HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-12-23 City Council Emailscity streets.
Do you think they have insurance?
<image.png>
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Sat, Dec 21, 2024 at 4:54 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Here, they are emptying their waste in front of my building.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 9:18 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>wrote:Chantal,
It looks like somehow most of the city council members, Vice Mayor andMayor must have inadvertently been deleted from your last email response.
I have added them back in to make sure they stay apprised of the situation. Ihope it doesn't take the legal channels mentioned to start cleaning up ourneighborhood immediately; this has gotten out of control and kicking theproblem back and forth to different members of your city staff is not going tomake it go away.
Dave StellmanTransport St.
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 8:16 AM Maor Greenberg<maor@greenberg.construction> wrote:Dear Chantal,
Your response, while detailed, fails to address the critical and ongoing violations of
law, public safety, and business rights in the area. The City of Palo Alto has both the
authority and obligation to take immediate and decisive action to protect its residents,
businesses, and public spaces. Allowing illegally parked, unsafe, and hazardous RVs
to persist is unacceptable and directly violates state and local regulations. Below are
specific legal and factual challenges to the City’s approach, along with demands forcorrective action:
1. Illegally Parked and Unsafe RVs
California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) and Palo Alto Municipal Code §
10.48.010 clearly require all vehicles parked on public streets to display valid
registration. Many of the RVs in question lack valid registration, making their
presence illegal. Further, under California Vehicle Code § 22651(o) and PAMC §10.48.120, any vehicle unregistered for six months or more may be towedimmediately.
Additionally, vehicles with exposed sewage tanks, missing wheels, or other structuralhazards are in direct violation of California Vehicle Code § 24002, which prohibitsparking or operating vehicles in unsafe conditions. These RVs also create a public
health hazard under California Health and Safety Code § 117490, which prohibits
improper disposal of waste and sewage.
**2. Clarification Requested Regarding Unregistered Vehicles
In light of your response, please confirm whether the City of Palo Alto allowsunregistered vehicles to be driven on its streets. - I have some fun vehicles I wouldlove to order from Alibaba and drive them around Palo Alto...
• California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) expressly prohibits the operation ofunregistered vehicles. If these RVs are being moved every 72 hours as claimed, andthey lack proper registration, their operation is illegal under state law.
• Allowing unregistered vehicles to remain or operate within city limits undermines
traffic safety and compliance standards.
This point must be clarified explicitly: Does the City of Palo Alto condone theoperation of unregistered vehicles?
3. Abuse of the 72-Hour Rule
The City’s reliance on PAMC § 10.36.060 to justify the continued presence of theseRVs is flawed. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts confirm that many RVsare circumventing the 72-hour rule by wiping off chalk markings rather thanphysically moving. This is blatant non-compliance and undermines the intent of theordinance.
Furthermore, California Vehicle Code § 22669 explicitly allows for the removal of
vehicles that are “wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative,” even if they are moved every
72 hours. The City has the authority to act, and failing to do so jeopardizes public
safety and traffic flow.
4. Public Safety and Sanitation Violations
The exposed sewage tanks, illegal dumping, and general neglect by these RV
occupants pose significant health and environmental risks. The City’s failure to
enforce sanitation laws, such as California Health and Safety Code §
117490 and PAMC § 16.09.100, endangers residents, workers, and the environment.
Additionally, blocking roadways and driveways is a clear violation of CaliforniaVehicle Code § 22500, which prohibits parking that obstructs traffic flow or access.
5. Impact on Businesses and Traffic Flow
Businesses in the area are suffering due to blocked roadways, limited parking for
customers, and safety concerns. Under California Vehicle Code §
21101(c) and PAMC § 10.48.120, the City has the authority to regulate parking to
ensure the safety of businesses and residents.
The City’s failure to allocate parking for business deliveries, customers, or evenemergency services is a gross dereliction of duty. Blocking roadways for long periodscreates safety hazards, violates municipal code, and disrupts commerce.
Conclusion and Final Demands
The City of Palo Alto has the legal authority and responsibility to act under the
following regulations:
• PAMC § 10.48.120: Authorizes the removal of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22651(o): Allows towing of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22669: Mandates removal of inoperative vehicles.
• California Health and Safety Code § 117490: Prohibits illegal waste disposal.
• California Vehicle Code § 21101(c): Permits parking restrictions to ensure safety.
We demand the immediate implementation of the following measures:
1. Impound all unregistered, unsafe, or inoperative RVs within two weeks.
2. Establish designated loading zones and 2-hour parking areas near businesses.
3. Conduct regular sanitation inspections and impose penalties for violations.
4. Provide a clear timeline for resolution and enforcement updates.
The continued failure to act exposes the City to liability for neglecting public health
and safety under California Government Code § 815.6, which requires
municipalities to perform mandatory duties. We expect a formal response with a clear
action plan within 14 days. If no satisfactory action is taken, we reserve the right to
escalate this matter through legal channels to protect our businesses, employees, andthe community.
<email-signture_87b8d7a2-c4f4-4cbf-b474-af2f32118dd2.png>
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536x101 | Fax 925-269-2325908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
<F_1bc77f31-68bf-4143-80ea-3f34f539ea07.png> <insta_26696304-1b39-4259-9776-9f137454bed9.png> <yelp_e821c57e-caea-4e87-a5dd-5905e7ca4fb1.png> <Houzz_7abe75ad-d6ee-48ac-943b-592713e31957.png> <P_aece63f3-754b-4dca-a0a9-e93b94de4930.png> <google_04352117-2fb4-4963-bb3e-cc5317269360.png>
From: Gaines, Chantal <Chantal.Gaines@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Date: Friday, December 20, 2024 at 7:12 AM
To: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>, osbaldo@or-builders.com
<osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>,
Becchetti, Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Lester
Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch
<cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Moffatt, Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>, RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com
<RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>, nancy@drewmaran.com
<nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, McDonough, Melissa
<Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Reifschneider, James
<James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Patrick Kelly
<info@basketmaterials.com>, John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>,
Binder, Andrew <Andrew.Binder@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Jade Jin
<JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>, City
Attorney <city.attorney@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: RE: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org. Learn why this isimportant
Hello everyone,
Thank you for the emails and the time you all have spent to relay your concerns
about the area surrounding your businesses. My name is Chantal and I’m the
Deputy City Manager responding on behalf of the City Manager. I understand
that you feel a lack of progress on the concerns you’ve identified. Through
multiple City departments we are continuing to explore avenues to help mitigate
those concerns being mindful of compliance with the federal Constitution and
state laws, City resources, as well as providing respect to the humanity of the
individuals experiencing homelessness.
As our Police Lieutenant mentioned, our enforcement largely consists of the
efforts described below involving multiple City departments, including:
Weekly markings for 72-hour violations from our Community Service
Officers. These are required by law prior to issuing citations for the 72-
hour violations.
Weekly re-checks of those markings, followed by citations if vehicles are
not moved.
Checks of the area by traffic officers as well as patrol officers on a routine
basis, consistently several times per week.
Officers make personal contact with RV occupants to speak with them
regarding complaints and concerns, offer services or seek alternative
solutions (i.e., a small repair to fix a vehicle).
Through our Community Services Department, had our Homeless
Outreach Team attempt to speak with RV occupants to connect them to
available resources. Of note, there are limited safe parking resources
available countywide.
Consulted with our Code Enforcement team to address any activity that
falls under municipal code violations.
We hear you that there are perhaps more RVs in the neighborhood than have
been in the past. Some previous concerns, relayed through the Police
Department, have been for dumping, visibility/safety issues, or other nuisance-
type complaints. Officers have responded to investigate and determine if a
violation has in fact occurred in response to those complaints. As the officer who
issues the citation must attest to its legality, we trust their judgement to use
their discretion when deciding to cite or not. It should be noted that the
overwhelming majority of the RV’s are compliant with the 72-hour rule on a
weekly basis according to our Police Department and their regular checks. RVs
(and any other vehicle) are allowed to move and return to the exact same
location under PAMC section 10.36.060.
I asked the Police Department to examine the calls for service in your area since
November 1st to look for additional complaints the Police Department might be
able to address and to get an understanding of what they have responded to in
your area. Officers responded to 29 calls for service between the 900 block of
San Antonio, Commercial, Transport and Industrial Ave. Only 2 were reported
complaints from a business about the RV’s. None of those 29 calls for service
reported potential illegal behavior, such as illegal dumping, threatening or
harassing behavior, or other criminal actions, on behalf of those working in the
area. Most of those calls were self-initiated by the officers or calls from the RV
occupants themselves. One of the calls, initiated by an RV occupant, reported
suspicious persons that helped prevent a burglary to one of the businesses.
Since early November, there have been several citations issued and one vehicle
tow.
I would encourage your employees to report, either online, through our non-
emergency line (650-329-2413) or via 911, any behavior they feel is harassment,
or potentially illegal or unsafe.
The Police Department will continue to explore ideas such as additional
collaboration with City departments, outside organizations and service
providers, as well as nearby police departments whose actions can influence the
issues felt in Palo Alto. We will also investigate the ability to perform street
sweeping efforts and consult with our wastewater officials to address any
cleanliness, illegal dumping and sanitation issues. The Police Department will be
further assessing the vehicle code violations in the coming weeks to determine
the necessity of removing some offending vehicles.
Best,
Chantal
<image001.png>Chantal Cotton Gaines
Deputy City Manager
1. Safety and Sanitation Hazards:
• Dumped bodily waste, debris, and hazardous conditions are
becoming commonplace, creating significant health risks.
• Aggressive behavior and intimidation from some vehicle
occupants have been reported, making the area unsafe for employees and
customers.
2. Operational Challenges:
• Parking for employees, customers, and service vehicles is nearly
nonexistent due to the occupation of public spaces by illegally parked vehicles.
• Businesses are suffering tangible financial losses as customers
avoid the area due to these conditions.
3. Lack of Enforcement:
• Despite repeated citations and notices issued by Community Service and
Special Problems Officers, there has been no meaningful resolution.
• Violations of California Vehicle Code 4000(a)(1) VC (unregistered
vehicles) and Vehicle Code 22651(o)(1) VC (impound authority for registration
violations) are being ignored.
Call for Immediate Action
This is a collective appeal to the city and its representatives to act decisively to
restore order in our community. We urge the city to prioritize:
1. Enforcement: Immediate towing and penalties for unregistered and
illegally parked vehicles in alignment with state and local laws.
2. Comprehensive Solutions: A transparent and actionable plan to address
these issues, including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses,
and enforcement timelines.
3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to
ensure our concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational
viability but also exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on
this email chain are experiencing severe financial and reputational damages due
to these unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
<image003.png>
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325
908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
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<image006.png> <image007.png> <image008.png> <image009.png>
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>,
Benjamin Becchetti <Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>,
Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete
Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>, RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com
<RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>, nancy@drewmaran.com
<nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, Melissa McDonough
<Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>, James Reifschneider
<James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly
<info@basketmaterials.com>, John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>,
Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>, Ed Lauing
<Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lydia Kou
<Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>, Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>, City Council
<city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Burt
<pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>, Greer Stone
<Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin
<JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this isimportant
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than
inspecting the volume of vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that
there are 14 city employees/email addresses included in this email and we are
getting no responses or acknowledgements from any of them. This seems to be
just a community forum for us to air our grievances regarding the area we all
work in rather than getting any sort of resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues
that are a direct result of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste,
aggressive dogs, aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to
vigilant and call the non-emergency police line to confront situations. Officers
will come out and at the very most, they will go and have a conversation with
whoever it is that's causing issues. Then, nothing happens. We have had
customers complain that they do not feel safe coming into this corner of Palo
Alto. This is directly affecting Palo Alto businesses - many of which on this street
provide important/critical types of service to residents, businesses, local
government and schools in Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
I agree 100 %
The city of Palo A lot needs to have a solution for this please
O.R. Builders Inc.
Osbaldo Romero
President
939 Industrial Ave
Palo Alto, Ca. 94303
Phone: 650.938.2222
Fax: 650.938.2224
Cell: 415.215.6788
From: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 5:34 AM
To: Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>
Cc: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Marguerite Poyatos
<MARGUERITE@paloaltoglass.com>; Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>; Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>;
Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>;
osbaldo@or-builders.com; Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>;
Jacob@onemovemovers.com; david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>; RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com;
nancy@drewmaran.com; Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>;
Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-equipment.com>; Melissa McDonough
<Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>; James Reifschneider
<James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Kelly
<info@basketmaterials.com>; John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>;
Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>; Ed Lauing
<Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Vicki Veenker <Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>; Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>; City Council
<city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>; Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>;
Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
Out of curiosity, were this my personal vehicle or one of my companyvehicles, how long would it take for the City of Palo Alto to either siteme or tow me?
This is ridiculous; our streets have now become storage for people's
crap; sorry, no better way to state that. This boat is not someone's
dwelling; neither are all the additional cars associated with each
camper out here. If you can't do anything about the campers, do
something about the additional crap.
Again, how quickly would the city respond if it were my car that wasillegally parked out here?
I implore everyone on this thread to continue this daily until something
is done.
Do better, City of Palo Alto.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>
wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of
California more tools to crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked
and stored vehicles. It’s time to clean up this mess in the Commercial -
Industrial - Transport street area before it becomes even more of an
eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and customers trying
hard to do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar
<manu@k9ventures.com> wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block aweek ago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... toomany to even fit on one camera frame. And that's noteven counting the ones all over Transport and Industrial.Some of the RVs also have other supporting vehicles asnoted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care aboutbusinesses and would rather have the streets be aneyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walk on, and parkingspots not be available to customers/clients oremployees.
Warm regards,
at the existing city parks. Who the hell wants to use any Palo Alto City Parks bathroom withfilthy floors (trash, feces, soiled paper products, yellowish liquids, etc.), no toilet paper, not
toilet seat paper, no soap and no paper towels?
The city is not low on funds; this city seem to be low on care and real leadership. What doesthat say about Edward Shikada's inflated, unearned famous city manager paycheck when he
cannot seem to get people to keep up the bathrooms to the point where park users must makedeplorable choices. Does a Palo Alto City Park user choose between shitting without toilet
paper to use afterwards or shitting without having the soap to wash one's hands afterwards ornothing to wipe dry one's hands afterwards or all three significant hygiene issues. Or the user
must walk extremely carefully inside the restroom to avoid a shit slip and fall from all thetrash and human waste in the bathroom floors. In a multiple choice test, on Mr. Shikada's
watch, the correct answer would be "all the above".
By the way, dropping the ball in basic, practical upkeep and stocking of parks bathroom is avery low bar for any city council.
God help us all if city leadership cares only about themselves and things that glitter and shine.
Truly,
Robert P.
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Sat, Dec 21, 2024 at 4:54 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Here, they are emptying their waste in front of my building.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 9:18 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:Chantal,
It looks like somehow most of the city council members, Vice Mayor and Mayormust have inadvertently been deleted from your last email response.
I have added them back in to make sure they stay apprised of the situation. I hope itdoesn't take the legal channels mentioned to start cleaning up our neighborhoodimmediately; this has gotten out of control and kicking the problem back and forthto different members of your city staff is not going to make it go away.
Dave StellmanTransport St.
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 8:16 AM Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>wrote:
Dear Chantal,
Your response, while detailed, fails to address the critical and ongoing violations of law,
public safety, and business rights in the area. The City of Palo Alto has both the authority andobligation to take immediate and decisive action to protect its residents, businesses, and
public spaces. Allowing illegally parked, unsafe, and hazardous RVs to persist isunacceptable and directly violates state and local regulations. Below are specific legal and
factual challenges to the City’s approach, along with demands for corrective action:
1. Illegally Parked and Unsafe RVs
California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) and Palo Alto Municipal Code § 10.48.010 clearlyrequire all vehicles parked on public streets to display valid registration. Many of the RVs in
question lack valid registration, making their presence illegal. Further, under CaliforniaVehicle Code § 22651(o) and PAMC § 10.48.120, any vehicle unregistered for six months or
more may be towed immediately.
Additionally, vehicles with exposed sewage tanks, missing wheels, or other structural hazards
are in direct violation of California Vehicle Code § 24002, which prohibits parking or
operating vehicles in unsafe conditions. These RVs also create a public health hazard
under California Health and Safety Code § 117490, which prohibits improper disposal of
waste and sewage.
**2. Clarification Requested Regarding Unregistered Vehicles
In light of your response, please confirm whether the City of Palo Alto allowsunregistered vehicles to be driven on its streets. - I have some fun vehicles I would loveto order from Alibaba and drive them around Palo Alto...
• California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) expressly prohibits the operation of unregistered
vehicles. If these RVs are being moved every 72 hours as claimed, and they lack proper
registration, their operation is illegal under state law.
• Allowing unregistered vehicles to remain or operate within city limits undermines trafficsafety and compliance standards.
This point must be clarified explicitly: Does the City of Palo Alto condone the operationof unregistered vehicles?
3. Abuse of the 72-Hour Rule
The City’s reliance on PAMC § 10.36.060 to justify the continued presence of these RVs is
flawed. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts confirm that many RVs are
circumventing the 72-hour rule by wiping off chalk markings rather than physically moving.
This is blatant non-compliance and undermines the intent of the ordinance.
Furthermore, California Vehicle Code § 22669 explicitly allows for the removal of vehicles
that are “wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative,” even if they are moved every 72 hours. TheCity has the authority to act, and failing to do so jeopardizes public safety and traffic flow.
4. Public Safety and Sanitation Violations
The exposed sewage tanks, illegal dumping, and general neglect by these RV occupants pose
significant health and environmental risks. The City’s failure to enforce sanitation laws, suchas California Health and Safety Code § 117490 and PAMC § 16.09.100, endangers
residents, workers, and the environment. Additionally, blocking roadways and driveways is aclear violation of California Vehicle Code § 22500, which prohibits parking that obstructs
traffic flow or access.
5. Impact on Businesses and Traffic Flow
Businesses in the area are suffering due to blocked roadways, limited parking for customers,and safety concerns. Under California Vehicle Code § 21101(c) and PAMC § 10.48.120, the
City has the authority to regulate parking to ensure the safety of businesses and residents.
The City’s failure to allocate parking for business deliveries, customers, or even emergencyservices is a gross dereliction of duty. Blocking roadways for long periods creates safety
hazards, violates municipal code, and disrupts commerce.
Conclusion and Final Demands
The City of Palo Alto has the legal authority and responsibility to act under the followingregulations:
• PAMC § 10.48.120: Authorizes the removal of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22651(o): Allows towing of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22669: Mandates removal of inoperative vehicles.
• California Health and Safety Code § 117490: Prohibits illegal waste disposal.
• California Vehicle Code § 21101(c): Permits parking restrictions to ensure safety.
We demand the immediate implementation of the following measures:
1. Impound all unregistered, unsafe, or inoperative RVs within two weeks.
2. Establish designated loading zones and 2-hour parking areas near businesses.
3. Conduct regular sanitation inspections and impose penalties for violations.
4. Provide a clear timeline for resolution and enforcement updates.
The continued failure to act exposes the City to liability for neglecting public health andsafety under California Government Code § 815.6, which requires municipalities to
perform mandatory duties. We expect a formal response with a clear action plan within 14days. If no satisfactory action is taken, we reserve the right to escalate this matter through
legal channels to protect our businesses, employees, and the community.
