Palo Alto public meetings in 2021

Public Art Commission - Cancelled

The regular meeting of the Public Art Commission scheduled for December 16, 2021, has been cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 20, 2022.

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission is holding public hearings regarding land use and zoning. The body will discuss a request to remove height restrictions at 985 Channing Avenue and review a conditional use permit for Castilleja School.

• Public hearing for 985 Channing Avenue to remove recorded height restrictions on the parcel map
• Review of Castilleja School's requested Conditional Use Permit and Variance
• Review of a draft ordinance amending Section 18.04.030 regarding Gross Floor Area for below-grade garages in the R-1 Zone

The Planning and Transportation Commission continued the Castilleja School conditional use permit and variance review to a date uncertain, with a special meeting planned for January 19, 2022, to continue deliberations. The commission also continued a preliminary parcel map request for 985 Channing Avenue to a date uncertain after a late-submitted letter raised new concerns. No final decisions were made on either item.

• Continued Castilleja School CUP/variance review to date uncertain (6-0)
• Continued 985 Channing Avenue preliminary parcel map to date uncertain (5-1)
• Scheduled special meeting for Jan. 19, 2022 to continue Castilleja deliberations

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to take action on policy updates for the Foothills Nature Preserve and photography and film in open spaces. The body will also discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Program Plan.

• Foothills Nature Preserve Policy Updates
• Open Space and Parks Photography and Film Policy
• Proposed Fiscal Year 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Program Plan
• Resolution authorizing teleconferencing for meetings during Covid-19 State of Emergency

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy and Services Committee is meeting to review legislative guidelines and the City Council priority setting process. The body will also consider approvals for a wire payment process review and a construction monitoring report.

• Recommendation on the 2022 Citywide Legislative Guidelines
• Task Order for the Office of the City Auditor to conduct a Wire Payment Process and Controls Review
• Initial Public Safety Building Construction Monitoring Report
• Recommendations for the 2022 City Council Priority Setting Process
• Discussion on possible edits to the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook

City Council Meeting

The Palo Alto City Council made appointments to the Architectural Review Board, Historic Resources Board, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Planning and Transportation Commission, filling multiple positions. The council also approved a consent calendar with contracts and resolutions, accepted the S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan, and approved employee appreciation leave and contract amendments for the City Attorney and City Manager.

• Appointed Peter Baltay and David L. Hirsch to the Architectural Review Board (5 votes each)
• Appointed Alisa Eagleston-Cieslewicz to the Historic Resources Board (6-0)
• Appointed Jeff Greenfield, Anne Warner Cribbs, Nellis L. Freeman Jr., and Shani Kleinhaus to the Parks and Recreation Commission
• Appointed Bryna Chang and Keith Reckdahl to the Planning and Transportation Commission
• Approved consent calendar items 4-18 (6-0, with Tanaka voting no on items 10, 13, 14)
• Accepted the S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan (6-0)
• Approved employee appreciation leave and contract amendments for City Attorney and City Manager (5-1, Tanaka no)
• Deferred in-person hybrid meetings for committees and commissions to March (6-0)

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board will meet virtually to determine award categories and winners. The board will consider 25 eligible projects and associated photographs.

• Selection of award categories and winners from 25 eligible projects

The Architectural Review Board voted 5-0 to give architectural awards to the top six projects on Chair Thompson's list, with categories to be determined later. The selected projects are 611 Cowper, Fire Station #3, 180 Hamilton, 3223 Hanover, Kol Emeth, 1451 Middlefield (Junior Museum), 1400 Page Mill, 1050 Page Mill, 375 University, and 701 Welch (children's hospital). A motion to include 611 Cowper via amendment failed for lack of a second.

• Approved motion to award top six projects (5-0)
• Selected projects include 611 Cowper, Fire Station #3, 180 Hamilton, 3223 Hanover, Kol Emeth, Junior Museum, 1400 Page Mill, 1050 Page Mill, 375 University, 701 Welch
• Rejected amendment to include 611 Cowper (no second)
• Eliminated projects: Bowman School, 405 Curtner, 180 El Camino, 2585 El Camino, Sludge Facility, 636 Middlefield, 2555 Park, 500 University, 636 Waverley, 2500 El Camino, 355 University

Human Relations Commission

The regular meeting of the Human Relations Commission scheduled for December 9, 2021, has been cancelled.

Historic Resources Board Meeting

The Historic Resources Board is meeting to discuss updates regarding the SB9 Urgency Ordinance and plan topics for its 2022 retreat. The board will also consider a resolution to authorize teleconferencing during the Covid-19 state of emergency.

• Resolution authorizing use of teleconferencing during Covid-19 State of Emergency
• Update on SB9 Urgency Ordinance
• Discussion of topics for 2022 Historic Resources Board Retreat
• Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meeting and Assignments

The Historic Resources Board unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing teleconferencing during the COVID-19 state of emergency. The board discussed the impacts of the state's SB 9 law, which allows ministerial lot splits and duplexes in non-historic zones, and the urgency of updating the city's historic inventory to protect eligible properties. No other formal decisions were made; the board planned a retreat and discussed future meeting topics.

• Adopted resolution authorizing teleconferencing for board meetings (6-0)
• Scheduled a hybrid meeting for January 27, 2022, as the only January meeting
• Discussed updating the historic inventory to protect properties eligible for registers
• Planned to discuss the Mills Act at a future meeting (February 24, 2022)

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Commission will review a requested conditional use permit and variance for Castilleja School. Additionally, members will review a draft ordinance regarding gross floor area definitions for below-grade garages in the R1 zone.

• Castilleja School conditional use permit and variance review
• Draft ordinance amending Section 18.04.030 regarding gross floor area for below grade garages in R1 zones
• Review of Comprehensive Plan Implementation Chapter programs

The Planning and Transportation Commission continued the public hearing on Castilleja School's Conditional Use Permit, Variance, and a draft ordinance regarding Gross Floor Area for below-grade garages to December 15, 2021. The commission heard extensive public comment and will resume with questions for the applicant and deliberation at the next meeting. The commission also reviewed the Implementation Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, providing feedback to staff, and approved the October meeting minutes.

• Continued Castilleja School CUP/Variance hearing to Dec. 15, 2021 (6-0)
• Adopted resolution authorizing teleconferencing during COVID-19 emergency (7-0)
• Approved Oct. 13, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0-1)
• Approved Oct. 27, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0-1)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to review the FY 2023 - FY 2032 Long Range Financial Forecast and budget development guidelines. Members will also discuss potential revenue-generating local ballot measures and the FY 2022 first quarter financial report.

• FY 2023 - FY 2032 Long Range Financial Forecast (LRFF)
• FY 2023 Budget Development Guidelines
• Potential revenue generating local ballot measures
• First Quarter Financial Report FY 2022

City Council Meeting

The City Council adopted an interim urgency ordinance to integrate Senate Bill 9 into the Palo Alto Municipal Code, including objective design standards and provisions that new lot lines shall not render existing structures noncomplying. The council also directed staff to return in January 2022 with a revised interim ordinance, including a 15% affordable housing in-lieu fee for for-sale units and an owner-occupancy affidavit requirement. Additionally, the council directed staff to initiate a Request for Information for private development of downtown parking, with a preference for affordable housing and Lot D as the preferred location. The consent calendar was approved, including a $1.92 million insurance contract and a $6.7 million GIS contract amendment, with Council Member Tanaka voting no on items 6-8.

• Adopted interim urgency ordinance 5538 amending Titles 18 and 21 in response to Senate Bill 9, including objective design standards (7-0).
• Directed staff to return in January 2022 with a revised interim ordinance including lot split language, affordable housing in-lieu fee, and owner-occupancy affidavit (parts A, B, D passed 7-0; part C passed 6-1).
• Referred work on a permanent ordinance to the Planning and Transportation Commission and Architectural Review Board for 2022 (7-0).
• Directed staff to assess short-term rental penalties, historic registry updates, Eichler guidelines, and other items (5-2, Cormack and Tanaka no).
• Directed staff to initiate a Request for Information for private development of downtown parking, with preference for affordable housing and Lot D (6-1, Filseth no).
• Approved consent calendar items 3-5 (7-0) and items 6-8 (6-1, Tanaka no), including a $1.92 million insurance contract and a $6.7 million GIS contract amendment.
• Approved minutes of November 16 and 22, 2021 meetings (7-0).
• Approved a purchase order for a 2023 Peterbilt 537 truck for $391,002 (part of consent calendar).

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board will hold a public hearing regarding a remanded application for Castilleja School. The board is reviewing a redesigned academic building, parking options, and a tree preservation proposal.

• Public hearing for 1310 Bryant Street (Castilleja School) regarding a redesigned academic building
• Review of alternative parking options and associated parking adjustment request
• Review of additional tree preservation proposal for 1310 Bryant Street

The Architectural Review Board voted 4-1 to continue the 1310 Bryant Street (Castilleja School) hearing to a date uncertain, after extensive discussion and straw polls. The board expressed support for staff's recommended Parking Option E, which preserves Tree #155, and for tree protection measures, but split on whether to require further changes to the Kellogg Avenue facade. The project will return to the ARB in 2022 with a changed board membership.

• Continued 1310 Bryant Street (Castilleja School) to a date uncertain (4-1).
• Straw poll: supported staff's Parking Option E (with some members also open to Option D).
• Straw poll: supported relocation of stair and transformer near Tree #89.
• Straw poll: did not support moving student drop-off/pickup to Kellogg Avenue.
• Straw poll: split 3-2 on whether to encourage further changes to the Kellogg facade.
• Straw poll: supported tree preservation protections, with one member requesting a 200% tree security deposit.
• Straw poll: supported construction phasing of 34 months (previously reviewed) or 26 months (off-site).

Stormwater Management Oversight Committee Meeting

The Stormwater Management Oversight Committee is meeting to receive staff updates on financial reviews and program guidance. The body will also consider a resolution to authorize the use of teleconferencing during the Covid-19 state of emergency.

• Resolution authorizing teleconferencing for committee meetings
• Stormwater Management Fund financial review update
• Rain Barrel Rebate Program update
• GSI Guidance and Maintenance Manual update

The Stormwater Management Oversight Committee approved the minutes from the October 7, 2021 meeting and adopted a resolution authorizing the use of teleconferencing for its meetings during the Covid-19 state of emergency, which must be re-adopted every 30 days. Staff provided updates on the Stormwater Management Fund, the GSI Guidance and Maintenance Manual, and the Rain Barrel Rebate Program, with discussions but no formal decisions on those items.

• Approved October 7, 2021 meeting minutes
• Adopted resolution authorizing teleconferencing for meetings during Covid-19

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission is meeting to review financial forecasts and projected rates for Fiscal Year 2023. The body will also consider a resolution to authorize the use of teleconferencing for meetings during the Covid-19 state of emergency.

• Discussion of Fiscal Year 2023 Preliminary Utilities Financial Forecast and Rate Projections
• Resolution authorizing teleconferencing for Commission meetings during Covid-19 state of emergency
• Informational update on Utilities' Quarterly Report for Q3 2021
• Informational report on 2020 Renewable Procurement Plan and Carbon Neutral Electric Supplies

The Utilities Advisory Commission adopted a resolution authorizing teleconferencing for its January 2022 meeting due to the COVID-19 surge. The commission also discussed preliminary FY 2023-2026 utility rate projections, including an 8% electric rate increase, but took no action on rates. The minutes of the November 3, 2021 meeting were approved as amended.

• Approved the November 3, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (5-0).
• Adopted a resolution authorizing teleconferencing for the January 2022 UAC meeting (6-0).
• Discussed FY 2023-2026 rate projections; no action taken on rates.

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss and make recommendations to the City Council regarding the city's financial records. The body will review the 2021 financial statement audit and the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.

• Recommendation to accept Macias Gini & O’Connell’s audit of financial statements as of June 30, 2021
• Recommendation to approve the FY 2021 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)
• Recommendation to approve FY 2021 Budget Amendments in various funds
• FY 2022 Finance Committee Referrals Update presentation

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the City Council approve the City of Palo Alto's audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, along with the accompanying reports from Macias, Gini & O'Connell LLP. The committee also voted 3-0 to forward the FY 2021 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and FY 2021 budget amendments in various funds to the City Council for approval. No action was taken on the FY 2022 Finance Committee Referrals Update.

• Approved 3-0: Recommend City Council approve audited financial statements for FY ending June 30, 2021, with MGO reports
• Approved 3-0: Forward FY 2021 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) to City Council for approval
• Approved 3-0: Forward FY 2021 Budget Appropriation Ordinance amendments for various funds to City Council
• No action taken: FY 2022 Finance Committee Referrals Update

City Council Meeting

The Council directed staff to develop renter protection policies, including expanding relocation assistance to buildings of 10+ units, extending just-cause eviction rules to newer properties, and drafting a security deposit cap of 1.5x rent for unfurnished units. It also eliminated the viaduct option for the Churchill Avenue grade separation, making the partial underpass the preferred alternative. The Council approved consent items, including ordinances on edible food recovery and increased parking permit fees, with Council Member Tanaka voting no on the truck purchase and fee items.

• Approved consent items 4, 6-8 (minutes, valet parking contract, IT audit report, edible food recovery ordinance) 7-0.
• Approved consent items 5 and 9 (crane truck purchase, parking fee increase) 6-1, Tanaka no.
• Directed staff to develop renter protections (relocation, just cause, anti-gouging, security deposit cap) with amendments passed 6-1 and 4-3.
• Rejected an amendment to modify renter survey language (3-4) and an amendment to add landlord outreach (2-5).
• Eliminated viaduct design alternative and made partial underpass preferred for Churchill Avenue crossing (6-1).
• Referred rail committee tasks and bike/pedestrian plan considerations to staff (7-0).
• Held closed session on labor negotiations; no reportable action.
• Took no action on YMCA item and Safe Routes to School report.

City Council Meeting

The City Council held a special meeting to interview applicants for the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Planning & Transportation Commission. No appointments or other substantive decisions were made during the meeting; it was purely an interview session.

• Interviewed 12 applicants for Parks and Recreation Commission
• Interviewed 1 applicant for Planning & Transportation Commission

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board is conducting a preliminary review of a new townhome development and reviewing roof terrace revisions for a project on Waverley Street. The board will also consider a resolution to authorize teleconferencing during the Covid-19 emergency.

• Preliminary review of a proposed 12-unit townhome development at 739 Sutter
• Review of roof terrace revisions and awning materials for 160 Waverley Street
• Resolution authorizing the use of teleconferencing during the Covid-19 State of Emergency
• Development of award categories for ARB Awards
• Discussion on architectural and space planning for California Avenue

The Architectural Review Board (ARB) adopted a resolution authorizing the use of teleconferencing for its meetings during the Covid-19 state of emergency, passing 5-0. The board also held a preliminary review of a proposed 12-unit townhome development at 739 Sutter, providing feedback but taking no formal action. The board discussed and narrowed a list of projects for its annual design awards, and approved the minutes from its October 7 and October 21, 2021 meetings.

• Adopted Resolution Authorizing Use of Teleconferencing for ARB During Covid-19 State of Emergency (5-0).
• Approved the minutes of the October 7, 2021 ARB meeting (5-0).
• Approved the minutes of the October 21, 2021 ARB meeting, as amended (5-0).
• Held a preliminary review of the 739 Sutter 12-unit townhome project; no formal action was taken.
• Discussed and narrowed the list of eligible projects for the ARB Awards; no final selections were made.
• Discussed ideas for California Avenue, including a potential design competition; no formal action was taken.

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission is meeting to decide on the use of teleconferencing during the Covid-19 emergency and the timing and location of future meetings. The body will also discuss a recent FBI Hate Crimes Briefing and an update on the King Artist Residency public art.

• Resolution authorizing teleconferencing for HRC meetings during Covid-19
• Discussion of FBI Hate Crimes Briefing hosted by Representative Anna Eshoo
• Update on public art for the King Artist Residency
• Action on the status, start time, and location of future HRC meetings
• Discussion on upcoming Human Relations Commission Retreat

The Human Relations Commission voted 4-0 to adopt a resolution authorizing teleconferencing for its meetings during the COVID-19 state of emergency, and approved the October 14, 2021 minutes. The commission also voted 3-1 not to meet in December. No action was taken on the FBI hate crimes briefing, retreat discussion, or public art update.

• Approved the October 14, 2021 meeting minutes (4-0).
• Adopted a resolution authorizing teleconferencing for meetings during the COVID-19 state of emergency (4-0).
• Voted not to meet in December (3-1).

Public Art Commission - Cancelled

The regular meeting of the Public Art Commission scheduled for November 18, 2021, has been cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 16, 2021.

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Commission will discuss potential fundraising opportunities for parks and recreation programs. The meeting also includes an action item regarding the vision for a new Palo Alto gym.

• Resolution authorizing use of teleconferencing during Covid-19 State of Emergency
• Update on fundraising from Friends of Palo Alto Parks and the Palo Alto Recreation Foundation
• Discussion of potential fundraising opportunities for parks and recreation programs and projects
• Vision for a new Palo Alto gym

City Council Meeting

The City Council held a special meeting to interview candidates for the Planning and Transportation Commission, Architectural Review Board, and Historic Resources Board. No appointments or other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

• Interviewed 7 applicants for Planning and Transportation Commission
• Interviewed 1 applicant for Historic Resources Board
• Interviewed 7 applicants for Architectural Review Board

City Council Meeting/ Joint Planning Commission/Board of Architechural Review

The City Council approved lease terms for the ROTH Building (300 Homer Ave) with the Palo Alto History Museum, including a $10,000 security deposit, museum responsibility for long-term maintenance and prevailing wage compliance, and staff to return with a lease within 90 days. The council also approved a consent calendar with several contracts and amendments, and adopted a resolution creating a sibling city relationship with Bloomington, Indiana. A renter protection policy item was continued to a date uncertain.

• Approved lease terms for ROTH Building with Palo Alto History Museum (parts passed 6-1 and 5-2)
• Adopted Resolution 10002 creating sibling city relationship with Bloomington, Indiana (6-1)
• Approved consent calendar items 4, 5, 8, 9 (7-0)
• Approved consent calendar items 6, 10, 11 (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Approved consent calendar item 7 (5-2, Kou and Tanaka no)
• Continued renter protection policies item to a date uncertain (7-0)

Human Relations Commission

The November 11, 2021 meeting has been rescheduled to November 18, 2021 at 6:00pm due to the Veteran’s Day Holiday. The agenda contains only this procedural notice.

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy and Services Committee will receive two reports from the Office of the City Auditor. The body will also discuss strategies to support neighborhood programs and evaluate a proposed Neighbor Connection program.

• Construction Project Controls Report presentation
• Utilities Power Purchase Agreement Assessment Report presentation
• Evaluation of proposed Neighbor Connection program strategies

The Policy and Services Committee recommended the City Council accept the Construction Project Controls Report and its improvement recommendations, passing 3-0. It also recommended the City Council review and accept the Utilities Power Purchase Agreement Assessment Report, passing 2-1 with Tanaka dissenting. A discussion on neighborhood programs and a proposed Neighbor Connection program was continued to a later date.

• Recommended City Council accept Construction Project Controls Report (3-0)
• Recommended City Council review and accept Power Purchase Agreement Assessment Report (2-1, Tanaka no)
• Continued neighborhood programs and Neighbor Connection discussion to later date

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a motion directing staff to revise the proposed Objective Design Standards, including retaining current design criteria for non-state-housing projects, adding stronger privacy and height transition protections, and returning with specific proposals. The Council also directed staff to model a business license tax and two methods to replace the General Fund Equity Transfer, and to conduct polling on revenue measures. Additionally, the Council approved consent items including a $2M VTA funding agreement for on-demand transit and an extension of the outdoor dining program.

• Adopted resolutions honoring Catherine Bourquin, Hector Sanchez, and Adrienne Moore (7-0)
• Approved consent items 6-8, 11 (7-0) and item 10 (6-1, Kou no)
• Approved $2M VTA funding agreement for on-demand transit with $500K city match (7-0)
• Extended outdoor dining/parklet program until June 30, 2022 (6-1, Kou no)
• Approved John Boulware Park improvement ordinance (7-0)
• Directed staff to revise Objective Design Standards with privacy and height protections (5-2, Cormack, Tanaka no)
• Directed staff to model business license tax and GFET replacement options (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Directed staff to interview all applicants for board/commission vacancies (4-3)

Public Art Commission

The Public Art Commission is meeting to decide on funding for a permanent artwork and the selection of a residency artist. The body will also discuss the potential removal of a mural in midtown Palo Alto.

