by Kim McGee, ensuring a smooth continuation of the meeting.

Public engagement was encouraged, with Chester White, a local resident, stepping forward to address the commission. Although he indicated he was on the agenda later, he took the opportunity to speak separately, highlighting the importance of community input in the planning process.

This meeting underscored the commission's commitment to transparency and community involvement, setting the stage for future discussions and decisions that will impact the Town of Carbondale. As the commission continues its work, the emphasis on clear communication and public participation remains a priority, fostering a collaborative environment for local governance.