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2026-04-28 Parks & Recreation Commission Agenda Packet
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Tuesday, April 28, 2026 Council Chambers & Hybrid 7:00 PM Parks and Recreation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas and minutes are available at https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Community-Services/Other- Services/Commissions/Parks-and-Recreation-Commission. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/join) Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone: 1(669)900-6833 PUBLIC COMMENTS Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to ParkRec.commission@PaloAlto.gov and will be provided to the Commission and available for inspection on the City’s website three days before the meeting. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line. Multiple individuals who wish to speak on the same item may designate a spokesperson. Spokespersons must be representing five or more verified individuals who are present either in person or via zoom. Spokespeople will be allowed up to 15 minutes, at the discretion of the presiding officer. Speaking time may be reduced if the presiding officer reduces the speaking time for individual speakers. General public comment will be heard for 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda. Speaking time may be reduced by the Chair to accommodate a larger number of speakers. PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to ParkRec.commission@PaloAlto.gov at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not accepted. Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks, posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting. TIME ESTIMATES Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS The Chair or Commission majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1.Approval of Minutes from February 24, 2026 and March 24, 2026 CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s) 1.Council Liaison Report – 5 minutes 2.Department Report – 20 minutes – Staff Presentation 3.Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates (Discussion) – 15 minutes BUSINESS ITEMS 4.Informational Update on the Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Project (PE-21000) – 30 minutes – Staff Presentation 5.Middle School Athletics Program: Future Management Model and Program Direction – 45 minutes – Staff Presentation 6.Review and Confirm the Revised Parks and Recreation Commission Fiscal Year 2027 Work Plan – 30 minutes COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s) ADJOURNMENT OTHER INFORMATION The materials below are provided for informational purposes, not for action or discussion during this meeting’s agenda. Written public comments may be submitted in advance and will be provided to the Commission and available for public inspection on the City’s website three days before the meeting. A.Public Comments PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone. 1.Written public comments may be submitted by email to ParkRec.Commission@PaloAlto.gov. 2.Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom-based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully. ◦You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in- browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up-to-date browser: Chrome 30 , Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. ◦You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. ◦When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. ◦When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments. 3.Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Council, download the Zoom application onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below. Please follow the instructions B-E above. 4.Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted. CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 999 3789 9745 Phone:1-669-900-6833 Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329-2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@PaloAlto.gov. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service. Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report From: Community Services Department Meeting Date: April 28, 2026 Report #: 2604-6285 TITLE Approval of Minutes from February 24, 2026 and March 24, 2026 BACKGROUND Staff recommends that the Parks and Recreation Commission review and approve the minutes form regular meeting February 24, 2026 and March 24, 2026. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Attachment B: March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1 Item 1 Staff Report Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 5 of 219 1 MINUTES 2 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION 3 Regular Meeting 4 February 24, 2026 5 In-Person & Virtual Conference 6 Palo Alto, California 7 8 Commissioners Present:Chair Nellis Freeman (virtual), Vice Chair Bing Wei, Vadim Axelrod, Amanda 9 Brown (joined late), Yudy Deng, Shani Kleinhaus, and Roger Smith 10 Commissioners Absent:None 11 Others Present:Councilmember Julie Lythcott-Haims 12 Staff Present: Ben Heistein, Lisa Myers, Sarah Robustelli, Chris Sanchez, and Michael 13 Warner 14 CALL TO ORDER 15 Chair Freeman called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. 16 PUBLIC COMMENT 17 None 18 AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS 19 None 20 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 21 1. Approval of Minutes from January 27, 2026 22 MOTION: Commissioner Axelrod moved, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to approve the 23 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting draft minutes of January 27, 2026. 24 MOTION PASSED: 6-0-1 (Commissioner Brown abstained) 25 CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 26 2. Council Liaison Report 27 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims reported that last night's Council meeting included the midyear 28 budget review. The City faced a projected deficit in the coming year and for the next 6 years 29 through 2032, so the City was making decisions about where to cut expenses. The State's 30 change in sales tax computation, particularly in the auto sector, was the primary cause of the 31 City's projected revenue shortfalls. Councilmember Lythcott-Haims expressed confidence in the 32 City staff and the Council being fiscally responsible, conservative, and prudent. The Council went 33 into closed session last night to discuss a builder's remedy housing project proposed by the 34 owners of the Mollie Stone's Market, who wish to build approximately 382 housing units atop a 35 renovated Mollie Stone's, located at the end of California Avenue, adjacent to a car-free street 36 and near a busy Caltrain Station. About 13 percent of the units would be affordable. