Palmer Mayor Jim Cooper reviewed actions of the Tuesday Palmer City Council meeting with Mike Chmielewski. They covered everything from airport planning and the city budget to the future of the golf course and the reprimand of a council member.
The Tuesday meeting began with recognition of Veterans Day and the 251st birthday of the Marine Corps. Cooper then congratulated the 10- and 11-year-old Palmer Pop Warner 49ers football team. The team captured its third consecutive state championship.
A presentation focused on the Palmer Airport Master Plan followed. See the FAQ on the plan at palmerak.org/media/33021
Cooper says the planning process takes about two years. It involves federal, state, and local agencies. An advisory committee of approximately 11 members represents airport businesses, aircraft owners, property owners, city officials, and other community interests.
Both Cooper and Chmielewski emphasized that residents will have an opportunity to participate and help shape the future of the airport. They encouraged people to review the planning materials and provide input.
The Council discussed the management of the golf course. Council members requested a comparison of three possibilities: keeping the golf course within the Community Development Department, moving it under the airport, or placing it in a new Parks and Recreation Department.
Cooper believes the Council may favor establishing a new Parks and Recreation Department.
He explained that potential annexation could increase the workload for the Community Development Department. This makes separating Parks and Rec from Community Development practical.
The Council continued work on the city budget for next year. They held public hearings on budget matters, fees and fines, capital improvements, and the city pay plan. No final decisions were made.
Cooper explained that the city must approve its budget at least ten days before the end of the year. The December 22 council meeting has been moved to December 15 because of that requirement.
He expects further discussion and possible adjustments before the budget is adopted.
The mayor addressed the executive session concerning comments made by Council Member Alcantara at the October 27 meeting. Cooper confirmed that the Council determined that Alcantara violated the City Code of Conduct. The Council approved a letter of reprimand.
The mayor emphasized that the issue involved the Council’s conduct standards not state or federal law. The letter will become a public document after wording changes are completed and the mayor signs it.
Cooper and Chmielewski expressed optimism about the visible progress of the library construction. The building appears close to being enclosed. This is important as winter approaches. Crews can work inside with temporary heating once the building is enclosed.
Cooper closed the conversation on Tuesday night by reminding folks of Veterans Day. He encouraged everyone to recognize the contributions of military veterans and their families.
Despite a substantial agenda, the council meeting concluded earlier than expected. They completed business around 9:30 p.m.
The Council Meeting is on YouTube. Go to bigcabbage.org, select Streamed Meetings, scroll down to “Watch Palmer in Action.” Click the Open Player button.
Mike Chmielewski reported this Page Two article and yours truly, Lee Henrikson produced it. If you have an idea for a Page 2 topic, please email us at page2@radiofreepalmer.org.
Our online silent auction runs through 9 p.m. on Saturday. Bid often on a range of gift cards. The link to the bid page is on our website and FaceBook page. Winners can pick up their cards at the Cabbage Hop or next week at the radio station. All but a couple can be mailed if you can’t make it to either location. This fundraiser for Big Cabbage Radio features gift cards from local businesses.
Come to the Cabbage Hop on Saturday at Lekker Coffee and Bakery from 6 to 9 p.m. The cover is $20 at the door. Dance, eat, and socialize. Bid on the silent auction items. Turkey Red, Lekker, and 203 Kombucha provided the free food and beverages. We thank the Mat-Su Health Foundation for sponsoring our annual fun-raiser.
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That’s it for today and the news on Page Two on Friday November 13, 2026.