<email-signture_87b8d7a2-c4f4-4cbf-b474-af2f32118dd2.png>
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536x101 | Fax 925-269-2325908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
<F_1bc77f31-68bf-4143-80ea-3f34f539ea07.png> <insta_26696304-1b39-4259-9776-9f137454bed9.png> <yelp_e821c57e-caea-4e87-a5dd-5905e7ca4fb1.png> <Houzz_7abe75ad-d6ee-48ac-943b-592713e31957.png> <P_aece63f3-754b-4dca-a0a9-e93b94de4930.png> <google_04352117-2fb4-4963-bb3e-cc5317269360.png>
From: Gaines, Chantal <Chantal.Gaines@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Date: Friday, December 20, 2024 at 7:12 AM
To: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>, osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-
builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Becchetti,
Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Dave
Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Moffatt, Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, McDonough, Melissa
<Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Reifschneider, James
<James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Patrick Kelly
<info@basketmaterials.com>, John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>,
Binder, Andrew <Andrew.Binder@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Jade Jin
<JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>, City Attorney
<city.attorney@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: RE: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org. Learn why this is important
Hello everyone,
Thank you for the emails and the time you all have spent to relay your concerns about
the area surrounding your businesses. My name is Chantal and I’m the Deputy City
Manager responding on behalf of the City Manager. I understand that you feel a lack of
progress on the concerns you’ve identified. Through multiple City departments we are
continuing to explore avenues to help mitigate those concerns being mindful of
compliance with the federal Constitution and state laws, City resources, as well as
providing respect to the humanity of the individuals experiencing homelessness.
As our Police Lieutenant mentioned, our enforcement largely consists of the efforts
described below involving multiple City departments, including:
Weekly markings for 72-hour violations from our Community Service Officers.
These are required by law prior to issuing citations for the 72-hour violations.
Weekly re-checks of those markings, followed by citations if vehicles are not
moved.
Checks of the area by traffic officers as well as patrol officers on a routine basis,
consistently several times per week.
Officers make personal contact with RV occupants to speak with them regarding
complaints and concerns, offer services or seek alternative solutions (i.e., a small
repair to fix a vehicle).
Through our Community Services Department, had our Homeless Outreach
Team attempt to speak with RV occupants to connect them to available
resources. Of note, there are limited safe parking resources available
countywide.
Consulted with our Code Enforcement team to address any activity that falls
under municipal code violations.
We hear you that there are perhaps more RVs in the neighborhood than have been in
the past. Some previous concerns, relayed through the Police Department, have been
for dumping, visibility/safety issues, or other nuisance-type complaints. Officers have
responded to investigate and determine if a violation has in fact occurred in response
to those complaints. As the officer who issues the citation must attest to its legality, we
trust their judgement to use their discretion when deciding to cite or not. It should be
noted that the overwhelming majority of the RV’s are compliant with the 72-hour rule
on a weekly basis according to our Police Department and their regular checks. RVs
(and any other vehicle) are allowed to move and return to the exact same location
under PAMC section 10.36.060.
I asked the Police Department to examine the calls for service in your area since
November 1st to look for additional complaints the Police Department might be able to
address and to get an understanding of what they have responded to in your area.
Officers responded to 29 calls for service between the 900 block of San Antonio,
Commercial, Transport and Industrial Ave. Only 2 were reported complaints from a
business about the RV’s. None of those 29 calls for service reported potential illegal
behavior, such as illegal dumping, threatening or harassing behavior, or other criminal
actions, on behalf of those working in the area. Most of those calls were self-initiated
by the officers or calls from the RV occupants themselves. One of the calls, initiated by
an RV occupant, reported suspicious persons that helped prevent a burglary to one of
the businesses. Since early November, there have been several citations issued and one
vehicle tow.
I would encourage your employees to report, either online, through our non-
emergency line (650-329-2413) or via 911, any behavior they feel is harassment, or
potentially illegal or unsafe.
The Police Department will continue to explore ideas such as additional collaboration
with City departments, outside organizations and service providers, as well as nearby
police departments whose actions can influence the issues felt in Palo Alto. We will also
investigate the ability to perform street sweeping efforts and consult with our
wastewater officials to address any cleanliness, illegal dumping and sanitation issues.
The Police Department will be further assessing the vehicle code violations in the
coming weeks to determine the necessity of removing some offending vehicles.
Best,
Chantal
<image001.png>Chantal Cotton Gaines
Deputy City Manager
(650) 329-2572 | chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
<image002.png>
• Parking for employees, customers, and service vehicles is nearly
nonexistent due to the occupation of public spaces by illegally parked vehicles.
• Businesses are suffering tangible financial losses as customers avoid the
area due to these conditions.
3. Lack of Enforcement:
• Despite repeated citations and notices issued by Community Service and
Special Problems Officers, there has been no meaningful resolution.
• Violations of California Vehicle Code 4000(a)(1) VC (unregistered
vehicles) and Vehicle Code 22651(o)(1) VC (impound authority for registration
violations) are being ignored.
Call for Immediate Action
This is a collective appeal to the city and its representatives to act decisively to restore
order in our community. We urge the city to prioritize:
1. Enforcement: Immediate towing and penalties for unregistered and illegally
parked vehicles in alignment with state and local laws.
2. Comprehensive Solutions: A transparent and actionable plan to address these
issues, including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses, and
enforcement timelines.
3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to ensure our
concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational viability
but also exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on this email
chain are experiencing severe financial and reputational damages due to these
unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
<image003.png>
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325
908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
<image004.png> <image005.png> <image006.png> <image007.png> <image008.png> <image009.png>
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Benjamin
Becchetti <Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Maor
Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete Moffatt
<pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, Melissa McDonough
<Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>, James Reifschneider
<James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>,
John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Greg Tanaka
<Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>, Ed Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>, Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>, City Council
<city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>,
Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this is important
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than inspecting the
volume of vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that there are 14 city
employees/email addresses included in this email and we are getting no responses or
acknowledgements from any of them. This seems to be just a community forum for us
to air our grievances regarding the area we all work in rather than getting any sort of
resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues that are a
direct result of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste, aggressive dogs,
aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to vigilant and call the non-
emergency police line to confront situations. Officers will come out and at the very
most, they will go and have a conversation with whoever it is that's causing issues.
Then, nothing happens. We have had customers complain that they do not feel safe
coming into this corner of Palo Alto. This is directly affecting Palo Alto businesses -
many of which on this street provide important/critical types of service to residents,
businesses, local government and schools in Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
I agree 100 %
The city of Palo A lot needs to have a solution for this please
O.R. Builders Inc.
Osbaldo Romero
President
939 Industrial Ave
Palo Alto, Ca. 94303
Phone: 650.938.2222
Fax: 650.938.2224
Cell: 415.215.6788
From: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 5:34 AM
To: Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>
Cc: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Marguerite Poyatos
<MARGUERITE@paloaltoglass.com>; Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>; Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>; Maor
Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>; osbaldo@or-
builders.com; Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>; Jacob@onemovemovers.com;
david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>;
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com; Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>; Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>;
James Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>;
John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>; Greg Tanaka
<Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>; Ed Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lydia
Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>; Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>; Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>; City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>; Greer Stone
<Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>; Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>; Xenia
Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California
more tools to crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored
vehicles. It’s time to clean up this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport
street area before it becomes even more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just
not fair to owners and customers trying hard to do business here with NO
AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar
<manu@k9ventures.com> wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a weekago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too manyto even fit on one camera frame. And that's not even countingthe ones all over Transport and Industrial. Some of the RVsalso have other supporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses andwould rather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks beunusable to walk on, and parking spots not be available tocustomers/clients or employees.
Warm regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 9:18 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:Chantal,
It looks like somehow most of the city council members, Vice Mayor and Mayormust have inadvertently been deleted from your last email response.
I have added them back in to make sure they stay apprised of the situation. I hope itdoesn't take the legal channels mentioned to start cleaning up our neighborhoodimmediately; this has gotten out of control and kicking the problem back and forthto different members of your city staff is not going to make it go away.
Dave StellmanTransport St.
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 8:16 AM Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>wrote:
Dear Chantal,
Your response, while detailed, fails to address the critical and ongoing violations of law,
public safety, and business rights in the area. The City of Palo Alto has both the authority and
obligation to take immediate and decisive action to protect its residents, businesses, and
public spaces. Allowing illegally parked, unsafe, and hazardous RVs to persist isunacceptable and directly violates state and local regulations. Below are specific legal and
factual challenges to the City’s approach, along with demands for corrective action:
1. Illegally Parked and Unsafe RVs
California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) and Palo Alto Municipal Code § 10.48.010 clearly
require all vehicles parked on public streets to display valid registration. Many of the RVs inquestion lack valid registration, making their presence illegal. Further, under CaliforniaVehicle Code § 22651(o) and PAMC § 10.48.120, any vehicle unregistered for six months or
more may be towed immediately.
Additionally, vehicles with exposed sewage tanks, missing wheels, or other structural hazardsare in direct violation of California Vehicle Code § 24002, which prohibits parking or
operating vehicles in unsafe conditions. These RVs also create a public health hazard
under California Health and Safety Code § 117490, which prohibits improper disposal of
waste and sewage.
**2. Clarification Requested Regarding Unregistered Vehicles
In light of your response, please confirm whether the City of Palo Alto allowsunregistered vehicles to be driven on its streets. - I have some fun vehicles I would loveto order from Alibaba and drive them around Palo Alto...
• California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) expressly prohibits the operation of unregisteredvehicles. If these RVs are being moved every 72 hours as claimed, and they lack proper
registration, their operation is illegal under state law.
• Allowing unregistered vehicles to remain or operate within city limits undermines trafficsafety and compliance standards.
This point must be clarified explicitly: Does the City of Palo Alto condone the operationof unregistered vehicles?
3. Abuse of the 72-Hour Rule
The City’s reliance on PAMC § 10.36.060 to justify the continued presence of these RVs is
flawed. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts confirm that many RVs arecircumventing the 72-hour rule by wiping off chalk markings rather than physically moving.This is blatant non-compliance and undermines the intent of the ordinance.
Furthermore, California Vehicle Code § 22669 explicitly allows for the removal of vehicles
that are “wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative,” even if they are moved every 72 hours. TheCity has the authority to act, and failing to do so jeopardizes public safety and traffic flow.
4. Public Safety and Sanitation Violations
The exposed sewage tanks, illegal dumping, and general neglect by these RV occupants pose
significant health and environmental risks. The City’s failure to enforce sanitation laws, such
as California Health and Safety Code § 117490 and PAMC § 16.09.100, endangersresidents, workers, and the environment. Additionally, blocking roadways and driveways is a
clear violation of California Vehicle Code § 22500, which prohibits parking that obstructs
traffic flow or access.
5. Impact on Businesses and Traffic Flow
Businesses in the area are suffering due to blocked roadways, limited parking for customers,and safety concerns. Under California Vehicle Code § 21101(c) and PAMC § 10.48.120, theCity has the authority to regulate parking to ensure the safety of businesses and residents.
The City’s failure to allocate parking for business deliveries, customers, or even emergency
services is a gross dereliction of duty. Blocking roadways for long periods creates safetyhazards, violates municipal code, and disrupts commerce.
Conclusion and Final Demands
The City of Palo Alto has the legal authority and responsibility to act under the following
regulations:
• PAMC § 10.48.120: Authorizes the removal of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22651(o): Allows towing of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22669: Mandates removal of inoperative vehicles.
• California Health and Safety Code § 117490: Prohibits illegal waste disposal.
• California Vehicle Code § 21101(c): Permits parking restrictions to ensure safety.
We demand the immediate implementation of the following measures:
1. Impound all unregistered, unsafe, or inoperative RVs within two weeks.
2. Establish designated loading zones and 2-hour parking areas near businesses.
3. Conduct regular sanitation inspections and impose penalties for violations.
4. Provide a clear timeline for resolution and enforcement updates.
The continued failure to act exposes the City to liability for neglecting public health andsafety under California Government Code § 815.6, which requires municipalities to
perform mandatory duties. We expect a formal response with a clear action plan within 14
days. If no satisfactory action is taken, we reserve the right to escalate this matter through
legal channels to protect our businesses, employees, and the community.
<email-signture_87b8d7a2-c4f4-4cbf-b474-af2f32118dd2.png>
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536x101 | Fax 925-269-2325908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
<F_1bc77f31-68bf-4143-80ea-3f34f539ea07.png> <insta_26696304-1b39-4259-9776-9f137454bed9.png> <yelp_e821c57e-caea-4e87-a5dd-5905e7ca4fb1.png> <Houzz_7abe75ad-d6ee-48ac-943b-592713e31957.png> <P_aece63f3-754b-4dca-a0a9-e93b94de4930.png> <google_04352117-2fb4-4963-bb3e-cc5317269360.png>
From: Gaines, Chantal <Chantal.Gaines@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Date: Friday, December 20, 2024 at 7:12 AM
To: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>, osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-
builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Becchetti,
Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Dave
Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Moffatt, Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, McDonough, Melissa
<Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Reifschneider, James
<James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Patrick Kelly
<info@basketmaterials.com>, John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>,
Binder, Andrew <Andrew.Binder@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Jade Jin
<JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>, City Attorney
<city.attorney@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: RE: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org. Learn why this is important
Hello everyone,
Thank you for the emails and the time you all have spent to relay your concerns about
the area surrounding your businesses. My name is Chantal and I’m the Deputy City
Manager responding on behalf of the City Manager. I understand that you feel a lack of
progress on the concerns you’ve identified. Through multiple City departments we are
continuing to explore avenues to help mitigate those concerns being mindful of
compliance with the federal Constitution and state laws, City resources, as well as
providing respect to the humanity of the individuals experiencing homelessness.
As our Police Lieutenant mentioned, our enforcement largely consists of the efforts
described below involving multiple City departments, including:
Weekly markings for 72-hour violations from our Community Service Officers.
These are required by law prior to issuing citations for the 72-hour violations.
Weekly re-checks of those markings, followed by citations if vehicles are not
moved.
Checks of the area by traffic officers as well as patrol officers on a routine basis,
consistently several times per week.
Officers make personal contact with RV occupants to speak with them regarding
complaints and concerns, offer services or seek alternative solutions (i.e., a small
repair to fix a vehicle).
Through our Community Services Department, had our Homeless Outreach
Team attempt to speak with RV occupants to connect them to available
resources. Of note, there are limited safe parking resources available
countywide.
Consulted with our Code Enforcement team to address any activity that falls
under municipal code violations.
We hear you that there are perhaps more RVs in the neighborhood than have been in
the past. Some previous concerns, relayed through the Police Department, have been
for dumping, visibility/safety issues, or other nuisance-type complaints. Officers have
responded to investigate and determine if a violation has in fact occurred in response
to those complaints. As the officer who issues the citation must attest to its legality, we
trust their judgement to use their discretion when deciding to cite or not. It should be
noted that the overwhelming majority of the RV’s are compliant with the 72-hour rule
on a weekly basis according to our Police Department and their regular checks. RVs
(and any other vehicle) are allowed to move and return to the exact same location
under PAMC section 10.36.060.
I asked the Police Department to examine the calls for service in your area since
November 1st to look for additional complaints the Police Department might be able to
address and to get an understanding of what they have responded to in your area.
Officers responded to 29 calls for service between the 900 block of San Antonio,
Commercial, Transport and Industrial Ave. Only 2 were reported complaints from a
business about the RV’s. None of those 29 calls for service reported potential illegal
behavior, such as illegal dumping, threatening or harassing behavior, or other criminal
actions, on behalf of those working in the area. Most of those calls were self-initiated
by the officers or calls from the RV occupants themselves. One of the calls, initiated by
an RV occupant, reported suspicious persons that helped prevent a burglary to one of
the businesses. Since early November, there have been several citations issued and one
vehicle tow.
I would encourage your employees to report, either online, through our non-
emergency line (650-329-2413) or via 911, any behavior they feel is harassment, or
potentially illegal or unsafe.
The Police Department will continue to explore ideas such as additional collaboration
with City departments, outside organizations and service providers, as well as nearby
police departments whose actions can influence the issues felt in Palo Alto. We will also
investigate the ability to perform street sweeping efforts and consult with our
wastewater officials to address any cleanliness, illegal dumping and sanitation issues.
The Police Department will be further assessing the vehicle code violations in the
coming weeks to determine the necessity of removing some offending vehicles.
Best,
Chantal
<image001.png>Chantal Cotton Gaines
Deputy City Manager
(650) 329-2572 | chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
<image002.png>
From: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 11:35 PM
To: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>; osbaldo@or-builders.com
3. Lack of Enforcement:
• Despite repeated citations and notices issued by Community Service and
Special Problems Officers, there has been no meaningful resolution.
• Violations of California Vehicle Code 4000(a)(1) VC (unregistered
vehicles) and Vehicle Code 22651(o)(1) VC (impound authority for registration
violations) are being ignored.
Call for Immediate Action
This is a collective appeal to the city and its representatives to act decisively to restore
order in our community. We urge the city to prioritize:
1. Enforcement: Immediate towing and penalties for unregistered and illegally
parked vehicles in alignment with state and local laws.
2. Comprehensive Solutions: A transparent and actionable plan to address these
issues, including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses, and
enforcement timelines.
3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to ensure our
concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational viability
but also exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on this email
chain are experiencing severe financial and reputational damages due to these
unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
<image003.png>
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325
908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
<image004.png> <image005.png> <image006.png> <image007.png> <image008.png> <image009.png>
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Benjamin
Becchetti <Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Maor
Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete Moffatt
<pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, Melissa McDonough
<Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>, James Reifschneider
<James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>,
John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Greg Tanaka
<Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>, Ed Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>, Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>, City Council
<city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>,
Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this is important
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than inspecting the
volume of vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that there are 14 city
employees/email addresses included in this email and we are getting no responses or
acknowledgements from any of them. This seems to be just a community forum for us
to air our grievances regarding the area we all work in rather than getting any sort of
resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues that are a
direct result of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste, aggressive dogs,
aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to vigilant and call the non-
emergency police line to confront situations. Officers will come out and at the very
most, they will go and have a conversation with whoever it is that's causing issues.
Then, nothing happens. We have had customers complain that they do not feel safe
coming into this corner of Palo Alto. This is directly affecting Palo Alto businesses -
many of which on this street provide important/critical types of service to residents,
businesses, local government and schools in Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
I agree 100 %
The city of Palo A lot needs to have a solution for this please
O.R. Builders Inc.
Osbaldo Romero
President
939 Industrial Ave
Palo Alto, Ca. 94303
Phone: 650.938.2222
Fax: 650.938.2224
Cell: 415.215.6788
From: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 5:34 AM
To: Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>
Cc: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Marguerite Poyatos
<MARGUERITE@paloaltoglass.com>; Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>; Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>; Maor
Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>; osbaldo@or-
builders.com; Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>; Jacob@onemovemovers.com;
david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>;
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com; Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>; Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>;
James Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>;
John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>; Greg Tanaka
<Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>; Ed Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lydia
Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>; Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>; Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>; City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>; Greer Stone
<Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>; Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>; Xenia
Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
Out of curiosity, were this my personal vehicle or one of my company
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California
more tools to crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored
vehicles. It’s time to clean up this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport
street area before it becomes even more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just
not fair to owners and customers trying hard to do business here with NO
AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar
<manu@k9ventures.com> wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a weekago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too manyto even fit on one camera frame. And that's not even countingthe ones all over Transport and Industrial. Some of the RVsalso have other supporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses andwould rather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks beunusable to walk on, and parking spots not be available tocustomers/clients or employees.
