HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 14301
City of Palo Alto (ID # 14301)
Office of the City Clerk
City Council CAO Report
Meeting Date: 4/25/2022 Report Type: Consent Calendar
Title: Review and Approval of 2022-2023 Work Plans for the following Boards
and Commissions: Parks and Recreation Commission, Public Art
Commission, Utilities Advisory Commission and Storm Water Oversight
Committee
From: Lesley Milton, City Clerk
This report has been revised since initial publication. Changes will appear in RED below.
Recommendation
Staff recommends Council review and approve the 2022-2023 Board and Commission
work plans for the Parks and Recreation Commission, the Public Art Commission, the
Utilities Advisory Committee and the Storm Water Oversight Committee.
Discussion
On November 30, 2020, the City Council adopted the Board and Commission (BCC)
Handbook, which implemented an annual review and approval of BCC work plans.
Each BCC is required to prepare an annual work plan for review and approval by the
Council by second quarter of the calendar year. The annual report should include the
results of the prior year’s plan and should consist of up to three priorities. When
applicable, the City Council would like to see metrics of community involvement and
participation in meetings and activities included in the work plan.
The Council is expected to review the work plans and provide feedback annually at a
dedicated City Council meeting. In addition, Council may refer additional items to the
BCCs in response to new developments. BCCs should work on the items outlined in the
approved workplans over the course of the year and should refrain from expending
their time and staff resources on items that have not been approved by the City
Council.
In the event a BCC would like to add an item to the workplan for review after an annual
workplan has been approved by the City Council, a prompt request by the BCC Chair to
Page 2
the City Council is required and the item will then be addressed by the City Council as a
whole.
To ensure that there is adequate time and attention devoted to each workplan, the
Council will review the workplans over the course of multiple meetings. At this
meeting, the Council will reveiew and discuss the workplans for the following four BCCs:
Parks and Recreation Commission, the Public Art Commission, the Utilities Advisory
Committee and the Storm Water Oversight Committee. The remaining four will be at a
subsequent meeting.
REVISED REPORT INFORMATION
This item has been modified to reschedule the Parks and Recreation Commission Workplan
discussion to a future date. Additionally, work plans for the Public Art Commission and Utilities
Advisory Commission have been updated and replaced since the initial publication of this item.
Revised information is summarized as listed below:
Public Art Commission:
• Added Priorities Approved By PAC In 2021
• Added images of prior year accomplishments and project goals
• Added hyperlinks to art webpages
Utilities Advisory Commission:
• Added Potential Topics
• Added FY2023 Topics
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with the review and approval of the workplans. Any
fiscal resources that will be necessary for the implementation of these workplans can be
incorporated into the FY 2023 budget discussions at the Council’s discretion.
ATTACHMENTS:
• Attachment A: Public Art Commission Work Plan (PDF)
• Attachment B: Utilities Advisory Commission Work Plan (PDF)
• Attachment C: Stormwater Management Oversight Committee Work Plan (PDF)
Public Art Commission
2021-2022 Workplan Overview
Staff Liaison: Elise DeMarzo, Public Art Projgram Director, Nadya Chuprina, Program Coordinator
Lead Department: Community Services / Arts & Sciences
About the Commission Public Art Commission is composed of five members. The terms are 3 years in length, and commence on April 1. Residencey is not required. There are no vacancies as of April 1, 2022.
Date approved by PAC: 03/17/2022
Prior Year Accomplishment
1
Prior Year Accomplishment
2
Prior Year Accomplishment
3
GOAL 2: Develop public art projects that will continue to advance cultural inclusion and social and racial equity. ACCOMPLISHED by (1) Equity and Accessibility Consultant Elizabeth D. Foggie conducted a
thorough review of the PAP policies and documents, PAP website, social media, and artist calls for equitable and culturally inclusivelanguage. The consultant provided a report with analysis and
recommendations on cultural and racial equity and inclusion; she developed a list of BIPOC artists and creatives in the Bay Area, as well as a best practices manual for communications and outreach to
BIPOC artist communities. Applying the provided manuals and recommendations, the Public Art Program expanded and focused its ongoing commitment to more equitable, inclusive, and accessible artist
outreach. As a result, we have observed a more diverse pool of artists applying for opportunities with the City of Palo Alto and getting commissions. (2) In Sep 2021 the Public Art Commission approved
Rayos Magos as the first artist for the King Artist Residency starting in January 2022, based on recommendations by a selection panel. Rayos Magos will utilize the power of storytelling and imagery in
community conversations about culture, identity, and mental health within Latinx/BIPOC communities living and/or working in Palo Alto. His documentation of personal stories will result in a final temporary
artwork displayed on King Plaza for a period of six months to one year. (3) Met with the Human Relations Commission to learn the results of "The 100 Conversations." These findings influenced the artist
call for the Race and Equity Art on King Plaza. Next meeting: March 17, 2022 to continue conversation.
