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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-01-12 City Council Summary MinutesCITY COUNCIL/PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT CORPORATION SUMMARY MINUTES Page 1 of 20 Special Meeting January 12, 2026 The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date in the Council Chambers at 5:30 p.m. Present In Person: Burt, Lauing, Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl, Stone, Veenker Present Remotely: None Absent: None Call to Order Mayor Veenker called the meeting to order. The clerk called the roll with all present. Closed Session 1. Subject: Initiation of litigation in one case Authority: Potential Exposure to Litigation Under Government Code Section 54956.9(d) (4) Number of potential cases: 1, as Plaintiff Public Comment: None. MOTION: Council Member Lauing moved, seconded by Council Member Lu, to go into Closed Session. MOTION PASSED: 7-0 Council went into Closed Session at 5:32 p.m. Council returned from Closed Session at 6:20 p.m. Mayor Veenker announced that the City Council authorized the City Attorney to initiate litigation in one case. Agenda Changes, Additions and Deletions SUMMARY MINUTES Page 2 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 City Manager Ed Shikada suggested potentially deferring Item 5 depending on the time. Public Comment 1. Sven T. showed a presentation about hope by Dr. Jamil Zaki, the Director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab. Sven T. wanted an all-electric Palo Alto, which was motivated by a sense of responsibility to steward the earth for the next generation. Sven T. desired to set a date and work toward all electric residential, commercial, and industrial sites. 2. Sarah S. showed a page from Palo Alto's website which explained the effects of smoking. Tobacco use killed nearly 40,000 Californians per year. Utilizing a natural gas burner was the same or more harmful than secondhand smoke. Researchers at the Stanford Doerr School measured benzene emissions from stoves in 87 homes and found that natural gas and propane stoves emitted benzene that reached indoor concentrations above benchmarks set by WHO and above the upper range of indoor concentrations seen with secondhand tobacco smoke. Stoves leaked methane even when turned off. Sarah S. believed it was important to spread awareness about this topic. 3. Zara H. showed the City-provided pamphlet about gas safety and appliances and felt more information needed to be added to the health section. The pamphlet did not mention the harmful substances emitted by gas appliances, including benzene, methane, and nitrogen dioxide. It also did not mention that younger children and senior citizens were more susceptible. 4. Avroh S. appreciated the passing of the Dark Sky Ordinance last month . Avroh S. hoped that Council would urge and help residents electrify gas stoves. Avroh S. mentioned that the gas safety brochure did not include negative health effects. Children in homes with gas stoves were 42 percent more likely to develop asthma. Avroh S. was willing to work with Council and staff to develop solutions. 5. Peter D. commented on the leadership changes at 3rdThursday. A petition garnered 30 signatures from business owners along Cal Ave who wanted to see leadership change. Peter D. filed a Public Records Act request and received the petition, which had 30 names but no affiliations and it was unclear how many signatures were business owners. Carol Garsten had collected more signatures which supported keeping her over a 2-year period. 6. Alice S. believed the most important things about switching to induction stoves were limiting indoor air pollution and creating a healthy indoor and outdoor environment. 7. Walter C. had helped start 3rdThursdays with Carol Garsten and was upset the event had been canceled and the way the news was divulged. There was a petition which asked for Carol Garsten's removal. The Chamber Foundation canceled support when SUMMARY MINUTES Page 3 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 Carol Garsten requested a fiscal sponsorship agreement. Carol Garsten went to the City Manager to seek support while obtaining a new sponsor but was told the City canceled the event. Council had allocated $40,000 to fund 3rdThursday 3 months prior. Walter C. was confused why Council allocated funds when the City Manager canceled the event and felt there was a lack of transparency. Walter C. opined that 3rdThursday was a successful event and that Carol Garsten's reputation was tarnished by false accusations. 8. Claudia B., the Director of the Palo Alto School of Chamber Music, supported Carol Garsten. Claudia B.'s musicians were featured at 3rdThursday on October 16, 2025. 9. Hilary G., the co-leader of the Palo Alto 350 Silicon Valley team, spoke in support of Carol Garsten and 3rdThursday. Hilary G. encouraged the City to work with tenants on Cal Ave to find a solution to the issue. Hilary G. was excited to hear more discussion around induction cooktops. 10. Herb B. attended last Wednesday's UAC meeting on the fiber project update. The City being an internet service provider was a key decision to not do bond funding. Herb B. wanted someone to run the network who had demonstrated competence and commitment to privacy. Herb B. suggested the City extend the Dark Fiber network and set up the fiber project as a separate fund and to be a customer of the Dark Fiber network. 11. Deborah G. showed a flyer posted around town that depicted a City-sponsored event on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The flyer was red, black, green, and white. Deborah G. was upset and felt the flyer was provocative. 12. Valen V. said that gas stoves were a root cause of polluted environments and increased emissions. Gas stoves released toxic fumes such as methane, which was detrimental to young children's health and was carcinogenic. Valen V. wanted the City to move to an all-electric utility. Mayor Veenker explained that Council could not engage with subjects not on the agenda but suggested the Youth Climate Advisory Board as a way to provide input. Council Member Burt noted that the Sustainability and Climate Action Committee had received similar recommendations regarding the health effects of gas and said the Committee agreed that the messaging on electrification should focus more on the health impacts. Council Member Questions, Comments and Announcements Mayor Veenker congratulated Bloomington, Indiana and Indiana University's football program. Mayor Veenker mentioned the ICE shooting in Minneapolis. Approximately 400 Palo Alto residents attended a vigil in front of City Hall. Mayor Veenker called for a full and independent SUMMARY MINUTES Page 4 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 investigation of the incident, including an investigation of policies and training or lack thereof in things like de-escalation and provision of medical care. Palo Alto will continue its policy of police independence from ICE. Mayor Veenker quoted the police chief . The City