Warm regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Sat, Dec 21, 2024 at 5:13 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Still parked right across from my building. Note, NO rear license plate. I do think that is against the law. I
do also have video of them driving up, proof of the vehicle operating on city streets.
Do you think they have insurance?
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Sat, Dec 21, 2024 at 4:54 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Here, they are emptying their waste in front of my building.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 9:18 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:Chantal,
It looks like somehow most of the city council members, Vice Mayor and Mayor musthave inadvertently been deleted from your last email response.
I have added them back in to make sure they stay apprised of the situation. I hope itdoesn't take the legal channels mentioned to start cleaning up our neighborhoodimmediately; this has gotten out of control and kicking the problem back and forth todifferent members of your city staff is not going to make it go away.
Dave StellmanTransport St.
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 8:16 AM Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>wrote:
Dear Chantal,
Your response, while detailed, fails to address the critical and ongoing violations of law, publicsafety, and business rights in the area. The City of Palo Alto has both the authority and obligation to
take immediate and decisive action to protect its residents, businesses, and public spaces. Allowingillegally parked, unsafe, and hazardous RVs to persist is unacceptable and directly violates state and
local regulations. Below are specific legal and factual challenges to the City’s approach, along withdemands for corrective action:
1. Illegally Parked and Unsafe RVs
California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) and Palo Alto Municipal Code § 10.48.010 clearly require
all vehicles parked on public streets to display valid registration. Many of the RVs in question lack
valid registration, making their presence illegal. Further, under California Vehicle Code §
22651(o) and PAMC § 10.48.120, any vehicle unregistered for six months or more may be towed
immediately.
Additionally, vehicles with exposed sewage tanks, missing wheels, or other structural hazards are in
direct violation of California Vehicle Code § 24002, which prohibits parking or operating vehicles
in unsafe conditions. These RVs also create a public health hazard under California Health and
Safety Code § 117490, which prohibits improper disposal of waste and sewage.
**2. Clarification Requested Regarding Unregistered Vehicles
In light of your response, please confirm whether the City of Palo Alto allows unregisteredvehicles to be driven on its streets. - I have some fun vehicles I would love to order fromAlibaba and drive them around Palo Alto...
• California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) expressly prohibits the operation of unregistered vehicles.
If these RVs are being moved every 72 hours as claimed, and they lack proper registration, their
operation is illegal under state law.
• Allowing unregistered vehicles to remain or operate within city limits undermines traffic safety
and compliance standards.
This point must be clarified explicitly: Does the City of Palo Alto condone the operation ofunregistered vehicles?
3. Abuse of the 72-Hour Rule
The City’s reliance on PAMC § 10.36.060 to justify the continued presence of these RVs is flawed.Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts confirm that many RVs are circumventing the 72-hour
rule by wiping off chalk markings rather than physically moving. This is blatant non-compliance andundermines the intent of the ordinance.
Furthermore, California Vehicle Code § 22669 explicitly allows for the removal of vehicles that are
“wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative,” even if they are moved every 72 hours. The City has theauthority to act, and failing to do so jeopardizes public safety and traffic flow.
4. Public Safety and Sanitation Violations
The exposed sewage tanks, illegal dumping, and general neglect by these RV occupants pose
significant health and environmental risks. The City’s failure to enforce sanitation laws, such
as California Health and Safety Code § 117490 and PAMC § 16.09.100, endangers residents,
workers, and the environment. Additionally, blocking roadways and driveways is a clear violationof California Vehicle Code § 22500, which prohibits parking that obstructs traffic flow or access.
5. Impact on Businesses and Traffic Flow
Businesses in the area are suffering due to blocked roadways, limited parking for customers, and
safety concerns. Under California Vehicle Code § 21101(c) and PAMC § 10.48.120, the City has
the authority to regulate parking to ensure the safety of businesses and residents.
The City’s failure to allocate parking for business deliveries, customers, or even emergency services
is a gross dereliction of duty. Blocking roadways for long periods creates safety hazards, violates
municipal code, and disrupts commerce.
Conclusion and Final Demands
The City of Palo Alto has the legal authority and responsibility to act under the followingregulations:
• PAMC § 10.48.120: Authorizes the removal of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22651(o): Allows towing of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22669: Mandates removal of inoperative vehicles.
• California Health and Safety Code § 117490: Prohibits illegal waste disposal.
• California Vehicle Code § 21101(c): Permits parking restrictions to ensure safety.
We demand the immediate implementation of the following measures:
1. Impound all unregistered, unsafe, or inoperative RVs within two weeks.
2. Establish designated loading zones and 2-hour parking areas near businesses.
3. Conduct regular sanitation inspections and impose penalties for violations.
4. Provide a clear timeline for resolution and enforcement updates.
The continued failure to act exposes the City to liability for neglecting public health and safetyunder California Government Code § 815.6, which requires municipalities to perform mandatory
duties. We expect a formal response with a clear action plan within 14 days. If no satisfactory actionis taken, we reserve the right to escalate this matter through legal channels to protect our businesses,
employees, and the community.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Gaines, Chantal <Chantal.Gaines@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Date: Friday, December 20, 2024 at 7:12 AM
To: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>, osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-
builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Becchetti,
Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Dave
Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Moffatt,
Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, McDonough, Melissa <Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>,
Reifschneider, James <James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Binder, Andrew
<Andrew.Binder@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>, City Attorney <city.attorney@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: RE: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org. Learn why this is important
Hello everyone,
Thank you for the emails and the time you all have spent to relay your concerns about the
area surrounding your businesses. My name is Chantal and I’m the Deputy City Manager
responding on behalf of the City Manager. I understand that you feel a lack of progress on the
concerns you’ve identified. Through multiple City departments we are continuing to explore
avenues to help mitigate those concerns being mindful of compliance with the federal
Constitution and state laws, City resources, as well as providing respect to the humanity of the
individuals experiencing homelessness.
As our Police Lieutenant mentioned, our enforcement largely consists of the efforts described
below involving multiple City departments, including:
Weekly markings for 72-hour violations from our Community Service Officers. These
are required by law prior to issuing citations for the 72-hour violations.
Weekly re-checks of those markings, followed by citations if vehicles are not moved.
Checks of the area by traffic officers as well as patrol officers on a routine basis,
consistently several times per week.
Officers make personal contact with RV occupants to speak with them regarding
complaints and concerns, offer services or seek alternative solutions (i.e., a small repair
to fix a vehicle).
Through our Community Services Department, had our Homeless Outreach Team
attempt to speak with RV occupants to connect them to available resources. Of note,
there are limited safe parking resources available countywide.
Consulted with our Code Enforcement team to address any activity that falls under
municipal code violations.
We hear you that there are perhaps more RVs in the neighborhood than have been in the
past. Some previous concerns, relayed through the Police Department, have been for
dumping, visibility/safety issues, or other nuisance-type complaints. Officers have responded
to investigate and determine if a violation has in fact occurred in response to those
complaints. As the officer who issues the citation must attest to its legality, we trust their
judgement to use their discretion when deciding to cite or not. It should be noted that the
overwhelming majority of the RV’s are compliant with the 72-hour rule on a weekly basis
according to our Police Department and their regular checks. RVs (and any other vehicle) are
allowed to move and return to the exact same location under PAMC section 10.36.060.
I asked the Police Department to examine the calls for service in your area since November 1st
to look for additional complaints the Police Department might be able to address and to get
an understanding of what they have responded to in your area. Officers responded to 29 calls
for service between the 900 block of San Antonio, Commercial, Transport and Industrial Ave.
Only 2 were reported complaints from a business about the RV’s. None of those 29 calls for
service reported potential illegal behavior, such as illegal dumping, threatening or harassing
behavior, or other criminal actions, on behalf of those working in the area. Most of those calls
were self-initiated by the officers or calls from the RV occupants themselves. One of the calls,
initiated by an RV occupant, reported suspicious persons that helped prevent a burglary to
one of the businesses. Since early November, there have been several citations issued and
one vehicle tow.
I would encourage your employees to report, either online, through our non-emergency line
(650-329-2413) or via 911, any behavior they feel is harassment, or potentially illegal or
unsafe.
The Police Department will continue to explore ideas such as additional collaboration with
City departments, outside organizations and service providers, as well as nearby police
departments whose actions can influence the issues felt in Palo Alto. We will also investigate
the ability to perform street sweeping efforts and consult with our wastewater officials to
address any cleanliness, illegal dumping and sanitation issues. The Police Department will be
further assessing the vehicle code violations in the coming weeks to determine the necessity
of removing some offending vehicles.
Best,
Chantal
Chantal Cotton Gaines
Deputy City Manager
(650) 329-2572 | chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
From: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 11:35 PM
• Despite repeated citations and notices issued by Community Service and
Special Problems Officers, there has been no meaningful resolution.
• Violations of California Vehicle Code 4000(a)(1) VC (unregistered vehicles) and
Vehicle Code 22651(o)(1) VC (impound authority for registration violations) are being ignored.
Call for Immediate Action
This is a collective appeal to the city and its representatives to act decisively to restore order
in our community. We urge the city to prioritize:
1. Enforcement: Immediate towing and penalties for unregistered and illegally parked
vehicles in alignment with state and local laws.
2. Comprehensive Solutions: A transparent and actionable plan to address these issues,
including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses, and enforcement timelines.
3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to ensure our
concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational viability but also
exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on this email chain are
experiencing severe financial and reputational damages due to these unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325
908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Benjamin
Becchetti <Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Maor
Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete Moffatt
<pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>,
James Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Ed Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Vicki Veenker <Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>, City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>, Greer Stone
<Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia
Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this is important
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than inspecting the
volume of vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that there are 14 city
employees/email addresses included in this email and we are getting no responses or
acknowledgements from any of them. This seems to be just a community forum for us to air
our grievances regarding the area we all work in rather than getting any sort of resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues that are a direct
result of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste, aggressive dogs,
aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to vigilant and call the non-emergency
police line to confront situations. Officers will come out and at the very most, they will go and
have a conversation with whoever it is that's causing issues. Then, nothing happens. We have
had customers complain that they do not feel safe coming into this corner of Palo Alto. This is
directly affecting Palo Alto businesses - many of which on this street provide important/critical
types of service to residents, businesses, local government and schools in Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
I agree 100 %
The city of Palo A lot needs to have a solution for this please
O.R. Builders Inc.
Osbaldo Romero
President
939 Industrial Ave
Palo Alto, Ca. 94303
Phone: 650.938.2222
Fax: 650.938.2224
Cell: 415.215.6788
From: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 5:34 AM
To: Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>
Cc: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Marguerite Poyatos
<MARGUERITE@paloaltoglass.com>; Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>; Cathi
Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>; Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>;
Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>;
osbaldo@or-builders.com; Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>;
Jacob@onemovemovers.com; david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>; RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com;
Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>; Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>; James
Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>; John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>; Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>; Ed
Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>; Vicki
Veenker <Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>; Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>; City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>; Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Julie Lythcott-Haims <Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jade Jin
<JJin@wongelectric.com>; Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
Out of curiosity, were this my personal vehicle or one of my company vehicles, how
long would it take for the City of Palo Alto to either site me or tow me?
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California more tools
to crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored vehicles. It’s time to
clean up this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport street area before it
becomes even more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and
customers trying hard to do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>
wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a weekago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to evenfit on one camera frame. And that's not even counting the ones allover Transport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also have othersupporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses andwould rather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusableto walk on, and parking spots not be available to customers/clientsor employees.
Warm regards,
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Sat, Dec 21, 2024 at 4:54 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Here, they are emptying their waste in front of my building.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 9:18 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:Chantal,
It looks like somehow most of the city council members, Vice Mayor and Mayor must
have inadvertently been deleted from your last email response.
I have added them back in to make sure they stay apprised of the situation. I hope itdoesn't take the legal channels mentioned to start cleaning up our neighborhood
immediately; this has gotten out of control and kicking the problem back and forth todifferent members of your city staff is not going to make it go away.
Dave Stellman
Transport St.
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 8:16 AM Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>wrote:
Dear Chantal,
Your response, while detailed, fails to address the critical and ongoing violations of law, public
safety, and business rights in the area. The City of Palo Alto has both the authority and obligation totake immediate and decisive action to protect its residents, businesses, and public spaces. Allowing
illegally parked, unsafe, and hazardous RVs to persist is unacceptable and directly violates state and
local regulations. Below are specific legal and factual challenges to the City’s approach, along with
demands for corrective action:
1. Illegally Parked and Unsafe RVs
California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) and Palo Alto Municipal Code § 10.48.010 clearly require
all vehicles parked on public streets to display valid registration. Many of the RVs in question lack
valid registration, making their presence illegal. Further, under California Vehicle Code §22651(o) and PAMC § 10.48.120, any vehicle unregistered for six months or more may be towed
immediately.
Additionally, vehicles with exposed sewage tanks, missing wheels, or other structural hazards are in
direct violation of California Vehicle Code § 24002, which prohibits parking or operating vehicles
in unsafe conditions. These RVs also create a public health hazard under California Health and
Safety Code § 117490, which prohibits improper disposal of waste and sewage.
**2. Clarification Requested Regarding Unregistered Vehicles
In light of your response, please confirm whether the City of Palo Alto allows unregisteredvehicles to be driven on its streets. - I have some fun vehicles I would love to order fromAlibaba and drive them around Palo Alto...
• California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) expressly prohibits the operation of unregistered vehicles.
If these RVs are being moved every 72 hours as claimed, and they lack proper registration, their
operation is illegal under state law.
• Allowing unregistered vehicles to remain or operate within city limits undermines traffic safety
and compliance standards.
This point must be clarified explicitly: Does the City of Palo Alto condone the operation ofunregistered vehicles?
3. Abuse of the 72-Hour Rule
The City’s reliance on PAMC § 10.36.060 to justify the continued presence of these RVs is flawed.
Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts confirm that many RVs are circumventing the 72-hour
rule by wiping off chalk markings rather than physically moving. This is blatant non-compliance and
undermines the intent of the ordinance.
Furthermore, California Vehicle Code § 22669 explicitly allows for the removal of vehicles that are
“wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative,” even if they are moved every 72 hours. The City has the
authority to act, and failing to do so jeopardizes public safety and traffic flow.
4. Public Safety and Sanitation Violations
The exposed sewage tanks, illegal dumping, and general neglect by these RV occupants pose
significant health and environmental risks. The City’s failure to enforce sanitation laws, such
as California Health and Safety Code § 117490 and PAMC § 16.09.100, endangers residents,
workers, and the environment. Additionally, blocking roadways and driveways is a clear violation
of California Vehicle Code § 22500, which prohibits parking that obstructs traffic flow or access.
5. Impact on Businesses and Traffic Flow
Businesses in the area are suffering due to blocked roadways, limited parking for customers, and
safety concerns. Under California Vehicle Code § 21101(c) and PAMC § 10.48.120, the City has
the authority to regulate parking to ensure the safety of businesses and residents.
The City’s failure to allocate parking for business deliveries, customers, or even emergency services
is a gross dereliction of duty. Blocking roadways for long periods creates safety hazards, violates
municipal code, and disrupts commerce.
Conclusion and Final Demands
The City of Palo Alto has the legal authority and responsibility to act under the following
regulations:
• PAMC § 10.48.120: Authorizes the removal of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22651(o): Allows towing of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22669: Mandates removal of inoperative vehicles.
• California Health and Safety Code § 117490: Prohibits illegal waste disposal.
• California Vehicle Code § 21101(c): Permits parking restrictions to ensure safety.
We demand the immediate implementation of the following measures:
1. Impound all unregistered, unsafe, or inoperative RVs within two weeks.
2. Establish designated loading zones and 2-hour parking areas near businesses.
3. Conduct regular sanitation inspections and impose penalties for violations.
4. Provide a clear timeline for resolution and enforcement updates.
The continued failure to act exposes the City to liability for neglecting public health and safety
under California Government Code § 815.6, which requires municipalities to perform mandatory
duties. We expect a formal response with a clear action plan within 14 days. If no satisfactory action
is taken, we reserve the right to escalate this matter through legal channels to protect our businesses,
employees, and the community.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-
2325908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Gaines, Chantal <Chantal.Gaines@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Date: Friday, December 20, 2024 at 7:12 AM
To: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>, osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-
builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Becchetti,
Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Dave
Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Moffatt,
Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, McDonough, Melissa <Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>,
Reifschneider, James <James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Binder, Andrew
<Andrew.Binder@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>, City Attorney <city.attorney@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: RE: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org. Learn why this is important
Hello everyone,
Thank you for the emails and the time you all have spent to relay your concerns about the
area surrounding your businesses. My name is Chantal and I’m the Deputy City Manager
responding on behalf of the City Manager. I understand that you feel a lack of progress on the
concerns you’ve identified. Through multiple City departments we are continuing to explore
avenues to help mitigate those concerns being mindful of compliance with the federal
Constitution and state laws, City resources, as well as providing respect to the humanity of the
individuals experiencing homelessness.
As our Police Lieutenant mentioned, our enforcement largely consists of the efforts described
below involving multiple City departments, including:
Weekly markings for 72-hour violations from our Community Service Officers. These
are required by law prior to issuing citations for the 72-hour violations.
Weekly re-checks of those markings, followed by citations if vehicles are not moved.
Checks of the area by traffic officers as well as patrol officers on a routine basis,
consistently several times per week.
Officers make personal contact with RV occupants to speak with them regarding
complaints and concerns, offer services or seek alternative solutions (i.e., a small repair
to fix a vehicle).
Through our Community Services Department, had our Homeless Outreach Team
attempt to speak with RV occupants to connect them to available resources. Of note,
there are limited safe parking resources available countywide.
Consulted with our Code Enforcement team to address any activity that falls under
municipal code violations.
We hear you that there are perhaps more RVs in the neighborhood than have been in the
past. Some previous concerns, relayed through the Police Department, have been for
dumping, visibility/safety issues, or other nuisance-type complaints. Officers have responded
to investigate and determine if a violation has in fact occurred in response to those
complaints. As the officer who issues the citation must attest to its legality, we trust their
judgement to use their discretion when deciding to cite or not. It should be noted that the
overwhelming majority of the RV’s are compliant with the 72-hour rule on a weekly basis
according to our Police Department and their regular checks. RVs (and any other vehicle) are
allowed to move and return to the exact same location under PAMC section 10.36.060.
I asked the Police Department to examine the calls for service in your area since November 1st
to look for additional complaints the Police Department might be able to address and to get
an understanding of what they have responded to in your area. Officers responded to 29 calls
for service between the 900 block of San Antonio, Commercial, Transport and Industrial Ave.
Only 2 were reported complaints from a business about the RV’s. None of those 29 calls for
service reported potential illegal behavior, such as illegal dumping, threatening or harassing
behavior, or other criminal actions, on behalf of those working in the area. Most of those calls
were self-initiated by the officers or calls from the RV occupants themselves. One of the calls,
initiated by an RV occupant, reported suspicious persons that helped prevent a burglary to
one of the businesses. Since early November, there have been several citations issued and
one vehicle tow.
I would encourage your employees to report, either online, through our non-emergency line
(650-329-2413) or via 911, any behavior they feel is harassment, or potentially illegal or
unsafe.