GOAL 3: Widen and strengthen education and advocacy for public art, including through the roll-out and implementation of the California Ave District Master Plan and the Baylands Art Plan.
ACCOMPLISHED by (1) Four temporary murals by Bay Area artists were installed on fencing surrounding the PSB construction site August 2021 to be displayed for up to a year. The next round of murals
is undergoing design development and will be installed in summer 2022. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. and (2) Baylands Vignettes installed Highway 101 Bike/Pedestrian Bridge
in January 2022. Inspired by the wetlands and the many creatures that live below, Mary Lucking designed her artwork for the overlook on the Baylands side of the bike and pedestrian bridge. She created
grass themed custom railing and three sculptures for the overlook area that double as creative seating. The cast aluminum pieces have a brushed finish and sculpted textured grasses and creatures that
make them visually engaging and interesting to touch. and (3) Charleston-Arastradero Corridor project will be installed in Summer 2022.
Current Commissioners
Please list the names of the members that were appointed at the time this workplan was created:
• Nia Taylor (Chair)
• Loren Gordon (Vice Chair)
• Ben Miyaji
• Hsinya Shen
• Lisa Waltuch
Mission Statement
The City of Palo Alto Public Art Program is committed to contributing to the intellectual, emotional, and creative life of the Palo Alto community by creating engaging art experiences and dynamic public
spaces for Palo Alto residents and visitors. The Program operates in accordance with Chapter 2.26 of Palo Alto Municipal Code to provide opportunities for the placement of permanent and temporary site-
specific public art projects in municipal projects across Palo Alto. Additionally, the Program oversees the implementation of the Ordinance requirement to incorporate public art in private development
projects. The Public Art Commission (PAC) reviews and advises the Public Art Program on selection, placement, and care of public art throughout the City of Palo Alto.
GOAL 1: Develop public art that aids in Palo Alto’s recovery from the Covid-19 crisis by supporting projects that encourage pedestrian traffic and the use of pedestrian-friendly streets, that are located near
Palo Alto neighborhoods, as well as commercial corridors and storefronts, and that advance Public Art Master Plan goals. ACCOMPLISHED by (1) temporary murals - in conjunction with Uplift Local, 8
artists created murals to support emotional and economic wellbeing by encouraging pedestrian traffic, animating commercial corridors and supporting local artists. Success: since the inital installation in
Feb 2021, PAC received much positive feedback from the community and property owners. The recyclable materials used are durable and have exceeded orginal life expectancy. There is support to
continue the project and commission a second series of temporary murals by Bay Area artists. (2) ArtLift Microgrants Success: Local artists and community members received 40 microgrants that allowed
them to realize a wide range of art projects and experiences animating both commercial corridors and residential neighborhoods while facilitating connection, belonging, and a sense of discovery across Palo
Alto. Based on the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community and grant recipients, the PAC approved allocation of additional funds for another series of microgrants to be realized between
Spring – Fall 2022. (3) Code: ART2 - art festival downtown that temporarily reframed the City as a laboratory for urban interventions and creative placemaking while engaging residents, commuters,
students, and visitors in dialogue to re- imagine underutilized spaces. Success: Impact Metrics:
Approximately 7,000 Code:ART attendees
15 Bay Area and international artists
7 interactive new media installations
Data from 134 survey responses
100% of visitors surveyed would like more events like this in Palo Alto
75% of attendees visited a business
87% of those business visitors also made a purchase
64% of visitors visited downtown specifically for Code:ART
96% of visitors rated Code:ART a 4 or 5 out of 5
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
March 1, 2022 - December 31, 2022
Funds are available through percent for art
Municipal funds. Staff resources and time
will be used for artist calls and the
selection processes. Staff will work with the
artists during the design development and
implementation.
Overwhelmingly positive feedback from
the community and grant recipients N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
Public Art Commission
PROJECT/GOAL 1 :
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Artlift Microgrant 2022: The Palo Alto Public Art Program is making ten $4,000 Microgrants available to artists and creatives with the goal of helping the
community find connection and joy through the arts and creative outlets. We welcome proposals for non-traditional artwork, experiences, and
performances in the City of Palo Alto with the goal of helping our community reconnect, recover, and find joy within social distancing conditions. Taking
advantage of unique locations across Palo Alto, artists will perform, create or place temporary artworks focused on play, community connectedness and
shared experiences, resiliency, empathy, vibrancy, and recovery. We encourage fun and whimsical creative projects that will bring positive energy, joy
and encourage play and participation. All funded projects will be temporary in nature (up to six months) and have an impactful presence in the community,
engaging a large and diverse population of Palo Alto residents and visitors alike.