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 6 of 219 37 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims is the Chair of the Council's Rail Safety Ad Hoc Committee, 38 which was formed days after a youth committed suicide at the tracks. In response to the 39 community outcry for 24/7/365 human presence at the tracks, a Paly student named Julia 40 started a petition asking the City to deploy guards at all 4 rail crossings. The Palo Alto Unified 41 School District (PAUSD) partnered with the City to pay about $1.8 million per year for guards to 42 provide a visual deterrent every hour of every day as of yesterday. In response to feedback from 43 community members, staff, and Council, there will be a 60-day study of the potential benefits, 44 downsides, and impacts on public safety of closing Churchill, for example, how ambulances 45 would reach Stanford Hospital from the east side of town if Churchill Avenue were closed. 46 During that time, the City will hold 3 community engagements to gauge public opinion on the 47 closure of Churchill. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is the regulatory agency 48 with the authority to close a street that intersects a train crossing. If the City recommends 49 closure of Churchill after the 60-day study, the City and Caltrain will go together to present the 50 circumstances to the CPUC. Before February 3, the City worked with Caltrain to purchase and 51 install anti-intrusion panels at intersections to make it difficult to walk beyond the safe crossing, 52 as well as a combination of LiDAR and AI-based assessment to detect atypical human behavior 53 near the tracks. 54 Last night, the Council held a study session on the impact of oversized vehicles parked on city 55 streets and the needs of people who live in vehicles. Councilmember Lythcott-Haims is on the 56 Oversized Vehicle Ad Hoc Committee. Under consideration are greater enforcement of the City's 57 laws through citations and towing noncompliant vehicles, regular street sweeping, deep 58 cleaning streets with RV dwellers, and seeking opportunities to lease or buy land for people to 59 live in their vehicles in a safe parking lot. The ad hoc committee is exploring a pilot program in 60 which RV dwellers pay a small fee to park in designated areas with a City permit, and the City 61 would handle their trash and sewage. The number of RV dwellers in Palo Alto has increased 62 significantly in recent years, likely due to neighboring Cities not allowing RV parking. The City 63 asked Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga's Office to convene a regional conversation in mid-April to 64 examine best practices for collectively addressing this issue. 65 3. Department Report 66 Sarah Robustelli, Division Manager for Open Space, Parks, and Golf, presented the department 67 report. Approximately 200 people attended the second annual Hearts and Harmony Valentine's 68 Day Dance on Friday, February 13, at Mitchell Park Community Center, up from 120 last year. 69 Ada's Cafe co-produced this inclusive event, welcoming community members of all ages and 70 abilities, and featuring a DJ, arts and crafts, activities, a photo booth, and light refreshments. 71 The event reached its preregistration maximum of 250 participants with an additional 98 72 individuals on the waitlist. 73 Celebrate friendship during February with the following events. The fifth annual Palo Alto Puzzle 74 Hunt concludes this week, offering a chance to team up with friends to solve puzzles while 75 exploring some of the best spots in town. On Saturday, February 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the 76 Discover Your Path event will take place at the Mitchell Park Community Center and will feature 77 a raffle and giveaways. This is a great opportunity for teens and young adults to explore diverse 78 career options, gain valuable skills, hear from panelists, and engage with professionals from 79 various industries. The second annual Around the World in a Day festival will be held on 80 Saturday, March 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lucie Stern Community Center. This festival 81 celebrates diverse traditions and cultural heritage through exhibits, performances, and food Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 7 of 219 82 trucks. The 2026 May Fete Parade on Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., will start at 83 University Avenue and the fair will be at Heritage Park. This year's theme is Not All Heroes Wear 84 Capes. 85 To address budget reductions, Ms. Robustelli announced that the Cubberley Community Center 86 Office will be open by appointment only starting March 2. The agenda for next month's 87 Commission meeting includes a business item regarding the Cubberley concept master plan and 88 CEQA review. 89 Ms. Robustelli was pleased to report that the new downtown Bryant Community Center had a 90 soft opening as part of its phased rollout. Currently, several winter classes are being offered, 91 including line dancing, piano lessons, and a Boost fitness class. The teen center is open on 92 Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays and has been at full capacity each day, accommodating 25 93 teens since its opening on February 11. The Teen Art Commission will collaborate with teens 94 from across the city to design and paint murals inside the teen center. The Community Services 95 Department is planning a grand opening for the Bryant Community Center in late spring, and 96 staff will keep the Commission updated on the date and further details. 