will continue to pursue legal actions that prevent the federal government from withholding grant funding absent cooperation with ICE. A resolution that Council adopted last year resulted in the City joining 3 federal lawsuits, which successfully procured preliminary injunctions that protect from executive orders that would otherwise threaten the City's federal funding based on the policy to not take direction from ICE. Council Member Lauing and Mayor Veenker had met with the incoming Consul General of Germany, Theo Kidess, last week. Council Member Lythcott-Haims appreciated Mayor Veenker's comments about the Minneapolis shooting of Renee Good. Council Member Lythcott-Haims directed people to julieforpaloalto.com to learn how to get involved. The life of a middle-aged adult ended on the train tracks over the weekend. Candles & Hugs occurred on January 4 to commemorate and offer support to those affected by youth suicide. The Cubberley ad hoc continued work to prepare a ballot measure to put before residents in the fall. Council Member Lythcott-Haims encouraged participation in the third poll that went out to the community last week. At the groundbreaking of Fire Station 4, a time capsule was opened and a note was read. Study Session 2. Review and Discuss 2025 Q4 Council Priorities & Objectives and format of the 2026 City Council Annual Retreat. CEQA Status – Not a project. Assistant to the City Manager Lupita Alamos said there were 4 Council priorities: Climate Action and Adaptation, & Natural Environment Protection (CA&NEP); Economic Development and Retail Vibrancy; Implementing Housing Strategies for Social and Economic Balance; and Public Safety, Wellness, and Belonging. There were 70 objectives which supported the implementation of the 4 priorities. At the end of the fourth quarter in 2025, 66 percent of those objectives were marked as completed; 23 percent were marked as behind; 7 percent were on track with a change in scope; and 4 percent were placed on hold. Public Works Director Brad Eggleston said there were 24 objectives within the CA&NEP priority, of which 74 percent were completed in 2025. Director Eggleston highlighted some completed projects. A slide showed the 5 objectives marked as on-track or behind. None were on hold, with several expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026. Economic Development Manager Alex Andrade explained the Economic Development and Retail Vibrancy priority was made up of interventions and investments that enhance d Palo Alto's business climate and ensured a healthy local economy. The 2025 University Ave vacancy rate was approximately 13 percent, the same as a year ago. In the third quarter of 2025, the SUMMARY MINUTES Page 5 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 retail vacancy rate on Cal Ave was 6.4 percent, down from the approximate 12 percent a year prior. Last year, roughly 38 retail and commercial businesses opened in Palo Alto. There were 12 objectives. Completed objectives included work on the new parking structure downtown; downtown cleanliness enhancements; and an ordinance restoring subjective wireless communication facility regulations. A slide showed projects that were on track, behind, or on hold. Regarding objective 2.1.1, parklet and sidewalk dining options and illustrations were developed for year-round weather based on merchant feedback. Objective 2.1.2 was bifurcated into 2 separate projects. One project was in progress and anticipated to be completed in late Q3 or early Q4 of 2026. The other project was on hold. Regarding Objective 2.1.5, spherical bollards and meridian barriers will be installed on Ramona Street by end of the month. The project associated with Objective 2.2.2 was to propose options and recommendations to reduce regulatory barriers for businesses applying for permits. Planning and Development Services Director Jonathan Lait said that, of the 20 objectives within the Implementing Housing Strategies for Social and Economic Balance priority, about 70 percent were completed or on track. A number of housing production-related ordinances were introduced that increased the housing production in commercial and multi-family areas. The Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance was updated. Last year, 244 ADU applications were filed with the City, the highest number to date. There were over 3,000 housing units in the pipeline to go through the entitlement and building permit processes. Work begun on the San Antonio Road Area Plan and staff engaged with Alta Housing on Lot T. Ideas were presented to Council on the Fair Chance Ordinance. Development impact fees were updated and phase 1 was initiated to address oversized vehicle impacts. A slide showed the 6 projects behind or on-hold. Project Housekey had initial delays in construction but the revised schedule remained on track with completion anticipated in the spring. The project to identify funding sources for affordable housing development was on hold due to staff working on other projects. The 2 projects related to rental registry and anti-rent gouging will go to the Policy & Services Committee in March with updates. The downtown housing plan project was on track. Staff will meet with the Council-appointed ad hoc to discuss an incorporation of SB79 into the planning initiative. Deputy City Manager Chantal Cotton-Gains stated that, of the 14 objectives within the Public Safety, Wellness, and Belonging priority, 79 percent were completed. Deputy City Manager Chantal Cotton-Gains highlighted some of the projects completed. There were 3 objectives not completed. There were 26 items within the Wellness and Belonging Action Plan, which was in progress but behind schedule. The opening of the 445 Bryant Street Community Center was recently completed. The work on the Ground Based Augmentation System project was ongoing. Assistant to the City Manager Alamos noted that the Council priorities dashboard was launched and available on the Council priorities webpage. On December 29, 2025, the Policy and Services Committee met to provide feedback on the retreat process. The Committee recommended that SUMMARY MINUTES Page 6 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 Council continue the 2025 priorities into 2026 and focus the retreat on the development and prioritization of mid-level goals, which were a way to bridge the existing Council priorities with detailed SMARTIE objectives. Assistant to the City Manager Alamos went over the proposed agenda. Assistant to the City Manager Alamos asked Council to provide questions or feedback on the 2025 priority outcomes and to recommend a process for the 2026 retreat. City Manager Ed Shikada noted that the Policy and Services Committee expressed an interest in reducing the number of objectives. Mayor Veenker said that the Policy and Services Committee's recommendation to continue the priorities for a second year was affirming Council's prior recommendation to have a 2-year cycle. The mid-level goals were designed to give staff greater direction without micromanaging how the goals