Staff Liaison: Elise DeMarzo, Public Art Program Director, Nadya Chuprina, Program Coordinator
Lead Department: Community Services / Arts & Sciences
PURPOSE STATEMENT:
The Public Art Commission oversees Palo Alto's temporary and permanent public art programs. The Commission's primary duties are:
• To advise the city in matters pertaining to the quality, quantity, scope, and style of art in public places
• To periodically review the capital improvement program with the staff for inclusion of works of art in various projects
• To devise methods of selecting and commissioning artists with respect to the design, execution, and placement of art in public places and to advise staff
on the selection and commissioning of artists, and the amounts to be expended on art in public places
• To advise and assist staff in obtaining financial assistance for art in public places from private, corporate, and governmental sources
• To review plans for the installation of art in public places and review the inventory of art in public spaces
HIGH PRIORITY
2022-2023 Workplan Overview
Building Community Priority: Develop public
art that encourages playing, belonging,
community participation and that promotes
shared experiences in and around Palo Alto
neighborhoods and commercial corridors.
PRIORITIES APPROVED BY PAC IN
2021:
Building Community Priority: Develop public art that encourages playing, belonging, community participation and that promotes shared experiences in
and around Palo Alto neighborhoods and commercial corridors.
Racial Justice Priority: Develop public art projects that will continue to advance cultural inclusion and social and racial equity.
Public Art Education Priority: Widen and strengthen education and advocacy for public art, including through the roll-out and implementation of the
California Ave District Master Plan and the Baylands Art Plan, and PAMP long-term goals, while responding to current issues and supporting a wider
network of artists.
High priority for building community.
LOWER PRIORITY
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
February 16, 2022 - ongoing. Rituals of
Resilience is the first installation of the
King Artist Residency Program
Funds are available through percent for art
Municipal funds. Staff resources and time
will be used for artist call and the selection
processes. Staff will work with the artist
during the design development and
implementation. Artist Rayos Magos will
use studio at the Cubberley Campus.
The Public Art Commission is
committed to a permanent platform for
ongoing conversations about equity,
inclusion, and belonging in Palo Alto
through the arts. As a result, the King
Artist Residency Program was
established. Community participation
will be measured.
Council referral to the
Public Art Commission
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Ongoing
Municipal percent for Art Fund, as well as
private development funds may be
available to fund these projects
1.Build partnerships between local
businesses, art groups, and the Palo
Alto Public Art Program to commission
art that attracts people to the district.
2.Enhance pedestrian experiences and
engage people of all ages by installing
changing and permanent artwork
throughout identified locations within the
district.
3.Build local pride and educate visitors
with public art that explores the district’s
history by supporting outdoor exhibitions
that highlight the work of local and
regional artists.
N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
Activating the California Avenue corridor with
public art such as rotating performance
space, mural program, temporary artwork on
new garage, and way finding. Building
community and public art education priorities
and plan implementation.
HIGH PRIORITY
PROJECT/GOAL 2:
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
King Artist Residency: Artist Rayos Magos. Project titled Rituals Of Resilience is focused on capturing community narratives of Latinx & BIPOC
community members and service providers living and/or working in the Palo Alto area. The goal of the project is to discover the rituals that people have
developed and used during the pandemic to maintain their mental health. The residency will continue the collaboration with the Human Relations
Commission and result in a temporary artwork placed on King Plaza that will be in place for 6 - 12 months.
Racial Justice Priority: Develop public art
projects that will continue to advance cultural
inclusion and social and racial equity.
Stimulating important conversation in the
community about equity and belonging in
Palo Alto. Ongoing collaboration with HRC.
Racial justice, community building and public
art education priorities.
High priority for racial justice, building community and public art education.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Implementation of the California Avenue Public Art Master Plan approved by PAC in 2021
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
LOWER PRIORITY
High priority for community building and plan implementation
PROJECT/GOAL 3:
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Phase 2 will be installed Summer 2022
Funds are available through percent for art
Municipal funds. Staff resources and time
will be used for artist calls and the
selection processes. Staff will work with the
artists during the design development and
implementation.
Community and stakeholder feedback N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Ongoing, September 2016 - present Municipal Percent for Art Project in
collaboration with Public Works /
Engineering Services
N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Ongoing
The annual maintenance allocation of
$30,000 is spent down each year. Staff
oversees the contractors and work being
performed
A collection of artworks that reflect well
on Palo Alto and have not fallen into
such disrepair that more costly repairs
are necessary or the artwork cannot be
saved.
Having artworks fall
into disrepair may leave
the City open to legal
action by the artists
under the Visual Artists
Rights Act.