• Approval of up to $35,000 in additional funding for Susan Zoccola's artwork in the Charleston-Arastradero corridor
• Approval of Rayos Magos as the first artist for the King Artist Residency
• Decision on whether to start the deaccession evaluation process for the Poetry Wall mural in midtown Palo Alto
• Resolution authorizing the use of teleconferencing for meetings during the Covid-19 state of emergency

The Public Art Commission approved a $35,000 funding increase for Susan Zoccola's artwork in the Charleston-Arastradero Corridor project, approved Rayos Magos as the King Artist Residency artist, and tabled the de-accession of the Poetry Wall mural pending more information from the property owner. The commission also adopted a resolution to continue teleconferencing during the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Adopted resolution authorizing teleconferencing during COVID-19 state of emergency (all in favor)
• Approved up to $35,000 increase for fabrication, shipment, and installation of Susan Zoccola's artwork (all in favor)
• Approved Rayos Magos as King Artist Residency project artist (all in favor)
• Tabled de-accession of Poetry Wall mural until property owner provides wall condition and repair plans (all in favor)

City Council Meeting

The Palo Alto City Council met in a special meeting and voted 7-0 to enter closed session to discuss public employee performance evaluations and labor negotiations. No reportable action was taken, and the meeting adjourned at 11:27 P.M.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (7-0)

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission is meeting to discuss the impact of decarbonization on single-family home resiliency in Palo Alto. The body is also considering the use of teleconferencing for meetings and the continuation of 2021 legislative guidelines through 2022.

• Resolution authorizing teleconferencing for commission meetings during the Covid-19 emergency
• Proposal to use 2021 Legislative Guidelines through 2022
• Presentation on decarbonization impacts on single-family home resiliency

The Utilities Advisory Commission unanimously approved a resolution authorizing teleconferencing for its meetings through January 2022 due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. The commission also voted to recommend the City Council accept a presentation on state legislation and continue using the 2021 Utilities Legislative Policy Guidelines through 2022. The meeting included informational reports on a recent Public Safety Power Shutoff, drought conditions, and a study on the resiliency of all-electric homes.

• Adopted resolution authorizing teleconferencing for UAC meetings during COVID-19 emergency (6-0)
• Recommended City Council accept state legislation presentation and continue 2021 legislative guidelines through 2022 (6-0)
• Approved October 6, 2021 meeting minutes as corrected (5-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is discussing a report on long-term financial trends for public safety, focusing on the Fire Department. The report examines how rising personnel costs are outpacing revenues and the potential need for additional General Fund support.

• Report on Public Safety Long Term Financial Trends
• Review of Fire Department personnel costs and revenue drivers
• Discussion on shifting from fire-oriented to medical-oriented service models
• Analysis of General Fund revenue reduction from $232.1 million (FY 2020) to $206.5 million (FY 2022)

The Finance Committee met virtually and received a report on public safety long-term financial trends. No action was taken on the item; the meeting was informational only.

• Received report on public safety long-term financial trends (no action taken)

City Council Meeting

The Palo Alto City Council approved an ordinance to comply with SB 1383, adding edible food recovery requirements and amending the administrative penalty schedule (7-0). It also authorized the City Manager to apply for California Project Homekey funds for an 88-unit emergency shelter at 1237 North San Antonio Road (6-1). The council approved the consent calendar, including virtual parking permits, a Stanford traffic services agreement, and a SAFER grant for five firefighter positions, with some items passing on split votes. A motion to pull a parking policy item from the consent calendar failed for lack of a third.

• Adopted SB 1383 edible food recovery ordinance and penalty schedule (7-0)
• Authorized Homekey application for 88-unit shelter at 1237 N. San Antonio Rd (6-1)
• Approved virtual parking permits ordinance (7-0)
• Approved Stanford traffic services agreement (7-0)
• Accepted SAFER grant for 5 firefighter positions (6-1)
• Approved design change to Public Safety Building community room (5-2)
• Approved parking policy modifications and fee increases (6-1)
• Adopted ambulance subscription program fees (6-1)

Historic Resources Board Meeting

The Historic Resources Board is meeting to discuss the impact of recent state housing legislation and the selection process for Housing Opportunity Sites. The board will also consider potential amendments to its work plan.

• Discussion on state housing legislation and Housing Opportunity Sites selection process
• Potential amendments to the Historic Resources Board Work Plan
• Review of discussion topics for the December 2021 Retreat
• Approval of September 9, 2021 draft minutes

The Historic Resources Board voted unanimously to move the approval of minutes to the beginning of all future meeting agendas. The board also approved the September 9, 2021 minutes and discussed plans for the December retreat, including forming teams to address historic mapping, inventory updates, and the Mills Act. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved moving minutes approval to start of future meetings (unanimous)
• Approved September 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

This is a notice for a regular meeting of the Planning and Transportation Commission. The provided document contains procedural information regarding public comment rules and meeting participation but does not list specific agenda items.

The Planning and Transportation Commission held a study session on streamlining permitting for building electrification technologies like solar panels, EV chargers, and heat pumps. No formal decisions were made; the session was for discussion and staff direction. Commissioners provided feedback on proposed approaches, generally supporting improved communication materials and checklists, while requesting more information on policy changes related to trees, solar panel height, and equipment placement.

• Held study session on streamlining electrification permitting (no formal action)
• Commissioners supported improving communication materials and checklists for applicants
• Commissioners requested more information on policy changes for solar panel height, tree canopy, and equipment setbacks
• Commissioners discussed potential for dual-track permitting with objective standards for faster review

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss water recycling plans and the status of the Measure E area at Byxbee Park. The body will take action on new pickleball court rules and the creation of an ad hoc committee for Byxbee Park.

• Action on new rules for pickleball courts
• Action to create an Ad Hoc Committee for the Measure E Area at Byxbee Park
• Discussion on Court Usage Policy
• Update on Water Recycling and Palo Alto’s One Water Plan Development
• Update on the status of Measure E Area at Byxbee Park

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a budget amendment ordinance for FY2022 in various funds, requiring a 2/3 super majority, which passed 6-1 with Council Member Tanaka voting no. The council also approved an amendment to the UMPAPA salary schedule to increase the Utility Safety Officer classification salary, and approved amendments to the FY2022 Table of Organization to add 4.00 FTE positions, both passing 7-0. Additionally, the council directed staff to begin conversations with the Sobrato Organization regarding future uses of the 340 Portage/3200 Park site, postponing formal interpretation of PAMC section 18.70.070(b)(2)(E) for four months, in a 6-1 vote with Mayor DuBois dissenting. Two pre-screening items (1033 Amarillo Avenue and 660 University Ave) were discussed with no action taken, and Item 7 on the Objective Standards Project was moved to the November 8, 2021 meeting.

• Approved FY2022 budget amendment ordinance (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Approved UMPAPA salary schedule amendment for Utility Safety Officer (7-0)
• Approved FY2022 Table of Organization amendments adding 4.00 FTE positions (7-0)
• Directed staff to engage Sobrato Organization on 340 Portage/3200 Park site, postponing PAMC interpretation for 4 months (6-1, DuBois no)
• Moved Item 7 (Objective Standards Project) to November 8, 2021 meeting (7-0)
• Approved consent calendar items including minutes and landfill gas monitoring contract (6-0, Kou absent)

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board is holding public hearings to consider major architectural reviews for two residential projects. The board will also discuss eligible projects and categories for ARB Awards.

• 2609 Alma: Proposal to demolish four residential rental units at 2606, 2609, 2611, and 2615 Alma Street to build four new three-story rental townhomes
• 160 Waverley Street: Proposal to demolish existing residential structures (3 units) to build two new structures with three apartment flats and six parking stalls
• ARB Awards: Discussion of eligible projects and development of award categories

The Architectural Review Board recommended approval of the Major Architectural Review for 160 Waverley Street, which will demolish an existing triplex and construct two new buildings with three apartment flats and six parking stalls. The recommendation was approved 4-1, with a condition that the rooftop decks return to committee for further design work on privacy and space. The board also held a study session on a proposed four-unit townhome project at 2609 Alma Street, providing feedback but taking no formal action.

• Recommended approval of 160 Waverley Street project (4-1)
• Rooftop decks at 160 Waverley to return to committee for privacy and space review
• Canopy and metal materials at 160 Waverley to be reviewed in subcommittee
• Held study session on 2609 Alma Street townhome project; no formal action
• Discussed ARB Awards; shortlist of 35 projects; further discussion set for December 2

Public Art Commission - Cancelled

The regular meeting of the Public Art Commission scheduled for October 21, 2021, has been cancelled. The next special meeting is scheduled for November 4, 2021.

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss and refine potential local ballot measures intended to generate revenue. The committee will also review a draft outline for initial polling.

• Discussion of potential revenue generating local ballot measures
• Review of draft initial polling outline

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the City Council direct staff to model a business license tax at monthly rates of $0.05-$0.20 per square foot, with thresholds and possible retail exemptions. They also recommended modeling two methods to replace gas utility funds at risk in the Green case, and to incorporate polling feedback and execute an initial polling round.

• Recommended modeling business license tax at $0.05-$0.20/sq ft monthly (3-0)
• Recommended modeling replacement of GFET funds via voter-approved gas utility transfer (3-0)
• Recommended modeling UUT increase across gas and electric (3-0)
• Recommended incorporating polling feedback and executing initial polling (3-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a $15.28M contract with Sensus USA for advanced metering infrastructure, with change orders up to $1.48M, and authorized transferring up to $18.9M from electric reserves. It also adopted an ordinance raising the commercial/R&D affordable housing impact fee from $39.50 to $68.50 per square foot. The council directed staff to update the tree protection ordinance and expand the Parks & Recreation Commission's role in urban forestry.

• Approved AMI contract with Sensus USA for $15,283,218, plus up to $1,484,000 in change orders (6-1)
• Approved transfer of up to $18.9M from Electric Special Project reserves to Smart Grid project (6-1)
• Adopted ordinance raising commercial/R&D affordable housing impact fee to $68.50/sq ft (5-2)
• Approved tree protection ordinance updates, including expanding Parks & Recreation Commission role (7-0 for parts A,B,D,F-I; 5-2 for part C; 6-1 for part E)
• Approved consent calendar items 3, 8-11 (7-0), items 4 (5-2), items 5-7 (6-1)
• Approved $3,765,380 tree pruning contract with West Coast Arborists (7-0)
• Approved $349,545 facility interior finishes purchase with Pivot Interiors (7-0)
• Approved $200,000 in human services funding allocations (6-1)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will meet to elect a Vice Chair and determine next steps for affordable housing on faith-based properties. The body will also receive updates regarding Palo Alto Police Department crime trends and policy revisions.

• Election of Human Relations Commission Vice Chair
• Action on affordable housing on faith-based properties via the adhoc housing subcommittee
• Discussion on Palo Alto Police Department crime trends, community outreach, and policy manual revisions

The Human Relations Commission elected Commissioner Eberle as Vice Chair for a term ending January 2023, with a 3-2 vote. The commission also discussed affordable housing on faith-based properties and police department updates, but took no action on those items.

• Elected Commissioner Eberle as Vice Chair (3-2)
• Rejected Commissioner Kraus's nomination for Vice Chair (1-4)
• Approved September 23, 2021 minutes (5-0)

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and instructions for public participation. No specific action items, proposals, or discussion topics are listed.

The Planning and Transportation Commission held a study session on 2021 state housing legislation and a public hearing on removing height restrictions at 985 Channing Avenue. The Commission voted 5-0 to continue the 985 Channing item to November 10, 2021, after staff discovered additional findings that need review. The September 8, 2021 meeting minutes were approved 5-0.

• Continued 985 Channing Avenue parcel map hearing to Nov. 10, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved September 8, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy and Services Committee will meet to review and approve several items from the Office of the City Auditor. The body will discuss IT risk management and the auditor's annual report.

• Task Order for the Office of the City Auditor to conduct the Utility Work Order Process and Accounting Review
• IT Risk Management Assessment Report presentation
• Office of the City Auditor (OCA) Annual Report

The Policy and Services Committee voted 3-0 on three items, all recommending City Council approval on the Consent Calendar: a task order for the Utility Work Order Process and Accounting Review, the IT Risk Management Assessment Report, and the Office of the City Auditor Annual Report. No items were denied or tabled.

• Recommended Council approve Utility Work Order Process & Accounting Review Task Order (3-0)
• Recommended Council approve IT Risk Management Report (3-0)
• Recommended Council approve Office of the City Auditor Annual Report (3-0)

Stormwater Management Oversight Committee Meeting

The Stormwater Management Oversight Committee is meeting to receive staff updates on several infrastructure and regulatory items. The session includes reviews of capital improvement projects and permit compliance.

• Staff Update on CIP Projects
• Staff Update on GSI Implementation Project and Field Visit Site Findings
• Staff Update MRP Permit
• Rain Barrel Program
• Approval of June 3, 2021 meeting minutes

The Stormwater Management Oversight Committee approved the June 3, 2021 minutes with corrections. Staff provided updates on CIP projects, the GSI implementation plan, and the MRP permit. No formal votes were taken on these items; they were informational only.

• Approved June 3, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board will consider a request for architectural changes and a Director's Adjustment for reduced loading space at 2585 E Bayshore RD. The board will also review meeting minutes from September 2021.

• 2585 E Bayshore RD: Request for removal and replacement of building façade materials, new landscaping, and changes to the parking lot
• 2585 E Bayshore RD: Addition of outdoor patio/employee amenity space and replacement of rooftop mechanical equipment
• 2585 E Bayshore RD: Request for a Director's Adjustment for reduced loading space
• Approval of draft meeting minutes for September 2, 2021, and September 9, 2021

The Architectural Review Board approved the exterior renovation of 2585 E Bayshore Road, including facade updates, new landscaping, and parking lot changes, subject to conditions. The approval requires a subcommittee to revisit the front tree design, loading space definition, and exterior material samples to consider a less dark finish. The motion passed 4-1, with Vice Chair Lee dissenting.

• Approved 2585 E Bayshore Rd project with conditions (4-1)
• Referred tree design, loading space, and siding material to subcommittee
• Approved minutes for September 2, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved minutes for September 9, 2021 (5-0)

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission will meet via virtual teleconference to discuss the fiber backbone and the expansion of Palo Alto Fiber broadband. The commission will also hold a closed session regarding cybersecurity programs.

• Discussion of the Fiber Backbone and Palo Alto Fiber Broadband Expansion
• Closed session consultation with IT Operations Manager on cyberthreat environment and utility cybersecurity programs

The Utilities Advisory Commission held a special meeting to discuss the Fiber Backbone and Palo Alto Fiber Broadband Expansion. No formal decisions were made; the meeting included a closed session with no reportable actions, approval of previous minutes, and a discussion of the fiber project's community engagement and engineering design. The commission also heard public comments on solar permitting and a powerline upgrade requirement.

• Approved draft minutes of September 1, 2021 special meeting as amended (7-0)
• Closed session held with no reportable actions
• Discussed fiber broadband expansion, no action taken
• Discussed community engagement timeline for fiber surveys, no action taken

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to review design guidelines for the 2022 electric cost of service and rates analysis. The body will also discuss modifications to parking permits and fees for University Avenue, California Avenue, and the Evergreen Park Mayfield districts.

• Design Guidelines for the 2022 Electric Cost of Service and Rates Analysis
• Parking permit fee updates and eligibility expansion for University Avenue and California Avenue garages
• Modifications to Residential Preferential Parking (RPP) programs in Downtown and Evergreen Park Mayfield districts
• Development of a Parking In-Lieu Program for the California Avenue Business District

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the City Council approve design guidelines for the 2022 Electric Cost of Service and Rates Analysis, with modifications to guidelines 3 and 4, and to study interim tier changes to support electrification. The committee also voted 3-0 to recommend a package of parking policy changes, including fee increases, permit caps, and program expansions, to the City Council.

• Recommended approval of 2022 Electric Cost of Service and Rates Analysis design guidelines (3-0)
• Requested staff study interim tier modifications to support electrification (3-0)
• Recommended referral to PTC for California Ave parking in-lieu fee program (3-0)
• Recommended fee increases for employee parking permits in RPP and garage programs (3-0)
• Recommended eliminating first free annual residential RPP permit (3-0)
• Recommended capping Downtown employee RPP permits at 580 (3-0)
• Recommended eliminating EPM employee permits in zones A-F, retaining Zone G (3-0)
• Recommended increasing garage employee permit caps by ~500 in University Ave and ~490 in California Ave (3-0)

City Council Meeting

The Palo Alto City Council approved an ordinance allowing virtual parking permits and directed staff to study delivery vehicle parking. A proposed $50,000 budget amendment for early care and education failed, but a $30,000 version passed. The council also approved a parcel map for 922 College Avenue and continued the Objective Design Standards ordinance to October 25.

• Approved virtual parking permits ordinance (7-0)
• Approved $30,000 budget amendment for early care and education (7-0)
• Rejected $50,000 budget amendment for early care and education (4-3)
• Approved parcel map with exceptions for 922 College Avenue (7-0)
• Continued Objective Design Standards ordinance to Oct 25 (7-0)
• Approved consent items 2,3,6 (7-0)
• Approved consent item 4 (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Pulled item 5 (AMI contract) from consent, continued to date uncertain

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet virtually to take action on a public/private partnership proposal and sidewalk vendor regulations. The body will also discuss the Valley Water Purified Water Project.

• First Tee of Silicon Valley Public/Private Partnership Proposal
• Sidewalk Vendor Regulation
• Valley Water Purified Water Project discussion

City Council Meeting

The City Council declared an emergency shelter crisis and authorized the City Manager to apply for California Project Homekey funds for an 88-unit emergency shelter at 1237 North San Antonio Road, with a one-year deadline. A proposed amendment to expand the project to 132 units failed. The council also approved consent items, including a DocuSign contract and a carbon offset purchase, and adopted a hybrid meeting policy starting November 1, 2021.

• Declared emergency shelter crisis and authorized Homekey application for 88-unit shelter (7-0)
• Amendment to pursue 132-unit shelter failed (2-5)
• Approved consent items 4, 5, 8 (7-0)
• Approved consent items 6, 7 (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Adopted hybrid meeting policy starting Nov 1, 2021 (7-0)
• Moved Item 9 to October 4, 2021 meeting (7-0)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission is meeting to determine the second funding allocation for the Fiscal Year 2022 Human Services Resource Allocation Process. The body will also review and prioritize proposed city-wide renter protections.

• Review and prioritization of proposed City-wide renter protections
• Recommendation for Human Services Resource Allocation Process (HSRAP) Second Funding Allocation for Fiscal Year 2022
• Update and next steps on FY21/22 workplan items

The Human Relations Commission voted 4-0 to recommend that the City Council consider limiting security deposits to 1.5 times rent, and also recommended limiting landlords' inquiries into criminal history. The commission endorsed the concept of Right to Counsel and advocated for an eviction court and funding (AB1487). It voted not to move forward with two other renter protections (TOPA/COPA and proactive rental inspection) and adopted a priority order for the remaining protections. The commission also accepted the HSRAP reviewers' recommendation for the second funding allocation for FY2022.

• Recommended limiting security deposits to 1.5 times rent (4-0)
• Recommended limiting landlords' criminal history inquiries (4-0)
• Endorsed Right to Counsel and advocated for eviction court and AB1487 funding (4-0)
• Recommended not moving forward with TOPA/COPA (3-1, Regehr no)
• Recommended not moving forward with proactive rental inspection (3-1, Kraus no)
• Adopted staff priority order for renter protections (4-0)
• Accepted HSRAP reviewers' recommendation for FY2022 second funding allocation (4-0)
• Approved August 12, 2021 minutes (4-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will consider a new ambulance subscription program and a related budget amendment for the General Fund. The body will also review a pension valuation report and discuss potential revenue-generating ballot measures.

• Review and recommendation of a Fire Department Ambulance Subscription Program ordinance and fees
• Approval of a General Fund budget amendment for the ambulance program
• Acceptance of the CalPERS Pension Annual Valuation Report as of June 30, 2020
• Discussion of potential revenue generating local ballot measures

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the City Council direct staff to continue evaluating a business tax based on square footage, model a utility user tax increase on gas, and include related polling. It also voted 3-0 to recommend the City Council approve a new Ambulance Subscription Program with fees of $8 per month for residents and five business tiers based on headcount. The Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the City Council accept the June 30, 2020 CalPERS Annual Valuation reports.