were accomplished. Mid-level goals were consistent with what the Policies and Procedures Manual said about objectives. Last year, staff did not get the list of the 70 objectives until May. Mayor Veenker recommended objectives be prioritized into tier 1 and tier 2 as described in the staff report. Council Member Reckdahl agreed that having 70 objectives was too many. Council Member Reckdahl stated that priorities were meant to be narrow categories in which exceptional progress was made over a short-term period as opposed to enduring values, such as housing and climate. Council Member Reckdahl wondered how to tie objectives to enduring values. Council Member Burt believed that having detailed objectives had a positive impact by enabling clearer focus and deadlines and promoted accountability when deadlines were not met. The City Manager gave quarterly updates on the list of objectives, which kept focus and public awareness. Council Member Burt liked the idea of mid-level goals. The Policies and Procedures Manual mentioned objectives. Council Member Burt thought the detailed projects helped fulfil higher-level objectives and that there could be both mid-level goals and specific projects. Council Member Burt liked the suggestion of having tiers for the most important goals. Council Member Burt agreed that some of the Council priorities were enduring values. Council Member Lythcott-Haims noted that people could have different definitions of things like enduring values, priorities, etc. Council Member Lythcott -Haims felt that the impression from staff was the objectives were Council's objectives. Council Member Lythcott -Haims wanted to know what percentage of staff's workload was comprised of the 70 listed objectives and what Council objectives would not be prioritized otherwise. Council Member Lauing agreed that having 70 objectives was too many and was not achievable with the resources available. Council Member Lauing was in favor of weighting the objectives. Council Member Lauing wanted clarification of what mid-level objectives were and wanted to have clear definitions. Council Member Lauing was unsure if Council should make the decision before the retreat to not make changes to the 4 priorities. Council Member Lu liked the idea of having a priority that was focused around internal capability and efficiency. Council Member Lu agreed that 70 objectives was too many. Some SUMMARY MINUTES Page 7 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 objectives in the current list were vague and not informative to Council. Council Member Lu believed having fewer but harder goals was important. Council Member Lu wanted to give staff clear direction on why certain projects were getting done and clear metrics that Council wanted to achieve. Vice Mayor Stone liked the idea of creating harder, more concrete goals. Vice Mayor Stone agreed with having the same 4 priorities for the retreat and that having 70 objectives was overly ambitious. Vice Mayor Stone questioned if staff not having long-term priorities, like climate and housing, would make the work more challenging and how staff could achieve enduring values while taking on additional priorities. Vice Mayor Stone suggested having certain objectives be 2-year objectives to align with the 2-year priority cycle. City Manager Shikada said staff and Council had shared ownership of the items on the list. Staff looked to Council for direction on what was most important, which was reflected in the list of objectives, what was brought forward as part of the budget, policy options, etc. City Manager Shikada wanted to come out of the retreat with the statements set. Public Comment: Hamilton was concerned that mid-level goals were not SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound). Hamilton wanted to keep a 1-year cycle for Council priorities in order to remain adaptable and maintain the ability to respond rapidly given the rapid changes in the political environment. Hamilton wanted an increased focus on Utility alignment with Council goals and priorities. Mayor Veenker said it was not a mandatory rule to have 2-year priorities. Mayor Veenker referenced the Council values in the Policies and Procedures handbook, noting some differences between enduring values and priorities. Mayor Veenker wondered what the best structure was for Council to give staff more direction on prioritization. Mayor Veenker clarified that objectives would still be created but a lot would be done by staff pursuant to fewer recommendations. The objectives would still be SMARTIE objectives. Objectives could be generated by staff with Council input or be referred to Committees in some instances. Council Member Burt stated that Council values would remain very important to the City. Council Member Burt referenced page 35 on the Council Protocols booklet and emphasized that the goal was to have no more than 3 or 4 priorities per year that had a 2-to-3-year time limit and would receive particular, unusual, and significant attention. Mayor Veenker suggested the proposed agenda have a discussion of values, priorities, and suggested mid-level goals and wanted everyone on the same page about nomenclature. Council Member Reckdahl felt that broadening the priorities lost the idea of making exceptional progress on specific, narrow areas. Council Member Reckdahl questioned if all objectives must be tied to a priority. City Manager Shikada expected to provide additional information to Council in advance of the retreat. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 8 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 Council Member Lythcott-Haimes noted that staff time had been redirected from housing objective 3.2.6 to other work, such as OSV impacts, due to a lack of staff resources. During the October 20, 2025, meeting on OSV impacts and RV dwellings, Council was not presented with that tradeoff. Council Member Lythcott-Haimes asked staff to speak to that. Council Member Lythcott-Haimes mentioned the new Teen Center at 445 Bryant and asked which teen groups were worked with and what the results will be. Council Member Lythcott -Haimes asked which teens received the survey. Mayor Veenker referenced Climate Action priority 1.2.3 and noted that the PTC requested further amendments to address concerns about the potential impacts to properties . The revised ordinance was anticipated to return to the PTC in 2026. Mayor Veenker asked if Council will see that item this year. Assistant to the City Manager Melissa McDonough said that, at the October 20, 2025, meeting, Council gave direction to start work immediately on time-bound matters, while the housing objective had a more open timeline. City Manager Shikada said the City had been engaged in legislative initiatives regarding affordable housing funding. Community Services Director Kristen O’Kane stated the Teen Center will open in February. Teens were engaged via an online survey, which was posted on social media and sent to teen leadership groups who then shared it with their networks. There was an open house at the Teen