97 For the summer of 2026, the City is offering 310 camps, with 2,943 campers enrolled so far and 98 an additional 1,695 on the waitlist. There continues to be strong demand for specialty and 99 enrichment programming. The woodworking camp is the most popular, with 22 participants and 100 103 on the waitlist. This summer marks the second season in which the City will not send out a 101 printed catalog. The City is offering 92 sports camps, 21 of which have met their minimum 102 enrollment requirements. Last year, there were 86 sports camps, with 53 reaching their 103 enrollment minimums by the end of the season. Sports camps typically have weekly caps of 20 104 to 40 participants and often fill up later in the season. Camps associated with year-round 105 classes, such as tennis and soccer, tend to see later registration because participants are already 106 enrolled in those programs. Staff are closely monitoring enrollment trends, combining camps 107 where feasible, and making operational adjustments to ensure strong participation. Some 108 families choose to remain with their year-round teams during the summer instead of enrolling in 109 sports camps. 110 In December, the Commission held a quasi-judicial hearing on a park improvement ordinance 111 and potential tree removals at 2100 Geng Road, a private developer adjacent to the Baylands 112 Athletic Center. Following last week's winter storm, staff conducted site assessments and 113 identified 3 to 4 tree failures in that area. Additionally, there was 1 tree failure on the golf 114 course and 2 tree failures within the golf course maintenance yard. No injuries occurred as a 115 result of these storm-related tree failures. Staff responded promptly to secure the areas and 116 coordinate cleanup. 117 Ms. Robustelli reported that the City's in-house maintenance team recently completed work to 118 enhance visibility and improve sightlines at Bowden Park. This effort is part of the City's ongoing 119 initiatives to increase safety and usability. The City is collaborating with a native plant expert to 120 create an appropriate plant palette while ensuring clear visibility. Ms. Robustelli plans to 121 schedule a Community Services Department workday in the spring for planting activities. 122 Noting that the Commission lacked information about the Bryant Community Center, Chair 123 Freeman inquired about its location, how staff communicated its usage, and whether the 124 Commission had any input on its operations. Chair Freeman recalled that discussions about the 125 summer waitlist and program popularity take place every year. Chair Freeman questioned Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 8 of 219 126 whether the number of participants had increased or decreased and whether these changes 127 corresponded with the population size. Chair Freeman suggested that the Commission could 128 assist by forming an ad hoc committee or appointing a liaison to bring forward ideas to reduce 129 the waitlist, particularly for the more popular programs, potentially by partnering with other 130 athletic facilities in Palo Alto. 131 Ms. Robustelli announced that La Comida plans to serve lunches at the Bryant Community 132 Center located downtown. Ms. Robustelli mentioned that the City had been closely 133 collaborating with youth and teens regarding the teen center. Staff will invite the Commission to 134 the grand opening of the Bryant Community Center and will offer a tour of the facility. Staff are 135 eager to fully program the space. Ms. Robustelli will follow up with Chair Freeman regarding 136 whether participation numbers have increased, as she did not have specific data available 137 during the meeting. Ms. Robustelli noted that the team had been adding classes but space and 138 staffing limitations can restrict programming. Due to their popularity last year, additional 139 specialty classes, including woodworking, were added for this summer. Staff will continue to 140 make adjustments to fill any gaps when possible. 141 Chris Sanchez led the planning process for the downtown teen center. To gather input from the 142 teen community, the Youth Council distributed a survey to teenagers in Palo Alto to ask about 143 their preferred amenities, workshops, events, furniture, and overall atmosphere for the new 144 teen center. More than 300 survey responses were compiled and analyzed, which informed the 145 creation of mock layouts for the teen center. Focus groups consisting of members from the Palo 146 Alto Youth Council, the Teen Advisory Board, and teens who visit Mitchell Park Community 147 Center's teen center provided insights into the desired amenities, furniture, events, programs, 148 and operational hours for the new downtown teen center. 149 Vice Chair Wei was happy that the Valentine's dance was oversubscribed, indicating that the 150 marketing efforts were effective. Vice Chair Wei inquired whether there were plans to move the 151 event to a larger venue or to incorporate an indoor/outdoor combination for next year. Vice 152 Chair Wei enjoyed visiting the new Bryant Community Center and noted that the teens 153 appeared to appreciate it during her visit to the Youth Council. Compared to the Mitchell teen 154 center, the new Bryant teen center offered a more relaxing atmosphere, featuring large 155 windows and plenty of trees outside. Vice Chair Wei wondered if there would be clear signage 156 to inform people about the teen center and other community activities. Vice Chair Wei hoped 157 the City could collaborate more with Avenidas across the street to facilitate cross-generational 158 learning activities. 159 Ms. Robustelli recognized that the venue's capacity was between 250 and 300 people, so she 160 believed the staff could accommodate about 100 additional attendees for the Valentine's dance, 161 or that using both indoor and outdoor spaces would be a good alternative for the event. Ms. 162 Robustelli was aware that the facility updates to the Bryant Community Center were not yet 163 complete, so she assumed that the upcoming phases would include signage. 164 4. Ad Hoc Committee and Liaison Updates 165 Commissioner Axelrod provided an update regarding Cubberley, stating that there will be a 166 presentation to the Commission in March and to the Council in April. A fourth poll will be 167 conducted to gather community feedback, with results expected in May. These results, along 168 with the tenants' priorities for Cubberley, will help determine the next steps. If approved, the 169 ballot must be submitted in late summer. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 9 of 219 170 Commissioner Smith reported that the Friends of the Palo Alto Parks were funding the 171 conceptual design for the Foothill Preserve Interpretive Center. 