• Recommended City Council direct staff to evaluate a square-footage business tax with small retail protections, no sunset, annual escalator, and minimum threshold
• Recommended City Council model a gas utility user tax increase to offset Green litigation risk
• Recommended polling on business tax support, equity gas transfer, and funding priorities
• Recommended City Council approve an Ambulance Subscription Program with $8 monthly resident fee and five business rate tiers
• Recommended City Council approve budget amendments to start and maintain the ambulance program
• Recommended City Council accept the June 30, 2020 CalPERS Annual Valuation reports for Miscellaneous and Safety Pension Plans

Public Art Commission

The Public Art Commission is meeting to review funding allocations for local art projects. The body will consider spending from the Public Art Fund for a festival and murals at the Public Safety Building.

• Allocation of up to $7,000 from the Public Art Fund for the Code:ART festival (October 7-9)
• Allocation of $36,000 for artist design, fabrication, and installation of phase 2 temporary murals at the Public Safety Building in 2022
• Status update and timeline for King Artist Residency finalist presentations

The Public Art Commission approved two funding allocations from the Public Art Fund: up to $7,000 to support the Code:ART festival (October 7-9) and $36,000 for Phase 2 of temporary murals at the Public Safety Building, covering artist design, fabrication, and installation in 2022. Both motions passed unanimously. The Commission also heard updates on mural repair efforts and the King Artist Residency selection process, which identified three finalists to present proposals on October 19.

• Approved up to $7,000 from the Public Art Fund for the Code:ART festival, October 7-9
• Approved $36,000 for Phase 2 temporary murals at the Public Safety Building, for design, fabrication, and installation in 2022
• Approved minutes of the August 19, 2021 meeting
• Heard update on repair of vandalized mural at California Ave underpass
• Heard update on public letters regarding midtown Poetry Wall mural; staff will arrange an onsite condition assessment
• Heard update on King Artist Residency: 3 finalists selected from 18 applicants to present proposals on October 19

City Council Meeting

The Palo Alto City Council held a special meeting on September 15, 2021, and voted 7-0 to enter closed session to discuss performance evaluations for the City Manager, City Attorney, City Auditor, and City Clerk. The closed session lasted from 5:04 P.M. to 9:25 P.M., after which Mayor DuBois announced no reportable action. The meeting adjourned at 9:25 P.M. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for public employee performance evaluations (7-0).
• Conducted closed session; no reportable action announced.

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy and Services Committee is meeting to receive updates on state and federal legislation and race and equity initiatives. The body will also review an IT Risk Management Audit Activity Report from the City Auditor.

• IT Risk Management Audit Activity Report presentation
• Update on Records Management System (RMS) contract for police data collection
• Update on state and federal policy and legislation
• Review of race and equity work since March

The Policy & Services Committee voted 3-0 to recommend that the City Council discuss five areas of consideration related to the City's race and equity work. These include referring summit notes on affordable housing and women to the Housing Element Working Group, considering an ordinance related to the UN's CEDAW initiative, reviewing the Recreation Division with the Park & Recreation Commission, sharing youth findings with the Teen Advisory Council, and hosting an annual convening on equity for women and girls. No other substantive decisions were made; an item on the IT Risk Management Audit was removed from the agenda.

• Approved motion to recommend 5 race/equity considerations to Council (3-0)
• Referred summit notes on affordable housing/women to Housing Element Working Group (as recommendation)
• Recommended Council consider CEDAW-related ordinance (as recommendation)
• Recommended review of Recreation Division with Park & Recreation Commission (as recommendation)
• Recommended sharing youth findings with Teen Advisory Council (as recommendation)
• Recommended annual convening on women/girls equity (as recommendation)

City Council Meeting

The City Council directed the City Manager to reopen University Avenue on October 15, 2021, and adopted Resolution 9988 to continue a partial closure on Ramona Street through June 2022. The council also modified parklet rules to allow additional parklets adjacent to restaurants where they don't interfere with opposing retailers, and extended the Parklet Program until June 2022. Additionally, the council directed staff to proceed with a Streetscape RFP and to return with marketing measures (though the marketing measure was later removed). The council also approved a motion to close California Avenue through June 2022 and to return for further discussion on permanent closure.

• Approved consent calendar items 2-4 and AA1 (7-0), including minutes, Electric Utility Physical Security Plan, Auditor's FY2022 Task Orders, and second reading of firearm safe storage ordinance.
• Adopted Resolution 9986 approving conduit financing for Silicon Valley International School (7-0).
• Directed staff to recruit an Economic Development Coordinator/Manager and issue RFP for economic development strategy consultant (5-2).
• Directed reopening University Avenue on October 15, 2021, and partial closure of Ramona through June 2022 (7-0).
• Extended Parklet Program and modified rules to allow additional parklets adjacent to restaurants (7-0).
• Directed staff to proceed with Streetscape RFP including stakeholder input and sales tax data analysis (7-0).
• Approved closure of California Avenue through June 2022 and return for discussion on permanent closure (5-2).
• Moved labor negotiations item to a later date (7-0).

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission meeting originally scheduled for September 9, 2021, has been rescheduled to September 23, 2021. The agenda contains only this procedural notice.

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board is holding a retreat to discuss the definition of high quality development and the architectural character of Palo Alto. The board will also review projects for the 2020 Architectural Review Awards and receive an update on the Objective Standards Project.

• Discussion on defining high quality development and Palo Alto's architectural character
• Review of projects completed from 2014 to July 2021 for 2020 Architectural Review Awards
• Update and discussion on the Objective Standards Project timeline and graphics

The Architectural Review Board held a virtual retreat with no formal votes or decisions. They discussed how to define high-quality development in Palo Alto, reviewed the process for the 2020 Architectural Review Awards, and gave feedback on graphics for the Objective Standards project. The board agreed to remove unbuilt projects from the awards list and to divide research assignments among members.

• Removed unbuilt projects from 2020 ARB Awards eligibility list (e.g., 2609 Alma, 1310 Bryant, 3001 El Camino, 375 Hamilton)
• Agreed to exclude sign and wireless projects from awards consideration
• Assigned ARB members to research projects by geographic area for awards
• Directed staff to revise two Objective Standards graphics (change windows to bedroom size; remove shadow line and move dimension)
• No formal votes taken; all items were discussion only

Historic Resources Board Meeting

The board is meeting to receive reports on the Historic Preservation Program and potential retreat topics. The session also includes the approval of minutes from the June 24, 2021 meeting.

• Official report regarding Historic Preservation Program and potential retreat topics
• Approval of June 24, 2021 draft minutes
• Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meeting and Assignments

The Historic Resources Board approved the June 24, 2021 minutes as corrected, and discussed scheduling and retreat topics. No substantive policy decisions were made; the board agreed to hold a retreat on October 28 and scheduled a December 9 meeting. The Mills Act program and other preservation topics were discussed for future retreat consideration.

• Approved June 24, 2021 minutes as corrected (unanimous)
• Scheduled retreat for October 28, 2021
• Scheduled additional meeting for December 9, 2021

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission will discuss potential updates to parking codes, including virtual permits and paid parking. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding a request to remove a height restriction on a parcel map.

• Discussion of Municipal Code Title 10 (Parking) amendments for virtual permits and paid parking
• Public hearing for 985 Channing Avenue to remove a recorded height restriction
• Review of June 30, 2021 and July 14, 2021 draft meeting minutes

The Planning and Transportation Commission voted 7-0 to continue the public hearing for 985 Channing Avenue to September 29, 2021, after a neighbor requested more time to prepare. The commission also held a study session on proposed parking code amendments, discussing virtual permits and ALPR enforcement, but took no formal action. Minutes from June 30 and July 14, 2021 were approved.

• Continued 985 Channing Avenue public hearing to Sept 29, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved June 30, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved July 14, 2021 meeting minutes (7-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to review and forward a recommendation to the City Council regarding a Verified Emission Reduction Agreement. The proposal involves purchasing 24,000 tons of CO2e from the Integrative Organization of Oaxaca Indigenous and Agricultural Communities.

• Proposed purchase of 24,000 Tons CO2e for $228,000 from the Integrative Organization of Oaxaca Indigenous and Agricultural Communities

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend that the City Council adopt a resolution approving a Verified Emission Reduction Agreement with the Integrative Organization of Oaxaca Indigenous and Agricultural Communities (ICICO) to purchase 24,000 tons of CO2e at $9.50 per ton, for a total of $228,000. The recommendation also includes delegating authority to the City Manager to execute the agreement. This was a recommendation only; the City Council will make the final decision.

• Recommended City Council adopt the Verified Emission Reduction Agreement with ICICO to purchase 24,000 tons CO2e for $228,000
• Recommended delegating to the City Manager authority to execute the agreement and confirmation with ICICO
• Motion passed 3-0

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board is meeting to consider a design exception for a medical office building and discuss the color of a pole at the University Avenue Caltrain Station. The board will also review meeting minutes from July 15, 2021.

• Public hearing for 555 Middlefield Road [19PLN-00413] regarding facade modifications and site improvements
• Discussion on the color of one pole at the University Avenue Caltrain Station
• Approval of July 15, 2021 meeting minutes
• Update on North of Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) Working Group

The Architectural Review Board voted 5-0 to recommend approval of a Minor Architectural Review and Design Enhancement Exception for 555 Middlefield Road, allowing facade modifications, new landscaping, and other site improvements. The motion included an instruction for staff to edit and restructure the findings as discussed. A friendly amendment regarding the eyebrow sun shades was rejected.

• Approved the 555 Middlefield Road project (5-0) with staff instructed to edit and restructure the findings.
• Rejected a friendly amendment to have the architect explore alternate eyebrow sun shade designs.
• Approved the minutes of the July 15, 2021 ARB meeting (5-0).
• Discussed the University Avenue Caltrain pole color issue but took no action, as the matter is outside City jurisdiction.
• Noted the cancellation of the September 16, 2021 meeting and the upcoming ARB retreat on September 9, 2021.

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission is meeting to discuss permit processes for energy technologies and the legal framework for street closures and construction hours. The body will also consider a staff recommendation regarding design guidelines for the 2022 Electric Cost of Service and Rates Analysis.

• Staff recommendation for 2022 Electric Cost of Service and Rates Analysis design guidelines
• Discussion of permit processes for energy technologies
• Discussion of legal framework for construction work hours and street closures

The Utilities Advisory Commission voted 5-0 to recommend that the City Council approve the Design Guidelines for the 2022 Electric Utility Cost of Service and Rates Analysis, with an added sixth guideline emphasizing a transition to a fixed or monthly minimum charge. The commission also discussed solar permitting processes and construction work hours, but took no formal action on those items. The meeting was otherwise procedural, including approval of the July 7, 2021 minutes as revised.

• Approved recommendation to Council for 2022 Electric COSA design guidelines with added sixth guideline on fixed/minimum charge (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 7, 2021 meeting as revised (4-0, Segal abstaining)

City Council Meeting

The City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 9984 endorsing the Santa Clara County Community Plan to End Homelessness 2020-25 and directed staff to return with a detailed proposal for an unhoused outreach team, including case management, additional Police resources, and program coordination staff. The council also approved several consent items, including a contract amendment for the Public Safety Building design (4-2), a resolution for CalRecycle grant applications, and a first reading of a firearm safe storage ordinance. A motion to approve a consultant to clean up the Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook passed 4-2. The council held a closed session on labor negotiations with no reportable action.

• Adopted Resolution 9984 endorsing the Santa Clara County Community Plan to End Homelessness 2020-25 (6-0).
• Directed staff to return with a detailed proposal for an unhoused outreach team (6-0).
• Approved contract amendment with RossDrulisCusenbery Architecture, Inc. for Public Safety Building design, adding $283,410 (4-2).
• Adopted Resolution 9982 authorizing CalRecycle Rubberized Pavement Grant applications (6-0).
• Adopted first reading of ordinance requiring safe storage of firearms in residences (6-0).
• Approved professional services agreement with Enovity, Inc. for energy efficiency services, up to $1,985,000 (5-1).
• Approved retention of consultant to clean up and reformat Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook (4-2).
• Approved minutes from August 16, 2021 (6-0).

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to take action on a park improvement ordinance and a memo regarding park land. The body will also review minutes from previous meetings and receive updates from ad hoc and liaison groups.

• Park Improvement Ordinance for the Baylands Tide Gate Structure Repair Project
• Approval of Memo to Council on NVCAP regarding park land

City Council Meeting

The City Council directed staff to eliminate the viaduct and hybrid alternatives for the Meadow Drive and Charleston Road rail crossings, refine underpass designs, conduct a preliminary geotechnical study, and obtain a second cost opinion for the trench option. The motion passed 6-1, with Council Member Cormack dissenting. The council also approved the August 9, 2021 action minutes and a lease amendment with Palo Alto Players.

• Eliminated viaduct option for Meadow/Charleston rail crossings (6-1)
• Eliminated hybrid option for rail crossings (6-1, after amendment to remove it failed)
• Directed staff to engage with Caltrain on 4-track policy (6-1)
• Directed refinement of underpass alternatives to address roundabout, bike/ped connections, and right-of-way impacts (6-1)
• Directed preliminary geotechnical study (6-1)
• Directed parallel bike plan work with grade crossing construction (6-1)
• Directed cost opinion for trench option from experienced company (6-1, amendment passed 6-1)
• Approved lease amendment with Palo Alto Players for Lucie Stern Community Center (7-0)

Public Art Commission

The Public Art Commission is meeting to adopt a two-year work plan and discuss the condition of the Midtown poetry murals. The body will decide whether to fund repairs for the murals or begin the process of removing them to make way for new art.

• Adoption of two-year work plan from August 13, 2021 retreat
• Decision on repair and repainting of Midtown poetry murals for up to $10,000
• Discussion on potential deaccession of Midtown poetry murals
• Update on designs and timeline for temporary murals at the Public Safety Building

The Public Art Commission adopted its finalized two-year work plan. It also directed staff to prepare a comprehensive report on the condition of the Poetry Wall mural at 2605 Middlefield Rd, including a condition assessment and public input, to inform a future decision on whether to repair or deaccession the mural. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted two-year work plan (all in favor)
• Directed staff to present full report on Poetry Wall mural (all in favor)

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a workplan to pursue a revenue-generating local ballot measure for the November 2022 election, focusing on a business tax based on square footage and a utility use-based tax. The council also declined to adopt energy storage system targets under AB 2514, directing staff to return with a further plan. Several items were continued to the August 23 special meeting, including approval of the August 9 minutes and a closed session on property negotiations.

• Approved workplan for 2022 ballot tax measure (5-1, Tanaka no)
• Declined to adopt energy storage system targets under AB 2514 (6-0)
• Continued approval of August 9 minutes to August 23
• Continued closed session on 300 Homer Avenue to August 23

Public Art Commission

The Public Art Commission is meeting for a retreat to discuss the status and budget of existing projects and the Public Art Master Plan. The body will prioritize projects for a two-year work plan and discuss partnerships for the Code:ART program.

• Prioritization of projects for a two-year work plan
• Discussion of Code:ART2 installations scheduled for October 7-9, 2021
• Review of ArtLift Microgrants funding for up to 40 local artists
• Discussion of permanent platform for rotating exhibitions at King Plaza
• Status update on Highway 101 Bike/Pedestrian Bridge artwork by Mary Lucking

The Public Art Commission held its annual retreat, during which it discussed the Public Art Program's funding, current projects, and future plans. No formal decisions were made, but commissioners drafted a set of objectives and identified project priorities for 2021/22, including developing community-focused art, advancing racial equity, and expanding public art education. The meeting was informational and non-action.

• No formal action taken; retreat was non-action
• Drafted objectives for 2021/22: community building, racial justice, public art education
• Identified project priorities: ArtLift Microgrants, artist-in-residence, temporary public art, Public Art Master Plan review

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission is meeting to prioritize proposed renter protections and discuss affordable housing opportunities with the faith-based community. The body will also consider next steps for the 100 Community Conversations on Race initiative and the FY21/22 workplan.

• Review and prioritization of proposed City-wide renter protections
• Discussion on October event for Faith Based Community regarding affordable housing property conversion and purchase
• Consideration of next steps for 100 Community Conversations on Race initiative
• Update on the 2nd allocation of Human Services Resource Allocation Process (HSRAP) funding for FY22
• Update and next steps for FY21/22 workplan

The Human Relations Commission unanimously approved five motions recommending renter protections to the City Council, including a rental survey, expanded relocation policy, eviction reduction program, and extending rent increase limits. They also supported developing an affordable housing event and forwarded the One Human Conversations Report to the Council. Two agenda items were continued to the September meeting.

• Approved rental survey recommendation to City Council (5-0)
• Approved expansion of relocation policy, leaving income/unit size specs to Council (5-0)
• Approved eviction reduction program focusing on areas excluded from AB1482 and single-family homes (5-0)
• Approved extending rent increase limits to units not protected by AB1482 (5-0)
• Approved support for developing affordable housing event plan (5-0)
• Approved forwarding One Human Conversations Report to Council (5-0)
• Continued HSRAP funding update to September meeting
• Continued FY21/22 workplan update to September meeting

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy & Services Committee will review proposed amendments to the Tree Protection Ordinance. The Office of the City Auditor will also present an Asset Capitalization Audit Activity Report.

• Review and discussion of proposed amendments to the Tree Protection Ordinance (Title 8 of Palo Alto Municipal Code)
• Presentation by the Office of the City Auditor regarding the Asset Capitalization Audit Activity Report

The Policy and Services Committee voted 2-1 to recommend City Council accept redline changes to the Tree Protection Ordinance, including a 36-month building moratorium after protected tree removal, and forward the Asset Capitalization Review report to Council. The committee also reordered the agenda to take the audit item first.

• Reordered agenda to take item 2 before item 1 (3-0)
• Accepted Asset Capitalization Review report and forwarded to City Council on Consent Calendar (3-0)
• Recommended Council accept redline changes to Tree Ordinance including errata (2-1)
• Recommended Council direct staff to add 36-month building moratorium to tree replacement section (2-1)
• Recommended Council accept staff report changes to sections 8.04.050(a)(1), 8.10.010, and 8.10.040(b) (2-1)
• Recommended Council direct staff to make associated code changes for clarity (2-1)
• Recommended Council evaluate reallocating Urban Forester position to Assistant Director level (2-1)
• Recommended Council discuss Parks and Recreation Commission role in urban forestry (2-1)

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved the FY 2022 wastewater utility financial plan and rate schedule amendments, and approved the preferred concept plan for the South Palo Alto Bikeways Phase 1. It also endorsed the Santa Clara County plan to end homelessness and directed staff to pursue a Project Homekey application for an emergency shelter at the former Los Altos Treatment Plant site. Appointments for library and IT directors were approved, and several consent items passed.

• Approved wastewater utility financial plan and rate schedule amendments (7-0)
• Approved South Palo Alto Bikeways Phase 1 preferred concept plan (7-0)
• Endorsed Santa Clara County Community Plan to End Homelessness and directed staff to pursue Project Homekey application for LATP site (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Approved appointments of Gayathri Kanth as Library Director and Darren Numoto as IT Director (6-0, Tanaka abstain)
• Approved design-build contract with INDECT USA for parking guidance system ($2,241,310) (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Approved ordinance establishing board/commission term limits (6-1, Cormack no)
• Approved resolution vacating public utility easement at 3500 Louis Road (7-0)
• Approved joint letter to VTA on Measure B funding for grade separations (7-0)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet virtually to discuss ad hoc updates and receive a presentation from the Friends of Palo Alto Parks and Palo Alto Recreation Foundation. The body is scheduled to take action on a Park Improvement Ordinance regarding the Boulware Park Project.

• Action on Park Improvement Ordinance for the Boulware Park Project

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board will hold a public hearing to recommend changes to the facade and signage for Peloton. This includes a request for a sign exception for elements that do not comply with the Municipal Code or the Master Tenant Facade & Sign Program.

• Public hearing for 180 El Camino Real [21PLN-00122] regarding Peloton facade and signage changes

The Architectural Review Board approved the Peloton storefront façade changes at 180 El Camino Real, subject to conditions of approval in the staff report. The board voted 4-0 to approve the project, which includes a new façade and signage, but did not grant the requested sign exception for the illuminated entry portal featuring the 'P' logo. The board also approved the meeting minutes for May 6 and June 17, 2021.