Center at the Mitchell Community Center. There were workshops in which teens created mock-up drawings of a teen center. Those mock-ups were scaled down and teens were asked to weigh in on the options. Director Lait said that objective 1.2.3 will come before Council this year. The plan was for the item to go to the PTC in the first quarter and then come to Council. NO ACTION Consent Calendar Public Comment: None. Council Member Lythcott-Haims registered a no vote on Agenda Item Number 10 and 11. MOTION: Council Member Reckdahl moved, seconded by Council Member Lauing to approve Agenda Item Numbers 3-12. MOTION PASSED ITEMS 3-9, 12: 7-0 MOTION PASSED ITEMS 10, 11: 6-1, Lythcott-Haims no 3. Approval of Minutes from December 8, December 10, and December 15, 2025 Meetings SUMMARY MINUTES Page 9 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 4. Adoption of Memorandum of Agreement with Service Employees International Union Hourly Unit effective upon adoption through December 31, 2027; and Adoption of Compensation Plan for Unrepresented Limited Hourly Employee effective upon adoption through June 30, 2028; CEQA Status - Not a project 5. Approval of Professional Services Contract Number C26195486 with Baron Contracting in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $514,528 for Gas Leak Survey Services for a Period of Three Years. CEQA Status – Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301(c) and 15308 (Existing Facilities). 6. Approval of a Contract with the Media Center for Cable Casting Services of Public Meetings for a Term of Three Years and a Not to Exceed Amount of $540,000 with Two One-Year Options to Extend for a Potential Not to Exceed amount of $900,000 over a five-year term, for cablecasting, production, and streaming services; CEQA Status – Not a Project. 7. Approve the City Manager or Designee to Execute Purchase Order C26196045 with Insight Public Sector, Utilizing a County of Riverside Cooperative Contract ITARC-00930, to Procure Microsoft Enterprise Software Licensing, Cloud Services, and Server/Data Center Licensing for a 3-Year Term with a maximum Total Not-To-Exceed Amount of $2,506,936, inclusive of a Contingency in the Amount of $50,000 Annually. 8. FIRST READING: Adoption of an ordinance to Amend Chapters 4.54 and 4.56 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Amend the Regulation of Massage Establishments and Hot Tub/Sauna Establishments as Recommended by the Policy & Services Committee; and Adoption of a Resolution to Amend the Administrative Penalty Schedule to Amend Related Penalties; CEQA status - not a project. 9. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Renewing the Military Equipment Use Policy in Compliance with Govt. Code Section 7070 et seq. (2025-2026) (FIRST READING: December 8, 2025; PASSED 7-0) 10. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Prohibiting Parking of Detached Trailers and Other Non-Motorized Vehicles on Public Streets (FIRST READING: December 8, 2025; PASSED 6-1, Lythcott-Haims no) 11. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Prohibiting Rental of Vehicles for Human Habitation (FIRST READING: December 8, 2025; PASSED 6-1, Lythcott-Haims no) 12. SECOND READING: Interim Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Temporarily Extending Interim Ordinance 5645, Amending Various Chapters of Title 16 (Building Regulations) and Title 18 (Zoning) and Title 21 (Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Implement Recent State Housing Laws (FIRST READING: December 8, 2025, PASSED 7-0) SUMMARY MINUTES Page 10 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 Council Member Lythcott-Haims referenced the motion that Council passed on October 20, 2025, regarding the impacts of RV dwellers on businesses and residents and the intent to investigate more safe parking options for RV dwellers. Council Member Lythcott-Haims was concerned that one part was proceeding with greater expediency than the other. City Manager Comments City Manager Ed Shikada said the new community center will be located at 429 Bryant Street due to a change of address, as the 445 Bryant Street address was a parking garage. The grand opening details were being finalized but room reservations had already begun being taken. The Enjoy catalog will be moved to a digital format. Resident registration for summer camps will begin on February 5. Upcoming events in January will include the final movie at Cubberley on January 14 and the Lunar New Year on January 25, with more details on the City's calendar. The Public Art Program launched a new round of ArtLift grants available for local artists. The deadline to apply will be February 20. A slide showed the tentative upcoming Council items. The January 15 meeting will be closed session only. There will be no meeting on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Council will meet on Jan 20. January 24 will be the Council retreat and there will be no meeting on January 26. The retreat will start at 9:00 a.m. with no specific end time. Action Items 13. Study and Assessment of Palo Alto Turf Systems and Direct Staff to Proceed with El Camino Park Synthetic Turf Replacement and Natural Grass Pilot; CEQA Status – Categorically and Statutorily Exempt Open Space Parks & Golf Division Manager Sarah Robustelli explained that community service managed 4 synthetic turf fields across 3 locations: El Camino Park, Stanford and Palo Alto Community Playing Fields (Mayfield), and Cubberley. El Camino Park was originally scheduled for synthetic replacement but Council directed staff to pause the project and redirect funding toward a comprehensive turf study. The Mayfield project was substantially completed in December 2025. Cubberley was anticipated for replacement in 2028. The study objective was to evaluate turf for athletic fields with a focus on environmental and health considerations, cost, and usability. The scope was adjusted to incorporate the Santa Clara County Public Health Report released January 28, 2025. The intent of the study was to establish a consistent framework to support informed decision making for future athletic field replacements . A slide showed the project calendar and community engagement. Division Manager Robustelli underscored the robust community engagement that occurred throughout the process. The project launched in June 2025 and included focus groups in July. A draft report was released on August 13, 2025, followed by a formal public comment period through September 3. The study was discussed at multiple Parks and Recreation meetings and was presented to Council on SUMMARY MINUTES Page 11 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 November 17. Council formed an ad hoc committee, which met on November 24 and December 9. During the 2 ad hoc meetings, staff was asked to clarify risk mitigation measures. The Parks and Watershed Protection/Storm Drain work groups met at 3 locations to evaluate the need for storm drain filters. At Mayfield, drainage was subsurface and there were no open drains requiring filtration. At El Camino Park, staff