High priority for community building.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Community building, way finding, enhancing
popular corridor that was recently
redesigned to reduce traffic.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Ensuring that these valuable assets are
maintained properly and reflect well on the
City. Building community and education
priorities.
PROJECT/GOAL 6:Ongoing Maintenance and Care of the Collection. With a collection of more than 300 artworks, preventative maintenance and restoration of these
valuable City assets are an essential part of a public art program.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Public Art Education Priority: Widen and
strengthen education and advocacy for
public art, including through the roll-out and
implementation of the Cal Ave District
Master Plan and the Baylands Art Plan, and
PAMP long-term goals, while responding to
current issues and supporting a wider
network of artists. Racial justice, community
building, educational priorities, way finding.
HIGH PRIORITY
PROJECT/GOAL 5:Charleston / Arastradero Corridor: completion of artist Susan Zoccola's plan to enhance new traffic calming corridor.
PROJECT/GOAL 4:Phase 2 of Temporary Murals on the construction fence at the Public Safety Building Site. A total of eight local artists were selected to create murals
relevant to the history and current life in the California Avenue District. This project is aligned with the California Avenue Public Art plan.
LOWER PRIORITY
High priority for racial justice, community building, Education, and way finding.
Prior Year Accomplishment 1: examples of temp. murals installed in Palo Alto in 2021. Visit: https://viewer.mapme.com/tempmuralspa for all murals and locations
Images clockwise: Cycles of Regeneration by Liz Hickok; See You Soon by Lauren Berger; It’s a Beautiful Day by J.Duh;Curiosity by t.w.five
Prior Year Accomplishment 1: Artlift Microgrants funded 40 temporary projects across Palo Alto in 2021. View the virtual map of all projects.
Images left to right: Connection by Marina Berlin on King Plaza; One Home Only [Iterations] by Martha Sakellariou at Rinconada Library
Prior Year Accomplishment 1: Code:ART 2021 attended by approx. 7,000 visitors. Visit Cityofpaloalto.org/codeart for information about Code:ART festival
Marpi Studio
Paleoalto
Oct 5-7, 2021
Palo Alto, CA
Utilizing the latest touch-
free technology, the new
media artwork was designed
with accessibly in mind.
Paleolato allowed visitors
regardless of their age,
language and physical
abilities to engage, play, and
experience the installation.
The installations animated
downtown Palo Alto’s
plazas, alleys, and public
spaces through interactive
light, sound, and motion,
and were easily walkable
and accessible to the public
during the event.
Prior Year Accomplishment 2: For the first artist residency focused on equity and belonging in Palo Alto, artist Rayos Magos has launched Rituals of Resilience.
The project utilizes storytelling, imagery, reflections, and rituals, engaging the larger Palo Alto community in a series of conversations and art making workshops
that will offer participants space to reflect and share their stories about belonging, human connection, and the impact of social distancing on their mental health
during the pandemic.His documentation of personal stories and learned experiences will result in a final temporary artwork displayed on King Plaza for a period
of six months to one year. Learn more about the King Artist Residency.
Prior Year Accomplishment 3: Baylands Vignettes installed Highway 101 Bike/Pedestrian Bridge in January 2022. Inspired by the wetlands and the many
creatures that live below, Mary Lucking designed her artwork for the overlook on the Baylands side of the bike and pedestrian bridge.
Project Goal 1: Ongoing call for the ArtLift Microgrants. The funded projects will be on display in summer –fall 2022. See previously realized projects here
Project Goal 2: Implementation of
the California Ave Public Art Plan
approved by PAC in 2021
The plan aims to:
Build partnerships between local
businesses, art groups, and the Palo
Alto Public Art Program to
commission art that attracts people
to the district.
Enhance pedestrian experiences
and engage people of all ages by
installing changing and permanent
artwork throughout identified
locations within the district.
Build local pride and educate
visitors with public art that explores
the district’s history by supporting
outdoor exhibitions that highlight
the work of local and regional
artists.
Project Goal 4: Phase 2 of Temporary Murals on the construction fence at the Public Safety Building Site. A total of eight local artists were selected to
create murals relevant to the history and current life in the California Avenue District. This project is aligned with the California Avenue Public Art plan.
Image: New Garden by Abi Mustapha for the PSB construction fence. View other PSB temporary murals here.
Project Goal 5: Charleston-Arastradero Corridor. Rendering of a permanent artwork by Susan Zoccola. Expected to be installed in summer 2022
Project Goal 6: Ongoing Maintenance and Care of the Collection.
Preventative maintenance and restoration of these valuable City
assets are an essential part of a public art program.
Images: Modern and Antient Medicine, 1932 by Victor Arnautoff
City of Palo Alto Public Art Program is launching a comprehensive
protection and restoration project of a series of seventeen frescoes
of significant historical and artistic value at the Roth building.