172 Vice Chair Wei visited the Youth Council and expressed her delight at seeing them in the new 173 teen center. The Mitchell Park Library, along with the local community, organized 2 Chinese 174 New Year celebrations that drew a great turnout and were joyful events. Councilmember 175 Lythcott-Haims and Vice Mayor Veenker attended the celebration last Sunday. Vice Chair Wei 176 and Chair Freeman spoke with Adam Howard regarding the court policy. 177 Chair Freeman announced that the agenda item regarding the analysis of pickleball and tennis 178 courts was postponed to April, and there will be more updates as it continues to develop. Chair 179 Freeman mentioned that PAUSD Safe Routes will meet on Thursday, and this topic is likely to be 180 included in the work plan discussion as a future agenda item. Chair Freeman is a member of the 181 San Antonio Community Advisory Group. A presentation is on the Commission’s March meeting 182 agenda. As housing is developed within our community, it is important to ensure that 183 recreational activities, such as parks, are provided. 184 Commissioner Kleinhaus mentioned that an event took place on Friday in Mountain View to 185 celebrate the completion of Pond A2W, a former salt pond now being restored, marking a 186 significant milestone that took many years to achieve. The portion of the Bay Trail that goes 187 through Palo Alto has opened and it will eventually go around the bay. The salt ponds this 188 project connects are situated between Menlo Park, East Palo Alto, and Palo Alto, extending 189 toward San Jose and Sunnyvale. The salt pond restoration project does not include Palo Alto 190 because the City never utilized its baylands for salt production and never sold them to Cargill. As 191 a result, Palo Alto is ineligible for funding to restore its baylands and wetlands. Palo Alto will be 192 impacted by the construction of another salt pond project, as trucks will transport soil on 193 Terminal Way, at the end of San Antonio Road. 194 Commissioner Axelrod said the turf pilot was being streamlined with a well-defined study to 195 begin installing fields this summer and assess their performance throughout the year. There was 196 funding for this part of the project. 197 BUSINESS ITEMS 198 5. Palo Alto Youth Council Updates 199 Chris Sanchez, the Staff Liaison for the Palo Alto Youth Council, introduced Maddie Park, a junior 200 at Castilleja and the President of the Palo Alto Youth Council, along with Vin, a junior at Gunn 201 High School and the Vice President of the Palo Alto Youth Council. Maddie expressed her 202 excitement about attending the PRC study session. 203 Vin mentioned that the Youth Council had 8 subcommittees and was comprised of 29 Palo Alto 204 students from Gunn, Paly, Castilleja, Nueva, and Crystal Springs. This year, there were over 60 205 applications for the Youth Council, an increase driven by heightened publicity efforts. The 206 objective of the Youth Council was to amplify youth voices within the Palo Alto community. 207 Maddie stated that the Youth Council focused on 3 key issues during the first semester: mental 208 health, civic engagement, and highlighting student efforts. 209 Camille and Reed were members of the Advocacy Subcommittee of the Palo Alto Youth Council 210 during the first semester. One event organized by the Subcommittee was a Student 211 Organization Spotlight that hosted 16 youth-led organizations from Palo Alto to share their work Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 10 of 219 212 and the impact they have on the community. The focus of those youth groups included climate, 213 mental health, transit, voting, arts, and music. Each organization had the opportunity to table at 214 the event, allowing attendees to learn more about their initiatives and discover ways to get 215 involved. Reed mentioned that the Youth Council’s Instagram page gave a spotlight on those 216 organizations to promote their activities and encourage youth activism. Camille added that this 217 event coincided with their mock City Council meeting, during which some City Council Members 218 came to discuss youth issues with the Youth Council and listen to their ideas and proposed 219 solutions. 220 Mira was a member of the Mental Health Report Subcommittee. This report aims to clarify the 221 extent of the mental health issues facing youth while proposing constructive solutions based on 222 the experiences of both the students and mental health professionals in Palo Alto. With the high 223 academic pressure and stress prevalent in Silicon Valley, youth have observed significant 224 impacts on themselves and those around them, including friends and classmates. Based on their 225 observations and research, the subcommittee has concluded that the City can provide greater 226 support for youth mental health in our community. The report includes statistics from a mental 227 health census that gathered input from over 250 teenagers, including students from public and 228 private high schools and middle schools. 229 Sarah mentioned that the Civic Engagement Subcommittee drafted a policy proposal, 230 researching various existing local initiatives relevant to Palo Alto. Emily highlighted that their 231 goal with this policy proposal was to amplify youth voices within the Palo Alto community. Since 232 teens account for nearly 14 percent of the Palo Alto population, incorporating their perspectives 233 is essential for fostering a strong future community. The 20-page report detailed many issues 234 that were important to youth, including public transit, civic engagement, student safety, climate 235 change, and substance abuse. Focusing on and researching these topics were steps toward a 236 future where youth are more engaged and involved in the community. Sarah noted that this 237 proposal built on last year's youth census report, which gathered data from over 260 students 238 who provided input on their policy recommendations. 239 Averie discussed the Final Study Cram Slam held in early December. The event aimed to provide 240 academic support, alleviate anxiety, and foster community bonding by encouraging the 241 formation of study groups, offering a silent study room, providing free dinner and snacks, 242 inviting learning specialists, and bringing in therapy dogs. The event was successful, attracting 243 around 100 participants each night. 