ordered 13 inlet hat filters and 3 exterior sock filters for installation. At Cubberley, filters were in place and staff was evaluating whether additional filtration was warranted. Key areas of concern included PFAS testing, infill materials, stormwater protection, surface heat, and ongoing GMAX monitoring. Historically, PFAS testing was not conducted for synthetic turf materials but moving forward, staff will pursue material testing and manufacturer verification as part of replacement projects . The recommendation before Council significantly reduced the plastic content compared to what currently existed at El Camino Park. Previously, the fields used TPE infill. The proposed replacement would use natural cork infill, which used less plastic and reduced surface temperatures. Stormwater protection was strengthened, as earlier fields did not include storm drain filtration as a standard practice. GMAX monitoring was conducted annually to monitor surface hardness. Staff will continue to monitor with increased scrutiny as the fields approach end of life. The study evaluated systemwide playability and capacity impacts. Based on the current usage and the City standard of winter closure for natural grass fields, removing the synthetic turf at El Camino Park would displace approximately 1,221 players annually, including 570 Palo Alto residents. There was no available capacity at other fields to absorb the displaced use during the winter season. It was recommended that Council direct staff to proceed with replacing the synthetic turf fields at El Camino Park using improved synthetic turf and implement risk management measures ; pursue a natural grass pilot project; and continue exploring opportunities to transition away from synthetic turf at Cubberley over time. Once cost estimates were available for the natural grass pilot, staff will return to Council for review, which was anticipated to occur as part of the FY 2027 budget. Mayor Veenker was the chair of the ad hoc committee. The 2 in-depth ad hoc meetings focused on how to minimize the concerns about synthetic fields. The Committee learned that synthetic fields had improved with less blade shedding. There were plans to mitigate blade shedding and to keep blades out of stormwater drains, such as by field sweeping, using drain hats and socks, etc. The City will test to confirm that the turf used will not contain PFAS. The turf will use only organic infill. There was no way to replace the El Camino field with natural grass without displacing a large number of players. Going forward, it was recommended that Council direct ways to transition away from future replacement of fields with synthetic turf by increasing playing hours on other fields, beginning with the enhanced grass pilot. For the upcoming Cubberley replacement, staff could consider utilizing hybrid turf. Council Member Lauing explained that the reason for deferring the item to this evening was because Council did not have comprehensive data from the consultant on all the concerns to SUMMARY MINUTES Page 12 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 make a fully informed decision. In the interim, Council had the benefit of hearing from many citizens. Emails from parents asked to retain the artificial turf so as to not affect the winter season. Emails were received from doctors stating that the current generation of artificial turf products was better than before and that mental health was as important as physical health. The ad hoc believed the current staff report represented a balanced approach. Council Member Burt noted that the filler materials at Mayfield had already been changed to cork, which had a positive environmental, health, and heat impact. Council Member Burt wanted to know whether there must be artificial turf at El Camino Park in order to meet the playability user needs. The data proved there must be. Council Member Burt had significant concerns about the blades because earlier materials had PFAS. Council Member Burt had also been concerned about runoff from nanoplastics, which will be mitigated via drainage filtration. Public Comment: 1. Manny D., a consultant for TenCate grass, previously submitted a letter. Manny D. thanked staff for doing the study and noted that lot of improvements had been made to artificial turf. TenCate had been PFAS-free since 2023 and had a product with no infill. 2. Angela D. was happy that one of the priorities was the protection of the natural environment. Angela D. suggested that the artificial turf being better than before did not mean it was good for the environment. Angela D. noted the increased demand for field usage despite there being fewer children in Palo Alto than before and did not know if it was good for students to put in that many hours of practice per week. 3. Claire E. stated there was plentiful evidence that plastic was harmful to people and the planet. PFAS was only one additive that could leech out of plastics and be incorporated into the material that would break down into the environment. Claire E. was upset that the City was still considering utilizing artificial turf and felt it was not an environmentally sound decision. Claire E. wanted Council to formally reject the turf study and remove it from the website. 4. Magdalena C. asked Council to reject the turf study and promise to run a pilot study of grass turf in Palo Alto in order to make a fair comparison between plastic and real grass. Magdalena C. noted that many studies showed there were more injuries sustained by players on artificial turf. Magdalena C. thought the analysis was flawed. 5. Andrea W. was upset that Council wanted to go forward with the artificial turf. Andrea W. did not oppose soccer fields but felt many did not truly understand the hazards, especially of microplastics and nanoplastics. Andrea W. wanted well maintained grass instead of plastic fields. 6. Travis K., president of the Palo Alto Adult Soccer League, said the nonprofit rented and held at least 20 soccer games in any given week with 500-plus players. Travis K. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 13 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 appreciated Council and Committee's consideration of all the concerns. Travis K. believed the benefits of artificial fields significantly outweighed the detriments. 7. Jeff G. supported the ad hoc and staff recommendation. Jeff G. noted the mental, physical, and social health benefits that soccer offered. Adult leagues offered uniquely broadened social interactions. Not replacing the artificial turf at El Camino would increase the environmental footprint due to lengthier car trips, reduced bike trips, traffic congestion, etc. 8. Omar Z., a 7th grader at Greene Middle School, supported an artificial turf field at El Camino. Artificial turf fields supported sport activities year-round, especially in the winter, which was important to mental health. Maintaining grass fields in Palo Alto was a big challenge. Grass fields had holes that caused a lot of injuries and could cause skin allergies for some children. 