2/2/2022
• S/CAP:
o implementing SolarAPP+ for ease of permitting the installation of
Solar
o Solar: 12 installations
• EVTAP:
o 4 applications submitted,
o 48 sites enrolled in program,
•Curbside Pilot:
o 1 application submitted,
•EV Rebates:
o 32 ports installed,
• City Owned:
o 33 ports installed
•CIPs:
o Cote Madera Reservoir was 85% complete by the end of 2021.
o GMR23 was 75% completed by the end of 2021.
o Cross Bore Inspection was 38% completed by the end of 2021.
o Foothills Overhead Line Project (Project EL-21001) for the Palo Alto
Foothills:
o 7000 feet of substructure work;
o design to eliminate the corresponding;
o 26 poles; and
o installation of new underground equipment has been
completedo Second Transmission Line Corridor Connecting the City of Palo Alto
Electric Distribution System to the Pacific Gas & Electric Transmission Grid:
o Submitted a formal request to CAISO
• FIBER:
o Completed Phases 1 and 3,
o Completed half of Phase 2,
o Completed just under half of Phase 4
•AMI:
o Received Council approval to begin planning phase
o Hired a Consultant Firm
•BUDGET:
o Received Council approval on rate adjustments
•RECs:
o Bucket 1 Sales (MWh) - 287,210 R evenue $4.01M
o Bucket 3 Purchase (MWh) – 383,408 C ost $1.97M
o Net Revenue $2.04M
•DSM:
o One Water Plan has been scoped for the RFP,
o Working with Valley Water on purified water for the RWQCP
•Work Force:
o Attending college job fares to attract young graduates
o Discussing a sign on bonus program with CMO/HR
•Metrics of community involvement and participation:
o Between January 2021 and December 2021, the UAC held only virtual meetings via
Zoom.
o The average community attendance was 7-10
o The average (not per meeting but overall) community participation was 2-4
Prior Year Accomplishments
Utilities Advisory Commission
Staff Liaison: Dean Batchelor, Director of Utilities
Lead Department: Utilities
About the Commission
The Commission is created pursuant to Chapter 2.23 of the Code. The Commission shall perform the duties imposed upon it by applicable ordinances of the City and
applicable California and federal laws. In addition, the Commission shall, as may be requested by the Council or the City Manager, provide advice on any matter pertaining
to the purpose and duties of the Commission, as set forth in section 2.23.050 of the Code, and as the same may be amended from time to time by ordinance of the City.
2021-2022 Workplan Overview
Mission Statement
The Utilities Advisory Commission (UAC) is charged with providing advice on long range planning and policy matters, acquisition, development and financial review of
electric, gas and water resources; joint action projects with other public or private entities which involve electric, gas or water resources; environmental implications of
proposed electric, gas or water utility projects; and conservation and demand management. Additionally, the UAC is charged with providing advice on the acquisition,
development and financial review of the dark fiber network and wastewater collection utilities. As a highly regulated industry, there may be matters not listed below that will
be presented to the UAC in accordance with current or future (local, state or federal) legislative requirements.
Current Commissioners
• Lisa Forssell (Chair)
• Lauren Segal (Vice Chair)
• John Bowie, A.C. Johnston, Phil Metz, Greg Scharff, Loren Smith
Date approved by UAC:
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Rates are reviewed annually and each rate
change is determined by the COSA
reports. UAC review is in February, FCM
review is in April and CCM approval is in
June
Staff time, Legal team review time,
Consultant time to create the COSA report. Council approval of budget N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
This is not a single effort or project;
however, a year-round effort
Staff time, Legal team review time,
Consultant time for development of the
One Water Plan which is a holistic 20-year
water portfolio
Council approval of the One Water Plan
which includes adaptable, dynamic,
water supply portfolios.
N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
The benefit to the community is to have
ample water source and supply when
needed in the event of a drought or for basic
uses
Having knowledge of where the City's water supply is coming from and how we maintain
that supply is a maintained priority.
N/A
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
N/A
Utilities Advisory Commission
Standing Topic 1 :
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Standing Topic 2:
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Annual Budget - Rate changes to Water, Gas, Electric, Wastewater collection, and Fiber services.
Staff Liaison: Dean Batchelor, Director of Utilities
Lead Department: Utilities
PURPOSE STATEMENT:
The Utilities Advisory Commission's goals and purposes are to acquire and maintain the highest level of water, gas and electric resources to ensure the
City is stable on a daily basis as well as in an emergency situation. The Commission's goals and purposes include overseeing the CIP's to ensure the
infrastructure is reliable and safe.
Water Supply: Consider potential future sources of water supply. This includes recycled water, demand management programs, grey water, treatment
efforts, and use of effluent.