• Approved Peloton façade changes and signage at 180 El Camino Real, subject to staff conditions (4-0)
• Denied the requested sign exception for the illuminated entry portal with 'P' logos
• Approved the draft minutes for the May 6, 2021 ARB meeting (4-0-1)
• Approved the draft minutes for the June 17, 2021 ARB meeting (5-0)
• A motion to keep the Objective Standards item open for discussion failed (lack of second)

Public Art Commission - Cancelled

The regular meeting of the Public Art Commission scheduled for July 15, 2021, has been cancelled. No other business was listed.

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission will discuss community feedback and concept plan alternatives for the South Palo Alto Bikeways Phase 1. The body will also consider the approval of meeting minutes from June 9, 2021.

• South Palo Alto Bikeways Phase 1 Community Feedback and Concept Plan Alternatives
• Approval of June 9, 2021 Draft PTC Meeting Minutes

The Planning & Transportation Commission voted 6-0 to recommend the South Palo Alto Bikeways Phase 1 concept plan to City Council, with modifications. The Commission approved the preferred concepts for the Waverly Path, Fabian Way, and East Meadow Drive segments 1 and 2, and also approved the staff proposal for segment 3. For segment 4, the Commission recommended a revised solution that omits or mitigates the proposed loss of an estimated 80 parking spaces and to continue negotiating with the VTA to maintain grant funding.

• Approved motion to recommend Staff's preferred concepts for Waverly Path, Fabian Way, and East Meadow Drive segments 1 and 2 (6-0).
• Approved motion to recommend a revised solution for East Meadow Drive segment 4 that omits or mitigates the proposed loss of an estimated 80 parking spaces and to continue negotiating with VTA (6-0).
• Approved motion to recommend the Staff proposal for East Meadow Drive segment 3 (6-0).
• Approved the June 9, 2021 draft meeting minutes as revised (5-0, with two abstentions).

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission will discuss the One Water Plan objectives and community engagement. The commission is also asked to recommend a $228,000 carbon emission purchase and up to $18.5 million for smart grid technology.

• Discussion on One Water Plan objectives, scope, and community engagement
• Recommendation of a $228,000 verified emission reduction agreement with the Integrative Organization of Oaxaca Indigenous and Agricultural Communities
• Recommendation to use up to $18.5 million from Electric Special Project Reserves for Smart Grid Technology Installation (EL-11014)
• Review and approval of the 2021-2022 Annual Work Plan

The Utilities Advisory Commission recommended City Council approve using up to $18.5M from Electric Special Project reserves to fund the Smart Grid Technology Installation Project for Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), covering electric, water, and gas meters. The commission also recommended Council approve a $228,000 Verified Emission Reduction Agreement with an Oaxaca organization to purchase 24,000 tons of CO2e. Both recommendations passed with votes of 5-1 and 6-0 respectively.

• Recommended $18.5M AMI smart grid project funding from ESP reserves (5-1)
• Recommended $228,000 carbon offset purchase from ICICO (6-0)
• Approved 2021-2022 Annual Work Plan with amendments (6-0)
• Approved May 12, 2021 minutes as corrected (5-0)
• Approved June 2, 2021 minutes as corrected (5-0)

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission will hold a public hearing to review potential changes to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 18.09. The discussion focuses on regulations to encourage affordability for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

• Public hearing on potential ordinance changes to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 18.09 regarding ADU affordability
• Review of 2020 Reach Code Cost-Effectiveness Analysis for New Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• Approval of May 26, 2021 draft meeting minutes

The Planning and Transportation Commission voted to recommend several incentives for deed-restricted affordable ADUs, including exempting them from Impact and Plan Review Fees, allowing garage conversions, and supporting third-party income verification. The Commission voted not to recommend allowing additional ADUs on a site, exempting basements from floor area, or reducing setbacks. It also declined to recommend allowing 1,200-square-foot ADUs and could not agree on a deed restriction duration, forwarding individual commissioner preferences to Council.

• Approved policy items C-F: third-party income verification, homeowner tenant selection flexibility, City-funded program administration costs, and exploring lender partnerships (5-0).
• Approved not recommending proposals for an additional ADU on-site, exempting basement square footage, and reduced setbacks (5-0).
• Approved Staff recommendation for existing garage conversions, with Staff to consider applying to all ADUs (5-0).
• Approved Staff recommendation for reconstruction of non-conforming walls, with Staff to consider applying to all ADUs for conversions only (4-1).
• Approved recommending exemption of affordable ADUs from Impact and Plan Review Fees, recognizing the City would need to budget for it (5-0).
• Approved not recommending 1,200-square-foot ADUs for affordable housing units (3-2).
• Approved recommending an income range of 80-100% AMI for affordable ADU units (4-1).
• Approved forwarding to Council that the Commission could not reach a majority on deed restriction duration, with individual commissioner preferences noted (5-0).

Historic Resources Board Meeting

The Historic Resources Board will conduct elections for Chair and Vice Chair. The board will also discuss a draft work plan intended for the City Council and review the April 8, 2021, meeting minutes.

• Election of Chair
• Election of Vice Chair
• Discussion of Draft Work Plan shared with City Council
• Approval of April 8, 2021, draft minutes

The board elected Caroline Willis as Chair and Christian Pease as Vice Chair by unanimous roll call votes, and approved the April 8, 2021 minutes as corrected. The board also discussed the draft work plan, agreed to cancel the July 8 meeting, and scheduled a July 22 Zoom meeting to organize for the year.

• Elected Caroline Willis as Chair (7-0)
• Elected Christian Pease as Vice Chair (7-0)
• Approved April 8, 2021 minutes as corrected (7-0)
• Agreed to cancel July 8 meeting
• Scheduled July 22 Zoom meeting for subcommittee assignments

City Council Meeting

The City Council voted 6-0 to end the local emergency on July 1, continue the parklet permit program, and keep downtown and California Avenue closed to traffic until September 30, 2021. It also approved $50,000 for the Chamber of Commerce for business promotion, and directed staff to analyze business impacts and pursue streetscape design for California Avenue. The council also approved several consent calendar items, including a $1.95M contract for Rinconada Park improvements and a $6.69M paving contract.

• Approved consent items 1, 3, 4 (7-0) and items 2, 5 (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Approved $1,954,900 contract with Azulworks for Rinconada Park improvements (7-0)
• Approved $6,688,253 contract with O'Grady Paving for road repairs (7-0)
• Approved $316,236 contract with Palo Alto Housing Corp for BMR program (7-0)
• Approved $1.73M lease with BioScience Properties for wastewater plant workspace (6-1)
• Approved motion to end local emergency, extend street closures to Sept 30, allocate $50K to Chamber (6-0)
• Denied appeal of Verizon wireless facilities at 250 Hamilton Ave, upheld director's decision on nodes 061 and 205 (4-2)
• Approved state legislative advocacy strategy and support for 4 police bills (7-0)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on a Park Improvement Ordinance for the Baylands Tide Gate Structure Replacement Project. The body will also select a liaison for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Hawthorns Area Planning Process.

• Park Improvement Ordinance for the Baylands Tide Gate Structure Replacement Project
• Selection of Liaison for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Hawthorns Area Planning Process

City Council Meeting

The City Council adopted the Fiscal Year 2022 budget, including operating and capital budgets, a revised compensation plan, and utility rate increases for electric, gas, water, storm water, and dark fiber services, in a 4-3 vote. The council also approved a seven-year license agreement with Tesla for a 19-stall Supercharging station at the Bryant/Lytton Garage, and directed staff to negotiate a long-term lease with the Palo Alto Museum for the Roth Building. Additionally, the council approved the appointment of Lesley Milton as City Clerk at an annual salary of $175,000.

• Adopted FY 2022 budget with utility rate increases (4-3, Cormack, Filseth, Tanaka no)
• Approved Tesla Supercharging station license at 445 Bryant Street (7-0)
• Directed staff to negotiate long-term lease with Palo Alto Museum for Roth Building (Parts A & B 6-1, Part C 4-3)
• Appointed Lesley Milton as City Clerk at $175,000 salary (7-0)
• Approved consent calendar items 4-15, 17, 20-21 (7-0)
• Approved golf course management contract amendment with OB Sports (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Adopted ordinance on board/commission term limits (6-1, Cormack no)
• Continued outdoor dining interim ordinance (6-1, Kou no)

Public Art Commission

The Public Art Commission will receive a status presentation on artwork by Mary Lucking for the Highway 101 Bike Bridge. The body will consider the allocation of additional funds to complete the project.

• Highway 101 Bike Bridge Artwork status and additional funding allocation
• Code:ART2 event status update for October 7-9

The Public Art Commission approved allocating up to $43,400 in additional funds for the Highway 101 Bike Bridge artwork by Mary Lucking, citing pandemic-related delays and increased fabrication costs. The commission also discussed the upcoming Code:ART2 event and heard updates on ArtLift Microgrant projects and temporary murals for the Public Safety Building construction fence.

• Approved allocation of up to $43,400 for completion of Highway 101 Bike Bridge artwork
• Approved minutes of the May 20, 2021 regular meeting
• Discussed Code:ART2 event support, including community partnerships and volunteer coordination
• Heard update on ArtLift Microgrant projects and mural finalists for Public Safety Building fence

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board will hold public hearings regarding two major architectural reviews for residential and office projects. The board will also discuss its draft work plan and annual bylaw changes.

• 160 Waverley Street: Demolition of 3 residential units to build two structures with three apartment flats and six parking stalls
• 3241 Park Boulevard: Demolition of a 4,501 square foot building to construct a 7,861 square foot office building
• 4256 El Camino Real: Ad Hoc Committee review of garage changes to ensure exterior design is maintained
• Discussion of the ARB Draft Work Plan and potential bylaw changes

The Architectural Review Board continued the 160 Waverley Street project to a later date, with a 4-0 vote, after discussing design, privacy, and landscaping concerns. The board approved the new office building at 3241 Park Boulevard (4-0), with conditions including correcting blank landscape sheets. The board also adopted its draft work plan (3-0) and approved the April 15, 2021 minutes (3-0).

• Continued 160 Waverley Street project to a date uncertain (4-0)
• Approved 3241 Park Boulevard office building project (4-0)
• Adopted draft ARB Work Plan with edits (3-0)
• Approved April 15, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to review a lease agreement for workspace at the Regional Water Quality Control Plant. The committee will also discuss a workplan for a revenue-generating local ballot measure and affordable housing funding.

• Lease agreement with BioScience Properties for 1900 Embarcadero Road estimated at $1.73 million over five years
• Workplan for a revenue-generating local ballot measure for the November 2022 General Election
• Guidance to staff on affordable housing funding

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend City Council authorize the City Manager to execute a five-year lease with BioScience Properties for workspace at the Regional Water Quality Control Plant, estimated at $1.73 million. The committee also voted 3-0 to recommend City Council approve a workplan for pursuing a revenue-generating local ballot measure for the November 2022 election, focusing on a business tax (with a preference for square footage as the basis) and a utility use-based tax, including feasibility analysis and budget actions. The committee incorporated amendments to specify the square footage preference and to bring forward necessary budget actions.

• Recommended City Council authorize the City Manager to execute the lease with BioScience Properties for the Regional Water Quality Control Plant workspace (3-0).
• Recommended City Council approve the workplan for a revenue-generating local ballot measure for November 2022 (3-0).
• Incorporated into the motion a preference for square footage as the basis for a business tax.
• Incorporated into the motion to bring forward necessary budget actions for the workplan.

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a $2,667,054 construction contract with Azulworks, Inc. for the FY 2021 Street Resurfacing Project, along with authorization for change orders up to $266,706 and budget amendments. It also approved consent items including extending TheatreWorks, Palo Alto Players, and West Bay Opera agreements for the Lucie Stern Community Theatre, a cooperative agreement with Caltrans for the Embarcadero Trash Capture Device Project, an amendment to the Charles Sowers Studios contract, and the FY 2021 Third Quarter Financial Status Report. The council approved an amendment to the OIR Group contract for independent police auditing, increasing it by $32,500 to a total of $107,500. It took no action on the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan and the 340 Portage/3200 Park nonconforming use item, directing staff to return with new items in August and early Fall, respectively.

• Approved $2,667,054 construction contract with Azulworks, Inc. for street resurfacing, with $266,706 for change orders and budget amendments.
• Approved one-year extensions of agreements with TheatreWorks, Palo Alto Players, and West Bay Opera for Lucie Stern Community Theatre.
• Approved Resolution 9966 for a cooperative agreement with Caltrans for the Embarcadero Trash Capture Device Project.
• Approved Amendment No. 1 to contract with Charles Sowers Studios, LLC, extending it through December 31, 2021.
• Accepted FY 2021 Third Quarter Financial Status Report and approved General Fund budget amendment.
• Approved Amendment No. 1 to OIR Group contract for independent police auditing, increasing amount by $32,500 to $107,500, and expanding scope of services.
• Withdrew motion to extend non-occupancy period for 340 Portage/3200 Park site; instead, took no action and directed staff to return in August.
• Took no action on North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan; directed staff to bring back a new item in early Fall.

Human Relations Commission

The Commission will discuss a contingency plan for potential Human Services Resource Allocation Process funding increases. Members will also receive updates on the 100 Community Conversations on Race initiative and the FY21/22 workplan.

• Discussion of HSRAP contingency plan for possible FY22 funding increase
• Update on the 100 Community Conversations on Race initiative
• Consideration of response to City Council regarding proposed FY2022 City Operating Budget
• Update and next steps on items related to the FY21/22 workplan

The Human Relations Commission voted 5-0 to recommend that City Council open a separate one-year process for any new recommended funding for the Human Services Resource Allocation Process (HSRAP) in the FY22 budget. The commission also deleted an agenda item on the FY2022 City Operating Budget, citing unpreparedness, and approved the May 13, 2021 minutes with a 3-2 vote. New commissioners Kraus and Eberle were welcomed.

• Approved recommendation to City Council for a separate one-year process for new HSRAP funding (5-0)
• Deleted agenda item #4 on FY2022 City Operating Budget response (5-1)
• Approved May 13, 2021 meeting minutes (3-2, with two abstentions)
• Welcomed new commissioners Kraus and Eberle
• Instructed staff to provide a list of projects and liaison positions for new commissioners

City Council Meeting

The City Council met in a virtual special meeting and voted unanimously to enter closed session to discuss the appointment of a City Clerk and labor negotiations with the unrepresented City Clerk position. After the closed session, the Mayor announced no reportable action was taken. The meeting adjourned at 11:45 P.M.

• Approved motion to go into closed session (7-0)
• Held closed session on public employee appointment (City Clerk)
• Held closed session on labor negotiations (City Clerk)
• Announced no reportable action from closed session

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission is holding a public hearing to recommend modifications to Title 18 regarding objective design standards. The body will also review a proposed PTC Work Plan for recommendation to the City Council.

• Public hearing on Objective Standards Project modifications to Title 18
• Proposed new Chapter 18.24 for Objective Design Standards
• Proposed modifications to Chapters 18.30(J) and 18.30(K) regarding Affordable and Workforce Housing Overlay Districts
• Proposed expansion of Affordable Housing (AH) and Housing Incentive Program (HIP) to PTOD-Eligible Properties
• Review of the PTC Work Plan for recommendation to City Council

The Planning and Transportation Commission voted 4-1-1 to recommend that the City Council adopt new Objective Design Standards (Title 18.24) and other Title 18 changes, including expanding the Housing Incentive Program to certain PTOD-eligible areas. The recommendation also includes applying the new standards to the Public Facility (PF) Zone and considering allowing multi-family housing in PF Zones as part of the Housing Element process. The Commission also unanimously approved its inaugural annual Work Plan and canceled its July 28 and August 11 meetings.

• Recommended Objective Design Standards (18.24) and Title 18 changes to Council (4-1-1)
• Recommended applying Objective Design Standards to PF Zone (4-1-1)
• Recommended expanding Housing Incentive Program to PTOD-eligible areas (4-1-1)
• Recommended Council consider multi-family housing in PF Zone via Housing Element (4-1-1)
• Approved inaugural PTC Work Plan (6-0)
• Canceled July 28 and August 11, 2021 meetings (6-0)
• Approved May 12, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0)

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy and Services Committee will meet to review and approve the City Auditor's task orders for Fiscal Year 2022. The body will also receive updates on race and equity work and discuss potential updates to the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook.

• Review and approval of Office of the City Auditor's FY 2022 Task Orders
• Update on race and equity work and Police Data Collection Records Management System (RMS) contract
• Discussion of edits to the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook

The Policy and Services Committee voted 3-0 to forward the Office of the City Auditor's FY2022 task orders to the City Council on the consent calendar. The committee also voted 2-1 to recommend that the City Council hire a consultant to reformat the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook. An update on race and equity work, including a police data collection contract, was received with no action taken.

• Approved forwarding FY2022 audit task orders to City Council (3-0)
• Recommended hiring consultant to reformat Council Procedures Handbook (2-1, Tanaka no)
• Received race and equity update; no action taken

City Council Meeting

The City Council denied a proposal to allow ground-floor medical office uses at Town and Country Shopping Center, voting 5-2 against the ordinance. The Council also approved a consent calendar with several contracts and programs, suspended Downtown Business Improvement District assessments for FY 2022, and adopted the 2020 Urban Water Management Plan with a letter to SFPUC. The FY 2022 budget direction passed 4-3, including a $1.7 million contingency and a Q1 financial review.

• Denied retail health ordinance at 855 El Camino Real (5-2)
• Approved consent calendar items 2, 4-8 (7-0)
• Approved underground district contract with Pacific International Electric (5-2)
• Approved outdoor dining and parklet program extension (5-2)
• Approved emergency permit extension ordinance (6-1)
• Suspended Downtown BID assessments for FY 2022 (7-0)
• Adopted 2020 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan (7-0)
• Directed staff on FY 2022 budget with $1.7M contingency and Q1 review (4-3)

City Council Meeting

The City Council met in a special virtual session and voted 7-0 to enter closed session to discuss the appointment of a City Clerk and labor negotiations with the unrepresented City Clerk position. After returning, the mayor announced no reportable action, and the meeting adjourned with no substantive public decisions.

• Motion to enter closed session passed (7-0)
• No reportable action from closed session announced

Stormwater Management Oversight Committee Meeting

The Stormwater Management Oversight Committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair. Members will receive staff updates on the FY 22 budget, the Matadero Creek oil spill, and various stormwater programs.

• Election of committee Chair and Vice Chair
• Review of Final Workplan
• Staff update on FY 22 Final Budget
• Staff update on Matadero Creek Oil Spill
• Staff updates on EPA Grant and Stormwater Rebate Program

The Stormwater Management Oversight Committee approved minutes from April and May meetings, elected Hal Mickelson as Chair and Dena Mossar as Vice Chair, and received staff updates on the FY22 budget, Matadero Creek oil spill cleanup, capital projects, a Caltrans trash capture device, an EPA grant, and the rebate program. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; all actions were informational or procedural.

• Approved minutes from April 1 and May 6, 2021 meetings (unanimous)
• Elected Hal Mickelson as Chair and Dena Mossar as Vice Chair (all in favor)

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission will meet to select officers and discuss updates to the Wildfire Mitigation Plan and the MyCPAU customer portal. The body will also review the 2021 City Survey.

• Selection of Officers
• Discussion and Update of the Wildfire Mitigation Plan
• Discussion and Update on the Utilities MyCPAU Customer Portal
• Discussion and Overview of the 2021 City Survey

The Utilities Advisory Commission unanimously re-elected Chair Forssell and Vice Chair Segal to their officer positions. The commission also discussed the Wildfire Mitigation Plan, the MyCPAU customer portal, and the 2021 City Survey, but took no formal action on these items.

• Approved Chair Forssell as Chair (6-0-1)
• Approved Vice Chair Segal as Vice Chair (6-0-1)

City Council Meeting

The City Council met in a special virtual session and voted 5-0 to enter closed session to discuss the public employment of the City Clerk. After returning, the mayor announced no reportable action, and the meeting adjourned. No substantive public decisions were made.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for City Clerk employment discussion (5-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved an ordinance establishing term limits for board and commission members, with recruitment consolidated to January and terms beginning in March, effective January 1, 2022. The council also approved a tri-party fire agreement for Foothills fire station staffing, directed staff to develop an RFP for an economic development strategy consultant, and approved the consent calendar item on density bonus and affordable housing ordinances. The meeting included proclamations and a study session with no action taken.

