Have you given any though to The Springfield Armory XD-E? If you wanted to stick with a 9 it is much easier to rack than a striker fired pistol. Check out some vids on YouTube then try out at a store.
Yes, it MAY. Mine expires in May and I just got the renewal letter today, however I went to the police department last week to make my appointment. I figure at least a month and a half wait to get appointment with PD then another 3+ months to get license.