HIGH PRIORITY
2022-2023 Workplan
The community will have a better
understanding of the rates and why they are
being charged.
LOWER PRIORITY
Rates are always a high priority. The change has an impact on the community and
economy.
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
This is an ongoing regularly monitored
effort and does not have a start or
completion time
Approved budget, staff time, legal review
time, consultants as needed, and
technology
Release of RFP for more renewable
energy supply options in the Integrated
Resource Plan (IRP). Have the IRP
near completion to present to the UAC
for review and approval. Maintaining the
zero emissions portion of the portfolio
and carbon neutral plan.
N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
This is not a single effort or project;
however, a year-round effort
Staff time, Legal team review time,
Consultant time when necessary
Utilities on average are 10% bellow
PG&E's rates year round, N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Utilities has multiple projects in their
Council approved CIP budget. Most of
these projects are multi year based.
Staff time, Legal review time, Procurement
time for setting up contracts, contractors
for work completion
Utilities CIP success is completion of
the project within the timeline that was
approved by Council.
N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
The health and well being of the community is a high priority for Council and Utilities N/A
There are multiple CIP's throughout the
Utilities, each with their own benefits to the
City and the community from rebuilding the
water reservoirs, repairing and replacing
sewer lines or water mains, maintaining
street lights, building out the fiber backbone,
upgrading the meter system to upgrading the
outage management system
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Maintaining quality of life for the community creates the priority for Utilities projects N/A
Gas is a type of energy used to provide
some residence and businesses in Palo Alto
with heat for their facilities and some
cooking appliances.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Reliability for customers, health benefits, and
clean energy responsible for the vast carbon
reduction the City has achieved over the
past decade
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
The health and well being of the community is a high priority for Council and Utilities
Electric Supply: Consider updates to the electric supply portfolio and issues relating thereto.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Standing Topic 4:Gas Supply: Consider aspects of the gas supply portfolio, such as the carbon offset program.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Standing Topic 3:
N/A
Standing Topic 5:Utilities CIP's: Discuss CIP projects.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
These programs and projects are year-
round and do not have a beginning or an
end. For example the S/CAP is set to
accomplish the goal by 2030
Budget approval, staff time, additional staff,
and some use of consultants
Maintaining a high level of efficient,
safe, and reliable services with an
emphasis on moving forward with a pilot
program of converting homes to electric.
Yes
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Legislature meets throughout the year and
possible changes can occur at any point
that effect utilities
Staff time, travel, and legal review time This is a non-measurable project State Mandated
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Timeline will be addressed once assigned UAC, Staff and legal, review time Council approval of completed task Yes
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Standing Topic 8:Council Driven Initiatives: The UAC will address any matter assigned by the City Council.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
The UAC is made up of a diverse group with
insight of the innerworkings of and vast
knowledge in the utilities arena.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Typically when Council requests a review of an item it is considered a priority N/A
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
N/A
Standing Topic 6:Reliability and Resiliency: Ongoing discussions regarding the reliability and resiliency of the utilities.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
The level of priority is based on the particular legislation being proposed and how it
effects the regulated utilities
LOWER PRIORITY
The S/CAP is a Council priority and therefore a High priority for the Utilities Advisory
Commission to focus on N/A
Staff tracks the possible changes in laws
and regulations and presents the proposed
changes to the UAC for review and
consideration to the Council.
Standing Topic 7:Legislative Initiatives: The Utility tracks many local, state and federal bills that touch on utilities. Should any new laws, regulations, or ordinances pass
during the year, the UAC may need to discuss the changes.
This matter encompasses a number of
situations including but not limited to the
S/CAP program. The benefit of any of the
reliability or resiliency projects is to support
the City and community now and into the
future with reliable, safe connections, water,
electricity, fiber and natural gas
HIGH PRIORITY
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Ongoing Staff time
Maintain a green portfolio and purchase
Bucket 3 REC's at a lower rate than
Bucket 1 REC's
N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
April 2022 until late 2022
Approximately 0.1 to 0.2 FTE beyond that
required for the S/CAP Committee, plus
UAC Commissioner time outside of normal
UAC meeting times.
The development of clear plans for
building electrification, including
concrete improvements to utility or
permitting processes resulting from
UAC actions.