244 Maddie Park mentioned that they are finalizing 2 proposals and will send them to the 245 Commission Members and City Council Members upon completion. Near the end of the first 246 semester, the Youth Council provided feedback on the layout, amenities, furniture, potential 247 programs, workshops, and events for the new teen center, and assisted in analyzing the 248 feedback results. The Youth Council has held a couple of meetings in the new teen center. 249 All members of the Youth Council were required to attend at least 2 City-sponsored events each 250 year. The Youth Council helped manage the Jack-O-Jaunt event at Lytton Plaza, including the 251 jack-o'-lantern displays. 252 Vin said that local youth councils gathered annually at the YAC Social (Youth Advisory Council) 253 event, last held at the Burlingame Community Center. YAC Attack is an upcoming event. The 254 Palo Alto Youth Council assisted at the tree lighting event by distributing food and beverages, Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 11 of 219 255 clearing the stage between performances, and spreading holiday cheer through caroling with 256 community members. 257 Maddie Park mentioned that the Youth Council participated in the MLK event organized by YCS 258 and had the chance to network with other organizations. The Youth Council set up a reflection 259 booth to encourage attendees to reflect on what they had learned and experienced throughout 260 the day. 261 Steven, a freshman at Palo Alto High School, said that the YAC Attack was scheduled for next 262 Saturday. 263 Audrey, a freshman at Castilleja, announced that the Pancakes and Pickleball event will take 264 place in late March. Steven explained that the primary purpose of this event is to connect local 265 officials with teenagers in a fun and informal setting. It aims to enhance youth civic engagement 266 and raise awareness of local government through interactive community programming. Audrey 267 mentioned that some of the planned activities will include pickleball games with City Council 268 members and community leaders, as well as additional recreational games. The Youth Council 269 will provide snacks and refreshments for attendees. 270 Last year, Vice Chair Wei participated in the Pancakes and Pickleball event. Maddie invited all 271 Commission Members to attend this year’s event. Maddie provided an overview of Grow 272 Together, an upcoming Earth Day event. The objective of this event was to highlight youth 273 voices and their impact on climate and environmental issues, and to raise awareness of 274 opportunities for youth to engage in their communities. The planned tabling for the event will 275 include the Youth Commission Advisory Board, school clubs, and PASCC. The Youth Council is 276 working on partnerships with Gamble Garden and GreenWaste. The Youth Council will organize 277 a flowerpot painting and native seed workshop, along with snacks and a raffle to encourage 278 teen participation. Maddie Park also discussed the Civic Impact Summit, which aims to increase 279 youth civic literacy regarding national issues and political polarization, while empowering teens 280 to take meaningful civic action. The Youth Council is reaching out to professors to invite them to 281 speak at the event. In the past, the Civic Impact Summit featured tables where teens could write 282 letters to local officials, as well as tabling from various organizations to raise awareness about 283 their work. This year, the planned offerings include a student-led interactive civic engagement 284 fair, opportunities for local organizations and clubs to promote civic participation, and expert 285 speakers discussing how young people can navigate polarization and strengthen political 286 institutions. 287 Camille mentioned that one of the main focuses for the second semester is mental health, 288 especially in light of recent events and previous reports and surveys concerning youth in Palo 289 Alto. The Youth Council is developing and will soon launch a new mental health survey for young 290 people in Palo Alto. This survey aims to gather information on the mental health resources they 291 currently use, their opinions on mental health sick days, and any suggestions they may have for 292 solutions the Youth Council could propose to the City Council. The goal is to destigmatize mental 293 health issues among youth through various initiatives. Throughout the semester, the Youth 294 Council will present the survey results to the City Council, school boards, and other decision- 295 making bodies. 296 Vin discussed the upcoming Palopalooza event in May, which the Youth Council organized in 297 collaboration with their sister organization, the Teen Advisory Board. This fun event will feature 298 youth musicians, popcorn, and tie-dye activities. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 12 of 219 299 On behalf of the Youth Council, Vin presented the following question to the Commission for 300 consideration: How does the Commission assess whether Palo Alto Parks and Recreation 301 programs are equitably accessible to youth across Palo Alto? How can our parks better support 302 youth mental health and stress relief? How can the Youth Council help the Parks and Recreation 303 Commission the most? Vin encouraged Commission Members to attend any of the Youth 304 Council meetings. 305 The Commission expressed gratitude to the Youth Council for their presentation and 306 contributions to the community. 307 In response to the question of how the Youth Council can best assist the Parks and Recreation 308 Commission, Vice Chair Wei suggested that the Youth Council could come to the Commission 309 twice a year (once at the beginning and once at the end of the year) to discuss how the 310 Commission can support the Youth Council's initiatives. Vice Chair Wei was looking forward to 311 reading the reports from the youth mental health survey and proposal. Vice Chair Wei asked 312 whether data were available on the 250 teens surveyed regarding the schools they attended. 313 Vice Chair Wei requested clarification on Vote 16 Palo Alto. Vice Chair Wei was excited about 314 the upcoming Civic Impact Summit and asked whether the date and venue had been finalized. 