Public commenters press council on Pretzel City Kitchen donation and defend police conduct

During the public-comment period, multiple residents raised concerns about the proposed donation of Pretzel City Kitchen equipment and questioned the organization’s operations and relationship with the city. One commenter alleged the organization "has violated so many ordinances" and said it was occupying a city building without a lease and receiving city funds while not returning value to the community.

Others urged restraint before transferring surplus assets. One speaker said, "be careful. Ask some questions before you just start doing a lot of this stuff," and suggested the council confirm the value and disposition of surplus property before donating it rather than selling it to raise funds for other needs such as a new police K‑9.

Several speakers also defended the police chief against criticism from a prior meeting. Michelle Swald identified herself for the record and said the chief and an officer "handled themselves very well" at the earlier hearing and that criticism of their conduct was "misleading." Brianna Simmons identified herself and urged the public to seek context and avoid quick judgments about meeting conduct.

There was no formal council action taken on these public‑comment allegations during the special meeting. Council members acknowledged the comments and staff had earlier explained that the donation recommendation came after staff declared the equipment surplus and that the donation was recommended rather than required.

What’s next: staff will coordinate the donated equipment transfer to the Yield program; council may follow up on any documented concerns raised by public commenters if evidence is provided.