Yes
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
yes
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
The initial small scale testing of meters will
take place over 12 months between CYQ3-
2022 to CYQ2-2024. The full rollout will
commence CYQ3-2023 and expected to be
completed by CYQ4-2024 according to the
current timeline
Staff time and budget Implementing the fully deployed AMI
system Yes
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
No
FY2023 Topic 1:
Support S/CAP Committee goals to develop plans and improve processes for building
electrification Discussions of other forms of emissions reduction besides building electrification
The purchase of REC 3's allow the Utilities
to lower cost to the Utility customer, saving
future rate increases to the community
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Keeping rates stable and lower than PG&E
CA Renewable Energy Credits (REC's): Review progress with the sale of Bucket 1 and 3 RECs. Provide recommendations for discontinuance (or
continuance) of revenue program.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
UAC expertise will help the Council S/CAP
Committee make progress on achieving
S/CAP goals with benefits to reducing the
impacts of climate change.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
FY2023 Topic 2:
S/CAP Support: Discuss community engagement, technology (current & emerging), finance, and community scaling of S/CAP plans to meet the City’s
goals for sustainability and climate action. This includes electrification efforts, possible code modifications, potential full or partial retirement of the gas
distribution system, and electrification of gas appliances. It also includes permitting and inspection processes for customers wishing to upgrade panels,
electrify appliances, or install solar PV, energy storage, and/or EV charging systems.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Having a fully implemented system provides time of use rates, identifies gas and water
leaks, restores outages quicker and more efficiently, energy efficiency for residents
FY2023 Topic 3: Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project: Discuss the launch and deployment of the utility’s AMI project.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Empower customers to more efficiently
utilize utility supplies, facilitate customer
adoption of distributed energy resources
(DER) such as solar photovoltaics, energy
storage, and electric vehicles, and enable
the timely detection of water leaks
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
05/2021 - 09/2022
On May 24, 2021, the City Council directed
staff to combine Phases 2 and 4. Study
Session with Council set for August 8.
Staff time, Consultant time, Budget Unknown Yes
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
n/a
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Wildfire: The plan update will be submitted
to the Wildfire Safety Advisory Board by
July 1, 2022. Sea level rise and drought do
not have a specific timeline, they are
nature driven.
Wildfire: Staff Time, Contractor time Wildfire: yes
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Districts are designated for undergrounding
and have been selected based on the age
of the system in place
Staff time, contractor time, and budget Removal of overhead lines in the
designated districts Yes
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
No
Have a poignant discussion with Council resulting in approval to move forward to the next
phase.
FY2023 Topic 5:Climate Impacts: Discuss impacts of climate change, including sea level rise, drought, and wildfires, on the utilities.
FY2023 Topic 4:Fiber to the Premises: Discuss the proposal for launching and deploying fiber to support AMI and possibly City-wide FTTP.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Service excellence, local ownership,
increased quality of life, investment in the
community, competitive pricing, and
economic development.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Potential Topics 1:Undergrounding: Discuss the progress and potential acceleration of undergrounding electric infrastructure.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Removes the impact to visual nuisances,
increased reliability, safer for staff and the
public
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Internal discussions on the future of how the
sea level rise and drought impact the
community. Wildfire: to protect the City
against any future damage claims due to
wildfires affecting the electric lines.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Temperatures are rising worldwide due to greenhouse gases, droughts are becoming
longer and more extreme around the world, tropical storms are becoming more severe
due to warmer ocean water temperature rise.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Because of the safety and reliability
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Ongoing IT staff, Utility staff, budget Zero data loss N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
no
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Ongoing HR time, Utility staff time, budget Filling of all open positions N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
No
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Ongoing Staff time
CPAU customers are fortunate to have
access to high quality water flowing
from the faucet - the pristine snowmelt
from Hetch Hetchy
State Water Resource
Control Board
regulated
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
No
Potential Topics 2:Cybersecurity: Discuss issues related to the cybersecurity of utility operations.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Protect and secure Utility data at rest and in
transit. Utilities created a SCADA
cybersecurity team to set a policy to prevent
outside attempts to infiltrate our systems.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Having the ability to maintain a workforce
gains consistency in Utility maintenance, and
completion of Council approved CIP's
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
It is a high priority to fill these open positions in order to lower the overall cost of the
Utilities. If critical positions are filled, the need for having contract workers lowers the
cost to serve the community.
Due to the sensitive nature of the Utilities, cybersecurity protects against theft,
economical impacts, public health risks, and data (community, commercial and
residential) information available in our systems, protecting it from attacks is critical
Potential Topics 3:Workforce: Discuss ongoing issues with hiring and retaining qualified utility workers.
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Palo Alto maintains high quality control with frequent testing of its water to maintain a
higher than state standard
Potential Topics 4:Water Quality: Discuss community concerns with water quality.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
CPAU regularly collects and tests water
samples from reservoirs and designated
sample points throughout the city.
4/7/2022
Prior Year Accomplishments
Committee reviewed the budget proposals for FY 22 and confirmed expenditures funded by the Stormwater Management Fees conformed with the
2017 ballot measure. In FY 22, the Committee reviewed the Loma Verde project that rehabilitated the stormwater pipeline system and was updated
on three new projects that are on the project list identified by the 2017 ballot measure. The Committee commented on the Green Stormwater
Infrastructure Implementation Project, the potential alternative funding analysis for Green Stormwater Infrastructure projects and received updates
on a variety of projects and programs implemented by the staff funded by the Stormwater Management Fee.