• Approved ordinance establishing board/commission term limits (6-1)
• Approved tri-party fire agreement for Foothills Reserve Fire Station staffing (7-0)
• Directed staff to return with RFP proposal for economic development strategy consultant (6-1)
• Approved second reading of ordinances on density bonus and affordable housing (5-1)
• Approved action minutes for May 17 and May 18, 2021 meetings (6-0)
• Continued Downtown BID assessment suspension to June 7, 2021

City Council Meeting

The City Council met in a special virtual session and voted unanimously to enter closed session to discuss the appointment of a City Clerk and labor negotiations with multiple employee organizations. After the closed session, the mayor announced no reportable action, and the meeting adjourned. No substantive public decisions were made.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (7-0)
• No reportable action from closed session

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission will hold a public hearing to review potential changes to the municipal code regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The body will also review the City Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook.

• Public hearing on ordinance changes to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 18.09 regarding ADU affordability
• Review and recommended adjustments to the City Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook
• Approval of April 28, 2021 draft meeting minutes

The Planning and Transportation Commission discussed potential ordinance changes to encourage affordable Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) but did not make any decisions on the 14 proposed items. The commission voted to continue the item to a date uncertain to allow for further discussion and full attendance. The commission also received the City Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook and directed staff to draft a letter conveying its comments and concerns to the City Council.

• Continued ADU affordability ordinance discussion to a date uncertain (6-0)
• Received Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook and directed staff to draft a letter to Council (6-0)
• Approved April 28, 2021 draft meeting minutes (6-0)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss policies for sidewalk vendors in parks and updates on the Foothills and Baylands Nature Preserves. The body will also consider a letter to the Council regarding Junior Museum and Zoo ticket prices.

• Discussion on Sidewalk Vendors in Parks Policy
• Establishment of a new Ad Hoc Committee for the Sidewalk Vendors in Parks Policy
• Update on Foothills Nature Preserve
• Discussion on Baylands Nature Preserve Interpretive Sign Project
• Action on a letter to Council regarding Junior Museum and Zoo ticket prices

The Parks and Recreation Commission voted 7-0 to create an Ad Hoc Committee, with Commissioners Greenfield, Brown, and Moss, to explore policies for sidewalk vendors in parks, a requirement under state law SB-946. The Commission also approved a letter to the City Council supporting a reduction of the Junior Museum and Zoo entry fee from $18 to $10. The minutes were approved 4-0-2, with two abstentions.

• Approved draft minutes from April 27, 2021 meeting (4-0-2, Brown and Reckdahl abstaining)
• Created Ad Hoc Committee for Sidewalk Vendors in Parks Policy with Commissioners Greenfield, Brown, and Moss (7-0)
• Approved letter to Council supporting Junior Museum and Zoo ticket price reduction from $18 to $10 (7-0)
• Received updates on Foothills Nature Preserve visitation, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure plans
• Discussed potential regulations for sidewalk vendors, including designated maps and restrictions
• Heard public comments on off-leash dog pilot program, pesticide use, and Gate D bicycle access

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Wrap-Up. The body will review the recommended FY 2022 Budget for adoption by the City Council.

• Discussion on FY 2022 Proposed Operating Budget
• Discussion on FY 2022 Proposed Capital Budget

The Finance Committee voted 2-1 to recommend the City Council adopt the FY 2022 Operating and Capital Budgets, Municipal Fee Schedule, and the FY 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan, with amendments including placing unallocated funds into a renamed 'Council Recovery Reserve' and directing staff to prepare two scenarios for refurbishing the Roth Building. An amendment to add $700,000 from golf course revenue and $2 million from the Fiber Fund to the reserve failed due to lack of a second.

• Recommended FY 2022 budgets and fee schedule to City Council (2-1, Burt no)
• Approved alternative balancing strategy using $1.7M unallocated funds if labor concessions fail
• Directed staff to study $4M zero-interest loan from fiber fund for Roth Building museum
• Directed staff to study $2M SUMC and $350K parks impact fees for Roth Building restroom
• Failed amendment to add $700K golf revenue and $2M fiber surplus to reserve (no second)

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a solid waste processing and disposal contract with GreenWaste Recovery, Inc., starting January 1, 2022, with an 8.5-year term and an estimated average annual cost of $4.82 million. The council also adopted a negative declaration under CEQA and extended a related MOU with Sunnyvale and Mountain View. Additionally, the council directed staff to pursue a citywide fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network with a city-operated ISP model, and referred a neighborhood connectivity program to the Policy and Services Committee.

• Approved GreenWaste solid waste contract, 8.5-year term, ~$4.82M/year (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Adopted Negative Declaration for solid waste contract under CEQA (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Approved MOU amendment with Sunnyvale and Mountain View extending term to Dec 31, 2021 (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Directed staff to pursue citywide fiber-to-the-home buildout with city-operated ISP model (7-0)
• Referred neighborhood connectivity and volunteer program to Policy and Services Committee (7-0)
• Approved consent items including SCADA software upgrade contract ($186,284) and PIMS software contract ($116,938) (7-0)
• Approved Public Safety Innovation contract up to $250,000 for telecom services (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Adopted ordinance reinstating horse and bicycle restrictions at Foothills Nature Preserve (7-0)

Public Art Commission

The Public Art Commission will conduct a final review for art in a private development project at 4256 El Camino Real. The body will also elect a Chair and Vice Chair. Other discussions include the Commissioner Handbook and an update on equity-focused artwork for King Plaza.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Final review for art at 4256 El Camino Real
• Review of PAC annual work plan and priorities for City Council
• Status update on King Plaza equity-focused artwork and open call to artists

The Palo Alto Public Art Commission elected Nia Taylor as Chair and Loren Gordon as Vice Chair. The Commission approved the public art plan for the 4256 El Camino Real project (Art Hotel), which includes two benches and a planter by artist Colin Selig. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were informational or procedural.

• Elected Nia Taylor as Chair (3-2 vote)
• Elected Loren Gordon as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved public art in private development for 4256 El Camino Real (all in favor)

City Council Meeting

The City Council directed staff to prepare and file an appeal of the city's Regional Housing Needs Allocation, citing technical errors and elements from a January 21, 2021 letter to ABAG. The motion passed 5-2, with Council Members Cormack and Tanaka voting no. The council also approved a consent item adopting ordinances on density bonus and affordable housing (7-0) and approved a preliminary parcel map with exception and variance for 181 Addison Avenue (7-0). Two prescreening items for rezoning proposals were discussed with no action taken.

• Approved appeal of Regional Housing Needs Allocation (5-2)
• Adopted ordinances on density bonus and affordable housing (7-0)
• Approved preliminary parcel map with exception and variance for 181 Addison Avenue (7-0)
• Took no action on prescreening for 955 Alma St rezoning proposal
• Took no action on prescreening for 2239 Wellesley rezoning proposal

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a $15,123,900 construction contract with C. Overaa & Co. for the Primary Sedimentation Tanks Rehabilitation and Equipment Room Electrical Upgrade Project at the Regional Water Quality Control Plant, along with related financing resolutions and amendments to agreements with Stanford University, East Palo Alto Sanitary District, and Mountain View/Los Altos. The council also directed the Finance Committee and staff to adopt a revised FY2022 budget balancing strategy, including using 60% of ARPA funds in Year 1 and 40% in Year 2, adding $260,000 for Children's Theatre outreach, $50,000 for YCI matching funds, $75,000 to restore council contingency to $100,000, $150,000 for HSRAP, and $30,000 for Twilight Concert Series, reducing the TMA budget to $150,000, and moving forward with Phase 4 of the Charleston/Arastradero Project using funding Option 1. The motion passed with parts A, C-G passing 4-3 and part B passing 5-2. Other approvals included the consent calendar items (4-8) with item 5 and 8 passing 6-1 (Tanaka no), the weed abatement resolution (7-0), and the minutes of April 26 and May 3 meetings (7-0).

• Approved $15,123,900 construction contract with C. Overaa & Co. for wastewater plant project (7-0)
• Adopted FY2022 budget balancing strategy with ARPA 60/40 split and added funding items (parts A, C-G 4-3; part B 5-2)
• Approved consent items 4, 6, 7 (7-0) and items 5, 8 (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Adopted weed abatement resolution confirming report and special assessments (7-0)
• Approved minutes for April 26 and May 3, 2021 meetings (7-0)
• Removed closed session item on labor negotiations from agenda
• Denied amendment to use ARPA funds 50/50 (3-4)
• Denied amendment to make Roth building funding contingent on federal funding (3-4)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission is meeting to take action on the FY2022 City Operating Budget response and updates to the Palo Alto Mediation Program bylaws. The body will also discuss the 100 Community Conversations on Race initiative and the needs of the unhoused.

• Action on requested changes to the Palo Alto Mediation Program bylaws
• Action on the response to City Council regarding the proposed FY2022 City Operating Budget
• Action on responses to address the needs of the unhoused in Palo Alto
• Action on items related to the FY21/22 workplan
• Discussion on the 100 Community Conversations on Race initiative

The Human Relations Commission approved the 2021 bylaw updates for the Palo Alto Mediation Program (PAMP) as presented, with a 5-0 vote. The commission also approved minutes from five prior meetings. No action was taken on other agenda items, and a discussion on addressing the needs of the unhoused was tabled.

• Approved 2021 Palo Alto Mediation Program bylaw updates (5-0)
• Approved minutes from Feb 5, Feb 11, Mar 11, Mar 17, Apr 8, 2021 (5-0)
• Tabled item on addressing needs of the unhoused in Palo Alto

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is conducting a continuation of budget hearings for Fiscal Year 2022. The body is reviewing proposed operating and capital budgets across various city departments and discussing municipal fees and charges.

• FY 2022 Proposed Municipal Fees and Charges
• FY 2022 Proposed Capital and Operating Budgets
• Budget review for Community and Library Services
• Budget review for Planning and Transportation
• Budget review for Infrastructure, Environment, and Public Works

The Finance Committee tentatively approved the Community Services and Library Department budgets, restoring $550,000 in Library cuts and several CSD cuts to the parking lot, and added a one-time $500,000 Council uncertainty reserve. It also tentatively approved Planning and Transportation, Infrastructure and Environment, Citywide Internal Support, and Human Services contracts budgets, with various adjustments. Several motions failed due to lack of a second, including a request for Golf Course revenue update and amendments to HSRAP funding and ARPA allocation.

• Tentatively approved CSD and Library budgets with cuts restored (2-1, Filseth no)
• Restored $550,000 Library cuts to parking lot
• Restored CSD cuts totaling $638,044 to parking lot
• Added one-time $125,000 to CSD budget at Staff discretion
• Established one-time $500,000 Council uncertainty reserve
• Tentatively approved Planning and Transportation budget with TMA funding and Planning Staff moved to parking lot (3-0)
• Tentatively approved FY2022 Municipal Fees and Charges (3-0)
• Tentatively approved Infrastructure and Environment budgets with gas commodity purchase reduced by $1.6M (3-0)

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission is meeting to discuss recent utility outages and review water management plans. The body will consider recommendations to the City Council regarding the 2020 Urban Water Management Plan, the Water Shortage Contingency Plan, and the Fiscal Year 2022 operating and capital budgets.

• Proposed Operating and Capital Budgets for the Utilities Department for Fiscal Year 2022
• 2020 Urban Water Management Plan
• Water Shortage Contingency Plan
• Discussion on recent utilities outages

The Utilities Advisory Commission voted unanimously to recommend the City Council adopt the 2020 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan, and to approve the proposed FY 2022 Utilities Operating and Capital Budgets. The commission also recommended a study of salary and benefit ranges to attract and retain key utility personnel. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included discussion of recent power outages and water quality concerns.

• Recommended Council adopt 2020 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan (7-0)
• Recommended Council approve FY 2022 Utilities Operating and Capital Budgets (7-0)
• Recommended Council study salary and benefit ranges for key utility personnel (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 7, 2021 meeting as corrected (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 21, 2021 meeting as corrected (7-0)

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission will provide recommendations on the 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan. The body will also discuss parking data analysis from Cal Poly Pomona and a request regarding retail health uses at Town & Country Village.

• Proposed 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan and Comprehensive Plan Compliance
• 855 El Camino Real: Request to establish a Retail Health Definition for ground floor uses at Town & Country Village
• Study session on parking data analysis provided by California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

The Planning & Transportation Commission voted 4-3 to recommend approval of a zoning text amendment allowing limited ground-floor retail health uses at Town & Country Village, with specific conditions. The recommendation includes a revised definition of 'retail health' and a deadline for initial leases. The item will now go to the City Council for final consideration.

• Recommended approval of revised ordinance allowing limited ground-floor retail health uses at Town & Country Village (4-3)
• Amended retail health definition to require a storefront/retail sales area of at least 750 sq ft or 20% of space
• Amended definition to exclude services requiring convalescence, general anesthesia, emergency, or urgent care
• Set deadline of Dec 31, 2023 for initial retail health leases, after which the space can be used for retail or retail health
• Recommended Council consider applying retail health flexibility to other shopping centers citywide
• Approved 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan as consistent with Comprehensive Plan (7-0)
• Approved April 14, 2021 meeting minutes (7-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is holding a special meeting to continue budget hearings for Fiscal Year 2022. The body is discussing proposed operating and capital budgets across multiple city departments.

• Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Hearing continuation
• Capital Improvement Program and Capital Fund Projects, including the Cubberley Capital Improvement Plan
• Enterprise and Internal Service Fund projects for Information Technology, Public Works, and Utilities
• Budget reviews for Public Safety departments: Fire, Police, and the Office of Emergency Services

The Finance Committee recommended tentative approval of Capital Improvement Fund and Cubberley Capital Improvement Plan projects, adding Phase 4 of the Charleston/Arastradero Corridor Project to the FY 2023 budget. It also approved Enterprise and Internal Service Fund projects, and tentatively approved staff recommendations for Police and Fire budget adjustments, placing $2.4 million in the parking lot and recommending a dialogue with the school district on cost-sharing.

• Approved motion as amended to recommend tentative approval of Capital Improvement Fund and Cubberley Capital Improvement Plan projects, adding Phase 4 of Charleston/Arastradero Corridor Project to FY 2023 budget (3-0)
• Amendment to add Phase 4 of Charleston/Arastradero Corridor Project passed (2-1, Filseth no)
• Approved motion to recommend tentative approval of Enterprise Fund and Internal Service Fund projects (3-0)
• Approved motion as amended to tentatively approve staff recommendation for Police and Fire budget adjustments, placing $2.4 million in parking lot and recommending dialogue with PAUSD on cost-sharing (3-0)

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy and Services Committee will review and potentially recommend the adoption of an updated Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan. The body will also receive updates on pending state and federal legislation and community engagement activities.

• ADA Transition Plan Update for City Buildings, Parking Facilities, Parks, and Public Right-of-Way Sidewalks and Curb Ramps
• Update on pending state and federal legislation
• Update on community engagement activities and town halls

The Policy and Services Committee voted 3-0 to recommend City Council approval of the ADA Transition Plan Update for city buildings, parking facilities, parks, and sidewalks. They also voted 3-0 to recommend a process for grouping pending state and federal bills according to city guidelines and to study other cities' legislative oversight models. No action was taken on the community engagement update.

• Recommended City Council adopt ADA Transition Plan Update (3-0)
• Recommended grouping pending state/federal bills per city guidelines and Resolution 9942 (3-0)
• Directed staff to study other city legislative committee models (e.g., Lafayette, Cupertino) and report back (3-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved the overall schedule and approach for the Housing Element update, including roles for the Working Group and committees, in a 7-0 vote. It also approved the consent calendar, including the COPS funds budget amendment and the extension of temporary street closures and the parklet program (6-1, Tanaka no). Appointments were made to several commissions, with multiple rounds of voting for some positions.

• Approved Housing Element update schedule and approach (7-0)
• Approved consent items 3-6, including COPS funds and Foothills fee changes (7-0)
• Extended temporary street closures and parklet program (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Appointed Adriana Eberle, Kaloma Smith, Michelle Kraus to Human Relations Commission
• Appointed Loren Gordon, Lisa Waltuch, Ben Miyaji to Public Art Commission
• Appointed Hal Mickelson, Bob Wenzlau, Dena Mossar, Catherine Perman to Stormwater Committee
• Appointed John Bowie and Phil Metz to Utilities Advisory Commission
• Approved minutes of April 19, 2021 meeting (7-0)

Stormwater Management Oversight Committee Meeting

The committee is meeting to discuss the Boards, Commissions, and Committee (BCC) Workplan. The session also includes the approval of minutes from the April 1, 2021 meeting.

• Discussion of Boards, Commissions, and Committee (BCC) Workplan
• Approval of April 1, 2021 meeting minutes

The committee postponed approval of the April 1, 2021 minutes until all members are present. Members discussed a draft workplan for the Boards, Commissions, and Committees (BCC), including potential priorities like rain barrels, outreach, and emerging issues, but took no formal action. Staff and a committee member will revise the workplan and circulate it for review.

• Postponed approval of April 1, 2021 minutes to next regular meeting
• Discussed draft BCC workplan; no formal approval
• Agreed Hal Mickelson and Karin North will revise workplan and add 'outreach and surfacing emerging issues'

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board will hold a public hearing regarding parking adjustments at 4256 El Camino Real. The board will also discuss the implementation of the City of Palo Alto’s Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook.

• Public hearing for 4256 El Camino Real [21PLN-00034] to revise underground garage parking
• Ad Hoc Committee review of two benches at 233 University Avenue [18PLN-00344]
• Study session on the City of Palo Alto’s Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook
• Approval of April 1, 2021 meeting minutes

The Architectural Review Board voted 4-1 to recommend approval of revisions to the approved hotel project at 4256 El Camino Real, changing the underground garage from two levels to one level and reducing parking from 102 to 77 spaces. The motion included a requirement that the final staircase floor plan be brought back to an ad hoc committee. The board also discussed the Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook in a study session, and approved the April 1, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously.

• Approved recommendation for 4256 El Camino Real garage revisions (4-1)
• Required final staircase floor plan to return to ad hoc committee
• Approved April 1, 2021 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Discussed Handbook implementation; no formal action taken

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to review the proposed operating and capital budgets for Fiscal Year 2021-2022. The body will also consider an adjusted operating plan for the Junior Museum and Zoo and a report on Stanford University Medical Fund commitments.

• Review of FY 2021-2022 Proposed Operating and Capital Budgets
• Adjusted Operating Plan for the Junior Museum and Zoo, including opening date and ticket fee structure
• Stanford University Medical Fund Current and Planned Commitments Report

The Finance Committee tentatively approved the FY 2022 Operating Plan for the Junior Museum and Zoo, assuming an $18 ticket price, and moved $914,000 to the parking lot for consideration at the May 12 meeting. The motion passed 2-1, with Burt voting no. The committee also accepted the Stanford University Medical Fund report 3-0 and took no action on the proposed FY 2021-2022 budgets.

• Tentatively approved FY 2022 Junior Museum Operating Plan with $18 ticket price (2-1, Burt no)
• Moved $914,000 to parking lot for May 12 consideration (2-1)
• Directed staff to perform scenario analysis (2-1)
• Accepted Stanford University Medical Fund report (3-0)
• No action taken on FY 2021-2022 proposed budgets

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved $2.5 million in capital project budget reductions for FY 2021, including cuts to the Charleston/Arastradero Corridor, Street Maintenance, Thermoplastic Striping, and Downtown Parking Guidance projects, with a 4-3 vote. The council also selected Concept Plan Alternative 1 for the Alma Street and Churchill Avenue intersection safety improvements, directing staff to proceed with final design and environmental analysis. Several consent items were approved, including a wireless consulting contract and a legal services amendment, with Council Member Tanaka voting no on two items.

• Approved $2.5M capital budget reductions (4-3)
• Selected Concept Plan Alternative 1 for Alma/Churchill intersection (7-0)
• Approved wireless consulting contract with Brad Horak Consulting up to $250,000 (6-1)
• Approved legal services amendment with Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC (6-1)
• Approved 10-year energy efficiency goals for 2022-2031 (7-0)
• Adopted CDBG FY 2021-22 Annual Action Plan (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 12, 2021 meeting (7-0)
• Adopted resolutions honoring Margaret Zittle and Phil Bobel (7-0)

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Commission will discuss a scope of work regarding the Community and Economic Recovery Plan. The meeting also includes discussions on renter protection policies and a public hearing regarding proposed modifications to Title 18.