315 Vice Chair Wei expressed interest in attending the Pancakes and Pickleball event once again. 316 Vin mentioned that the survey data included the schools that students attended. Maddie added 317 that a survey conducted a couple of years ago included students from Castilleja, Gunn, and Palo 318 Alto High School (Paly), though it showed an overrepresentation of Castilleja students. One of 319 the proposed next steps is to send out a new survey that better reflects the teenagers in Palo 320 Alto and potentially includes some middle school students. 321 Vin stated that the Youth Council hosted Vote 16 Palo Alto during the Student Organization 322 Spotlight but they were not directly associated with that organization. Vin thought that Vote 16 323 Palo Alto aims to lower the voting age to 16 for City Council and school board elections. 324 Maddie noted that the Civic Impact Summit will be on April 25 at the Mitchell Park Community 325 Center. 326 Commissioner Smith said he was very proud of all the Youth Council members. As a board 327 member of the Palo Alto Police Foundation, Commissioner Smith expressed interest in learning 328 more about the Youth Council and wondered if the Police Foundation had been helpful to them. 329 Commissioner Smith wanted to know where the Youth Council sourced their therapy dogs, 330 noting that the police department also has a couple of dogs. 331 Maddie responded that the Youth Council had not interacted significantly with the Palo Alto 332 Police Foundation but thought it would be exciting to include them in an upcoming event or find 333 a way to incorporate their perspectives. Maddie added that Averie had more information about 334 the therapy dogs but she thought they had reached out to some connections in Palo Alto to 335 arrange their availability. 336 Commissioner Axelrod attended the Jack-O-Jaunt and Christmas tree lighting events, and he 337 praised the Youth Council for making those occasions welcoming. Commissioner Axelrod 338 inquired whether the Youth Council had any insights into which youth-led organizations were 339 seeing high levels of participation and which ones were less popular. This information would 340 help the Commission identify the most utilized resources. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 13 of 219 341 Vin replied that the Youth Council did not track the number of attendees at each organization’s 342 booths but noted that many community organizations were thriving, particularly those invited 343 to participate in their events. Vin knew that PASCC, the Climate Coalition, and Vote 16 Palo Alto 344 had all experienced growth. 345 In response to how the Commission assessed whether Parks and Recreation programs were 346 equitably accessible to youth across Palo Alto, Commissioner Kleinhaus explained that the 347 Commission aimed to ensure programs were available in different parts of Palo Alto rather than 348 concentrated in a single park. Commissioner Kleinhaus asked the Youth Council whether Parks 349 and Recreation programs were equitably accessible to all youth or if there were disparities 350 across the city. Commissioner Kleinhaus noted that the Commission had previously discussed a 351 shuttle service to Arastradero but the City did not prioritize this initiative. Although 352 Commissioner Kleinhaus was uncertain about its feasibility, she encouraged the Youth Council to 353 advocate for a shuttle to enhance access to Open Space preserves. In addressing how parks 354 could better support youth mental health and stress relief, Commissioner Kleinhaus highlighted 355 studies indicating that exposure to nature can be beneficial, such as seeing butterflies, birds, or 356 other animals. Commissioner Kleinhaus asked the Youth Council whether they believed that 357 incorporating elements of nature, such as a butterfly garden, could help relieve stress. 358 Vin mentioned that the Youth Council was examining, through its report, whether Palo Alto 359 Parks and Recreation programs were equitably accessible to youth throughout the city. 360 Maddie added that Palo Alto Link began providing free transportation for teens to access mental 361 health services or visit parks and recreation facilities last year. Maddie emphasized that this 362 service greatly improved teens' ability to reach parks. Maddie believed having nature in parks 363 could support stress relief and benefit teens. From Maddie's personal experience, whenever she 364 visits a park while working on a challenging assignment or feeling stressed, stepping outside and 365 taking a break to walk around helps alleviate her stress; however, she was uncertain about its 366 effects on depression or anxiety. 367 Vice Chair Wei echoed Commissioner Kleinhaus's comment about the positive impact of nature 368 on teens, which was one of the reasons she joined the Parks and Recreation Commission. Vice 369 Chair Wei was curious about how much the Youth Council leveraged the parks' natural features. 370 Vice Chair Wei noted that transportation could be a challenge for teens. There is internet access 371 at the Foothills Information Center. Vice Chair Wei wondered if transportation options would 372 make it easier for teens to access the parks and if teens preferred traveling in a shuttle with a 373 larger group rather than in a taxi with only a couple of people. Vice Chair Wei suggested looking 374 into potential partnerships with corporations for corporate social responsibility initiatives, such 375 as donating a van for weekend outings. Vice Chair Wei asked how frequently Youth Council 376 members visit Foothills Park and how the City could encourage teens to visit the park more 377 often. Vice Chair Wei mentioned that doing homework in a park can be a relaxing experience 378 and suggested that the Youth Council could help promote this idea among students. Vice Chair 379 Wei noted that Commissioner Smith had many contacts in the corporate sector. 380 Vin shared that he has been visiting Foothills Park since he was 5 years old and continues to 381 return because he loves it; his favorite is the Fern Loop Trail. Vin emphasized that engaging with 382 Palo Alto's parks is awesome, and improving access, especially for youth, is a valuable and 383 motivating experience. Vin stressed the importance of publicizing the parks and ensuring that 384 youth are aware of the various wonderful parks in Palo Alto. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 14 of 219 385 Commissioner Brown appreciated the Youth Council’s sweatshirts, believing they provided a 386 professional appearance and enhanced their visibility at events. 387 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims, who served as the Youth Council liaison for the City Council, 388 expressed her admiration for the organized, thorough, and impressive presentation. 389 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims had been advocating for the Youth Council to have more 390 opportunities to interact with the commissions and the Council, and they made good use of 391 today's opportunity. The City organized the Discover Your Path event for Saturday to help 392 students broaden their perspectives on potential career paths. Often, only a limited number of 393 careers attract widespread excitement but many other possibilities deserve attention. 394 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims emphasized the need to highlight these options better. 395 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims inquired about the Youth Council's perspective on the event, 396 whether people will attend, whether the Youth Council was aware of it, and what would 397 encourage students to engage and make the most of the 3-hour event. Councilmember 398 Lythcott-Haims asked the Youth Council for its thoughts on the benefits teens and seniors could 399 gain from the teen center sharing space with La Comida, a meal service for low-income seniors. 400 Much like therapy dogs, Councilmember Lythcott-Haims mentioned research indicating that 401 interactions between grandparents and grandchildren, whether related or not, can be mutually 402 beneficial and improve the mental health of both generations. 403 Vin mentioned that the Youth Council Members will participate in the Discover Your Path event, 404 with 2 members serving as emcees for the panel. The Youth Council is engaged and excited 405 about it, believing it is a positive direction for the City. Vin observed at the YAC Social and YAC 406 Attack events that neighboring community YACs hold digital literacy events where teens assist 407 seniors with technology. As a result, the Youth Council is considering hosting a similar event in 408 the future to enhance its connections with the community. 409 Reed, who attends a public school, saw a variety of perspectives. Reed considered himself 410 academically inclined and believed the City's focus had primarily been on academic careers; 411 however, Reed thought it was crucial to acknowledge the array of other career options 412 available. Although Reed had a scheduling conflict and could not attend the Discover Your Path 413 event, he recognized its importance in highlighting the options available for individuals who may 414 not be on an academic track. 415 Maddie saw significant value in fostering intergenerational connections. In creating more 416 discussion around mental health, climate change, or political polarization, Maddie believed that 417 teens could learn a lot from the older generation. Maddie saw great value in bringing together 418 the Youth Council and La Comida organizations and encouraging teens to engage with seniors. 419 Maddie was not aware of many programs currently attempting to bridge the gap between youth 420 and seniors. 421 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims noted that a person can be highly academic yet still choose 422 paths outside of software engineering, such as government work, trades, or the humanities. 423 During her last visit to the Youth Council, Vice Chair Wei was impressed with the bill the Youth 424 Council was developing. Vice Chair Wei wondered whether the Youth Council needed any 425 support. Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga and Senator George Becker had attended the Chinese 426 New Year event, and their offices could offer guidance to the Youth Council if they wished to 427 advance their bill from the City Council to Santa Clara County and then to the State of California. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 15 of 219 428 Vice Chair Wei offered to arrange for a speaker to visit the Youth Council in April or May to 429 provide support and help guide them through the legislative process. 430 Maddie thought it would be fantastic to have support from Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga and 431 Senator George Becker. Maddie mentioned that the Youth Council is considering the format, 432 how they want to approach those discussions, and whether to present to PAUSD or the City 433 Council and local officials rather than pursuing a more formal bill. 434 Public Comment: None 435 Commissioner Deng inquired about the application process for the Youth Council and the 436 selection of members versus being placed on the waitlist. 437 Maddie explained that the application process consisted of 3 steps. The first step was a written 438 application, which Maddie and Vin designed this year. The application included 3 or 4 questions 439 on what applicants were most passionate about and what issues they wished to advocate for 440 while serving on the Youth Council. Other questions addressed collaboration skills, as the Youth 441 Council wanted to ensure that selected members could work well together. The second step 442 was an in-person interview. For the third step, applicants submit a video essay in which they 443 briefly discuss who they are and what they hope to contribute to the Youth Council. 444 Additionally, Vin noted that the application process includes a letter of recommendation. 445 Maddie described the Youth Council as a puzzle, emphasizing the importance of selecting 446 individuals who are passionate about their ideas, adaptable, capable of working on various 447 projects, and committed to ensuring that youth are engaged in the community and involved in 448 climate, mental health, and other critical issues. 449 To incorporate the youth perspective into the Commission's decision-making process, Chair 450 Freeman asked how the Youth Council would like to be involved in park design, programming, or 451 outreach. 452 Vin mentioned that they are considering youth perspectives in their reports. Once they finalize 453 those reports, the Youth Council will share them with the Commission. 