Stormwater Management Oversight Committee
Staff Liaison: Karin North, Assistant Director
Lead Department: Public Works
About the Commission
The Stormwater Oversight Committee's workplan is included for FY 23; the current Chair is Hal Mickelson and the Vice Chair is Dena Mossar; the
committee members include David Bower, Marilyn Keller, Catherine Perman, Ron Owes, and Bob Wenzlau. The terms for David Bower, Marilyn
Keller, Catherine Perman and Ron Owes end on May 31, 2023. The Commission was established by Resolution 8573 and amended by Resolution
9677 and is composed of 7 members, who serve terms of 4 years. Each Committee member shall be a resident, employee, or property owner within
the City of Palo Alto. For more information about The Stormwater Oversight Committee please visit our webpage, go to
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/City-Hall/Boards-Commissions/Storm-Water-Management-Oversight-Committee.
2023-2024 Workplan Overview
Mission Statement The Stormwater Oversight Committee reviews the projects, programs and expenditures that are funded by the Stormwater Management Fees
including proposed stormwater management capital improvement and confirms their conformity to the 2017 ballot measure.
Current Commissioners
Please list the names of the members that were appointed at the time this workplan was created:
•Hal Michelson (Chair)
•Dena Mossar (Vice Chair)
•David Bower, Marilyn Keller, Catherine Perman, Ron Owes, and Bob Wenzlau
Date approved by SMOC:
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Workplan over the next 2 years Need contractor support to install the
upgraded pipeline and pump stations
Reduction in the amount of ponding and
flooding in the future. YES
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
No
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
New 5 year Municipal Regional Stormwater
Permit effective July 1, 2022.
Utilize staff and consultant support to meet
requirements listed in the stormwater
permit.
City is in compliance with stormwater
permit; reduction of trash and an
increase installation of GSI features
throughout the City
Yes
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
Stormwater Oversight Committee
PROJECT/GOAL 1 :
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
PROJECT/GOAL 2:
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Track and monitor 2017 Ballot Measure, which covers 13 Capital Projects. This workplan focuses on 3 projects and 1 completed project.
Staff Liaison: Karin North, Assistant Director
Lead Department: Public Works
PURPOSE STATEMENT:
The Stormwater Oversight Committee reviews the projects, programs and expenditures that are funded by the Stormwater Management Fees including
proposed stormwater management capital improvement and confirms their conformity to the 2017 ballot measure. The Stormwater Oversight Committee's
goals and purposes are to provide fiscal oversight for the projects funded by the 2017 ballot measure.
Environmental protection and sustainability including regulatory and compliance goals.
HIGH PRIORITY
2023-2024 Workplan
Reduce ponding and flooding
High priority to complete the upgrades listed in the Stormwater Fee which will reduce the
amount of flooding and ponding of stormwater; track and monitor construction progress
on corporation way system upgrades and pump station (SD-21000)
Regulatory compliance in the alignment with
the City's policy on sustainability
High priority for the City to stay in compliance with State mandates on stormwater
compliance; which benefits the environment
LOWER PRIORITY
Track and monitor construction progress on W Bayshore Road Pump Station (SD-
20000). Track and monitor construction
progress on W Bayshore Road Trunk Line Improvements (SD- 23000).
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
Leverage the work to improve water quality entering the Bay.
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
Ongoing Leverage money allocated for GSI through
the Stormwater Management Fund
Increased acreage of watershed treated
through GSI Yes
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
N/A
TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS
STATE MANDATED / LOCAL
LAW / COUNCIL-APPROVED
FY23-FY24
Project lead by Utilities Staff; resources
shared throughout the City; the Stormwater
Management Fund will contribute
resources for this project
Report that will lead to policy decisions
by Council N/A
COUNCIL-DIRECTED
POLICY UPDATE
Yes
Track and monitor implementation of Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Plan.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
PROJECT/GOAL 4:Review One Water Plan
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
PROJECT/GOAL 3:
One water plan will analyze using the right
water for the correct purpose and how to
leverage existing water supplies
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
California is in a record drought and should analyze all water resources within the City. Implementation of the One Water Plan will be the next step in the process.
Improved water quality and environmental
enhancement
HIGH PRIORITY LOWER PRIORITY
1) Review GSI feature at Hopkins near Rinconada Park.
2) Review EPA grant -funded Greening Parking Lots Project with staff.
1) Review and comment on tool to measure impervious surface throughout City.
2) Review and comment on GSI specifications for the GSI Maintenance and
Monitoring Manual.