Meeting Summary
Altoona City Council began its 2026 organizational meeting with the swearing-in of Council members Dave Ellis, Bruce Kelley, Ron Beatty and Dave Butterbaugh. During public comment, residents and service providers raised concerns about proposed regulations affecting recovery houses, group homes and residential housing.
Council selected Dave Ellis as vice mayor, moved the 2026 voting-meeting start time from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., approved appointments to several City boards and authorities, and authorized PennDOT agreements for the Meadow Street and 13th Street bridge rehabilitation projects.
Council also introduced ordinances concerning parking, residential rental inspections and surplus property, and adopted a new licensing ordinance for halfway/recovery, rooming and boarding, and institutionalized facilities by a 5–1 vote.