The Police Department will continue to explore ideas such as additional collaboration with City
departments, outside organizations and service providers, as well as nearby police
departments whose actions can influence the issues felt in Palo Alto. We will also investigate
the ability to perform street sweeping efforts and consult with our wastewater officials to
address any cleanliness, illegal dumping and sanitation issues. The Police Department will be
further assessing the vehicle code violations in the coming weeks to determine the necessity
of removing some offending vehicles.
Best,
Chantal
Chantal Cotton Gaines
Deputy City Manager
(650) 329-2572 | chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
2. Operational Challenges:
• Parking for employees, customers, and service vehicles is nearly nonexistent
due to the occupation of public spaces by illegally parked vehicles.
• Businesses are suffering tangible financial losses as customers avoid the area
due to these conditions.
3. Lack of Enforcement:
• Despite repeated citations and notices issued by Community Service and
Special Problems Officers, there has been no meaningful resolution.
• Violations of California Vehicle Code 4000(a)(1) VC (unregistered vehicles) and
Vehicle Code 22651(o)(1) VC (impound authority for registration violations) are being ignored.
Call for Immediate Action
This is a collective appeal to the city and its representatives to act decisively to restore order
in our community. We urge the city to prioritize:
1. Enforcement: Immediate towing and penalties for unregistered and illegally parked
vehicles in alignment with state and local laws.
2. Comprehensive Solutions: A transparent and actionable plan to address these issues,
including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses, and enforcement timelines.
3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to ensure our
concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational viability but also
exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on this email chain are
experiencing severe financial and reputational damages due to these unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325
908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman
<davestellman@gmail.com>, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Benjamin
Becchetti <Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong
<lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Maor
Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete Moffatt
<pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>,
James Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Ed Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Vicki Veenker <Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>, City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>, Greer Stone
<Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia
Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this is important
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than inspecting the
volume of vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that there are 14 city
employees/email addresses included in this email and we are getting no responses or
acknowledgements from any of them. This seems to be just a community forum for us to air
our grievances regarding the area we all work in rather than getting any sort of resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues that are a direct
result of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste, aggressive dogs,
aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to vigilant and call the non-emergency
police line to confront situations. Officers will come out and at the very most, they will go and
have a conversation with whoever it is that's causing issues. Then, nothing happens. We have
had customers complain that they do not feel safe coming into this corner of Palo Alto. This is
directly affecting Palo Alto businesses - many of which on this street provide important/critical
types of service to residents, businesses, local government and schools in Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
I agree 100 %
The city of Palo A lot needs to have a solution for this please
O.R. Builders Inc.
Osbaldo Romero
President
939 Industrial Ave
Palo Alto, Ca. 94303
Phone: 650.938.2222
Fax: 650.938.2224
Cell: 415.215.6788
From: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 5:34 AM
To: Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>
Cc: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Marguerite Poyatos
<MARGUERITE@paloaltoglass.com>; Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>; Cathi
Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>; Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>;
Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>;
osbaldo@or-builders.com; Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>;
Jacob@onemovemovers.com; david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>; RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com;
Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>; Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>; James
Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>; John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>; Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>; Ed
Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>; Vicki
Veenker <Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>; Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>; City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>; Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Julie Lythcott-Haims <Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jade Jin
<JJin@wongelectric.com>; Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
Out of curiosity, were this my personal vehicle or one of my company vehicles, how
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California more tools
to crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored vehicles. It’s time to
clean up this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport street area before it
becomes even more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and
customers trying hard to do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>
wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a weekago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to evenfit on one camera frame. And that's not even counting the ones allover Transport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also have othersupporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses and wouldrather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walkon, and parking spots not be available to customers/clients oremployees.
Warm regards,-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestrians
to use the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand.
There is barely minimal parking for the people who work on this street
and yet people who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars in
addition to their RV - and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the
very least reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshields
does not seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & other
vehicles with notices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehicles
do not move and the notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worse
and worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems
Officers here right before the holiday putting citations or
notices on windshields. I have to ask, are these "Citations," in
fact, citations at all? If so, what are the penalties for these
citations if they are not acknowledged or recognized? Is their
license suspended, are they fined, is their vehicle towed (we
know the answer to this, no need to answer that), will they go
to jail? I think you get my point here. Why on earth would
anyone acknowledge these "Citations" if there are no
consequences attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and
Special Problems Officers serve only as a fixture and not
anyone who does anything of impact. This is not an assault on
those individuals, but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a
little more wisely or do something of value with the work that
they are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I
have watched the same process be repeated over and over
again with no resolve. I have proof of this because we have had
the same "CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10
years (one photo attached). Whatever the plan is there, it
doesn't appear to be working. Maybe it's time to go back to the
drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and
Special Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly
basis to check for parking or other violations. Their last check was
just before the holiday, and they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
<image008.png>
<image009.png>
From: Lester Wong <LWong@wongelectric.com>
Sent: Monday, December 2, 2024 2:44 PM
To: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Cathi Lerch
<cathi@lerchconstruction.com>
Cc: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Becchetti,
Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Dave
<image013.png>
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
Your response, while detailed, fails to address the critical and ongoing violations of law, public safety,
and business rights in the area. The City of Palo Alto has both the authority and obligation to take
immediate and decisive action to protect its residents, businesses, and public spaces. Allowing illegally
parked, unsafe, and hazardous RVs to persist is unacceptable and directly violates state and local
regulations. Below are specific legal and factual challenges to the City’s approach, along with demands
for corrective action:
1. Illegally Parked and Unsafe RVs
California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) and Palo Alto Municipal Code § 10.48.010 clearly require all
vehicles parked on public streets to display valid registration. Many of the RVs in question lack valid
registration, making their presence illegal. Further, under California Vehicle Code §
22651(o) and PAMC § 10.48.120, any vehicle unregistered for six months or more may be towed
immediately.
Additionally, vehicles with exposed sewage tanks, missing wheels, or other structural hazards are in
direct violation of California Vehicle Code § 24002, which prohibits parking or operating vehicles in
unsafe conditions. These RVs also create a public health hazard under California Health and Safety
Code § 117490, which prohibits improper disposal of waste and sewage.
**2. Clarification Requested Regarding Unregistered Vehicles
In light of your response, please confirm whether the City of Palo Alto allows unregistered vehiclesto be driven on its streets. - I have some fun vehicles I would love to order from Alibaba anddrive them around Palo Alto...
• California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) expressly prohibits the operation of unregistered vehicles. If
these RVs are being moved every 72 hours as claimed, and they lack proper registration, their
operation is illegal under state law.
• Allowing unregistered vehicles to remain or operate within city limits undermines traffic safety and
compliance standards.
This point must be clarified explicitly: Does the City of Palo Alto condone the operation ofunregistered vehicles?
3. Abuse of the 72-Hour Rule
The City’s reliance on PAMC § 10.36.060 to justify the continued presence of these RVs is flawed.
Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts confirm that many RVs are circumventing the 72-hour
rule by wiping off chalk markings rather than physically moving. This is blatant non-compliance and
undermines the intent of the ordinance.
Furthermore, California Vehicle Code § 22669 explicitly allows for the removal of vehicles that are
“wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative,” even if they are moved every 72 hours. The City has the
authority to act, and failing to do so jeopardizes public safety and traffic flow.
4. Public Safety and Sanitation Violations
The exposed sewage tanks, illegal dumping, and general neglect by these RV occupants pose
significant health and environmental risks. The City’s failure to enforce sanitation laws, such
as California Health and Safety Code § 117490 and PAMC § 16.09.100, endangers residents,
workers, and the environment. Additionally, blocking roadways and driveways is a clear violation
of California Vehicle Code § 22500, which prohibits parking that obstructs traffic flow or access.
5. Impact on Businesses and Traffic Flow
Businesses in the area are suffering due to blocked roadways, limited parking for customers, and safety
concerns. Under California Vehicle Code § 21101(c) and PAMC § 10.48.120, the City has the
authority to regulate parking to ensure the safety of businesses and residents.
The City’s failure to allocate parking for business deliveries, customers, or even emergency services is
a gross dereliction of duty. Blocking roadways for long periods creates safety hazards, violates
municipal code, and disrupts commerce.
Conclusion and Final Demands
The City of Palo Alto has the legal authority and responsibility to act under the following regulations:
• PAMC § 10.48.120: Authorizes the removal of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22651(o): Allows towing of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22669: Mandates removal of inoperative vehicles.
• California Health and Safety Code § 117490: Prohibits illegal waste disposal.
• California Vehicle Code § 21101(c): Permits parking restrictions to ensure safety.
We demand the immediate implementation of the following measures:
1. Impound all unregistered, unsafe, or inoperative RVs within two weeks.
2. Establish designated loading zones and 2-hour parking areas near businesses.
3. Conduct regular sanitation inspections and impose penalties for violations.
4. Provide a clear timeline for resolution and enforcement updates.
The continued failure to act exposes the City to liability for neglecting public health and safety
under California Government Code § 815.6, which requires municipalities to perform mandatory
duties. We expect a formal response with a clear action plan within 14 days. If no satisfactory action is
taken, we reserve the right to escalate this matter through legal channels to protect our businesses,
employees, and the community.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Gaines, Chantal <Chantal.Gaines@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Date: Friday, December 20, 2024 at 7:12 AM
To: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>, osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-
builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>,
Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>,
Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>,
City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Moffatt, Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>,
Jacob@onemovemovers.com <Jacob@onemovemovers.com>,
david@paloaltoconcrete.com <david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>, RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com
<RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>, nancy@drewmaran.com
<nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan
McKinley <danmck@scientific-equipment.com>, McDonough, Melissa
<Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Reifschneider, James
<James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Binder, Andrew
<Andrew.Binder@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>, City Attorney <city.attorney@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: RE: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org. Learn why this is important
Hello everyone,
Thank you for the emails and the time you all have spent to relay your concerns about the area
surrounding your businesses. My name is Chantal and I’m the Deputy City Manager responding
on behalf of the City Manager. I understand that you feel a lack of progress on the concerns
you’ve identified. Through multiple City departments we are continuing to explore avenues to
help mitigate those concerns being mindful of compliance with the federal Constitution and
state laws, City resources, as well as providing respect to the humanity of the individuals
experiencing homelessness.
As our Police Lieutenant mentioned, our enforcement largely consists of the efforts described
below involving multiple City departments, including:
Weekly markings for 72-hour violations from our Community Service Officers. These are
required by law prior to issuing citations for the 72-hour violations.
Weekly re-checks of those markings, followed by citations if vehicles are not moved.
Checks of the area by traffic officers as well as patrol officers on a routine basis,
consistently several times per week.
Officers make personal contact with RV occupants to speak with them regarding
complaints and concerns, offer services or seek alternative solutions (i.e., a small repair to
fix a vehicle).
Through our Community Services Department, had our Homeless Outreach Team
attempt to speak with RV occupants to connect them to available resources. Of note,
there are limited safe parking resources available countywide.
Consulted with our Code Enforcement team to address any activity that falls under
municipal code violations.
We hear you that there are perhaps more RVs in the neighborhood than have been in the past.
Some previous concerns, relayed through the Police Department, have been for dumping,
visibility/safety issues, or other nuisance-type complaints. Officers have responded to
investigate and determine if a violation has in fact occurred in response to those complaints. As
the officer who issues the citation must attest to its legality, we trust their judgement to use
their discretion when deciding to cite or not. It should be noted that the overwhelming majority
of the RV’s are compliant with the 72-hour rule on a weekly basis according to our Police
Department and their regular checks. RVs (and any other vehicle) are allowed to move and
return to the exact same location under PAMC section 10.36.060.
I asked the Police Department to examine the calls for service in your area since November 1st
to look for additional complaints the Police Department might be able to address and to get an
understanding of what they have responded to in your area. Officers responded to 29 calls for
service between the 900 block of San Antonio, Commercial, Transport and Industrial Ave. Only 2
were reported complaints from a business about the RV’s. None of those 29 calls for service
reported potential illegal behavior, such as illegal dumping, threatening or harassing behavior,
or other criminal actions, on behalf of those working in the area. Most of those calls were self-
initiated by the officers or calls from the RV occupants themselves. One of the calls, initiated by
an RV occupant, reported suspicious persons that helped prevent a burglary to one of the
businesses. Since early November, there have been several citations issued and one vehicle tow.
I would encourage your employees to report, either online, through our non-emergency line
(650-329-2413) or via 911, any behavior they feel is harassment, or potentially illegal or unsafe.
The Police Department will continue to explore ideas such as additional collaboration with City
departments, outside organizations and service providers, as well as nearby police departments
whose actions can influence the issues felt in Palo Alto. We will also investigate the ability to
perform street sweeping efforts and consult with our wastewater officials to address any
cleanliness, illegal dumping and sanitation issues. The Police Department will be further
assessing the vehicle code violations in the coming weeks to determine the necessity of
removing some offending vehicles.
Best,
Chantal
our daily operations but also the safety, reputation, and economic health of our businesses.
Impact on Businesses and Community
1. Safety and Sanitation Hazards:
• Dumped bodily waste, debris, and hazardous conditions are becoming
commonplace, creating significant health risks.
• Aggressive behavior and intimidation from some vehicle occupants have been
reported, making the area unsafe for employees and customers.
2. Operational Challenges:
• Parking for employees, customers, and service vehicles is nearly nonexistent due
to the occupation of public spaces by illegally parked vehicles.
• Businesses are suffering tangible financial losses as customers avoid the area due
to these conditions.
3. Lack of Enforcement:
• Despite repeated citations and notices issued by Community Service and Special
Problems Officers, there has been no meaningful resolution.
• Violations of California Vehicle Code 4000(a)(1) VC (unregistered vehicles) and
Vehicle Code 22651(o)(1) VC (impound authority for registration violations) are being ignored.
Call for Immediate Action
This is a collective appeal to the city and its representatives to act decisively to restore order in
our community. We urge the city to prioritize:
1. Enforcement: Immediate towing and penalties for unregistered and illegally parked
vehicles in alignment with state and local laws.
2. Comprehensive Solutions: A transparent and actionable plan to address these issues,
including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses, and enforcement timelines.
3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to ensure our concerns
are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational viability but also
exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on this email chain are
experiencing severe financial and reputational damages due to these unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-
2325
908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>,
Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>,
Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Maor Greenberg
<maor@greenberg.construction>, Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr
<CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>,
Jacob@onemovemovers.com <Jacob@onemovemovers.com>,
david@paloaltoconcrete.com <david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>, RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com
<RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>, nancy@drewmaran.com
<nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan
McKinley <danmck@scientific-equipment.com>, Melissa McDonough
<Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>, James Reifschneider
<James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Ed Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Vicki Veenker <Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>, City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>, Greer Stone
<Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia
Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this is important
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than inspecting the volume
of vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that there are 14 city employees/email
addresses included in this email and we are getting no responses or acknowledgements from
any of them. This seems to be just a community forum for us to air our grievances regarding the
area we all work in rather than getting any sort of resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues that are a direct
result of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste, aggressive dogs,
aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to vigilant and call the non-emergency
police line to confront situations. Officers will come out and at the very most, they will go and
have a conversation with whoever it is that's causing issues. Then, nothing happens. We have
had customers complain that they do not feel safe coming into this corner of Palo Alto. This is
directly affecting Palo Alto businesses - many of which on this street provide important/critical
types of service to residents, businesses, local government and schools in Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
I agree 100 %
The city of Palo A lot needs to have a solution for this please
O.R. Builders Inc.
Osbaldo Romero
President
939 Industrial Ave
Palo Alto, Ca. 94303
Phone: 650.938.2222
Fax: 650.938.2224
Cell: 415.215.6788
From: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 5:34 AM
To: Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>
Cc: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Marguerite Poyatos
<MARGUERITE@paloaltoglass.com>; Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>; Cathi
Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>; Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>;
Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>;
osbaldo@or-builders.com; Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>;
Jacob@onemovemovers.com; david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>; RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com;
Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>; Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>; James
Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>; John Lerch
<john@lerchconstruction.com>; Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>; Ed Lauing
<Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>; Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>; Andrew Binder <andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>;
City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>; Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>; Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
Out of curiosity, were this my personal vehicle or one of my company vehicles, how
long would it take for the City of Palo Alto to either site me or tow me?
This is ridiculous; our streets have now become storage for people's crap; sorry, no
better way to state that. This boat is not someone's dwelling; neither are all the
additional cars associated with each camper out here. If you can't do anything about
the campers, do something about the additional crap.
Again, how quickly would the city respond if it were my car that was illegally parked
out here?
I implore everyone on this thread to continue this daily until something is done.
Do better, City of Palo Alto.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California more tools to
crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored vehicles. It’s time to clean
up this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport street area before it becomes even
more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and customers trying hard
to do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com> wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a week ago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to evenfit on one camera frame. And that's not even counting the ones allover Transport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also have othersupporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses and wouldrather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walkon, and parking spots not be available to customers/clients oremployees.
Warm regards,-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestrians
to use the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand.
There is barely minimal parking for the people who work on this street
and yet people who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars in addition
to their RV - and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the very
least reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshields does
not seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & other vehicles
with notices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehicles do not
move and the notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worse
and worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems Officers
here right before the holiday putting citations or notices on
windshields. I have to ask, are these "Citations," in fact,
citations at all? If so, what are the penalties for these citations if
they are not acknowledged or recognized? Is their license
suspended, are they fined, is their vehicle towed (we know the
answer to this, no need to answer that), will they go to jail? I
think you get my point here. Why on earth would anyone
acknowledge these "Citations" if there are no consequences
attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and
Special Problems Officers serve only as a fixture and not anyone
who does anything of impact. This is not an assault on those
individuals, but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a little
more wisely or do something of value with the work that they
are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I
have watched the same process be repeated over and over again
with no resolve. I have proof of this because we have had the
same "CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10 years
(one photo attached). Whatever the plan is there, it doesn't
appear to be working. Maybe it's time to go back to the
drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and
Special Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly
basis to check for parking or other violations. Their last check was
just before the holiday, and they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
<image008.png>
<image009.png>
From: Lester Wong <LWong@wongelectric.com>
Sent: Monday, December 2, 2024 2:44 PM
To: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Cathi Lerch
<cathi@lerchconstruction.com>
Cc: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Becchetti,
Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr
<image013.png>
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
Dave StellmanTransport St.
On Fri, Dec 20, 2024 at 8:16 AM Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction> wrote:
Dear Chantal,
Your response, while detailed, fails to address the critical and ongoing violations of law, public safety,
and business rights in the area. The City of Palo Alto has both the authority and obligation to take
immediate and decisive action to protect its residents, businesses, and public spaces. Allowing illegally
parked, unsafe, and hazardous RVs to persist is unacceptable and directly violates state and local
regulations. Below are specific legal and factual challenges to the City’s approach, along with demands
for corrective action:
1. Illegally Parked and Unsafe RVs
California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) and Palo Alto Municipal Code § 10.48.010 clearly require all
vehicles parked on public streets to display valid registration. Many of the RVs in question lack valid
registration, making their presence illegal. Further, under California Vehicle Code §
22651(o) and PAMC § 10.48.120, any vehicle unregistered for six months or more may be towed
immediately.
Additionally, vehicles with exposed sewage tanks, missing wheels, or other structural hazards are in
direct violation of California Vehicle Code § 24002, which prohibits parking or operating vehicles in
unsafe conditions. These RVs also create a public health hazard under California Health and Safety
Code § 117490, which prohibits improper disposal of waste and sewage.
**2. Clarification Requested Regarding Unregistered Vehicles
In light of your response, please confirm whether the City of Palo Alto allows unregistered vehiclesto be driven on its streets. - I have some fun vehicles I would love to order from Alibaba anddrive them around Palo Alto...