• Discussion of scope for the Community and Economic Recovery Plan
• Renter Protection Policy Recommendations
• Public Hearing: Request for Recommendation on Objective Standards Project (Title 18)
• Review of City Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook

The Planning and Transportation Commission voted 5-2 to recommend that City Council not expand rent stabilization beyond state law AB 1482. The commission also approved recommendations to limit security deposits to 1.5 months' rent (5-2), adopt a Fair Chance Ordinance similar to Berkeley's (5-2), and support Right to Counsel efforts including pro bono partnerships (7-0). It voted against pursuing TOPA/COPA (6-1) and a proactive rental inspection program (7-0), and continued the Objective Standards project to May 12.

• Recommended not expanding rent stabilization beyond AB 1482 (5-2)
• Recommended limiting security deposits to 1.5 months' rent (5-2)
• Recommended adopting a Fair Chance Ordinance similar to Berkeley's (5-2)
• Recommended supporting Right to Counsel and pro bono legal partnerships (7-0)
• Recommended not pursuing TOPA/COPA (6-1)
• Recommended not pursuing proactive rental inspection (7-0)
• Approved March 31, 2021 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Continued Objective Standards project to May 12, 2021

City Council Meeting

The City Council held a special meeting to interview applicants for the Human Relations Commission, Public Art Commission, Storm Water Management Oversight Committee, and Utilities Advisory Commission. No appointments or other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

• Interviewed 3 candidates for Human Relations Commission
• Interviewed 9 candidates for Public Art Commission
• Interviewed 5 candidates for Storm Water Management Oversight Committee
• Interviewed 5 candidates for Utilities Advisory Commission

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Commission is meeting via virtual conference to decide on its workplan and the approval of an additional Skatepark Ad Hoc. The body will also discuss a Youth Leadership update.

• Approval of Parks and Recreation Commission Workplan
• Review and approval of an additional Skatepark Ad Hoc
• Youth Leadership Update from Adam Howard

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved its March 23 draft minutes and adopted the 2021 workplan as written, both by 5-0 votes. A motion to create a new Ad Hoc committee for Skateparks failed 5-0, and the skatepark item will instead be handled under the existing New Recreational Opportunities Ad Hoc committee. The Youth Leadership Update was presented with no action taken.

• Approved March 23, 2021 draft minutes (5-0)
• Adopted 2021 Parks and Recreation Commission workplan as written (5-0)
• Denied creation of new Ad Hoc committee for Skateparks (5-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council voted 6-1 to eliminate the South Palo Alto Tunnel (passenger and freight) and South Palo Alto Tunnel (with at-grade freight) alternatives from further consideration, and accepted the staff's proposed grade separation work plan with XCAP report details. The council also approved a $80,000 increase to the AECOM contract for the Connecting Palo Alto Rail Grade Separation effort, bringing the total to $2,874,658, and approved the appointment of Terence Howzell as Chief Assistant Attorney. Additionally, the council approved a resolution for the deemed reissuance of revenue obligations not-to-exceed $37,800,000 for the Oshman Family Jewish Community Center.

• Eliminated South Palo Alto Tunnel (passenger and freight) and South Palo Alto Tunnel (with at-grade freight) alternatives (6-1)
• Accepted staff's proposed Grade Separation Work Plan incorporating XCAP report details (6-1)
• Approved $80,000 increase to AECOM contract for rail grade separation, total $2,874,658 (6-1)
• Approved appointment of Terence Howzell as Chief Assistant Attorney (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 9950 for CEDA revenue obligations up to $37,800,000 for Oshman Family JCC (7-0)
• Went into closed session for labor negotiations, no reportable action (7-0)

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission is meeting to consider a staff recommendation regarding fiber expansion. The body will discuss whether to recommend that the City Council review action and provide direction on the project.

• Staff recommendation for City Council to review action and provide direction on fiber expansion

The Utilities Advisory Commission voted 7-0 to recommend that the City Council build out the fiber backbone to support city-wide Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH), establish a city-operated ISP, and complete detailed engineering and financing analysis by March 31, 2022. The recommendation includes combining Magellan phases 2 and 4, completing customer and risk analyses, and determining the best financing mode, including federal and state grants. The commission also discussed recent power outages and future agenda items.

• Recommended building fiber backbone to support city-wide FTTH (7-0)
• Recommended establishing city-operated ISP for FTTH within five years (7-0)
• Recommended completing Magellan phases 2 and 4 by March 31, 2022 (7-0)
• Recommended completing detailed city-operated ISP model, customer analysis, and risk analysis by March 31, 2022 (7-0)
• Recommended determining best financing mode, including federal and state grants, by March 31, 2022 (7-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is reviewing recommendations for utility rates and energy storage targets. The body will also receive an update on the wastewater treatment fund capital program.

• Proposed 2.0 percent CPI rate increase for Utility Rate Schedule D-1 (Storm and Surface Water Drainage) to $15.34 per month per Equivalent Residential Unit for Fiscal Year 2022
• Recommendation to decline adoption of Energy Storage System Targets and receive the 2020 Energy Storage Report
• Regional Water Quality Control Plant Wastewater Treatment Fund Capital Program Update

The Finance Committee voted 2-1 to recommend the City Council decline adopting energy storage system targets and accept the 2020 Energy Storage Report, with an amendment to accelerate exploration of six key areas failing for lack of a second. The committee also unanimously recommended a 2.0% stormwater drainage fee increase to $15.34 per month per equivalent residential unit for FY2022. No action was taken on the wastewater treatment fund capital program update.

• Recommended declining energy storage targets and accepting 2020 report (2-1, Burt no)
• Amendment to accelerate exploration of six key areas failed (lack of second)
• Recommended 2.0% stormwater fee increase to $15.34/month per ERU for FY2022 (3-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council unanimously approved a motion directing staff to pursue the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) policy framework with amendments, including earlier commercial electrification retrofits, evaluation of gasoline sales, and a voluntary surcharge program. The council also approved a preliminary parcel map for two new homes at 640 Fairmede Avenue, extended street closures for the Uplift Local program, and approved consent items for the Junior Museum and Zoo.

• Approved S/CAP policy framework with amendments (7-0)
• Approved preliminary parcel map at 640 Fairmede Avenue (7-0)
• Extended Uplift Local street closures to Oct 31, 2021 (5-2)
• Directed staff to extend temporary parklets to Dec 31, 2021 (5-2)
• Approved permanent parklet program development (5-2)
• Approved additional business support measures (6-1)
• Approved consent items including JMZ dinosaur exhibit contract (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 5, 2021 meeting (7-0)

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Board will review proposed changes to Height Transition Code sections. The agenda also includes a preliminary review for a hospital addition and a public hearing regarding parking revisions.

• Study Session: Proposed changes to the Height Transition Code
• Preliminary Review: 38,000 square foot addition at 300 Pasteur
• Public Hearing: Parking garage and adjustment revisions for 4256 El Camino Real
• Ad Hoc Committee Review: Signage details for 180 El Camino Real

The Architectural Review Board held a study session on Stanford University Medical Center's proposed 38,000-square-foot addition to the existing nursing pod building at 300 Pasteur, offering preliminary feedback on design, massing, and landscaping. The board also discussed staff's proposed text edits to height transition code sections, with most members supporting the clarification but one member opposed. The item for 4256 El Camino Real was continued to May 6, 2021, and the board approved the March 18, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0).

• Approved March 18, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Continued 4256 El Camino Real item to May 6, 2021
• Held study session on 300 Pasteur nursing pod expansion; no formal action
• Discussed height transition code changes; no formal action
• Ad Hoc Committee approved Macy's signage locations at 180 El Camino Real

Public Art Commission

The Commission will discuss resources for artists and potential fund allocation for the Equity Focused Public Art program at King Plaza. Members will also discuss the City Council-adopted Commissioner Handbook, the annual work plan, and upcoming training sessions.

• Discussion of equity focused public art at King Plaza
• Potential allocation of funds for King Plaza program launch
• Review of the adopted Commissioner Handbook

The Public Art Commission approved up to $50,000 to fund an equity-focused public art program at King Plaza, including stipends for three finalists and the first temporary artwork. The decision on the program name, call focus, and research expectations was deferred. The commission also discussed the new Commissioner Handbook and work plan template, with staff to finalize the plan by May.

• Approved up to $50,000 for King Plaza equity art program (all in favor)
• Deferred decision on program name, call focus, and research expectations
• Agreed to target June 1, 2021 for artist call launch
• Approved minutes for March 17 and March 18, 2021 meetings (all in favor)

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission is meeting to discuss recommendations for a Renter Protection Policy. The body will also review the City Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook to recommend adjustments.

• Renter Protection Policy Recommendations
• Review and recommended adjustments to the City Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook
• Approval of March 10, 2021 draft meeting minutes

The Planning and Transportation Commission voted 7-0 to recommend that City Council pursue a Rental Survey Program, with amendments to prioritize it, fund it through the City budget rather than landlord fees, and develop it with PTC and community input. The Commission also voted 7-0 to recommend expanding Tenant Relocation Assistance to cost-burdened households, and voted 4-3 to recommend extending just-cause eviction protections to units in buildings built within the last 15 years and to tenants who have resided less than a year. The remaining renter protection policies were not discussed, and the item was continued to a future meeting.

• Approved recommendation for Rental Survey Program (7-0)
• Approved recommendation to expand Tenant Relocation Assistance to cost-burdened households (7-0)
• Approved recommendation to extend just-cause eviction protections to buildings under 15 years old and tenants under 1 year (4-3)
• Continued renter protection policy item to a future meeting (7-0)
• Continued review of Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook to a future meeting (7-0)
• Approved March 10, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0-1)

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy and Services Committee will discuss rent forgiveness for city tenants using the COVID-19 Reserve. The body will also review the City Auditor's Q3 report and police misconduct investigation referrals.

• Rent forgiveness for City Tenants not-to-exceed the City Council COVID-19 Reserve
• City Auditor’s Quarterly Status Report (Q3 of Fiscal Year 2021)
• Referral of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation investigations by police officers to the Independent Police Auditor

The Policy and Services Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the City Council create a rent forgiveness program for city tenants affected by COVID-19, covering up to three months and not exceeding $50,000 per tenant. The committee also approved two audit task orders and recommended expanding the Independent Police Auditor's scope to include harassment, retaliation, and discrimination claims.

• Approved accepting City Auditor's Q3 FY2021 report (3-0)
• Approved task orders for Building Permitting Process Review and Non-Profit Agreement Risk Review (3-0)
• Recommended rent forgiveness program for city tenants up to $50K per tenant (3-0)
• Recommended expanding IPA scope to include harassment, retaliation, discrimination claims (3-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved updated Park, Community Center, and Library Development Impact Fees, adopting the fee study and directing staff to implement the new levels in the FY 2022 budget. It also approved adjustments to the Planned Home Zoning (PHZ) program, clarifying its applicability and prohibiting it in certain residential zones, while directing staff to explore broader housing incentives. A proposal to phase in the fee changes over two years failed, and a referral to study a new skate park was approved.

• Approved updated development impact fees and park land in-lieu fee ordinance (6-1)
• Directed staff to implement fee updates in FY 2022 budget (6-1)
• Approved PHZ program adjustments, including prohibiting PHZ in R-1, R-2, RE zones (5-2)
• Approved broader housing incentive changes outside PHZ (4-3)
• Rejected two-year phase-in of fee changes (2-5)
• Referred skate park proposal to Parks and Recreation Commission (7-0)
• Approved consent calendar items including housing element contract and street maintenance (7-0, with some no votes)
• Approved zoning ordinance amendment for retail and ground floor districts (5-2)

Historic Resources Board Meeting

The Historic Resources Board will meet to receive the 2019-2020 Certified Local Government Annual Report and discuss the implementation of the Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook. A subcommittee will also review specific design elements for a project at 488 University Avenue.

• Review of lobby wall, guard rail, tile, and color brushouts for 488 University Avenue [19PLN-00038]
• Receipt of the Certified Local Government (CLG) Annual Report for 2019-2020
• Discussion on implementation of the City of Palo Alto’s Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook
• Approval of February 25, 2021 draft minutes

The Board approved the draft minutes from its February 25, 2021 meeting with a 4-0-3 vote (three abstentions). Members discussed the City's Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook and its implementation, including the new work plan requirement. They also received the Certified Local Government Annual Report for 2019-2020 as an informational item. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved the draft minutes of the February 25, 2021 meeting (4-0-3, with three abstentions).
• Received the Certified Local Government Annual Report for 2019-2020 as an informational item.
• Discussed the Boards, Commissions, and Committees Handbook and its implementation, including the new work plan requirement.
• Agreed to discuss the Mills Act program at a future meeting.
• Agreed to revisit the work plan at the next meeting.

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will discuss and take action on addressing the needs of unhoused people in Palo Alto. The body will also consider a recommendation to the City Council regarding mayoral support for "Mayors United Against Antisemitism."

• Action on avenues for response to address needs of the unhoused
• Recommendation to City Council regarding "Mayors United Against Antisemitism"
• Update on Community Conversations on Race
• Action on FY21/22 workplan items

The Human Relations Commission held a study session on addressing the needs of the unhoused, the 100 Conversations on Race initiative, and FY21/22 workplan items, taking no action on these items. The Commission voted 5-0 to endorse a community member's letter supporting the 'Mayors United Against Antisemitism' campaign and forward it to the Mayor. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved motion to accept and forward the Mayors United Against Antisemitism letter to the Mayor (5-0).
• Discussed avenues for addressing unhoused needs in Palo Alto; no action taken.
• Received update on 100 Conversations on Race; no action taken.
• Discussed FY21/22 workplan items; no action taken.

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission will discuss city permitting processes for various energy technologies and receive an update on the FY20 Demand Side Management Report. Additionally, staff will recommend a revision to the commission's temporary meeting start time.

• Discussion of City of Palo Alto Permitting Processes for Various Energy Technologies
• Discussion and Update on the FY20 Demand Side Management Report
• Staff recommendation to revise the meeting start time for the UAC action temporary schedule
• Informational update on the status of Overhead Line Project (Project EL-21001) for the Palo Alto Foothills Rebuild

The Utilities Advisory Commission approved changing its temporary virtual meeting start time from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. for the remainder of the pandemic, and approved a 6 p.m. start time for future in-person meetings. The commission also discussed permitting issues for solar, EV chargers, and energy storage, and received updates on power outages and efficiency programs. No formal action was taken on the permitting discussion.

• Approved revising temporary virtual meeting start time from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. (7-0).
• Approved revising in-person meeting start time to 6 p.m. after the pandemic (7-0).
• Approved minutes of March 3, 2021 meeting as corrected (7-0).
• Discussed permitting process for energy technologies; no action taken.
• Discussed FY20 Demand Side Management Report; no action taken.

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is considering recommendations for the City Council regarding fiscal year 2022 financial plans for water, gas, electric, and wastewater utilities. The meeting includes proposals for rate adjustments across several utility services and the approval of a 2020 audit report.

• Approval of Macias Gini & O’Connell’s Single Audit Report for the year ended June 30, 2020
• Proposed FY 2022 Wastewater Collection Utility Financial Plan and rate adjustments for schedules S-1, S-2, S-6, and S-7
• Proposed FY 2022 Water Utility Financial Plan with no water rate increase
• Proposed FY 2022 Gas Utility Financial Plan and rate increases for schedules G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-10
• Proposed FY 2022 Electric Financial Plan and amendments to rate schedules E-EEC-1, E-NSE-1, E-2-G, E-4-G, and E-7-G

The Finance Committee unanimously approved forwarding to the City Council the FY 2022 financial plans for wastewater, water, gas, and electric utilities, including rate adjustments and reserve transfers. The committee also approved forwarding the Macias Gini & O'Connell single audit report for FY 2020 to the consent calendar. All motions passed 3-0.

• Approved forwarding MGO single audit report for FY 2020 to City Council consent calendar (3-0)
• Approved FY 2022 wastewater financial plan with up to $2.2M (FY21) and $4.35M (FY22) transfers to CIP reserve and rate schedule amendments (3-0)
• Approved FY 2022 water financial plan with no rate increase and up to $13.24M transfer to CIP reserve (3-0)
• Approved FY 2022 gas financial plan with 5% distribution rate increase and reserve transfers (3-0)
• Approved FY 2022 electric financial plan with rate updates and reserve transfers, including $1.19M for decarbonization (3-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council appointed a 15-member Housing Element Working Group and two alternates to help prepare a new Housing Element, passing 4-3. The group includes Anupa Bajwa, Sheena Chin, and others. The council also approved the Traffic Data Collection Surveillance Use Policy and a $200,000 contract with Traffic Data Service, Inc., and approved minutes from March 15 and 22, 2021. No action was taken on police services or unhoused services discussions.

• Approved Housing Element Working Group appointments (4-3)
• Approved Traffic Data Collection Surveillance Use Policy and $200,000 contract (7-0)
• Approved minutes for March 15 and 22, 2021 meetings (7-0)
• Amendment to replace Jean Snider with Arthur Liberman failed (no second)
• Substitute motion to email selections to City Clerk failed (3-4)
• Amendment to add six members to working group failed (3-4)

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board is conducting a preliminary review of a residential development project. The board is also continuing a public hearing regarding objective design standards.

• Preliminary Architectural Review for a proposed 48-unit residential townhome development at 2850 W Bayshore
• Public hearing for a recommendation on Objective Design Standards
• Staff Level Ad Hoc Approval Memo for 656 Lytton Avenue
• Updates from the North of Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) Working Group

The Architectural Review Board voted 4-1 to recommend that the City Council adopt the proposed objective design standards for multi-family housing, with a condition that the ad hoc committee review the final diagrams. The board also discussed a preliminary proposal for a 48-unit townhome development at 2850 W Bayshore, providing feedback but taking no formal action. The board did not vote on the height transition changes, which will be discussed at a future meeting.

• Approved a motion to recommend approval of the objective design standards, with the ad hoc committee to review final diagrams, by a 4-1 vote.
• Discussed the preliminary architectural review for 2850 W Bayshore (48-unit townhome development) and provided feedback; no formal action taken.
• Tabled discussion of height transition code changes to a future meeting.
• Noted that the Director of Planning has not yet made a decision on 4260 El Camino, despite the ARB's prior recommendation.

Stormwater Management Oversight Committee Meeting

The Storm Water Management Oversight Committee is meeting to review the proposed budget for fiscal year 2022. The committee will also receive staff updates on stormwater permit renewals and funding analysis.

• Approval of FY 22 Proposed Budget
• Update on GSI Funding Analysis Workgroup
• Update on Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit Renewal
• Approval of February 4, 2021 meeting minutes

The committee approved the Committee Memo on the FY 2022 Proposed Budget, which includes a proposed 2% stormwater fee increase subject to Council approval. It also formed an ad hoc subcommittee to develop a workplan, with Commissioners Hal Mickelson and Bob Wenzlau volunteering. The committee discussed the GSI funding analysis workgroup and the Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit renewal, with updates to come at future meetings.

• Approved the Committee Memo on FY 2022 Proposed Budget with no changes.
• Formed an ad hoc subcommittee to compose a workplan, with Hal Mickelson and Bob Wenzlau as volunteers.
• Approved minutes from the February 4, 2021 meeting with updates.
• Noted the GSI funding analysis workgroup will be a temporary ad hoc committee, with Dena Mossar and David Bower as members, subject to City Clerk confirmation.
• Discussed the Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit renewal, with a draft expected to be public around July 2021.

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission is meeting to discuss commercial parking enhancements and intersection improvements. The body will also consider a lot subdivision request and ordinances regarding state housing laws.

• Public hearing for 181 Addison Avenue to subdivide one lot into two
• Review of the Draft Palo Alto Parking Action Plan
• Selection of a preferred alternative for the Alma Street and Churchill Avenue intersection
• Recommendation on ordinances for state housing bills regarding density bonus and affordable housing

The Commission voted 7-0 to recommend City Council approval of a Preliminary Parcel Map with Exception and Variance to subdivide the lot at 181 Addison Avenue into two parcels. The Commission also voted 6-0 to recommend Concept Two for the Alma Street and Churchill Avenue intersection safety improvements, which removes a right-turn lane to expand pedestrian queuing space. Additionally, the Commission voted 6-0 to recommend adoption of ordinances updating the City's Density Bonus and Affordable Housing regulations to comply with recent state law changes.