9. Robert F. had been an AYSO coach and said teams needed the opportunity to play and practice in the late fall and winter. Artificial turf fields afforded that opportunity. Robert F. encouraged Council to keep artificial turf fields. 10. Adriana F., a soccer player, believed the City should keep artificial turf at the El Camino fields due to the increased accessibility. During inclement weather, such as rain, artificial turf fields could be used. Adriana F. stated it was harder to take care of grass fields, such as those at Greer Park. Turf fields were safer than grass due to being more even, as grass fields could be bumpy and have potholes. 11. Ann L. coached at the Palo Alto Soccer Club and felt that access to a consistent, safe playing surface was important. Ann L. understood the concerns about PFAS, plastics, and surface heat. Increasing the number of grass fields could close programs and shorten the playing seasons due to poor weather conditions or lack of proper lighting. Ann L. had seen 8 players tear ACLs on grass fields, with several others rolling an ankle. Fewer players got injured on turf fields. 12. Fernando L. was in favor of keeping artificial turf at the El Camino fields. Fernando L. coached in Palo Alto for over 10 years and had not heard parents express concern s about playing on turf fields. Players wanted to be at the turf fields. More than 1 player confided that soccer was very important to mental health. Removing an artificial turf field would negatively affect mental health because of concerns over physical health. Fernando L. thought grass fields were not well kept. 13. Sarah W. supported an artificial turf field at El Camino. Sarah W. appreciated the concerns but felt that, after researching and weighing the options, an artificial turf field would be preferred. 14. David L., a soccer coach, supported keeping artificial turf fields and stated that restrictions on fields could impact livelihood. According to the CDC, 36 percent of kids SUMMARY MINUTES Page 14 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 were obese or overweight. David L. opined that the benefits outweighed the risk. There were a lot of tournaments held in Palo Alto, which would not be possible without artificial turf fields. 15. Jeff H., a coach, said that without quality field space, children lost practice time and joy. Coaches had to cut games, and thus creativity and connection. Soccer was one of the last spaces where children came together after school away from phones and led to friendships and confidence. 16. Nicolas C-R. will be a college soccer player, which would not have been possible without the proper facilities and the ability to play on artificial turf fields in Palo Alto. S occer was a fundamental part of childhood. Taking away turf fields would take away possibilities for future children. Nicolas C-R. said that not having the Mayfield complex took away a sense of identity and the ability to reduce stress. 17. Elsie P. played college soccer. Year-round access to reliable, high-quality fields in Palo Alto played a key role in the ability to reach her goal. Nearby fields in Palo Alto made it easy to bike to practice. Elsie P. believed that accessibility was important. The El Camino fields were a resource used daily by hundreds of young children and athletes. Switching to natural grass would cause frequent closures due to wear and maintenance issues. Elsie P. appreciated the City's environmental goals and concerns but felt it was important to consider the impact on youth development and accessibility. 18. James S., a college soccer player, felt that the environmental benefits from natural grass fields did not justify taking away the opportunity to play from 500 to 1,000 children. James S. had played on poorly maintained grass fields and on artificial turf and reported that injuries were more common on grass fields because they were uneven. 19. Monique P.'s son broke his ankle while playing on a grass field during a tournament because it got caught in a hole on the field. Monique P.'s son was out of the sport for over 6 months, which caused negative mental and physical health effects. Monique P. wanted to keep artificial turf fields and stated that grass fields had less maintenance. 20. Cynthia F. said that plastic polluted the water cycle. A reduction in plastic production was being pursued as part of the Global Plastics Treaty, though progress was stalled by industry and the federal government. To help reduce pollution of the water cycle, it was important for communities to work at the local level to voluntarily reduce plastic consumption. Cynthia F. wanted to normalize using less plastic. Per the staff report, converting El Camino's field to natural grass would require 570 people, less than 1 percent of Palo Alto's residents, to shift other activities for a few months in order to benefit 100 percent of residents by helping reduce microplastics in water. 21. Robin P. felt that being able to practice year-round was important and artificial turf fields made that possible. During the winter, artificial turf fields allowed players to keep SUMMARY MINUTES Page 15 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 training instead of canceling practice. Without artificial turf, it would be hard for players to improve and stay motivated. 22. Wendy L. supported synthetic turf fields. Playing soccer helped children stay healthy, focused, and confident. Wendy L. stated that artificial turf fields made a significant difference for families. 23. Adam O. advocated maintaining the artificial turf field at El Camino. Adam O. believed the impacts to the environment were small and worth the cost in order to benefit thousands of people. Adam O. was a professor in public health and noted that soccer players looked healthy. 24. Pete C., the regional commissioner for Palo Alto AYSO, on behalf of the organization, supported the effort to improve the artificial turf fields. Pete C. opined it was important to provide opportunities for children. Pete C. had heard safety complaints regarding holes in grass fields. 25. Natalie S., who played soccer, agreed it was important to maintain public health and reduce plastic in the environment but felt there were other ways to do that. The drawbacks of taking away artificial turf fields and the physical impact of not playing soccer and having time outside for many months outweighed the benefit to the environment. 26. Linda H-K., the cofounder of Mothers Out Front Silicon Valley, supported all grass fields at El Camino. Grass was better for children's health, safety, the environment, and the climate. Linda H-K. encouraged Council to be skeptical of industry claims that artificial turf was safe. Linda H-K. noted that synthetic turf was unsafe, which had been documented by health professionals who requested Santa Clara County ban artificial turf. Linda H-K. urged Council to insist that all real grass fields be well maintained so children could play safely. 