•California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) expressly prohibits the operation of unregistered vehicles. If
these RVs are being moved every 72 hours as claimed, and they lack proper registration, their
operation is illegal under state law.
• Allowing unregistered vehicles to remain or operate within city limits undermines traffic safety and
compliance standards.
This point must be clarified explicitly: Does the City of Palo Alto condone the operation ofunregistered vehicles?
3. Abuse of the 72-Hour Rule
The City’s reliance on PAMC § 10.36.060 to justify the continued presence of these RVs is flawed.
Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts confirm that many RVs are circumventing the 72-hour
rule by wiping off chalk markings rather than physically moving. This is blatant non-compliance and
undermines the intent of the ordinance.
Furthermore, California Vehicle Code § 22669 explicitly allows for the removal of vehicles that are
“wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative,” even if they are moved every 72 hours. The City has the
authority to act, and failing to do so jeopardizes public safety and traffic flow.
4. Public Safety and Sanitation Violations
The exposed sewage tanks, illegal dumping, and general neglect by these RV occupants pose
significant health and environmental risks. The City’s failure to enforce sanitation laws, such
as California Health and Safety Code § 117490 and PAMC § 16.09.100, endangers residents,
workers, and the environment. Additionally, blocking roadways and driveways is a clear violation
of California Vehicle Code § 22500, which prohibits parking that obstructs traffic flow or access.
5. Impact on Businesses and Traffic Flow
Businesses in the area are suffering due to blocked roadways, limited parking for customers, and safety
concerns. Under California Vehicle Code § 21101(c) and PAMC § 10.48.120, the City has the
authority to regulate parking to ensure the safety of businesses and residents.
The City’s failure to allocate parking for business deliveries, customers, or even emergency services is
a gross dereliction of duty. Blocking roadways for long periods creates safety hazards, violates
municipal code, and disrupts commerce.
Conclusion and Final Demands
The City of Palo Alto has the legal authority and responsibility to act under the following regulations:
•PAMC § 10.48.120: Authorizes the removal of unregistered vehicles.
•California Vehicle Code § 22651(o): Allows towing of unregistered vehicles.
•California Vehicle Code § 22669: Mandates removal of inoperative vehicles.
•California Health and Safety Code § 117490: Prohibits illegal waste disposal.
•California Vehicle Code § 21101(c): Permits parking restrictions to ensure safety.
We demand the immediate implementation of the following measures:
1. Impound all unregistered, unsafe, or inoperative RVs within two weeks.
2. Establish designated loading zones and 2-hour parking areas near businesses.
3. Conduct regular sanitation inspections and impose penalties for violations.
4. Provide a clear timeline for resolution and enforcement updates.
The continued failure to act exposes the City to liability for neglecting public health and safety
under California Government Code § 815.6, which requires municipalities to perform mandatory
duties. We expect a formal response with a clear action plan within 14 days. If no satisfactory action is
taken, we reserve the right to escalate this matter through legal channels to protect our businesses,
employees, and the community.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Gaines, Chantal <Chantal.Gaines@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Date: Friday, December 20, 2024 at 7:12 AM
To: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>, osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-
builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>,
Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>,
Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>,
City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Moffatt, Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>,
Jacob@onemovemovers.com <Jacob@onemovemovers.com>,
david@paloaltoconcrete.com <david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>, RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com
<RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>, nancy@drewmaran.com
<nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan
McKinley <danmck@scientific-equipment.com>, McDonough, Melissa
<Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Reifschneider, James
<James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Binder, Andrew
<Andrew.Binder@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>, City Attorney <city.attorney@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: RE: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org. Learn why this is important
Hello everyone,
Thank you for the emails and the time you all have spent to relay your concerns about the area
surrounding your businesses. My name is Chantal and I’m the Deputy City Manager responding
on behalf of the City Manager. I understand that you feel a lack of progress on the concerns
you’ve identified. Through multiple City departments we are continuing to explore avenues to
help mitigate those concerns being mindful of compliance with the federal Constitution and
state laws, City resources, as well as providing respect to the humanity of the individuals
experiencing homelessness.
As our Police Lieutenant mentioned, our enforcement largely consists of the efforts described
below involving multiple City departments, including:
Weekly markings for 72-hour violations from our Community Service Officers. These are
required by law prior to issuing citations for the 72-hour violations.
Weekly re-checks of those markings, followed by citations if vehicles are not moved.
Checks of the area by traffic officers as well as patrol officers on a routine basis,
consistently several times per week.
Officers make personal contact with RV occupants to speak with them regarding
complaints and concerns, offer services or seek alternative solutions (i.e., a small repair to
fix a vehicle).
Through our Community Services Department, had our Homeless Outreach Team
attempt to speak with RV occupants to connect them to available resources. Of note,
there are limited safe parking resources available countywide.
Consulted with our Code Enforcement team to address any activity that falls under
municipal code violations.
We hear you that there are perhaps more RVs in the neighborhood than have been in the past.
Some previous concerns, relayed through the Police Department, have been for dumping,
visibility/safety issues, or other nuisance-type complaints. Officers have responded to
investigate and determine if a violation has in fact occurred in response to those complaints. As
the officer who issues the citation must attest to its legality, we trust their judgement to use
their discretion when deciding to cite or not. It should be noted that the overwhelming majority
of the RV’s are compliant with the 72-hour rule on a weekly basis according to our Police
Department and their regular checks. RVs (and any other vehicle) are allowed to move and
return to the exact same location under PAMC section 10.36.060.
I asked the Police Department to examine the calls for service in your area since November 1st
to look for additional complaints the Police Department might be able to address and to get an
understanding of what they have responded to in your area. Officers responded to 29 calls for
service between the 900 block of San Antonio, Commercial, Transport and Industrial Ave. Only 2
were reported complaints from a business about the RV’s. None of those 29 calls for service
reported potential illegal behavior, such as illegal dumping, threatening or harassing behavior,
or other criminal actions, on behalf of those working in the area. Most of those calls were self-
initiated by the officers or calls from the RV occupants themselves. One of the calls, initiated by
an RV occupant, reported suspicious persons that helped prevent a burglary to one of the
businesses. Since early November, there have been several citations issued and one vehicle tow.
I would encourage your employees to report, either online, through our non-emergency line
(650-329-2413) or via 911, any behavior they feel is harassment, or potentially illegal or unsafe.
The Police Department will continue to explore ideas such as additional collaboration with City
departments, outside organizations and service providers, as well as nearby police departments
whose actions can influence the issues felt in Palo Alto. We will also investigate the ability to
perform street sweeping efforts and consult with our wastewater officials to address any
cleanliness, illegal dumping and sanitation issues. The Police Department will be further
Dear Molly (City Attorney) and All Copied City Officials,
On behalf of the many businesses in the Commercial-Industrial-Transport Street area who are
deeply frustrated with the persistent and escalating issues caused by illegally parked RVs,
unregistered vehicles, and boats. This situation has reached a critical point, impacting not only
our daily operations but also the safety, reputation, and economic health of our businesses.
Impact on Businesses and Community
1. Safety and Sanitation Hazards:
• Dumped bodily waste, debris, and hazardous conditions are becoming
commonplace, creating significant health risks.
• Aggressive behavior and intimidation from some vehicle occupants have been
reported, making the area unsafe for employees and customers.
2.Operational Challenges:
• Parking for employees, customers, and service vehicles is nearly nonexistent due
to the occupation of public spaces by illegally parked vehicles.
• Businesses are suffering tangible financial losses as customers avoid the area due
to these conditions.
3.Lack of Enforcement:
• Despite repeated citations and notices issued by Community Service and Special
Problems Officers, there has been no meaningful resolution.
• Violations of California Vehicle Code 4000(a)(1) VC (unregistered vehicles) and
Vehicle Code 22651(o)(1) VC (impound authority for registration violations) are being ignored.
Call for Immediate Action
This is a collective appeal to the city and its representatives to act decisively to restore order in
our community. We urge the city to prioritize:
1. Enforcement: Immediate towing and penalties for unregistered and illegally parked
vehicles in alignment with state and local laws.
2. Comprehensive Solutions: A transparent and actionable plan to address these issues,
including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses, and enforcement timelines.
3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to ensure our concerns
are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational viability but also
exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on this email chain are
experiencing severe financial and reputational damages due to these unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325
908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>,
Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>,
Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Maor Greenberg
<maor@greenberg.construction>, Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr
<CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>,
Jacob@onemovemovers.com <Jacob@onemovemovers.com>,
david@paloaltoconcrete.com <david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>, RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com
<RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>, nancy@drewmaran.com
<nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan
McKinley <danmck@scientific-equipment.com>, Melissa McDonough
<Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>, James Reifschneider
<James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Ed Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Vicki Veenker <Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder
<andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>, City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>, Greer Stone
<Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia
Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this is important
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than inspecting the volume
of vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that there are 14 city employees/email
addresses included in this email and we are getting no responses or acknowledgements from
any of them. This seems to be just a community forum for us to air our grievances regarding the
area we all work in rather than getting any sort of resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues that are a direct
result of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste, aggressive dogs,
aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to vigilant and call the non-emergency
police line to confront situations. Officers will come out and at the very most, they will go and
have a conversation with whoever it is that's causing issues. Then, nothing happens. We have
had customers complain that they do not feel safe coming into this corner of Palo Alto. This is
directly affecting Palo Alto businesses - many of which on this street provide important/critical
types of service to residents, businesses, local government and schools in Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
I agree 100 %
The city of Palo A lot needs to have a solution for this please
O.R. Builders Inc.
Osbaldo Romero
President
939 Industrial Ave
Palo Alto, Ca. 94303
Phone: 650.938.2222
Fax: 650.938.2224
Cell: 415.215.6788
From: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 5:34 AM
To: Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>
Cc: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Marguerite Poyatos
<MARGUERITE@paloaltoglass.com>; Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>; Cathi
Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>; Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>;
Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>;
osbaldo@or-builders.com; Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>;
Jacob@onemovemovers.com; david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>; RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com;
Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>; Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>; James
Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>; John Lerch
<john@lerchconstruction.com>; Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>; Ed Lauing
<Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>; Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>; Andrew Binder <andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>;
City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>; Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>; Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>; Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
Out of curiosity, were this my personal vehicle or one of my company vehicles, how
long would it take for the City of Palo Alto to either site me or tow me?
This is ridiculous; our streets have now become storage for people's crap; sorry, no
better way to state that. This boat is not someone's dwelling; neither are all the
additional cars associated with each camper out here. If you can't do anything about
the campers, do something about the additional crap.
Again, how quickly would the city respond if it were my car that was illegally parked
out here?
I implore everyone on this thread to continue this daily until something is done.
Do better, City of Palo Alto.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California more tools to
crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored vehicles. It’s time to clean
up this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport street area before it becomes even
more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and customers trying hard
to do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com> wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a week ago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to evenfit on one camera frame. And that's not even counting the ones allover Transport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also have othersupporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses and wouldrather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walkon, and parking spots not be available to customers/clients oremployees.
Warm regards,-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestrians
to use the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand.
There is barely minimal parking for the people who work on this street
and yet people who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars in addition
to their RV - and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the very
least reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshields does
not seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & other vehicles
with notices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehicles do not
move and the notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worse
and worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems Officers
here right before the holiday putting citations or notices on
windshields. I have to ask, are these "Citations," in fact,
citations at all? If so, what are the penalties for these citations if
they are not acknowledged or recognized? Is their license
suspended, are they fined, is their vehicle towed (we know the
answer to this, no need to answer that), will they go to jail? I
think you get my point here. Why on earth would anyone
acknowledge these "Citations" if there are no consequences
attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and
Special Problems Officers serve only as a fixture and not anyone
who does anything of impact. This is not an assault on those
individuals, but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a little
more wisely or do something of value with the work that they
are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I
have watched the same process be repeated over and over again
with no resolve. I have proof of this because we have had the
same "CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10 years
(one photo attached). Whatever the plan is there, it doesn't
appear to be working. Maybe it's time to go back to the
drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and
Special Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly
basis to check for parking or other violations. Their last check was
just before the holiday, and they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
<image008.png>
<image009.png>
From: Lester Wong <LWong@wongelectric.com>
Sent: Monday, December 2, 2024 2:44 PM
To: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Cathi Lerch
<cathi@lerchconstruction.com>
Cc: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Becchetti,
Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr
<image013.png>
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
22651(o) and PAMC § 10.48.120, any vehicle unregistered for six months or more may be towed
immediately.
Additionally, vehicles with exposed sewage tanks, missing wheels, or other structural hazards are indirect violation of California Vehicle Code § 24002, which prohibits parking or operating vehicles in
unsafe conditions. These RVs also create a public health hazard under California Health and Safety
Code § 117490, which prohibits improper disposal of waste and sewage.
**2. Clarification Requested Regarding Unregistered Vehicles
In light of your response, please confirm whether the City of Palo Alto allows unregistered vehiclesto be driven on its streets. - I have some fun vehicles I would love to order from Alibaba and drivethem around Palo Alto...
• California Vehicle Code § 4000(a)(1) expressly prohibits the operation of unregistered vehicles. If
these RVs are being moved every 72 hours as claimed, and they lack proper registration, their operation
is illegal under state law.
• Allowing unregistered vehicles to remain or operate within city limits undermines traffic safety and
compliance standards.
This point must be clarified explicitly: Does the City of Palo Alto condone the operation ofunregistered vehicles?
3. Abuse of the 72-Hour Rule
The City’s reliance on PAMC § 10.36.060 to justify the continued presence of these RVs is flawed.
Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts confirm that many RVs are circumventing the 72-hour rule
by wiping off chalk markings rather than physically moving. This is blatant non-compliance and
undermines the intent of the ordinance.
Furthermore, California Vehicle Code § 22669 explicitly allows for the removal of vehicles that are
“wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative,” even if they are moved every 72 hours. The City has the authority
to act, and failing to do so jeopardizes public safety and traffic flow.
4. Public Safety and Sanitation Violations
The exposed sewage tanks, illegal dumping, and general neglect by these RV occupants pose significant
health and environmental risks. The City’s failure to enforce sanitation laws, such as California Health
and Safety Code § 117490 and PAMC § 16.09.100, endangers residents, workers, and the environment.
Additionally, blocking roadways and driveways is a clear violation of California Vehicle Code § 22500,
which prohibits parking that obstructs traffic flow or access.
5. Impact on Businesses and Traffic Flow
Businesses in the area are suffering due to blocked roadways, limited parking for customers, and safety
concerns. Under California Vehicle Code § 21101(c) and PAMC § 10.48.120, the City has the authority
to regulate parking to ensure the safety of businesses and residents.
The City’s failure to allocate parking for business deliveries, customers, or even emergency services is a
gross dereliction of duty. Blocking roadways for long periods creates safety hazards, violates municipal
code, and disrupts commerce.
Conclusion and Final Demands
The City of Palo Alto has the legal authority and responsibility to act under the following regulations:
• PAMC § 10.48.120: Authorizes the removal of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22651(o): Allows towing of unregistered vehicles.
• California Vehicle Code § 22669: Mandates removal of inoperative vehicles.
• California Health and Safety Code § 117490: Prohibits illegal waste disposal.
• California Vehicle Code § 21101(c): Permits parking restrictions to ensure safety.
We demand the immediate implementation of the following measures:
1. Impound all unregistered, unsafe, or inoperative RVs within two weeks.
2. Establish designated loading zones and 2-hour parking areas near businesses.
3. Conduct regular sanitation inspections and impose penalties for violations.
4. Provide a clear timeline for resolution and enforcement updates.
The continued failure to act exposes the City to liability for neglecting public health and safety
under California Government Code § 815.6, which requires municipalities to perform mandatory
duties. We expect a formal response with a clear action plan within 14 days. If no satisfactory action is
taken, we reserve the right to escalate this matter through legal channels to protect our businesses,
employees, and the community.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Gaines, Chantal <Chantal.Gaines@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Date: Friday, December 20, 2024 at 7:12 AM
To: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>, Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>, osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>,
Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi
Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City
Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Moffatt, Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>,
Jacob@onemovemovers.com <Jacob@onemovemovers.com>,
david@paloaltoconcrete.com <david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong
<swong@wongelectric.com>, RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com
<RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>, nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>,
Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, McDonough, Melissa <Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>,
Reifschneider, James <James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John
Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>, Binder, Andrew
<Andrew.Binder@CityofPaloAlto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>, City Attorney <city.attorney@CityofPaloAlto.org>
Subject: RE: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org. Learn why this is important
Hello everyone,
Thank you for the emails and the time you all have spent to relay your concerns about the area
surrounding your businesses. My name is Chantal and I’m the Deputy City Manager responding on
behalf of the City Manager. I understand that you feel a lack of progress on the concerns you’ve
identified. Through multiple City departments we are continuing to explore avenues to help
mitigate those concerns being mindful of compliance with the federal Constitution and state laws,
City resources, as well as providing respect to the humanity of the individuals experiencing
homelessness.
As our Police Lieutenant mentioned, our enforcement largely consists of the efforts described
below involving multiple City departments, including:
Weekly markings for 72-hour violations from our Community Service Officers. These are
required by law prior to issuing citations for the 72-hour violations.
Weekly re-checks of those markings, followed by citations if vehicles are not moved.
Checks of the area by traffic officers as well as patrol officers on a routine basis, consistently
several times per week.
Officers make personal contact with RV occupants to speak with them regarding complaints
and concerns, offer services or seek alternative solutions (i.e., a small repair to fix a
vehicle).
Through our Community Services Department, had our Homeless Outreach Team attempt
to speak with RV occupants to connect them to available resources. Of note, there are
limited safe parking resources available countywide.
Consulted with our Code Enforcement team to address any activity that falls under
municipal code violations.
We hear you that there are perhaps more RVs in the neighborhood than have been in the past.
Some previous concerns, relayed through the Police Department, have been for dumping,
visibility/safety issues, or other nuisance-type complaints. Officers have responded to investigate
and determine if a violation has in fact occurred in response to those complaints. As the officer
who issues the citation must attest to its legality, we trust their judgement to use their discretion
when deciding to cite or not. It should be noted that the overwhelming majority of the RV’s are
compliant with the 72-hour rule on a weekly basis according to our Police Department and their
regular checks. RVs (and any other vehicle) are allowed to move and return to the exact same
location under PAMC section 10.36.060.
I asked the Police Department to examine the calls for service in your area since November 1st to
look for additional complaints the Police Department might be able to address and to get an
understanding of what they have responded to in your area. Officers responded to 29 calls for
service between the 900 block of San Antonio, Commercial, Transport and Industrial Ave. Only 2
were reported complaints from a business about the RV’s. None of those 29 calls for service
reported potential illegal behavior, such as illegal dumping, threatening or harassing behavior, or
other criminal actions, on behalf of those working in the area. Most of those calls were self-
initiated by the officers or calls from the RV occupants themselves. One of the calls, initiated by an
RV occupant, reported suspicious persons that helped prevent a burglary to one of the businesses.
Since early November, there have been several citations issued and one vehicle tow.
I would encourage your employees to report, either online, through our non-emergency line (650-
329-2413) or via 911, any behavior they feel is harassment, or potentially illegal or unsafe.