• Approved a motion to recommend City Council approval of the Preliminary Parcel Map with Exception and Variance for 181 Addison Avenue, with a modification to review the condition on structure removal.
• Approved a motion to recommend Concept Two for the Alma Street and Churchill Avenue intersection safety improvements, which eliminates the southbound right-turn-only lane on Alma to provide more pedestrian queuing space.
• Approved a motion to recommend City Council adoption of ordinances updating Palo Alto's Density Bonus and Parking Regulations to comply with recent changes in state law.
• Approved the February 24, 2021 draft meeting minutes, with two commissioners abstaining.
• Discussed a target end time of 10:00 p.m. for future meetings, with a check-in at that time to decide whether to continue.

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a motion allowing Castilleja School to increase enrollment to 450 students, with a phased process to potentially reach 540, contingent on meeting traffic reduction goals. The motion also directs staff to explore parking strategies, including an underground option, and to review building design and tree preservation. The vote was 7-0 for most parts, but the public art funding portion passed 4-3.

• Approved enrollment increase to 450 students with phased path to 540 (7-0)
• Directed staff to review underground parking option (4-3, with DuBois, Kou, Stone dissenting)
• Approved exploring Residential Parking Program for surrounding neighborhood (7-0)
• Directed staff to preserve protected trees on campus (7-0)
• Remanded building design to Architectural Review Board (7-0)
• Approved evaluating 50% of public art expenses to Public Art Fund (4-3, with Cormack, Filseth, Tanaka dissenting)
• Directed staff to explore legalities of maximum buildout (7-0)
• Directed staff to evaluate 5 major and 50-70 special events with no Sunday events (7-0)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet virtually to discuss several items. The agenda includes a review of Foothills Park policies and the approval of draft minutes from February meetings.

• Approval of draft minutes from the February 11, 2021 Special meeting
• Approval of draft minutes from the February 23, 2021 meeting
• Foothills Park Policies discussion and action

The Parks and Recreation Commission voted 6-0 to recommend a set of Foothills Park policy changes to the City Council, including new vehicle entrance fees, free entry days, and removal of hillside barbecues. The recommendation also includes support for a comprehensive conservation plan and a head ranger position. The commission also approved minutes from two prior meetings and discussed various department updates.

• Approved draft minutes from Feb 11 and Feb 23 meetings (6-0)
• Recommended Foothills Park policy changes to Council (6-0)
• Recommended $6 vehicle entrance fee for up to 9-person vehicles
• Recommended free vehicle entry days (6 per year)
• Recommended free entry for student groups with reservation
• Recommended free annual passes for 4th graders
• Recommended removal of 9 hillside barbecues for fire safety
• Recommended prioritizing comprehensive conservation plan and head ranger

City Council Meeting

The City Council held a study session to receive and discuss the final report from the Expanded Community Advisory Panel (XCAP) on the Connecting Palo Alto Rail Grade Separation project. No formal action was taken during the session. The meeting was procedural, with discussion only.

• Received and discussed the final XCAP report on rail grade separation; no action taken

City Council Meeting

The Council approved the revised Community and Economic Recovery workplan and a $50,000 budget shift, and directed staff to find $2.5 million in capital project savings. It also adopted a park improvement ordinance for Ramos Park renovations and a resolution denouncing racism against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. A proposal to allow limited ground-floor medical office use at Town and Country Village failed, and the Council instead directed further review.

• Approved Bryna Chang to the Planning and Transportation Commission unfinished term (4 votes).
• Approved action minutes from March 8, 2021 (7-0).
• Denied ordinance to allow ground-floor medical office use at Town and Country Village (3-4).
• Directed Planning and Transportation Commission to review ordinance with retail health definition and two-year lease limit (4-3).
• Approved Community and Economic Recovery workplan Parts A-I and K (7-0).
• Approved workplan Part J, exploring a potential ballot measure (6-1).
• Directed staff to find $2.5 million in savings in FY 2021 capital project contracts (7-0).
• Adopted Park Improvement Ordinance for Ramos Park renovations, removing Section D.5 (7-0).

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board is meeting to provide a recommendation on a minor architectural review for a building renovation. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding Objective Design Standards.

• Facade renovation request for 4260 El Camino Real including new stucco, metal siding, paint, and cable railings
• Public hearing for recommendation on Objective Design Standards
• Approval of meeting minutes from February 4 and February 18, 2021
• North of Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) Working Group updates

The Architectural Review Board voted 4-0-1 to recommend denial of a minor architectural review for a facade renovation at 4260 El Camino Real, citing incomplete drawings, unresolved design details, and failure to meet findings. The board also continued its review of the proposed objective design standards to its April 1 meeting, after making several amendments to the draft.

• Denied facade renovation at 4260 El Camino Real (4-0-1, Hirsch abstaining)
• Continued objective design standards review to April 1, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved minutes for February 18, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved minutes for February 4, 2021 (5-0)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will discuss hate crimes in Palo Alto and Santa Clara County. The body will take action on a letter to the City Council regarding hate incidents and determine FY21/22 workplan items.

• Action on letter to Council regarding the response to hate incidents in Palo Alto
• Action on FY21/22 workplan items and ad hoc committee assignments
• Presentation on the Safe Parking Pilot program
• Presentation on hate crimes in Palo Alto by Palo Alto Police Department
• Presentation on hate crimes in Santa Clara County by Chief Assistant District Attorney Jay Boyarsky

The Human Relations Commission held a study session with the Public Art Commission on racial equity art collaboration and heard presentations on the Safe Parking Pilot program and hate crimes from Palo Alto Police and the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office; no action was taken on those items. The Commission's only action was approving a final letter to the City Council regarding the response to hate incidents, amended to also send it to the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors and local media. The motion passed 5-0. Commissioners also received their FY21/22 workplan items, with no action taken.

• Approved sending the letter on hate incidents to the City Council, Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, and local media (5-0)
• Discussed collaboration with the Public Art Commission on racial equity art; no action taken
• Heard presentation on Safe Parking Pilot program; no action taken
• Heard presentation on hate crimes in Palo Alto; no action taken
• Heard presentation on hate crimes in Santa Clara County; no action taken
• Received FY21/22 workplan items; no action taken

Public Art Commission

The Commission will hold a joint discussion with the Human Relations Commission. The conversation focuses on upcoming art addressing racial equity and potential areas for collaboration.

• Joint Discussion with Human Relations Commission regarding racial equity and collaboration

The Public Art Commission held a special virtual meeting and discussed a potential collaboration with the Human Relations Commission on public art in King Plaza to address racial equity. Both commissions agreed to hold another special meeting in May, and the PAC chair will appoint a liaison to planning meetings for community conversations in 2021. No formal decisions were made; the discussion was non-action.

• Agreed to hold another special meeting in May with the Human Relations Commission
• PAC Chair Miyaji will delegate a PAC liaison to planning meetings for community conversations

City Council Meeting

The City Council voted 4-3 to direct staff to treat the underground parking facility at the Castilleja School project as an underground garage, not a basement, and to return with alternative text changes on how to count underground garage floor area, including an independent analysis of existing floor area. A motion to continue the item to March 29 failed 2-5. The council also approved the consent calendar, including renaming Foothills Park to Foothills Nature Preserve, and approved the response to a grand jury report on female firefighters.

• Approved motion to direct staff on Castilleja underground garage floor area treatment (4-3)
• Denied motion to continue Castilleja item to March 29 (2-5)
• Approved consent calendar including Foothills Park rename to Foothills Nature Preserve (7-0)
• Approved response to grand jury report on female firefighters (7-0)
• Continued development impact fee study to a date uncertain (6-1)
• Approved minutes of March 1, 2021 meeting (7-0)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission is meeting to determine funding recommendations for community grants. The body will consider allocations for the Community Development Block Grant and the Human Services Resource Allocation Process.

• Public hearing on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding recommendations for Fiscal Year 2021-22
• Action on Human Services Resource Allocation Process (HSRAP) funding recommendations for Fiscal Years 2022-2023
• Presentation by Palo Alto Art Center Director Karen Kienzle regarding exhibits and HRC collaborations

The Human Relations Commission voted 5-0 to recommend Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for Fiscal Year 2021-22 and approve the draft Annual Action Plan. The Commission also affirmed the reviewers' recommendation for Human Services Resource Allocation Process (HSRAP) funding for Fiscal Years 2022-2023, with a 4-1 vote. A presentation on Art Center exhibits and potential collaborations was given, but no decision was made on that item.

• Approved CDBG funding recommendations for FY 2021-22 (5-0)
• Approved draft FY 2021-22 Annual Action Plan (5-0)
• Affirmed HSRAP funding recommendation for FY 2022-2023 (4-1, Regehr no)

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Commission will review draft objective standards intended to modify Title 18 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code. Additionally, a public hearing will address a recommendation on the preferred plan alternative for the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan.

• Study session to review draft objective standards for Palo Alto Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning Ordinance)
• Public hearing regarding the Preferred Plan Alternative for the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan

The Planning and Transportation Commission held a study session on draft objective design standards for the zoning code, taking public comment and discussing the proposal without taking action. The Commission then held a public hearing on the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) and, after two failed motions, voted 4-2 to recommend a modified version of Alternative Three to the City Council. The recommendation includes a 20% below-market-rate (BMR) requirement for for-sale units, a 15% BMR requirement for rentals, and directs staff to seek additional open space opportunities.

• Recommended a modified Alternative Three for the NVCAP to City Council, which includes 20% BMR for for-sale units and 15% for rentals.
• Directed staff to identify opportunities to increase open space in the NVCAP plan area.
• Failed a motion to recommend the original Alternative Three, with a 3-3 vote.
• Failed a motion to continue the NVCAP item to the March 31st meeting, with a 3-3 vote.
• Approved the February 10, 2021 meeting minutes as revised, with a 5-0 vote and one abstention.
• Held a study session on draft Objective Standards for Title 18, taking public comment and discussing the proposal without taking action.

City Council Meeting

The City Council held a special meeting to interview two applicants for the Planning and Transportation Commission: Arthur Keller and Bryna Chang. No appointments or other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

• Interviewed Arthur Keller for Planning and Transportation Commission
• Interviewed Bryna Chang for Planning and Transportation Commission

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy and Services Committee will receive updates on county mental health emergency initiatives and race and equity work. The body will also discuss potential updates to the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook.

• Update on Santa Clara County mental health initiatives (PERT, MCRT, and CMRP)
• Discussion of edits to the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook
• Update on race and equity work and the Police Data Collection Records Management System (RMS) contract

The Policy and Services Committee voted 3-0 to recommend that the City Council direct staff to express interest in participating in Santa Clara County's new Community Mobile Response (CMR) Program, advocating for a more northern location, and to communicate this to the Board of Supervisors and Council. The committee also received an update on recent race and equity work, including the Records Management System (RMS) contract for police data collection, but took no action on it. A discussion on possible edits to the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook was continued to a future date.

• Approved a motion to recommend the City Council direct staff to express interest in participating in the County's Community Mobile Response (CMR) Program, advocating for a more northern location, and communicate this to the Board of Supervisors and Council (3-0).
• Took no action on the information update regarding recent race and equity work, including the RMS contract for police data collection.
• Continued the discussion on possible edits to the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook to a future date.

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a temporary zoning ordinance broadening permissible uses and raising conditional use permit thresholds, with amendments restricting nail salons, gyms, tutoring, and medical uses on main streets. The council also approved contracts for water purification design and ERP system maintenance, and continued the Castilleja school project and impact fee study to later dates.

• Approved minutes of Feb 22, 2021 meeting (7-0)
• Approved $3,182,960 contract with Black & Veatch for AWPS design (7-0)
• Approved SAP contract amendment, $1,586,512 total, 5-year extension (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Pulled Ramos Park ordinance to date uncertain
• Adopted temporary zoning ordinance with amendments (5-2, Cormack and Tanaka no)
• Continued Castilleja EIR/CUP hearing to Mar 15, 2021
• Continued impact fee study to date uncertain

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission is reviewing staff recommendations for the City Council regarding energy efficiency goals and financial plans for gas, electric, and water utilities. The body will discuss proposed rate changes for gas and electric services and a plan for water utilities with no rate increase.

• Proposed 10 Year Energy Efficiency Goals for 2022-2031
• FY 2022 Gas Utility Financial Plan including gas rate increases for schedules G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-10
• FY 2022 Electric Financial Plan and amendments to rate schedules E-EEC-1, E-NSE-1, E-2-G, E-4-G, and E-7-G
• FY 2022 Water Utility Financial Plan with no water rate increase

The Utilities Advisory Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council approve 10-year electric energy efficiency goals for 2022-2031, the FY 2022 gas utility financial plan with a 3% gas rate increase, the FY 2022 electric financial plan with no rate increase, and the FY 2022 water financial plan with no rate increase. All four recommendations passed 6-0. The commission also approved the February 3, 2021 meeting minutes as corrected.

• Approved 10-year electric energy efficiency goals for 2022-2031 (6-0)
• Approved FY 2022 gas utility financial plan with 3% gas rate increase (6-0)
• Approved FY 2022 electric financial plan with no rate increase (6-0)
• Approved FY 2022 water utility financial plan with no rate increase (6-0)
• Approved minutes of February 3, 2021 meeting as corrected (6-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved a motion to amend the FY 2021 budget, direct the Policy and Services Committee to review a rent forgiveness program (not-to-exceed $744,000), waive business registration and Downtown BID fees, and eliminate frozen positions. An amendment to immediately forgive 3 months of rent for qualified tenants passed 6-1. The council also approved the auditor's risk assessment and audit plan, and made appointments to the Historic Resources Board and Planning and Transportation Commission.

• Approved FY 2021 budget amendments and capital project changes (7-0)
• Approved amendment to immediately forgive 3 months of rent for qualified City tenants (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Approved motion as amended to direct rent forgiveness review, waive business fees, and eliminate frozen positions (7-0)
• Approved auditor's risk assessment, audit plan, and task orders (7-0)
• Appointed Caroline Willis, Margaret Wimmer, Gogo Heinrich, Michael Makinen to Historic Resources Board
• Appointed Ed Lauing and Doria Summa to Planning and Transportation Commission
• Approved minutes for Jan 30 and Feb 8 meetings (7-0)
• Approved resolutions on water plant funding and weed abatement (7-0)

Historic Resources Board Meeting

The Historic Resources Board will hold a public hearing regarding architectural changes at 819 Ramona Street. The board will also discuss annual reports and review meeting schedules.

• Public hearing for 819 Ramona Street (AME Zion Church) regarding a new ridge skylight and four new windows
• Review of Certified Local Government (CLG) Annual Report
• Review of Comprehensive Plan Implementation Annual Report
• Official report on Black History Month Awareness and Opportunities

The Historic Resources Board approved a proposal to add a ridge skylight and four rear windows to the AME Zion Church at 819 Ramona Street, finding it consistent with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards. The approval was conditioned on the new windows having a simplified muntin pattern and darker frames. The board also approved the minutes of the September 24, 2020 meeting.

• Approved the AME Zion Church project (819 Ramona Street) to install a ridge skylight and four rear windows, with conditions for a simplified muntin pattern and darker frames.
• Approved the Historic Resources Board draft minutes of September 24, 2020, with a vote of 5-0-1 (Pease abstaining).

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a parcel map for new residences and potential changes to the city's accessory dwelling unit ordinance. The body will also review annual progress reports for the 2020 Comprehensive Plan and Housing Element.

• Public hearing for 640 Fairmede Ave to divide a 23,000 square foot parcel into two 11,500 square foot lots for two new single-family residences
• Review of potential ordinance changes to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 18.09 regarding Accessory and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units
• Review of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan Annual Progress Report
• Review of the 2020 Housing Element Annual Progress Report

The Planning & Transportation Commission recommended approval of a preliminary parcel map to divide 640 Fairmede Ave into two lots for new single-family homes (5-0). The Commission also reviewed and provided direction on 12 potential changes to the ADU ordinance, voting on each item. The meeting included a review of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports, which were recommended for transmittal to the City Council.

• Recommended approval of 640 Fairmede Ave preliminary parcel map (5-0)
• Recommended transmittal of 2020 Comprehensive Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports (5-0)
• Directed staff to develop ADU ordinance language for basements, including incorporating feedback from local designers (5-0)
• Approved staff proposal to allow noise-producing equipment within ADU setbacks if it meets noise ordinance standards (4-1)
• Directed staff to develop language allowing covered parking attached to an ADU to not count towards the unit's maximum size (3-2)
• Directed staff to develop stricter privacy regulations for ADU windows, including considering opaque glazing and operable skylights (5-0)
• Directed staff to explore a 5-year moratorium on development impact fees for ADUs as part of an affordability discussion (4-1)
• Directed staff to audit and refund development impact fees incorrectly charged to ADUs under 750 sq ft since January 2020 (5-0)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet virtually to discuss policy for Foothills Park. The body will also take action on impact fee recommendations and the review of Ad Hoc Committees and Liaisons.

• Impact Fee discussion and recommendation
• Foothills Park Policy discussion
• Ad Hoc Committee and Liaison Review
• Approval of January 26, 2021 meeting minutes

The Parks and Recreation Commission voted 5-2 to recommend the updated Parks, Community Center, and Library Development Impact Fees to the City Council. The recommendation supports the consultant's study and a four-year tiered fee increase, despite concerns from some commissioners about the land valuation being too low. The Commission also discussed Foothills Park policies, including fees and bus access, but took no formal action on those items.

• Approved January 26, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Recommended updated Development Impact Fees with tiered increase (5-2)
• Adopted Ad Hoc Committee and Liaison assignments (7-0)
• Discussed Foothills Park policies; no action taken, to be addressed March 23

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved renaming Foothills Park to Foothills Nature Preserve and adopted ordinances adding annual vehicle entrance fees and adjusting attendance limits, with waivers for veterans, low-income visitors, student drivers, and persons with disabilities. The council also approved a contract amendment adding $140,000 for license plate recognition technology in parking enforcement, and approved a $1,860,900 payment agreement with UMPAPA. Agenda item 7 on zoning was continued to March 8, 2021.

• Approved renaming Foothills Park to Foothills Nature Preserve (7-0)
• Adopted regular and emergency ordinances adding annual vehicle entrance fees and attendance limits at Foothills Park (7-0)
• Approved $1,860,900 payment agreement with UMPAPA (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Approved $140,000 contract amendment for license plate recognition in parking enforcement (7-0)
• Approved minutes of February 1, 2021 meeting (7-0)
• Continued zoning ordinance item to March 8, 2021

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board is holding a public hearing to recommend approval for a major architectural review at 650 Clark Way. The board is also conducting a study session regarding draft objective standards for the city's Zoning Ordinance.

• Public hearing for 650 Clark Way [20PLN-00134] regarding creek bank stabilization using a live log crib wall and rock toe
• Study session for draft objective standards to modify Title 18 (Zoning Ordinance) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code

The Architectural Review Board held a study session on draft objective design standards for Title 18, gathering extensive board and public feedback but taking no final action. The board then recommended approval of a major architectural review for a creek bank stabilization project at the Children's Health Council property, voting 4-0-1.

• Recommended approval of creek bank stabilization project at 650 Clark Way (4-0-1)
• Held study session on draft objective design standards; no vote taken
• Discussed potential changes to draft standards, including corner building requirements and material percentages

Public Art Commission

The Commission will consider approving $53,000 to commission four artists for temporary murals near the Public Safety Building construction site. Members will also discuss a potential joint meeting with the Human Relations Commission regarding artwork on King Plaza.

• $53,000 for four temporary mural designs at the Public Safety Building
• Potential joint meeting with Human Relations Commission regarding King Plaza artwork

The Public Art Commission approved $53,000 to commission four California-based artists for temporary murals on the construction fence of the new Public Safety Building in the California Avenue District. The funds cover artist fees, fabrication, and installation for the first round of murals. The commission also discussed a potential joint meeting with the Human Relations Commission to inform public art at King Plaza, and approved the January 21, 2020 meeting minutes with one abstention.

• Approved $53,000 for temporary murals at Public Safety Building construction site (all in favor)
• Approved January 21, 2020 meeting minutes (4-0-1, Klaus abstained)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is reviewing preliminary financial forecasts for fiscal year 2022. The discussion includes proposed rate projections for electric, gas, water, and wastewater collection utilities.

• Preliminary Financial Forecasts and Proposed Rate Projections for Electric, Gas, Water and Wastewater Collection Utilities for Fiscal Year 2022

The Finance Committee met virtually and reviewed preliminary financial forecasts and proposed rate projections for electric, gas, water, and wastewater utilities for Fiscal Year 2022. No action was taken on the item; the meeting was informational only.