27. Nicole L. had a friend in high school who got 3 concussions playing on artificial turf fields despite no significant change in playing style. Nicole L. stated that many high school athletes could attest to the fact that artificial turf was not better than natural grass and suggested the El Camino fields be natural grass. 28. Andria V., who represented the Clean Water Action organization, said that the environmental impacts of artificial turf were not minor and caused large problems related to off-gassing and plastic pollution that negatively affect public health. While manufacturers may not use PFAS to make the product, there were PFAS used in the machinery that extruded the blades. Andria V. claimed there had never been an artificial turf that tested negative for PFAS. 29. Laura F. urged Council to reject the installation of plastic turf for health, environmental, and safety reasons and did not want Council to trust in industry self-reporting on PFAS SUMMARY MINUTES Page 16 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 levels. Laura F. stated there were well publicized scientific findings linking PFAS to cancer and endocrine disruption. If Council voted in favor of artificial turf, Laura F. proposed Council mandate highly visible safety warnings alongside the turf fields, much like Prop 65 labeling, regarding the health hazards of PFAS exposure. 30. Leanne M. was a soccer mom who supported real grass, noting that children who play on artificial turf fields could encounter microplastics, other toxins, and excessive heat. Children did not have a choice as to what fields they played on. Leanne M. opined that families who supported synthetic turf were relying on an incomplete staff report. Leanne M. believed the City had a duty to protect children from the worry and risks of toxic exposures by exercising precautionary principles in times of scientific doubt. 31. Becky S. agreed with the previous speaker and said that Council should not have to choose between 2 options. Becky S. had concerns about how well the mitigation measures would be enforced and was unsure if the City will hold companies and individuals accountable to ensure the mitigation efforts would be properly carried out. Becky S. urged Council to vote no on artificial turf fields. 32. Pam B. asked Council to not approve the study and assessment given the questions and concerns expressed by Council and the community at the last meeting. Pam B. supported the natural grass pilot project. Newer artificial turf was warranted to lose up to 50 percent of blade height, with a more limited warranty for high use areas. A field in San Jose utilized infill-free synthetic turf and had seen a large amount of shedding over the past year. Cork infill could still get hot. Pam B. suggested the City install heat monitors on the field and signs that informed about the health risks from artificial turf. 33. Susan H., Chair of the Sierra Club Loma Prieta Plastic Pollution Prevention Committee, noted the impacts of the climate crisis seen in California, including wildfires, floods, droughts, and extreme heat, and the rise in disease. Susan H. believed installing artificial turf fields actively contributed to global decline. Biodiversity supported mental and physical health. 34. Courtney J., a soccer coach, practiced on an artificial turf field at Fair Oaks Park in Sunnyvale, which had all the improvements discussed this evening. Organic infill was not chemical free, but rather made from plants and then modified. Courtney J. had seen infill on children's cleats. Artificial turf fields could be closed as well for things like renovation. Courtney J. encouraged real grass fields. 35. Avni D., a soccer player for 10 years, urged the City to install organically managed real grass sports fields. Artificial turf had a 58 percent increase in injuries. Avni D. had rolled and broken ankles, seen his brother break a tibia, and witnessed teammates lose a soccer scholarship due to a torn ACL, all on artificial turf fields in the winter. P roponents of artificial turf said that grass fields were not properly maintained, which was the root SUMMARY MINUTES Page 17 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 problem. Avni D.'s teammates would rather play on well-maintained grass fields. The City should focus on better maintaining grass fields. 36. Sue gave statistics about artificial turf fields and youth cancer in western democracies. Countries such as Greece, Ireland, Sweden, and Norway had relatively low youth cancer rates and relatively few artificial turf fields for youth sports. Though correlation was not causation, Sue felt it was an important correlation to take note of. 37. Shruti G. supported natural grass at El Camino Park. Even with PFAS-free and infill-free artificial turf, it was still a plastic system that would heat up and shed microplastics, which could impact the Baylands ecosystem. Shruti G. noted that the best soccer players around the world trained and competed on natural grass fields. Playing on natural grass in the rain was better due to better design and drainage. Shruti G. believed that natural grass was the most responsible long-term choice for children's health, the environment, and Palo Alto's values. 38. Nick S. stated there were no good substitutes for artificial turf fields. Well -maintained grass fields were not available in Palo Alto. Synthetic turf fields were invaluable for offering more playing time, durability, and a better surface with fewer injuries. The grass fields in Palo Alto had ruts and holes. Nick S. did not want to remove artificial turf fields. 39. Vivek K., a soccer player for the Palo Alto Soccer Club, was in favor of the El Camino field remaining as a synthetic turf field. Without the artificial turf field at El Camino, Vivek K.'s teammates could not enjoy the sport due to a lack of alternative fields and grass field closure in the winter months. Vivek K. believed that turf fields in Palo Alto were invaluable to the soccer community. 40. Ruchi R., a soccer player, supported real grass fields. Though artificial turf had improved, it was still plastic with chemical additives, could shed microplastics, and could heat up more than natural grass, which was not safe for players and could lead to more injuries. 41. Wenjing appreciated the concern for community health and the effort that went into improving fields like Mayfield. Soccer was a time for children to run, breathe, and connect with friends. When fields were not available, children lost practice time, joy, and routine, as seen during the Mayfield construction. 