The Police Department will continue to explore ideas such as additional collaboration with City
departments, outside organizations and service providers, as well as nearby police departments
whose actions can influence the issues felt in Palo Alto. We will also investigate the ability to
perform street sweeping efforts and consult with our wastewater officials to address any
cleanliness, illegal dumping and sanitation issues. The Police Department will be further assessing
the vehicle code violations in the coming weeks to determine the necessity of removing some
offending vehicles.
Best,
Chantal
Chantal Cotton Gaines
Deputy City Manager
(650) 329-2572 | chantal.gaines@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org
From: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 11:35 PM
• Despite repeated citations and notices issued by Community Service and Special
Problems Officers, there has been no meaningful resolution.
• Violations of California Vehicle Code 4000(a)(1) VC (unregistered vehicles) and
Vehicle Code 22651(o)(1) VC (impound authority for registration violations) are being ignored.
Call for Immediate Action
This is a collective appeal to the city and its representatives to act decisively to restore order in our
community. We urge the city to prioritize:
1. Enforcement: Immediate towing and penalties for unregistered and illegally parked vehicles
in alignment with state and local laws.
2. Comprehensive Solutions: A transparent and actionable plan to address these issues,
including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses, and enforcement timelines.
3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to ensure our concerns
are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational viability but also
exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on this email chain are experiencing
severe financial and reputational damages due to these unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325
908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>,
Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi
Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>,
Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete
Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>, James
Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John Lerch
<john@lerchconstruction.com>, Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>, Ed Lauing
<Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>, Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder <andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>,
City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this is important
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than inspecting the volume of
vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that there are 14 city employees/email addresses
included in this email and we are getting no responses or acknowledgements from any of them.
This seems to be just a community forum for us to air our grievances regarding the area we all
work in rather than getting any sort of resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues that are a direct
result of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste, aggressive dogs,
aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to vigilant and call the non-emergency
police line to confront situations. Officers will come out and at the very most, they will go and
have a conversation with whoever it is that's causing issues. Then, nothing happens. We have had
customers complain that they do not feel safe coming into this corner of Palo Alto. This is directly
affecting Palo Alto businesses - many of which on this street provide important/critical types of
service to residents, businesses, local government and schools in Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
I agree 100 %
The city of Palo A lot needs to have a solution for this please
O.R. Builders Inc.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California more tools to
crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored vehicles. It’s time to clean up
this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport street area before it becomes even more
of an eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and customers trying hard to do
business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com> wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a week ago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to even fiton one camera frame. And that's not even counting the ones all overTransport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also have othersupporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses and wouldrather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walk on,and parking spots not be available to customers/clients or employees.
Warm regards,-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestrians to
use the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand.
There is barely minimal parking for the people who work on this street and
yet people who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars in addition to
their RV - and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the very
least reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshields does
not seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & other vehicles with
notices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehicles do not move and
the notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worse and
worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems Officers
here right before the holiday putting citations or notices on
windshields. I have to ask, are these "Citations," in fact, citations
at all? If so, what are the penalties for these citations if they are
not acknowledged or recognized? Is their license suspended, are
they fined, is their vehicle towed (we know the answer to this, no
need to answer that), will they go to jail? I think you get my point
here. Why on earth would anyone acknowledge these "Citations" if
there are no consequences attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and Special
Problems Officers serve only as a fixture and not anyone who does
anything of impact. This is not an assault on those individuals, but
maybe the city can spend tax dollars a little more wisely or do
something of value with the work that they are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I have
watched the same process be repeated over and over again with no
resolve. I have proof of this because we have had the same
"CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10 years (one photo
attached). Whatever the plan is there, it doesn't appear to be
working. Maybe it's time to go back to the drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and
Special Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly basis
to check for parking or other violations. Their last check was just
before the holiday, and they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
<image008.png>
<image009.png>
From: Lester Wong <LWong@wongelectric.com>
Sent: Monday, December 2, 2024 2:44 PM
To: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Cathi Lerch
<cathi@lerchconstruction.com>
Cc: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Becchetti,
Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>;
osbaldo@or-builders.com; Moffatt, Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>;
bill@paloaltoglass.com; Jacob@onemovemovers.com;
david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong
<SWong@wongelectric.com>; RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com;
davestellman@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com; Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley
<image013.png>
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
Council <council@redwoodcity.org>; citycouncil@mountainview.gov
Subject: Re: Lockheed Martin The world’s largest weapons manufacturer, Lockheed Martin
supplies Israel with F-16 and F-35 fighter jets, which Israel has been using extensively to bomb
Gaza. Israel also uses the company’s C-130 Hercules transport planes to suppo...
On Thu, Dec 19, 2024 at 1:05 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote:
Lockheed Martin
The world’s largest weapons manufacturer, Lockheed
Martin supplies Israel with F-16 and F-35 fighter jets, which Israel
has been using extensively to bomb Gaza. Israel also uses the
company’s C-130 Hercules transport planes to support the
ground invasion of Gaza.
Lockheed Martin manufactures AGM-114 Hellfire missiles for
Israel’s Apache helicopters. One of the main weapon types used
in aerial attacks on Gaza, these missiles have been used
extensively in 2023. Some 2,000 Hellfire missiles
were delivered to Israel sometime between Oct. 7 and Nov. 14.
Lockheed Martin subsidiary Sikorsky manufactures the CH-53K
King Stallion heavy lift helicopter, used to transport Israeli
soldiers into and out of Gaza. On Jan. 8, Sikorsky
was awarded $18.3 million from U.S. taxpayers' money for
continued work on the CH-53K aircraft it has provided to Israel.
On Dec. 28, Lockheed Martin was awarded a $10.5 million
contract for continued support for Israel's fleet of F-35 warplanes.
On Dec. 11, the Israeli Air Force used a Lockheed Martin C-130-
J Super Hercules aircraft to drop approximately seven tons of
equipment to Israeli soldiers engaging in ground attacks in Khan
Younis, located in the southern Gaza Strip. This was the "first
operational airdrop" that Israel has carried out since the 2006
Lebanon War.
On Nov. 9, an Israeli missile hit journalists sitting near Shifa
Hospital in Gaza City. The missile was reportedly a Lockheed
Martin–made Hellfire R9X missile, a version of the Hellfire that
was developed by the CIA for carrying out assassinations.
Instead of exploding, the missile shreds its target using blades,
allowing for a direct hit without collateral damage. The target in
this case was not a military one.
The Israeli military also uses Lockheed Martin’s M270 Multiple
Launch Rocket System (MLRS). Used to fire Elbit Systems’ high-
precision AccuLAR-122, the weapon was used by Israel for
the first time, since the 2006 war in Lebanon, on Oct. 6,
according to the Israeli military.
On an Oct. 17 call with investors, Lockheed Martin CEO, Jim
Taiclet, “highlighted the Israel and Ukraine conflicts as potential
drivers for increased revenue in the coming years.”
Lockheed Martin is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, and
has key production sites in Denver, Houston, New Orleans, and
San Diego. For more locations, see this map.
For more information on this company (not including these latest
developments), see our company profile on the Investigate
database.
Source: American Friends Service Committee
Companies Profiting from the Gaza Genocide | American Friends Service Committee
https://search.app/B3GXzmLhG9DzK7QVA
December 20, 2024
Palo Alto City Council
250 Hamilton Avenue
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Subject: Annual Status Update on 2030 Seismic Requirements for Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital
Dear Councilmembers,
I am writing on behalf of Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital to provide an annual status update on our hospital’s
progress in meeting the State of California’s 2030 seismic requirements. As you may know, all California hospitals
must submit these reports, as required by Section 130066.5 of the Health and Safety Code.
Attached you will find this information, which we recently submitted to the Department of Health Care Access
and Information. It lays out the state’s Structural Performance Category ratings of our buildings and the services
we currently provide in them.
Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital has met the state’s 2020 requirements to remain standing after an earthquake.
Our hospital has spent the last decade-plus planning, designing, and constructing improvements—including our
new Main hospital building at 725 Welch Road, which opened to patient care in 2017—to allow us to confidently
say that our hospital facilities will stand, and our patients and employees will be safe.
However, under current law, there are additional seismic requirements that Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital
must meet by Jan. 1, 2030, which are intended to ensure even greater resiliency in the face of an earthquake. While
the new Main building already meets the 2030 standards, there is additional nonstructural work set to occur in the
West building so that it too can be fully operational immediately after a major earthquake. Lucile Packard
Children’s Hospital has been diligently working toward meeting these requirements—a carefully coordinated effort
within an occupied hospital—and is on track to complete the work prior to the 2030 deadline.
We welcome any questions you may have about the current status of our buildings, or this upcoming state
deadline. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me at MiLew@stanfordchildrens.org or Diana Bautista at
DiBautista@stanfordchildrens.org for further information.
Sincerely,
Michele Lew
Chief Government Relations Officer
2024 Hospital Seismic Performance Report
AB 1882
AB 1882 Purpose – Services and Performance Ratings
Assembly Bill 1882 requires each general acute care hospital operator to annually report the structural and
non-structural performance ratings for each individual hospital building used for providing care, and
services housed in each. Hospital operators are responsible to provide their report to specific public
entities and hospital stakeholders until seismic compliance is achieved for all buildings.
This document includes a brief explanation of Structural and Non-structural Performance Ratings,
along with details about services offered by the hospital. Additionally, it outlines the specific entities
and stakeholders to whom the facility is required to submit the report. Furthermore, the document
contains the facilities’ site plan, building numbers and names, and a comprehensive table detailing the
ratings of acute care services housed within each building.
Structural and Non-structural Performance Ratings: The Structural Performance Category (SPC) of a
hospital building, akin to bones and muscles in the human body, signifies its primary strength and stability,
ranging from the strongest SPC-5 to the weakest SPC-1. Non-structural Performance Category (NPC), like
organs in the human body, includes systems and equipment vital for daily operations, rated from
functional NPC-5 to system risk to life NPC-1. Both SPC and NPC are crucial, collectively defining a
hospital's effectiveness and quality of care.
Acute Care Services: General acute care services are grouped into four categories:
• Required clinical services: Nursing, Surgery, Anesthesia, Imaging, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Dietetic
• Required support services: Administration, Environmental Services, General Stores, Linen, Morgue
• Supplemental services – optional services requiring special licensure: Critical Care,
Emergency, Pediatric, Psychiatric, Obstetric, Rehabilitation, Skilled Nursing, others
• Infrastructure – buildings that provide utilities and support circulation: Central Plants,
canopies, corridor buildings, tunnels, skybridges
Report Distribution: Hospitals are required to issue reports to the following organizations and
stakeholders:
• Local county board of supervisors
• Local city council, if applicable
• Any labor union representing employees working in buildings not fully conforming
• Special district or joint power agencies providing fire and emergency medical services district, if
applicable
• Department of Health Care Access and Information
• Board of directors of the hospital
• Local office of emergency services or equivalent
• Office of Emergency Services
• Medical health operational area coordinator
Page 1 of 9
December 20, 2024
Palo Alto City Council
250 Hamilton Avenue
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Subject: Annual Status Update on 2030 Seismic Requirements for Stanford Hospital
Dear Councilmembers,
I am writing on behalf of Stanford Health Care to provide an annual status update on our hospital’s
progress in meeting the State of California’s 2030 seismic requirements. As you may know, all California
hospitals must submit these reports, as required by Section 130066.5 of the Health and Safety Code.
Attached you will find this information, which we recently submitted to the Department of Health Care
Access and Information. It lays out the state’s Structural Performance Category ratings of our buildings
and the services we currently provide in them.
Stanford Hospital has met the state’s 2020 requirements to remain standing after an earthquake. Our
hospital has spent the last decade-plus planning, designing, and constructing improvements—including
our new hospital at 500 Pasteur Drive, which opened to patient care in 2019, as well as our hospital at
300 Pasteur Drive, which is undergoing a series of sequential renovations—to allow us to confidently say
that our hospital facilities will stand, and our patients and employees will be safe.
However, under current law, there are additional seismic requirements that Stanford Health Care must
meet by Jan. 1, 2030, which are intended to ensure even greater resiliency in the face of an earthquake.
While the new hospital at 500 Pasteur Drive already meets the 2030 standards, there is additional work
underway at the 300 Pasteur hospital so that it too can be fully operational immediately after a major
earthquake. Since 2019, when its major construction at 500 Pasteur completed, Stanford Health Care
has been diligently working toward meeting these standards within 300 Pasteur, with an extensive
renovation program underway—this has been a carefully coordinated effort within an occupied hospital,
and will take several more years to complete.
We welcome any questions you may have about the current status of our buildings, or this upcoming
state deadline. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Victoria Ramirez at vsramirez@stanford.edu and
Jennifer Torai at jtorai@stanford.edu for further information.
Sincerely,
Jason Hill
Associate Vice President, Office of Government Affairs
2024 Hospital Seismic Performance Report
AB 1882
AB 1882 Purpose – Services and Performance Ratings
Assembly Bill 1882 requires each general acute care hospital operator to annually report the structural and
non-structural performance ratings for each individual hospital building used for providing care, and
services housed in each. Hospital operators are responsible to provide their report to specific public
entities and hospital stakeholders until seismic compliance is achieved for all buildings.
This document includes a brief explanation of Structural and Non-structural Performance Ratings,
along with details about services offered by the hospital. Additionally, it outlines the specific entities
and stakeholders to whom the facility is required to submit the report. Furthermore, the document
contains the facilities’ site plan, building numbers and names, and a comprehensive table detailing the
ratings of acute care services housed within each building.
Structural and Non-structural Performance Ratings: The Structural Performance Category (SPC) of a
hospital building, akin to bones and muscles in the human body, signifies its primary strength and stability,
ranging from the strongest SPC-5 to the weakest SPC-1. Non-structural Performance Category (NPC), like
organs in the human body, includes systems and equipment vital for daily operations, rated from
functional NPC-5 to system risk to life NPC-1. Both SPC and NPC are crucial, collectively defining a
hospital's effectiveness and quality of care.
Acute Care Services: General acute care services are grouped into four categories:
• Required clinical services: Nursing, Surgery, Anesthesia, Imaging, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Dietetic
• Required support services: Administration, Environmental Services, General Stores, Linen, Morgue
• Supplemental services – optional services requiring special licensure: Critical Care,
Emergency, Pediatric, Psychiatric, Obstetric, Rehabilitation, Skilled Nursing, others
• Infrastructure – buildings that provide utilities and support circulation: Central Plants,
canopies, corridor buildings, tunnels, skybridges
Report Distribution: Hospitals are required to issue reports to the following organizations and
stakeholders:
• Local county board of supervisors
• Local city council, if applicable
• Any labor union representing employees working in buildings not fully conforming
• Special district or joint power agencies providing fire and emergency medical services district, if
applicable
• Department of Health Care Access and Information
• Board of directors of the hospital
• Local office of emergency services or equivalent
• Office of Emergency Services
• Medical health operational area coordinator
ATTACHMENT B: Building Services Report and Seismic Performance Ratings for Stanford Hospital
at 300 Pasteur Drive
Page 1 of 13
prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please contact me and destroy all copies of the communication and
attachments. Thank you.
L. William Harding Fresno, Ca.
for continued support for Israel's fleet of F-35 warplanes.
On Dec. 11, the Israeli Air Force used a Lockheed Martin C-130-J
Super Hercules aircraft to drop approximately seven tons of
equipment to Israeli soldiers engaging in ground attacks in Khan
Younis, located in the southern Gaza Strip. This was the "first
operational airdrop" that Israel has carried out since the 2006
Lebanon War.
On Nov. 9, an Israeli missile hit journalists sitting near Shifa
Hospital in Gaza City. The missile was reportedly a Lockheed
Martin–made Hellfire R9X missile, a version of the Hellfire that was
developed by the CIA for carrying out assassinations. Instead of
exploding, the missile shreds its target using blades, allowing for a
direct hit without collateral damage. The target in this case was not
a military one.
The Israeli military also uses Lockheed Martin’s M270 Multiple
Launch Rocket System (MLRS). Used to fire Elbit Systems’ high-
precision AccuLAR-122, the weapon was used by Israel for the first
time, since the 2006 war in Lebanon, on Oct. 6, according to the
Israeli military.
On an Oct. 17 call with investors, Lockheed Martin CEO, Jim
Taiclet, “highlighted the Israel and Ukraine conflicts as potential
drivers for increased revenue in the coming years.”
Lockheed Martin is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, and has
key production sites in Denver, Houston, New Orleans, and San
Diego. For more locations, see this map.
For more information on this company (not including these latest
developments), see our company profile on the Investigate
database.
Source: American Friends Service CommitteeCompanies Profiting from the Gaza Genocide | American Friends Service Committee
https://search.app/B3GXzmLhG9DzK7QVA
on narrow streets 40 feet or less in width, which accounts for around 75%
of the city’s streets.
San Francisco and the entire State of Ca;
Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on Thursday directing state
officials to dismantle homeless encampments from public areas and urging
cities to take similar action, about a month after a Supreme Court decision
expanding local governments’ authority to remove unhoused people from the
streets.“This executive order directs state agencies to move urgently to address
dangerous encampments while supporting and assisting the individuals living
in them,” Newsom said in a statement. “There are simply no more excuses. It’s
time for everyone to do their part.”The order directs state agencies to adopt
policies similar to the California Department of Transportation’s encampment
policy, under which officials prioritize clearing encampments that pose “an
imminent threat to life, health, safety or infrastructure;” provide at least 48
hours’ notice to encampment residents; request outreach and assistance from
service providers; and store personal property for at least 60 days.Newsom
also encouraged local governments to do the same and to use state funding to
clear encampments and provide care.
On a side note it’s also interesting that when this exact same problem came up in
a much more visible area of Palo Alto it was magically addressed -
Dozens of homeless people hunkered down in RVs next to Stanford University for
more than a year will soon be asked to move. The droves of seemingly larger and
larger RVs lining El Camino Real in Palo Alto have drawn some complaints,
prompting city officials to ask the owners to move the RVs or risk being towed. New
signage to be posted along the street will ask drivers to move their vehicles within 72
hours, according to police. Towing notices will be issued to those who don't comply.
We respectfully request you address our issue now.
Dave Stellman
Transport St
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 11:34 PM Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction> wrote:Dear Molly (City Attorney) and All Copied City Officials,
On behalf of the many businesses in the Commercial-Industrial-Transport Street area whoare deeply frustrated with the persistent and escalating issues caused by illegally parkedRVs, unregistered vehicles, and boats. This situation has reached a critical point, impactingnot only our daily operations but also the safety, reputation, and economic health of ourbusinesses.
Impact on Businesses and Community
1. Safety and Sanitation Hazards:• Dumped bodily waste, debris, and hazardous conditions are becomingcommonplace, creating significant health risks.• Aggressive behavior and intimidation from some vehicle occupants have beenreported, making the area unsafe for employees and customers.2. Operational Challenges:•Parking for employees, customers, and service vehicles is nearly nonexistentdue to the occupation of public spaces by illegally parked vehicles.• Businesses are suffering tangible financial losses as customers avoid the areadue to these conditions.3. Lack of Enforcement:• Despite repeated citations and notices issued by Community Service andSpecial Problems Officers, there has been no meaningful resolution.• Violations of California Vehicle Code 4000(a)(1) VC (unregistered vehicles)and Vehicle Code 22651(o)(1) VC (impound authority for registration violations) are beingignored.