• Reviewed preliminary FY2022 utility rate projections (no action taken)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission is holding a special meeting to take action regarding the annual pass and visitor capacity limits for Foothills Park. The body will also hold a discussion concerning Commission ad hoc and liaison matters.

• Action item on Foothills Park Annual Pass and Visitor Capacity Limit

The Parks and Recreation Commission voted 7-0 to recommend an annual pass for Foothills Park with tiered pricing ($65 non-resident, $50 resident, with 25% discounts for seniors, low income, active military/veterans, and disabled; 50% discount for lower income) and to authorize the City Manager to adjust the visitor limit between 300 and 650 people. The Commission also passed a separate motion (5-2) to limit the annual pass to passenger vehicles with nine or fewer people and to include a 25% discount for vehicles with disabled plates/placards. A proposal to waive the annual pass fee for disabled vehicles failed 2-5.

• Approved annual pass fee structure: $65 non-resident, $50 resident, with 25% discounts for seniors, low income, active military/veterans, and disabled; 50% discount for lower income (7-0)
• Approved visitor limit range of 300-650 people, with City Manager authorized to adjust within that range (7-0)
• Approved excluding certain groups (reservation holders, permitted groups, volunteers) from visitor count (7-0)
• Approved limiting annual pass to passenger vehicles with 9 or fewer people (7-0)
• Approved 25% discount on annual pass for vehicles with disabled plates/placards (5-2)
• Rejected waiving annual pass fee for disabled vehicles (2-5)

Human Relations Commission

The Commission will hear presentations regarding the City's Housing Element update working group and policy development for renter protection measures. The meeting also includes a panel discussion on issues related to housing insecurity in Palo Alto.

• Presentation on City of Palo Alto’s Housing Element update working group
• Policy development presentation regarding renter protection measures
• Panel discussion on housing insecurity in Palo Alto
• De-brief on Human Relations Commission Retreat

The Human Relations Commission heard presentations on the Housing Element update, renter protections, and housing insecurity but took no action on those items. The only substantive decision was approving a motion to have the Chair, staff, and up to two non-commission members review and make recommendations on FY22/23 HSRAP funding applications. The commission also approved the January 14, 2021 minutes and agreed to hold two meetings in March to handle CDBG and HSRAP recommendations.

• Approved motion for Chair, staff, and up to 2 non-members to review HSRAP applications (4-0)
• Approved January 14, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Chose to hold two March meetings for CDBG and HSRAP recommendations

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission will consider a request to allow medical office use at 855 El Camino Real. The body will also hold a public hearing to discuss potential changes to the municipal code regarding accessory and junior accessory dwelling units.

• Request to amend municipal code to allow up to 20% ground floor medical office use at 855 El Camino Real (Town & Country Village)
• Public hearing to review and discuss ordinance changes to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 18.09 regarding Accessory and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units

The Planning & Transportation Commission voted 3-2 to recommend that City Council allow up to 15% of the ground floor at Town & Country Village to convert from retail to medical office use, with a 5,000 sq ft per-tenant cap and a 25.7% total office cap. The recommendation includes a condition that leases be signed in 2021 for a maximum of 10 years, and asks Council to consider how this flexibility might apply to other retail sites. A motion to continue the item failed 2-3. The commission also continued discussion of ADU ordinance changes to February 24.

• Recommended allowing 15% ground-floor medical office at Town & Country (3-2)
• Set 5,000 sq ft cap per medical office tenant
• Set 25.7% total office cap at Town & Country
• Limited medical office leases to those signed in 2021, max 10 years
• Asked Council to consider applying flexibility to other retail sites
• Denied motion to continue the item (2-3)
• Continued ADU ordinance discussion to Feb 24 (5-0)
• Approved Jan 13 meeting minutes (5-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council held a special meeting to interview candidates for the Planning and Transportation Commission and the Historic Resources Board. No appointments or other substantive decisions were made during the meeting, which was procedural in nature.

• Interviewed Ed Lauing for Planning and Transportation Commission
• Interviewed Martin Bernstein, Curtis Smolar, Caroline Willis, Michael Makinen, and Margaret Wimmer for Historic Resources Board
• Interviewed Bobi Adle, Doug Burns, Rebecca Eisenberg, Kathy Jordan, Kevin Ma, Jessica Resmini, and Doria Summa for Planning and Transportation Commission

Policy & Services Committee Meeting

The Policy and Services Committee will meet virtually to discuss city audit matters. The committee is scheduled to review the City Auditor’s Risk Assessment Report, Annual Audit Plan, and Quarterly Status Report for a recommendation to the City Council.

• Discussion and Recommendation regarding the City Auditor’s Risk Assessment Report, Annual Audit Plan, and Quarterly Status Report

The Policy and Services Committee voted 3-0 to accept the City Auditor's FY2021 Risk Assessment Report, approve the FY2021 Audit Plan with changes, and forward these to the City Council for approval. The changes reprioritize the Public Safety Building audit (instructing a Task Order for a Council agenda item) and de-prioritize the Investment Management audit. The committee also approved seven Task Orders and accepted the Auditor's Quarterly Status Report for October–December 2020.

• Accepted FY2021 Risk Assessment Report and recommended Council approval (3-0)
• Approved FY2021 Audit Plan with reprioritization of Public Safety Building audit (3-0)
• De-prioritized Investment Management audit, no Task Order approval at this time (3-0)
• Approved Task Orders: Construction Project Controls, Asset Capitalization, SAP Functionality, IT Risk Management, Investment Management, Power Purchase Agreements, Economic Recovery Advisory (3-0)
• Accepted City Auditor's Quarterly Status Report Oct–Dec 2020 (3-0)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission is holding a special retreat meeting via virtual teleconference. The body will review the past year and discuss core responsibilities to develop a workplan for the year.

• Review of the past year
• Discussion of core responsibilities
• Development of workplan for the year

Architectural Review Board Meeting

The Architectural Review Board is meeting to provide a recommendation on wall signs for Macy's and consider revisions to the Stanford Shopping Center sign program. The board will also review a preliminary request for a new automobile dealership.

• 180 El Camino Real: Recommendation on Macy's replacement wall signs and revisions to the Master Tenant Facade & Sign Program
• 1700 Embarcadero Road: Preliminary Architectural Review for a proposed 31,377 square foot two-story automobile dealership

The Architectural Review Board recommended approval of a sign exception for Macy's at 180 El Camino Real, allowing wall signs that exceed the Master Tenant Facade & Sign Program's height and quantity limits. The board also provided direction to staff on future application of the program for anchor tenants, with several board members suggesting that a formal definition of 'anchor tenant' may be problematic. The motion passed 4-0-1, with Vice Chair Lee absent.

• Recommended approval of Macy's sign exception (4-0-1)
• Directed that sign CL3 be shifted to avoid a building joint
• Directed that sign CL5 be re-shown, with consideration of placement under the archway
• Directed that signs CL3 and CL4 be aligned at the same height
• Approved minutes from December 3, 2020 (3-0-1-1)
• Approved minutes from December 17, 2020 (4-0-1)

Stormwater Management Oversight Committee Meeting

The Storm Water Management Oversight Committee will receive staff presentations on budget processes and capital improvement projects. The body will also discuss GSI funding and the Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit renewal.

• FY 22 Budget Process Update and FY 20 Actuals
• Capital Improvement Program Projects related to FY21 Budget
• GSI Funding Analysis and subcommittee discussion
• Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit Renewal update
• Discussion on Neighbors Abroad project in Palo Alto

The Stormwater Management Oversight Committee approved the creation of a GSI Funding Analysis Subcommittee to review funding options for green stormwater infrastructure, with David Bower and Dena Mossar as members. The committee also approved the minutes from the October 8, 2020 meeting and a motion supporting staff exploration of art for stormwater outreach. No public comment was received, and the Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit Renewal item was postponed.

• Approved minutes from October 8, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
• Established GSI Funding Analysis Subcommittee (unanimous)
• Approved motion to support staff exploring art for stormwater outreach (4-0-1, Wenzlau abstained)

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Commission will consider a recommendation for the City Action Council to adopt the FY 2022 Wastewater Collection Utility Financial Plan. This includes proposed adjustments to residential, commercial, restaurant, and industrial wastewater rate schedules. The meeting also includes a discussion on the 2020 Sustainability and Climate Action Plan.

• Recommendation of FY 2022 Wastewater Collection Utility Financial Plan
• Proposed amendments to Wastewater Collection Utility Reserves Management Practices
• Proposed wastewater rate adjustments for schedules S-1, S-2, S-6, and S-7
• Discussion on the 2020 Sustainability and Climate Action Plan

The Utilities Advisory Commission voted 7-0 to recommend City Council adopt the FY 2022 Wastewater Collection Utility Financial Plan, including transfers from the Operations Reserve to the CIP Reserve, and to adjust wastewater rates by amending rate schedules S-1, S-2, S-6, and S-7. The commission also discussed the 2020 Sustainability and Climate Action Plan but took no action on it.

• Recommended FY 2022 Wastewater Collection Financial Plan (7-0)
• Recommended up to $4.35M transfer from Operations Reserve to CIP Reserve in FY 2022 (7-0)
• Recommended up to $2.2M transfer from Operations Reserve to CIP Reserve in FY 2021 (7-0)
• Recommended amendments to Wastewater Collection Utility Reserves Management Practices (7-0)
• Recommended wastewater rate adjustments via amendments to rate schedules S-1, S-2, S-6, S-7 (7-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to update the status of Fiscal Year 2021 and prior referrals. The body will also review and affirm the procedures used for approving contracts on City Council agendas.

• Fiscal Year 2021 and Prior Finance Committee Referrals update
• Review and affirmation of City Council procedures and protocols for contract approval

The Finance Committee voted unanimously to forward a status report on Fiscal Year 2021 referrals to the City Council, with an added directive for an additional review of Public Safety long-term financial trends, starting with the Fire Department. The committee also affirmed current City Council procedures for contract approvals on consent agendas and forwarded this to the Council for approval. Both motions passed 3-0.

• Forwarded FY2021 referrals status report to City Council with added review of Public Safety financial trends (3-0)
• Affirmed contract approval procedures on consent agendas and forwarded to City Council (3-0)

City Council Meeting

The City Council is meeting to approve several high-value construction contracts and financing for the Public Safety Building. The body is also discussing Foothills Park entrance fees and the 2023-2031 Housing Element update process.

• Sale of Certificates of Participation not-to-exceed $120 million for the Public Safety Building
• Construction contract with Swinerton Builders for $83,953,000 (total not-to-exceed $92,348,300)
• Ordinance to add vehicle entrance fees and adjust attendance limits at Foothills Park
• Contract with JC Decaux San Francisco, LLC for $1,053,924 for automatic public toilets
• Amendment to contract with Nova Partners, Inc. for $3,071,978 for construction management

Public Improvement Corporation

The Palo Alto City Council approved a construction contract with Swinerton Builders for the Public Safety Building, along with related contracts and financing, after rejecting a motion to delay the project. The council also approved a five-year contract for two automatic public toilets, formed a working group for the 2023-2031 Housing Element Update, and adopted a resolution supporting local control over zoning and housing. A motion to pull the Foothills Park fee ordinance from the consent calendar failed.

• Approved $83,928,000 construction contract with Swinerton Builders for Public Safety Building (5-2)
• Authorized up to $120M in Certificates of Participation to finance Public Safety Building (5-2)
• Approved $1,053,924 five-year contract with JCDecaux for two automatic public toilets (6-1)
• Formed working group for 2023-2031 Housing Element Update with expanded membership (7-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting local democracy and control over zoning and housing (6-1)
• Approved consent calendar items including Foothills Park fees and power contracts (7-0 for item 2, 6-1 for item 3)
• Motion to pull Foothills Park fee item from consent calendar failed
• Substitute motion to delay Public Safety Building decision failed (3-4)

City Council Retreat

The City Council selected four 2021 priorities: Economic Recovery, Housing for Social and Economic Balance, Social Justice, and Climate Change- Protection and Adaptation, passing 7-0. A substitute motion to focus solely on COVID-19 and Economic Recovery failed 2-5. The Council also approved procedural changes, including scheduling a CAHOOTS-type program discussion for March 2021 and amending committee topics, all passed 7-0.

• Adopted 2021 Council Priorities: Economic Recovery, Housing for Social and Economic Balance, Social Justice, Climate Change- Protection and Adaptation (7-0)
• Rejected substitute motion to establish 'COVID-19 and Economic Recovery' as the sole 2021 priority (2-5)
• Approved allowing Council Members to submit comments on Council Procedures and Protocols by end of February 2021 (7-0)
• Scheduled Policy and Services Committee discussion of CAHOOTS-type program feasibility for March 2021 (7-0)
• Amended committee topics: moved Fiscal Sustainability Workplan to Policy and Services, added Stanford Medical Center funds review, affordable housing funding, Town Hall planning, State Legislative and Administrative Advocacy, Safe Parking Program report, Tree Protection Ordinance amendments (7-0)
• Failed to add groundwater protection program expansion to Policy and Services topics due to lack of second

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission will hold two study sessions. The body will discuss the status of the South Palo Alto Bikeways Project and meet with the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association regarding efforts to reduce vehicle trips and congestion.

• Study Session: South Palo Alto Bikeways Project funded by the VERBS Grant and Community Engagement Plan
• Study Session: Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (PATMA) efforts to reduce single occupancy vehicle trips and parking demand

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss visitor limits and entry fee policies for Foothills Park. The body will also take action on a name change for Foothills Park and elect a new Chair and Vice Chair.

• Foothills Park Visitor Limit and Entry Fee Policy discussion
• Foothills Park Name Change action item
• Boulware Park Project update discussion
• Election of new Chair and Vice Chair

The Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously recommended renaming Foothills Park to Foothills Nature Preserve, following a City Council directive and a review by the Palo Alto Historical Association. The Commission also discussed, but did not vote on, a proposed $6 per-vehicle entry fee and a visitor limit of 400-500 people, with a consensus to recommend an annual pass and a flexible visitor limit range of 0-650. The meeting included updates on the Boulware Park renovation plan and a discussion on managing increased visitation to Foothills Park.

• Approved December 15, 2020 meeting minutes (6-1, Commissioner Brown abstaining)
• Elected Anne Cribbs as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Jeff Greenfield as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Recommended renaming Foothills Park to Foothills Nature Preserve (unanimous)

City Council Meeting

The City Council directed staff to proceed with the Community and Economic Recovery workplan, including funding for COVID-19 building improvements ($500,000) and Fiber to the Home engagement ($200,000), but rejected a motion to reevaluate the University Avenue Streetscape project. A separate motion to fund the University Avenue Streetscape Project Planning ($150,000) passed. The Council also approved a preliminary parcel map for 922 College Avenue, a status report and community engagement plan for the South Palo Alto Bikeways Project, and the consent calendar items, including development impact fees and a legal services contract amendment.

• Approved recovery workplan direction and budget adjustments (7-0)
• Rejected reevaluation of University Avenue Streetscape (3-4)
• Approved $150,000 for University Avenue Streetscape planning (4-3)
• Approved preliminary parcel map for 922 College Avenue (6-0, Tanaka recused)
• Approved South Palo Alto Bikeways community engagement plan and budget amendments (7-0)
• Approved consent calendar: development impact fees and legal services contract amendment (6-1 each)

Public Art Commission

The Commission will review the Draft California Ave District Public Art Master Plan. Members will also discuss the Commissioner Handbook and a City Council referral for permanent artwork at King Plaza regarding race and equity.

• Review of Draft California Ave District Public Art Master Plan
• Discussion of permanent public artwork on King Plaza to recognize race and equity priorities
• Discussion regarding the Commissioner Handbook adopted by City Council

City Council Meeting

The City Council approved an ordinance to manage Foothills Park attendance and fees, setting a cap of 400-500 people and an interim $6 per vehicle entrance fee, with volunteers exempted. The motion passed 6-1, with Council Member Cormack dissenting. Other agenda items, including a rezoning prescreening and a Human Relations Commission report, were discussed with no action taken.

• Approved ordinance to authorize City Manager to adjust Foothills Park attendance limits to 400-500 people (6-1)
• Approved interim $6 per vehicle entrance fee for Foothills Park, volunteers exempted (6-1)
• Directed Parks and Recreation Commission and staff to return with fees, discounts, rules, and enforcement policies (6-1)
• Directed staff to prepare emergency ordinance for attendance cap and fee (6-1)
• No action taken on rezoning prescreening at 2951 El Camino Real
• No action taken on Human Relations Commission equity report
• Continued Community & Economic Recovery Workplan to January 25, 2021
• Continued second reading of zoning ordinance and Housing Element working group to future dates

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission is meeting to elect its Chair and Vice Chair. The body will also take action on a letter to the Council regarding hate incidents in Palo Alto and plan a commission retreat.

• Election of HRC Chair and Vice Chair
• Confirmation of letter to Council regarding response to hate incidents in Palo Alto
• Planning and timing of the Human Relations Commission Retreat

The Human Relations Commission unanimously re-elected Kaloma Smith as Chair and Valerie Stinger as Vice Chair. The Commission voted 5-0 to have the Chair rewrite a letter to the City Council addressing hate-based incidents in Palo Alto, incorporating commissioner feedback, and to approve the final version by email vote. The retreat was scheduled for February 5, 2021, and the December minutes were approved 5-0.

• Re-elected Kaloma Smith as Chair (unanimous)
• Re-elected Valerie Stinger as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved motion to rewrite hate-incident letter to Council with revisions, final approval by email vote (5-0)
• Approved December 17, 2020 minutes (5-0)
• Scheduled HRC retreat for February 5, 2021

Planning & Transportation Commission Meeting

The Planning & Transportation Commission is meeting to provide a recommendation on the Preferred Plan Alternative for the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan. The body will also hold elections for its Chair and Vice Chair.

• Public hearing for the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan Preferred Plan Alternative
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of December 9, 2020 draft meeting minutes

The Planning and Transportation Commission voted 5-1 to send the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) back to staff for further study. Staff will return with two new alternatives: one based on Alternative Two with public funding to make it feasible, and a variant of Alternative Three with more park space and affordable housing. A separate motion to also revise Alternative One failed on a 3-3 tie. The commission also elected new leadership, with Commissioner Hechtman as Chair and Vice-Chair Roohparvar re-elected as Vice-Chair.

• Approved motion to study two new NVCAP alternatives (5-1)
• Rejected motion to also revise Alternative One (3-3)
• Elected Commissioner Hechtman as Chair (6-0)
• Re-elected Vice-Chair Roohparvar (4-2)
• Approved December 9, 2020 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Noted resignation of Commissioner Riggs

City Council Meeting

The Palo Alto City Council approved a $633,866 purchase order for two digger derrick trucks (6-1), adopted a resolution ordering weed abatement with three property exclusions (6-1), and approved the FY 2020 audited financial statements and CAFR (7-0) plus budget amendments (6-1). The council also directed staff to submit comment letters on Plan Bay Area 2050 and RHNA methodology, including asking ABAG/MTC to press HCD on projections and considering remote work impacts (6-1).

• Approved $633,866 purchase order for two 2022 DH50 digger derrick trucks (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Adopted weed abatement resolution, excluding properties owned by Bostrom, Wei, and Weng/Liu (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Approved FY 2020 audited financial statements and CAFR (7-0)
• Approved FY 2020 budget amendments (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Directed staff to submit comment letters on Plan Bay Area 2050 and RHNA methodology (6-1, Tanaka no)
• Directed City Attorney to contact William Curley of Harper and Burns regarding potential litigation (part of RHNA motion)
• Nominated Vice Mayor Burt for VTA Board consideration (5-2, Cormack and Tanaka no)
• Approved minutes for Nov 30, Dec 14, and Dec 23, 2020 meetings (7-0)

Utilities Advisory Commission

The Utilities Advisory Commission will discuss how electrification affects average gas utility system rates. The body will also review lifecycle emissions for electricity, natural gas, and gasoline consumed in Palo Alto.

• Discussion of projected electrification impacts on gas utility system average rates
• Discussion and update on lifecycle emissions for gasoline, natural gas, and electricity

The Utilities Advisory Commission discussed two informational items: a staff analysis of gas system average rate impacts under various electrification scenarios and a study on lifecycle emissions for gasoline, natural gas, and electricity. No formal decisions were made; both items were discussions only, with commissioners providing feedback and requesting further analysis on costs and incentives.

• Approved minutes of December 2, 2020 meeting (6-1)
• Discussed gas rate impacts of electrification scenarios; no action taken
• Discussed lifecycle emissions study; no action taken
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)