42. Roham Z., a physician and father of 2 soccer players, understood the health risks of microplastics to individuals and the community and environment. Roham Z. stated that associating an increased risk of cancer to only microplastics was confounded. Parents understood the risks of artificial turf. Roham Z. commended the community for coming together and appreciated all the viewpoints expressed. Roham Z. was in favor of retaining and improving synthetic turf fields in Palo Alto. Council Member Reckdahl stated that youth sports were important and helped with mental health by reducing anxiety and depression, and physical activity was good. The best option SUMMARY MINUTES Page 18 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 would be to have a natural turf field, but that option did not exist for a high-use field like El Camino. Council Member Reckdahl agreed to push for a natural turf pilot program, but that will take a while. Short-term, there was no option but an artificial turf field. Microplastic exposure was everywhere. An artificial turf field will have microplastic exposure. Eliminating the artificial turf field will still leave people exposed to a large amount of microplastics. Council Member Reckdahl believed that losing the benefits of youth sports to reduce microplastic exposure by a little was a bad tradeoff. Council Member Reckdahl supported a new artificial turf field at El Camino with the new improvements. Mayor Veenker asked staff how many PAUSD fields were artificial turf. Community Services Director Kristen O’Kane did not know how many PAUSD fields were artificial turf, but some high school fields utilized artificial turf. Council Member Lythcott-Haims agreed with Council Member Reckdahl's comments. The ability to practice year-round produced better sports teams and was a competitive advantage for Californians, which helped achieve more scholarship and admission opportunities. Microplastic concerns were being understood better all the time. Council Member Lythcott-Haims was persuaded that eliminating turf fields and returning to natural grass without better natural grass solutions that allowed for year-round play would be a step backwards for mental health. Vice Mayor Stone thanked the ad hoc committee for the time, care, and seriousness of the work. The recommendation reflected the desire to meet the community's needs. Vice Mayor Stone acknowledged the parents, coaches, and children who spoke to the importance of reliable year-round access to fields. The need was real and should be taken seriously. Vice Mayor Stone did not support the staff recommendation due to a formal recommendation from the Santa Clara County Medical Association, who formally recommended against the use of artificial turf on sports fields, playgrounds, and school grounds in a December 4, 2025, email to Council. The email was in the public record. Vice Mayor Stone encouraged everyone to read the email. Vice Mayor Stone had not received a letter from the Santa Clara County Medical Association in the 6 years of being on Council and felt that Council had an obligation to listen. The issue was more complex than field access; it was a public health issue and therefore should be deferred to health experts. The Santa Clara County Medical Association's recommendation was clear that artificial turf was potentially harmful to human health and the environment. The position was grounded in peer-reviewed research, life cycle cost analysis, and a precautionary public health framework. The vote was not against youth sports or access. Vice Mayor Stone wanted to dedicate all necessary resources to invest in natural grass fields that will increase playable hours and dedicate resources to improving underutilized fields. Vice Mayor Stone desired to end synthetic turf for future uses and invest in pilot programs . Council Member Lu aligned with the ad hoc and comments from Council Members Lythcott- Haimes and Reckdahl. Other empirical studies about microplastics and chemicals showed there was not a clear conclusion regarding the health impact. Technology for natural and artificial grass fields was improving more quickly than expected. Council Member Lu believed the SUMMARY MINUTES Page 19 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 approach to look carefully at the Cubberley field and run pilots in the meantime was considered and thoughtful. In the long-term, Council Member Lu wanted to have high quality natural grass fields. Mayor Veenker agreed with Council Member Reckdahl that plastic was not ideal or good but it was everywhere. Mayor Veenker opined that the solution to solve the microplastic problem needed to be bigger than replacing an artificial turf field. The recommendation included pursuing a natural grass pilot and continuing to explore opportunities to transition from synthetic turf at Cubberley. That would improve the situation at El Camino with a better synthetic turf field from a playability and public health standpoint relative to the current situation and direct staff to craft a course to transition away from synthetic turf while maintaining playing time. MOTION: Council Member Lu moved, seconded by Council Member Lythcott-Haims to: 1. Proceed with replacing the existing synthetic turf at El Camino Park with improved synthetic turf using organic infill and to implement risk management measures, including stormwater filtration, enhanced maintenance practices, and related mitigation measures; and MOTION PASSED: 6-1, Stone no MOTION SPLIT FOR THE PURPOSE OF VOTING MOTION: Council Member Lu moved, seconded by Council Member Lythcott-Haims to: 3. Pursue a natural grass pilot project to enhance playability and durability; and 4. Continue to explore opportunities to transition from synthetic turf at Cubberley. MOTION PASSED: 7-0 Council took a 9-minute break. Recess City Council Meeting and Convene Public Improvement Corporation Meeting All Board Members of the Public Improvement Corporation were present in-person. 14. Approval of Fiscal Year 2025 Palo Alto Public Improvement Corporation's Annual Financial Report. CEQA Status - Not a Project SUMMARY MINUTES Page 20 of 20 Sp. City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 01/12/2026 Administrative Services Assistant Director Christine Paras explained that the PIC was a nonprofit led by Council that enabled the City to issue certificates of participations (COP) bonds debt to fund capital projects. The bylaws of the PIC required the Board to meet annually to approve the financial statements. The 2025 financial statements had been audited by the external auditor MGO. The PIC had 3 outstanding debt obligations totaling $138M as outlined on Table 1 on packet page 364: the 2018 refinancing COPs that refinanced the 2002b Downtown Parking Improvement project and funded renovations of the golf course; the 2019 Cal Ave Parking Garage project; and the 2021 Public Safety Building. Public Comment: None. Council Member Reckdahl asked if the bonds were callable. Assistant Director Paras said the COPs were fixed payments and were not callable. MOTION: Board Member Lauing moved, seconded by Board Member Reckdahl to approve the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Annual Financial Report for the Palo Alto Public Improvement Corporation. MOTION PASSED: 7-0 Reconvene City Council Meeting 15. Review and Approval of Suggested Changes to the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook as Recommended by the Policy and Services Committee. CEQA Status – Not a project. Agenda Item Number 15 not heard and deferred to a date uncertain. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 10:08 p.m.