Call for Immediate Action
This is a collective appeal to the city and its representatives to act decisively to restore orderin our community. We urge the city to prioritize:1. Enforcement: Immediate towing and penalties for unregistered and illegally parkedvehicles in alignment with state and local laws.2. Comprehensive Solutions: A transparent and actionable plan to address these issues,including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses, and enforcement timelines.3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to ensure ourconcerns are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational viability butalso exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on this email chain areexperiencing severe financial and reputational damages due to these unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325
908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>,
Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi
Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>,
Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete
Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>, Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>, James
Reifschneider <James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John Lerch
<john@lerchconstruction.com>, Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>, Ed Lauing
<Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>, Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder <andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>,
City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>,
Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this is important
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than inspecting thevolume of vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that there are 14 cityemployees/email addresses included in this email and we are getting no responses oracknowledgements from any of them. This seems to be just a community forum for us to airour grievances regarding the area we all work in rather than getting any sort of resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues that are a directresult of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste, aggressive dogs,aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to vigilant and call the non-emergency police line to confront situations. Officers will come out and at the very most,they will go and have a conversation with whoever it is that's causing issues. Then, nothinghappens. We have had customers complain that they do not feel safe coming into this cornerof Palo Alto. This is directly affecting Palo Alto businesses - many of which on this streetprovide important/critical types of service to residents, businesses, local government andschools in Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
customers trying hard to do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a weekago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many toeven fit on one camera frame. And that's not even counting theones all over Transport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also haveother supporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses andwould rather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusableto walk on, and parking spots not be available to customers/clientsor employees.
Warm regards,
-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>wrote:
Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestriansto use the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand.There is barely minimal parking for the people who work on this street
and yet people who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars inaddition to their RV - and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the
very least reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshieldsdoes not seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & other
vehicles with notices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehiclesdo not move and the notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worse
and worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane<bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems
Officers here right before the holiday putting citations or
notices on windshields. I have to ask, are these "Citations," in
fact, citations at all? If so, what are the penalties for these
citations if they are not acknowledged or recognized? Is their
license suspended, are they fined, is their vehicle towed (we
know the answer to this, no need to answer that), will they go
to jail? I think you get my point here. Why on earth would
anyone acknowledge these "Citations" if there are no
consequences attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and
Special Problems Officers serve only as a fixture and not
anyone who does anything of impact. This is not an assault on
those individuals, but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a
little more wisely or do something of value with the work that
they are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I
have watched the same process be repeated over and over
again with no resolve. I have proof of this because we have had
the same "CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10
years (one photo attached). Whatever the plan is there, it
doesn't appear to be working. Maybe it's time to go back to the
drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and Special
Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly basis to check
for parking or other violations. Their last check was just before the
holiday, and they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
<image008.png>
<image009.png>
From: Lester Wong <LWong@wongelectric.com>
Sent: Monday, December 2, 2024 2:44 PM
To: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Cathi Lerch
<cathi@lerchconstruction.com>
Cc: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Becchetti,
Benjamin <Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>;
osbaldo@or-builders.com; Moffatt, Pete <pete@petemoffat.com>;
bill@paloaltoglass.com; Jacob@onemovemovers.com;
david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong
<SWong@wongelectric.com>; RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com;
davestellman@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com; Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley
<danmck@scientific-equipment.com>; McDonough, Melissa
<Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Reifschneider, James
<James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>; Patrick Kelly
<info@basketmaterials.com>; John Lerch
<john@lerchconstruction.com>; Dori Dorombozi
<dori@k9ventures.com>; Tanaka, Greg
<Greg.Tanaka@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Lauing, Ed
<Ed.Lauing@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Kou, Lydia
<Lydia.Kou@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Veenker, Vicki
<Vicki.Veenker@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Binder, Andrew
<Andrew.Binder@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Council, City
<city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>; Burt, Patrick
<Pat.Burt@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Stone, Greer
<Greer.Stone@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Lythcott-Haims, Julie
<Julie.LythcottHaims@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Jade Jin
<JJin@wongelectric.com>; 'Xenia Czisch' <Xenia@qmsshields.com>;
Lester Wong <LWong@wongelectric.com>
Subject: RE: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
including increased patrols, collaboration with businesses, and enforcement timelines.3. Engagement: A commitment to working with affected businesses to ensure our concerns
are heard and addressed effectively.
Potential Legal Action
The city’s ongoing inaction not only jeopardizes public safety and operational viability butalso exposes it to potential legal consequences. Many businesses on this email chain are
experiencing severe financial and reputational damages due to these unresolved issues.
We cannot afford further delays. Thank you for your attention.
Maor Greenberg
CEO
maor@greenberg.construction | 650-610-7711
Greenberg.Construction | 650-600-9536 x101 | Fax 925-269-2325908 Industrial Ave, Palo Alto 94303
From: Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:29 AM
To: osbaldo@or-builders.com <osbaldo@or-builders.com>
Cc: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>, Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>,
Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>, Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>, Cathi
Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>, Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>,
Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>, City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>, Pete
Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>, Jacob@onemovemovers.com
<Jacob@onemovemovers.com>, david@paloaltoconcrete.com
<david@paloaltoconcrete.com>, Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>,
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com <RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com>,
nancy@drewmaran.com <nancy@drewmaran.com>, Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>, Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-equipment.com>,
Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>, James Reifschneider
<James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>, Transportation
<transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>, John Lerch
<john@lerchconstruction.com>, Greg Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>, Ed Lauing
<Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>, Lydia Kou <Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>, Vicki Veenker
<Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andrew Binder <andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>, City
Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>, Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>, Greer
Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>, Julie Lythcott-Haims
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>, Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>, Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
You don't often get email from marguerite@paloaltoglass.com. Learn why this is important
A community officer came by today. Not sure what was done other than inspecting the volumeof vehicles on the street. It is pretty disheartening that there are 14 city employees/email
addresses included in this email and we are getting no responses or acknowledgements fromany of them. This seems to be just a community forum for us to air our grievances regarding
the area we all work in rather than getting any sort of resolutions.
For years now, the businesses in this area have dealt with a number of issues that are a directresult of the RVs residing on this street - dumped bodily waste, aggressive dogs,
aggression/intimidation, amongst many others. We try to vigilant and call the non-emergencypolice line to confront situations. Officers will come out and at the very most, they will go and
have a conversation with whoever it is that's causing issues. Then, nothing happens. We havehad customers complain that they do not feel safe coming into this corner of Palo Alto. This is
directly affecting Palo Alto businesses - many of which on this street provideimportant/critical types of service to residents, businesses, local government and schools in
Palo Alto.
Can we please get some help other than weekly notices stuck on windshields?
On Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 8:36 AM <osbaldo@or-builders.com> wrote:
I agree 100 %
The city of Palo A lot needs to have a solution for this please
O.R. Builders Inc.
Osbaldo Romero
President
939 Industrial Ave
Palo Alto, Ca. 94303
Phone: 650.938.2222
Fax: 650.938.2224
Cell: 415.215.6788
From: Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 5:34 AM
To: Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com>
Cc: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Marguerite Poyatos
<MARGUERITE@paloaltoglass.com>; Benjamin Becchetti
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lester Wong <lwong@wongelectric.com>; Cathi Lerch
<cathi@lerchconstruction.com>; Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Dave
Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>; osbaldo@or-
builders.com; Pete Moffatt <pete@petemoffat.com>; Jacob@onemovemovers.com;
david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong <swong@wongelectric.com>;
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com; Patrick Kelly
<patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-equipment.com>;
Melissa McDonough <Melissa.McDonough@cityofpaloalto.org>; James Reifschneider
<James.Reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Transportation <transportation@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>; John Lerch <john@lerchconstruction.com>; Greg
Tanaka <Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org>; Ed Lauing <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lydia Kou
<Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org>; Vicki Veenker <Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org>; Andrew
Binder <andrew.binder@cityofpaloalto.org>; City Council <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>;
Patrick Burt <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>; Greer Stone <Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org>; Julie
Lythcott-Haims <Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>;
Xenia Czisch <Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
Out of curiosity, were this my personal vehicle or one of my company vehicles, how
long would it take for the City of Palo Alto to either site me or tow me?
This is ridiculous; our streets have now become storage for people's crap; sorry, no
better way to state that. This boat is not someone's dwelling; neither are all the
additional cars associated with each camper out here. If you can't do anything about
the campers, do something about the additional crap.
Again, how quickly would the city respond if it were my car that was illegally parked
out here?
I implore everyone on this thread to continue this daily until something is done.
Do better, City of Palo Alto.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California more tools
to crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored vehicles. It’s time toclean up this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport street area before it becomes
even more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and customers
trying hard to do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a week ago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to evenfit on one camera frame. And that's not even counting the ones allover Transport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also have othersupporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses and wouldrather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walkon, and parking spots not be available to customers/clients oremployees.
Warm regards,
-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>wrote:
Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestrians touse the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand.There is barely minimal parking for the people who work on this streetand yet people who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars in additionto their RV - and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the veryleast reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshieldsdoes not seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & othervehicles with notices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehiclesdo not move and the notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worseand worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems Officers
here right before the holiday putting citations or notices on
windshields. I have to ask, are these "Citations," in fact,
citations at all? If so, what are the penalties for these citations if
they are not acknowledged or recognized? Is their license
suspended, are they fined, is their vehicle towed (we know the
answer to this, no need to answer that), will they go to jail? I
think you get my point here. Why on earth would anyone
acknowledge these "Citations" if there are no consequences
attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and
Special Problems Officers serve only as a fixture and not anyone
who does anything of impact. This is not an assault on those
individuals, but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a little
more wisely or do something of value with the work that they
are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I
have watched the same process be repeated over and over again
with no resolve. I have proof of this because we have had the
same "CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10 years
(one photo attached). Whatever the plan is there, it doesn't
appear to be working. Maybe it's time to go back to the
drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and Special
Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly basis to check
for parking or other violations. Their last check was just before the
holiday, and they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
<image008.png>
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
Sent: Tuesday, April 2, 2024 12:44 AM
To: city.council@cityofpaloalto.org <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>; city.clerk@cityofpaloalto.org
<city.clerk@cityofpaloalto.org>
Subject: April 1, 2024 Council Meeting, Item #8: Parklet Program
APRIL 1, 2024 CITY COUNCIL MEETING, AGENDA ITEM#8PARKLET PROGRAM
Recently there has been concern expressed by some people aboutthe cleanliness of sidewalks in the Downtown Business District.
Palo Alto Municipal Code Section 9.48.050 requires theoccupant, tenant, or owner of any real estate in front of whichthere is a paved sidewalk to keep the sidewalk free of dirt,debris and litter, and to dispose of sweepings without beingswept into the street or allowed to go into the street.
The parklet program effectively extends the sidewalk into theentire public right of way.
An assessment district should be formed for all businesses inthe Downtown Business District to enable them to collectivelymeet their obligations to keep their sidewalks clean.
A second assessment district should be formed for the parkletsto pay for keeping the rest of the right of way clean whenthere are any parklets on any block.
Herb Borock
Daily Post, Friday, December 13, 2024
Agency considers leaving creek project
BY BRADEN CARTWRIGHT
Daily Post Staff Writer
A decades-long, drama-filled effort to stop flooding from the San Francisquito Creek has taken
another turn.
Valley Water, the agency tasked with flood control in Santa Clara County, is talking about pulling
out of a multi-agency collaborative unless the other agencies take more financial responsibility.
“The key issue for the project to move forward is the funding,” Valley Water board member Nai
Hsueh said at a committee meeting on Dec.5.
Valley Water is one of five agencies in the San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority, along
with the cities of Menlo Park, Palo Alto and East Palo Alto and the San Mateo County Flood and
Sea Level Rise Resiliency District.
Hsueh’s position has taken the other members by surprise, Menlo Park Councilman Drew
Combs, who represents Menlo Park on the creek authority, said he wishes that Hsueh
announced that she was exploring a major change at the creek authority's last board meeting
on Nov. 21.
Combs said he's hoping to have a substantive discussion at the creek authority's next meeting
on Thursday,
“First, I want to understand and give the opportunity for (Hsueh), if she so chooses, to share
more fully with the JPA board,” Combs said yesterday.
Eisenberg reacts
Valley Water board member Rebecca Eisenberg, of Palo Alto, said yesterday that she just
learned that Valley Water was considering withdrawal from the creek authority.
Eisenberg’s board voted to remove her from all committees in March after an investigator found
she made inappropriate comments about her colleagues’ age, gender and language.
Eisenberg was replaced on the creek authority by Hsueh, who represents Cupertino, Saratoga
and parts of Sunnyvale and San Jose.
Eisenberg said her colleagues used the investigation as a way to sideline her. Valley Water and
its CEO Rick Callender have a long history of corruption and taking money away from projects
in northern Santa Clara County, Eisenberg said.
“They want to exclude me from decision-making because I'm standing up to them, because I
believe what they're doing is wrong and harming the public," Eisenberg said. “It’s infuriating in
Palo Alto because we pay the taxes and don’t get any benefit.
How it works
Each member agency appoints a board member and pays $350,000 for the creek authority's
team of three to four employees, who are looking at how to widen the creek and remove the
Pope-Chaucer Bridge that limits how much water the creek can hold during a storm.
Daily Post, Friday, December 13, 2024
Hsueh, who replaced Eisenberg on the creek authority’s board in March, raised concerns to
Valley Water's Board Policy and Monitoring Committee on Dec. 5.
Hsueh said the creek authority is pursuing a project that doesn’t meet Valley Water's standard to
protect from a 70-year-flood, or a flood that has a one in 70 chance of happening each year.
The creek authority hasn't completed an audit in five years, and its employees are spending
time on plans to protect against sea level rise in San Mateo County, Hsueh said.
Changes since NYE 2022
Hsueh was supported by Deputy Operating Officer Bhavani Yerrapotu, who said Valley Water's
role has changed since a storm on New Year's Eve 2022, when flooding happened in
unexpected areas.
The creek authority hired WRA Environmental Consultants to verify Valley Water's work and to
update the flood control plans.
“The consultant is being driven and managed by the (creek authority) staff. So in that sense, I
think it's changed significantly,” Yerrapotu told the Valley ‘Water committee.
Margaret Bruce, executive director of the creek authority, pushed back on Hsueh’s claims.
Valley Water pays more because more properties are vulnerable to flooding on Santa Clara
County's side of the creek, Bruce said.
The creek authority is billing its work on sea level rise in San Mateo County to agencies that
gave grants, and not Valley Water, Bruce said.
“It is a clear delineation,” Bruce said.
Problem acknowledged
Bruce agreed the creek authority's lack of auditing is a problem.
"We have been beset by technical and IT difficulties that would blow your mind. The audits are
in process,” she said.
Senior Project Manager Tess Byler implored Valley Water to stay involved.
“We just cannot let anything torpedo our efforts to really get the Reach 2 project built,” Byler
said. Reach 2 refers to the area that floods between Middlefield Road and Highway 101.
The creek authority is looking at excavating parts of the channel and adding three-foot walls at
the top of the bank, but the exact design of the project hasn't been decided.
Rough cost estimates for widening the channel are '$106 million, and construction could happen
as soon as 2026, consulting engineer Andrew Smith told the creek authority board on Nov. 21.
Need to agree
Hsueh said the agencies in the creek authority need to agree on "high-level principles” for
funding any construction.
Daily Post, Friday, December 13, 2024
"When people have flooding problems, they come to us," Hsueh said. “On the San Mateo
County side, I don’t even know which agency has that responsibility, and also which agency
actually collects revenue associated with flood protection ... So that's another challenge."
The committee made a recommendation to the full Valley Water board to have Yerrapotu meet
with executives from the cities and discuss their financial responsibility.
“It doesn’t sound like we can really do much until we find out if there is a project, what the
project is," board member Tony Estremera said at the meeting.
Valley Water needs to give notice by May 1 to leave the creek authority on June 30, Yerrapotu
said.
That's around the same time the creek authority is expecting to have estimated costs and a
design for widening the creek, Bruce said.
“By the end of summer, we will have package tied up in a bow with full costs and preliminary
plans," Bruce said.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California more tools
to crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored vehicles. It’s time toclean up this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport street area before it becomes
even more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and customers
trying hard to do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a week ago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to evenfit on one camera frame. And that's not even counting the ones allover Transport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also have othersupporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses and wouldrather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walkon, and parking spots not be available to customers/clients oremployees.
Warm regards,
-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>wrote:
Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestrians touse the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand.There is barely minimal parking for the people who work on this streetand yet people who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars in additionto their RV - and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the veryleast reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshieldsdoes not seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & othervehicles with notices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehiclesdo not move and the notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worseand worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems Officers
here right before the holiday putting citations or notices on
windshields. I have to ask, are these "Citations," in fact,
citations at all? If so, what are the penalties for these citations if
they are not acknowledged or recognized? Is their license
suspended, are they fined, is their vehicle towed (we know the
answer to this, no need to answer that), will they go to jail? I
think you get my point here. Why on earth would anyone
acknowledge these "Citations" if there are no consequences
attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and
Special Problems Officers serve only as a fixture and not anyone
who does anything of impact. This is not an assault on those
individuals, but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a little
more wisely or do something of value with the work that they
are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I
have watched the same process be repeated over and over again
with no resolve. I have proof of this because we have had the
same "CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10 years
(one photo attached). Whatever the plan is there, it doesn't
appear to be working. Maybe it's time to go back to the
drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and Special
Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly basis to check
for parking or other violations. Their last check was just before the
holiday, and they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
<image008.png>
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
<Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jade Jin <JJin@wongelectric.com>; Xenia Czisch
<Xenia@qmsshields.com>
Subject: Re: Industrial/Transport/Commercial concerns
Out of curiosity, were this my personal vehicle or one of my company vehicles, how
long would it take for the City of Palo Alto to either site me or tow me?
This is ridiculous; our streets have now become storage for people's crap; sorry, no
better way to state that. This boat is not someone's dwelling; neither are all the
additional cars associated with each camper out here. If you can't do anything about
the campers, do something about the additional crap.
Again, how quickly would the city respond if it were my car that was illegally parked
out here?
I implore everyone on this thread to continue this daily until something is done.
Do better, City of Palo Alto.
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:
This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California more tools to
crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored vehicles. It’s time to clean
up this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport street area before it becomes even
more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and customers trying hard to
do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com> wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a week ago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg>
<IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to even fiton one camera frame. And that's not even counting the ones all overTransport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also have othersupporting vehicles as noted in prior email. The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses and wouldrather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walkon, and parking spots not be available to customers/clients oremployees.
Warm regards,-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestrians to
use the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand. There
is barely minimal parking for the people who work on this street and yet
people who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars in addition to their RV
- and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the very
least reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshields does
not seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & other vehicles with
notices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehicles do not move and
the notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worse and
worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems Officers
here right before the holiday putting citations or notices on
windshields. I have to ask, are these "Citations," in fact, citations
at all? If so, what are the penalties for these citations if they are
not acknowledged or recognized? Is their license suspended, are
they fined, is their vehicle towed (we know the answer to this, no
need to answer that), will they go to jail? I think you get my point
here. Why on earth would anyone acknowledge these "Citations"
if there are no consequences attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and
Special Problems Officers serve only as a fixture and not anyone
who does anything of impact. This is not an assault on those
individuals, but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a little more
wisely or do something of value with the work that they are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I have
watched the same process be repeated over and over again with
no resolve. I have proof of this because we have had the same
"CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10 years (one
photo attached). Whatever the plan is there, it doesn't appear to
be working. Maybe it's time to go back to the drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and Special
Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly basis to check for
parking or other violations. Their last check was just before the holiday,
and they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
<image008.png>
<image009.png>
<image013.png>
<image012.jpg>
Celebrating Our 46th Anniversary 1978 – 2024
A Proud Member of the U.S. Green Building Council
<image014.png>
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
December 16, 2024
[VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL]
Members of the City Council
City of Palo Alto
Office of the City Clerk: City Hall, 7th Floor
250 Hamilton Avenue
Palo Alto, California 95901-5273
[city.council@CityofPaloAlto.org]
Re: Comments regarding Item 22 (Consent Calendar) on the December 16, 2024 City
Council Agenda, Entitled “First Reading: Adoption of a Temporary Ordinance
Amending Section 18.42.110 (Wireless Communications Facilities) of Title 18
(Zoning) to Require Architectural Review Board Review for Tier 2 and Tier 3
Wireless Communications Facilities in the Public Rights-of-Way and Repeal the
Objective Aesthetic, Noise, and Related Standards for Wireless Communication
Facilities in the Public Rights-of-Way.”
Dear Mayor Stone, Vice Mayor Lauing, and Members of the City Council:
I am writing regarding Item 22, which would modify the existing wireless communications
facility ordinance to eliminate the City’s objective standards for wireless communications facilities in
the public rights of way and require Architectural Review Board (“ARB”) approval for Tier 2 and Tier
3 wireless facilities. AT&T recommends that the City continue to maintain its objective standards until
it has developed substitute processes that will ensure compliance with the “shot clock” deadlines and
“reasonableness” and “published in advance” requirements set by the Federal Communications
Commission (“FCC”). AT&T requests the Council remove the item from the Consent Agenda, and
send the item back to City staff with instructions that they work with the industry on developing a
proposal that will comply with federal legal requirements.
AT&T is concerned that eliminating all objective standards for wireless facilities in the public
rights of way will make it impossible for the City to comply with the FCC’s “shot clock” deadlines.
Small wireless facilities in the public rights of way have either a 60 day or 90 day “shot clock” deadline,
and as the staff report notes, the City’s existing process makes it difficult to process permits for
wireless communications facilities within these deadlines even with objective standards. Removing
those objective standards and putting ARB in the middle of the process will ensure the City cannot
comply with the federal law. AT&T respectfully suggests that this proposal is getting the “cart before
the horse” – if the City wants to appeal its objective standards, it needs to streamline its review process
first so it can ensure it can process applications for wireless communications facilities within the FCC
shot clock deadlines.
Even if the Council wants to eliminate the objective standards, it should not replace them with
the standard ARB requirements in Municipal Code Section 18.76.020. The extremely broad and
general requirements applicable to all ARB projects are too vague and general to be useful in
reviewing small wireless facilities on poles in the public rights of way. When it eliminated the
City Council
City of Palo Alto
December __, 2024
Page 2
objective standards, the Ninth Circuit kept in place the requirement that requirements be
“reasonable” and “published in advance.” See City of Portland v. United States, 969 F.3d 1020,
1041-42 (9th Cir. 2020), cert. denied, 141 S.Ct. 2855 (Mem) (U.S. June 26, 2021). The ARB
criteria in Section 18.76.020 do not include either of these concepts, and, as such, could lead the
ARB to make decisions inconsistent with federal requirements. If the Council wants to rely on ARB
review, it needs to at least include the “reasonable” and “published in advance” criteria from the City
of Portland decision.
AT&T thus recommends that the City Council send Item 22 back to City staff with
instructions to develop a new proposal that is fully consistent with federal law. AT&T would be happy
to work with the staff on any such future proposal.
Sincerely,
Ellen Kamei, Lead External Affairs
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 3:08 PM Dave Stellman <davestellman@gmail.com> wrote:This is ridiculous. The Supreme Court has given cities in the state of California more tools
to crack down on homeless camps and illegally parked and stored vehicles. It’s time to cleanup this mess in the Commercial - Industrial - Transport street area before it becomes even
more of an eyesore than it is now. This is just not fair to owners and customers trying hardto do business here with NO AVAILABLE PARKING.
Dave Stellman
4083 / 4085 Transport St.
On Dec 16, 2024, at 1:42 PM, Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com> wrote:
Here are some pictures from my walk around the block a week ago..
<IMG_1556.jpeg><IMG_1557.jpeg>
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to even fiton one camera frame. And that's not even counting the ones all overTransport and Industrial. Some of the RVs also have othersupporting vehicles as noted in prior email.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses and wouldrather have the streets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walkon, and parking spots not be available to customers/clients oremployees.
Warm regards,-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>wrote:
Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestrians touse the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand. Thereis barely minimal parking for the people who work on this street and yetpeople who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars in addition to their RV- and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the veryleast reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshields doesnot seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & other vehicles with
notices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehicles do not move andthe notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worse and
worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems Officers here right before
the holiday putting citations or notices on windshields. I have to ask, are these
"Citations," in fact, citations at all? If so, what are the penalties for these citations if
they are not acknowledged or recognized? Is their license suspended, are they
fined, is their vehicle towed (we know the answer to this, no need to answer that),
will they go to jail? I think you get my point here. Why on earth would anyone
acknowledge these "Citations" if there are no consequences attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and Special Problems
Officers serve only as a fixture and not anyone who does anything of impact. This
is not an assault on those individuals, but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a
little more wisely or do something of value with the work that they are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I have watched the
same process be repeated over and over again with no resolve. I have proof of this
because we have had the same "CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10
years (one photo attached). Whatever the plan is there, it doesn't appear to be
working. Maybe it's time to go back to the drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and Special
Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly basis to check for
parking or other violations. Their last check was just before the holiday, and
they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
<image008.png>
<image009.png>
From: Lester Wong <LWong@wongelectric.com>
Sent: Monday, December 2, 2024 2:44 PM
To: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Cathi Lerch
<cathi@lerchconstruction.com>
Cc: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Dave Stellman
<dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>;
<image013.png>
A Proud Member of the U.S. Green Building Council
<image014.png>
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand. There
is barely minimal parking for the people who work on this street and yetpeople who have no ties to this street can park 5 cars in addition to their RV -
and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the very leastreasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshields does not
seem to be an effective solution. I see these RV's & other vehicles withnotices stuck on their windshield regularly. The vehicles do not move and the
notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worse andworse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com>
wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems Officers here right before the
holiday putting citations or notices on windshields. I have to ask, are these
"Citations," in fact, citations at all? If so, what are the penalties for these citations if
they are not acknowledged or recognized? Is their license suspended, are they fined,
is their vehicle towed (we know the answer to this, no need to answer that), will they
go to jail? I think you get my point here. Why on earth would anyone acknowledge
these "Citations" if there are no consequences attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and Special Problems Officers
serve only as a fixture and not anyone who does anything of impact. This is not an
assault on those individuals, but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a little more
wisely or do something of value with the work that they are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I have watched the same
process be repeated over and over again with no resolve. I have proof of this
because we have had the same "CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10
years (one photo attached). Whatever the plan is there, it doesn't appear to be
working. Maybe it's time to go back to the drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and Special
Problems officers continue to visit the area on a weekly basis to check for
parking or other violations. Their last check was just before the holiday, and
they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
<image005.png>
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
<image004.png>
<image006.png>
<image007.png>
Parking is still a challenge for my employees and visitors. I don’t see anyimprovement. Did we give up on this issue?
Lester Wong | Vice President
O: 650.813.9999 ext. 22 | C: 650.720.8455
4067 Transport Street | Palo Alto | CA 94303
<image012.jpg>
Celebrating Our 46th Anniversary 1978 – 2024
A Proud Member of the U.S. Green Building Council
<image014.png>
<image013.png>
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
MACKENZIE & ALBRITTON LLP
155 SANSOME STREET, SUITE 620
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94104
TELEPHONE 415 / 288-4000
FACSIMILE 415 / 288-4010
December 16, 2024
VIA EMAIL
City Council
City of Palo Alto
250 Hamilton Avenue
Palo Alto, California 94301
Re: Draft Temporary Ordinance to Repeal Objective Standards and Require
Architectural Review Board Review of Wireless Facilities in the Right-of-Way
City Council Consent Calendar Item 22, December 16, 2024
Dear Councilmembers:
We write on behalf of Verizon Wireless regarding the draft ordinance that would
repeal the current Objective Standards for small cell wireless facilities in the right-of-way, and
instead require Architectural Review Board (“ARB”) review (the “Draft Ordinance”). The
Draft Ordinance is inconsistent with Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”)
regulations and the City’s own municipal code (the “Code”). Eliminating the Objective
Standards would increase burdens on planning staff, the ARB, and the Council, requiring
them to apply the subjective architectural review criteria to small utility components placed on
poles along the right-of-way. We request that the Council remove Item 22 from the consent
calendar, decline adoption of the Draft Ordinance, and direct staff to work with industry to
update the current Objective Standards.
Verizon Wireless worked closely with the City to develop the Objective Standards,
which were adopted in 2019 before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals vacated the FCC’s
requirement that small cell standards be objective. On March 8, 2019, Verizon Wireless
provided example designs for small cells on utility poles and streetlights to the ARB. At
its March 21, 2019 meeting, the ARB provided feedback on potential small cell designs,
which City staff incorporated into the Objective Standards. On April 15, 2019, the City
Council adopted the Objective Standards along with an ordinance designating them as the
applicable design criteria for wireless facilities in the right-of-way. The Objective
Standards were amended later in 2019, and have since been the pertinent standards for
approval of numerous small cells, which provide reliable wireless service to Palo Alto
residential and commercial areas.
The close collaboration with industry ensured that the Objective Standards were
technically feasible and therefore “reasonable” as mandated by FCC regulations—a
Palo Alto City Council
December 16, 2024
Page 2 of 3
requirement that the Ninth Circuit upheld. See Infrastructure Order, 33 FCC Rcd. 9088,
¶¶ 86-88 (FCC 2018); see also City of Portland v. United States, 969 F.3d 1020, 1042 (9th
Cir. 2020), cert. denied, 141 S.Ct. 2855 (Mem) (U.S. June 26, 2021). Feasible objective
standards provide clear direction to applicants, staff, and decision-makers, and avoid
legal challenges.
In late 2021, Verizon Wireless recommended amendments to the Objective
Standards to accommodate new wireless technology. Planning staff proposed a work
program to update the standards at a November 15, 2021 City Council study session, but
the initiative stalled. Verizon Wireless remains willing to collaborate with the City to
update the Objective Standards.
To repeal the Objective Standards would leave small cells in the right-of-way
subject to the highly subjective findings for architectural review, such as “harmonious
transitions in scale.” Code § 18.76.020(d). While those standards may be appropriate for
typical commercial development, they are not tailored to communications utility
infrastructure. For applications reviewed before 2019, the architectural review findings
led the ARB to apply inappropriate and inconsistent design concepts to wireless facility
equipment on utility poles and streetlights, frustrating applicants, City staff, and indeed
the ARB members themselves. The Draft Ordinance would also require that right-of-way
facilities satisfy the Code’s dated general wireless facilities standards, including vague
requirements for “stealth” design and screening from public view. Code § 18.42.110(i).
These various discretionary findings and standards could lead to denial of small cells that
satisfy the FCC’s “reasonableness” standard, resulting in appeals to the City Council.
According to the Council’s staff report, the Draft Ordinance would place
additional burdens on planning staff workloads, due to the need to evaluate discretionary
standards with no clear criteria, prepare ARB staff reports, and attend ARB meetings for
each small cell application. As acknowledged in your staff report, the extended ARB
review and appeal process will cause the City to miss the FCC’s “Shot Clock” deadline
for final action on an application (e.g., 60 days for small cells on existing poles). In that
case, an application would be deemed approved per state law. California Government
Code § 65964.1.
The City has bypassed Planning and Transportation Commission review by
rushing the Draft Ordinance to first reading, citing City Code Section 18.80.090,
which allows the Council to change zoning code provisions for a temporary period
without Commission review. That specific provision was added to the Code by a 1993
ordinance intended to expedite permits for vendors serving the World Cup soccer games
at Stanford the following year. See Ordinance 4181. The Draft Ordinance does not
include adequate justification of the finding that it is necessary for the public health,
safety, or welfare, nor can it satisfy that finding. The City has already permitted
numerous small cells in the right-of-way, which pose no such impacts because the Code’s
conditions of approval require compliance with the FCC’s radio frequency exposure
guidelines as well as applicable building and safety regulations. Code § 18.42.110(j).
Palo Alto City Council
December 16, 2024
Page 3 of 3
Small cells provide enhanced wireless service for Palo Alto residents, visitors,
workers, and emergency personnel with minimal impact. The City should continue to
review applications for small cells in the right-of-way based on feasible standards that
accommodate this unique technology. We urge you to remove Item 22 from the consent
calendar, decline adoption of the Draft Ordinance, and instead direct staff to work with
wireless industry representatives to update the Objective Standards.
Very truly yours,
Paul B. Albritton
cc: Molly Stump, Esq.
Jonathan Lait
Planning and Transportation Commission
I counted at least 10 RVs just on Commercial St.... too many to even fit on onecamera frame. And that's not even counting the ones all over Transport andIndustrial. Some of the RVs also have other supporting vehicles as noted in prioremail.
The City of Palo Alto clearly doesn't care about businesses and would rather have thestreets be an eyesore, sidewalks be unusable to walk on, and parking spots not beavailable to customers/clients or employees.
Warm regards,-Manu
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 9:56 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:Please note that these vagrants are obstructing the ability for pedestrians to use the sidewalk
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:24 AM Marguerite Poyatos <marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>wrote:
Newest edition to Transport Street. This has gotten really out of hand. There is barelyminimal parking for the people who work on this street and yet people who have no ties to
this street can park 5 cars in addition to their RV - and now a boat??
When is a line going to be drawn about what is acceptable or at the very least reasonable?
The community officers driving by and putting signs on windshields does not seem to bean effective solution. I see these RV's & other vehicles with notices stuck on their
windshield regularly. The vehicles do not move and the notices end up in the gutter.
There has to be some sort of resolution. The issue is only getting worse and worse.
On Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 7:05 AM Bill McLane <bill@paloaltoglass.com> wrote:
Morning Benjamin,
I did see your Community Service and Special Problems Officers here right before the holiday
putting citations or notices on windshields. I have to ask, are these "Citations," in fact, citations at
all? If so, what are the penalties for these citations if they are not acknowledged or recognized? Is
their license suspended, are they fined, is their vehicle towed (we know the answer to this, no need
to answer that), will they go to jail? I think you get my point here. Why on earth would anyone
acknowledge these "Citations" if there are no consequences attached to them?
It definitely would appear that the Community Service and Special Problems Officers serve only as
a fixture and not anyone who does anything of impact. This is not an assault on those individuals,
but maybe the city can spend tax dollars a little more wisely or do something of value with the work
that they are doing.
I can say all of this with confidence because for years now, I have watched the same process be
repeated over and over again with no resolve. I have proof of this because we have had the same
"CAMPERS" in the same locations for the past 10 years (one photo attached). Whatever the plan is
there, it doesn't appear to be working. Maybe it's time to go back to the drawing board.
Regards,
Bill McLane
---------------------------------
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-494-7000 Office
www.paloaltoglass.com
On Mon, Dec 2, 2024 at 3:36 PM Becchetti, Benjamin<Benjamin.Becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote:
Hello Mr. Wong,
I am sorry these problems persist. Our Community Service and Special Problems officers
continue to visit the area on a weekly basis to check for parking or other violations. Their
last check was just before the holiday, and they will be returning this week.
Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Ben
Ben Becchetti
Lieutenant, Investigative Services Division/Traffic
Palo Alto Police Department
(650)329-2232
benjamin.becchetti@cityofpaloalto.org
www.cityofpaloalto.org | www.papd.org
From: Lester Wong <LWong@wongelectric.com>
Sent: Monday, December 2, 2024 2:44 PM
To: Manu Kumar <manu@k9ventures.com>; Cathi Lerch <cathi@lerchconstruction.com>
Cc: Maor Greenberg <maor@greenberg.construction>; Becchetti, Benjamin
<Benjamin.Becchetti@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Dave Stellman <dave@paloaltoglass.com>; City
Mgr <CityMgr@cityofpaloalto.org>; osbaldo@or-builders.com; Moffatt, Pete
<pete@petemoffat.com>; bill@paloaltoglass.com; Jacob@onemovemovers.com;
david@paloaltoconcrete.com; Steve Wong <SWong@wongelectric.com>;
RamonMorenoSchool@gmail.com; davestellman@gmail.com; nancy@drewmaran.com;
Patrick Kelly <patrick.kelly@basketmaterials.com>; Dan McKinley <danmck@scientific-
equipment.com>; McDonough, Melissa <Melissa.McDonough@CityofPaloAlto.org>;
Reifschneider, James <James.Reifschneider@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Transportation
<Transportation@CityofPaloAlto.org>; Marguerite Poyatos
<marguerite@paloaltoglass.com>; Patrick Kelly <info@basketmaterials.com>; John Lerch
<john@lerchconstruction.com>; Dori Dorombozi <dori@k9ventures.com>; Tanaka, Greg
--
Marguerite Poyatos
Palo Alto Glass, Inc.
4085 Transport Street
Palo Alto CA 94303
(650) 494-7000
(650) 494-7087 (FAX)
I hope this may help with the alarming CDC report:
https://www.paloaltoonline.com/news/2017/03/03/cdc-releases-final-youth-suicide-report
During my senior year of high school, I received academic credit as an assistant with my
mother’s first grade class at Ohlone Elementary School of Palo Alto, CA. What I learned during
that year continues to guide my life especially when communicating information. The most
important component of successful human relations concerns the ability to provide everyone
the chance to feel comfortable about themselves since only then will people perform at their
best as each opportunity presents itself.
Like my mother, I believe that learning human relations through communication must begin at
the soonest possible time during early childhood development. Spending time in mom’s
classroom provided me with the pleasure of observing a teacher able to instruct 6 and 7 year
olds about the importance of sharing their plus and minus feelings. At the beginning of each
school day, the entire class sat in a circle. Mom never forced any of the children to release
their plus and minus feelings, but as the year progressed all of the children became
comfortable with the idea. Human relation problems with children often result as a by-
product of something else occurring with their lives. Teaching children to trust their ability to
examine how they feel about themselves everyday provides knowledge that each child retains
then utilizes for the rest of their lives. This technique also allows the teacher to discover that
issues may exist at the home of a child leading to a meeting with the parents, parent, or legal
guardian that often produces beneficial results. Another concept about children and the
teacher forming a circle concerns the realization that a chain becomes only as strong as its
weakest link. If one child has a minus feeling, the other children may offer positive comments
to that child. The child feels support coupled with the knowledge that learning concern for
how they feel along with how others feel completes an important significant lesson during
their critical period of early childhood development. The sharing of feelings also allows
children to learn that if one of them experiences a problem then they all share that problem
because one child possessing a problem more likely than not disturbs the atmosphere of their
harmonious learning environment. For both children and teachers, a classroom environment
of harmony constitutes an essential component for the success of children becoming
responsible adults because without harmonious feelings within the classroom the vital
foundation of creating a proper means of communication leading to attaining quality human
relations holds no moment.
Respectfully,
Michael J. Fleming
Cubberley High School Class of 1973
Son of Raymond & Helen Fleming former PAUSD teachers.