454 Maddie enjoyed seeing commissioners at the Youth Council's events because it allowed the 455 youth to engage with them. For instance, the Pancakes and Pickleball event is an informal and 456 fun atmosphere that allows young people to talk about what they are most passionate about 457 and what they believe the City should focus on. 458 Vice Chair Wei enjoyed the jack-o’-lantern carving, Christmas Tree lighting, and last year’s 459 pickleball event. 460 The Youth Council posed for a photo with the Commission. 461 6. Open Space Update 462 Michael Warner, the Supervising Park Ranger for the foothills area, delivered a slide 463 presentation. In 2025, the City of Palo Alto Open Space preserves welcomed over 1M visitors, 464 with 500,480 visitors for the Baylands, 297,620 for the Foothills Nature Preserve (equivalent to 465 approximately 102,000 vehicles), 190,650 for the Pearson-Arastradero Nature Preserve, and 466 43,800 for Esther Clark Park. The busiest months were August at Baylands, April at Foothills, and 467 May at Pearson-Arastradero. In 2025, approximately 1,600 annual passes were sold, along with 468 804 library pass checkouts, which was about 300 more than under the previous system. The Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 16 of 219 469 Open Space Division generated around $390,000 in revenue from Foothills Nature Preserve 470 entry fees, administrative citations, and permit and reservation fees; however, expenses were 471 about $3.3M, primarily for utilities, staff salaries, and pensions. One of the Council’s priorities is 472 fleet electrification. Open Space had 15 electric vehicles, roughly 13 percent of the fleet. A grant 473 opportunity with the Office of Emergency Services for an electric utility terrain vehicle (UTV) was 474 shared with Open Space for use within the foothills preserves and, being electric, reduced the 475 impact on local wildlife. In December 2024, Open Space purchased an electric-assist/pedal-assist 476 mountain bike (formerly Class 1) to patrol the Arastradero Preserve. The bike has logged about 477 700 miles. Feedback from visitors had been overwhelmingly positive. The bike was useful in 478 emergency medical responses and search-and-rescue operations in the Foothills Nature 479 Preserve, allowing staff to quickly reach areas that previously would take a long time to access 480 on foot. 481 Mr. Warner stated that the Palo Alto park ranger program included 2 supervising rangers and 6 482 full-time rangers divided between the foothills area and the Baylands. Additionally, there are 7 483 part-time employees, 2 assistant rangers, and 5 Open Space technicians who mainly assist with 484 visitor services and maintenance. Palo Alto employs generalist park rangers, meaning they 485 perform a variety of tasks such as enforcing preserve regulations, ensuring public safety, 486 providing outreach and education, conducting search and rescue operations, and responding to 487 medical emergencies. The rangers are also trained as Federal Type 2 wildland firefighters, 488 involved in maintenance, stewardship, and wildlife monitoring. Some lead workers are classified 489 as Type 1 firefighters, while supervising rangers serve as crew bosses. Palo Alto park rangers 490 responded to 173 calls for service in 2025, including 36 medical calls, 3 suicide attempts, 3 491 vegetation fires, 4 vehicle fires, 1 illegal rubbish burn, 2 oil spills, 1 body recovery, 1 aircraft 492 crash, 1 assault, and 1 water rescue. The rangers issued 36 citations and 246 written warnings 493 for Open Space code violations within the Foothills and Arastradero Preserves. Additionally, the 494 rangers issued 210 parking citations, primarily for nonpayment of entry fees at Foothills. 495 To provide special public safety patrols during high-visit events, park rangers collaborated with 496 the Office of Emergency Services, Palo Alto Police Department, Palo Alto Fire Department, and 497 the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. For instance, during the mandatory workday for 498 staff at Baylands and Foothills on the 4th of July, they addressed issues with young adults 499 possessing fireworks and alcohol in the Foothills Nature Preserve, preventing potential incidents 500 such as wildland fires. In mid-August, Open Space participated in a special patrol with the 501 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District during the Perseid meteor shower. The 502 infrastructure in the foothills cannot handle hundreds of vehicles at night, especially parking on 503 vegetation during high fire danger. This year, to mitigate impacts on the preserves, the Foothills 504 were opened to the upper turf above the lake, allowing people to pull in off of Page Mill Road, 505 and the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District opened the Skyline Ridge Open Space 506 parking area off Skyline Boulevard. Together, these facilities accommodated about 500 visitors, 507 parking them in safer locations to minimize wildlife disturbance. Mr. Warner stated that Open 508 Space conducted several outreach and educational events. Open Space collaborated with the 509 Stanford School of Medicine, California Coastal Cleanup Day, World Ranger Day, the Palo Alto 510 Police Department for National Night Out, and the Palo Alto Earth Day Festival. Whenever 511 possible, Open Space sent at least two rangers to these events, accompanied by their 512 interpretive snake, Slinky, who was around 10 years old. 513 Open Space had been focusing on improving staff training and training for other City 514 departments. Earlier this year, Open Space partnered with the Palo Alto Fire Department to host Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 17 of 219 515 their annual wildland fire training academy. Additionally, Open Space collaborated with Marin 516 Municipal Water District, the City of San Jose, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, and 517 the County of Santa Clara to conduct training at Foothills Nature Preserve. This training 518 emphasized the use of patrol trucks equipped with fire pumps, teaching participants how to 519 operate them effectively and understand basic hydraulics. A training session was held with the 520 Palo Alto Police Department to enhance their understanding of operations in rural 521 environments, which was crucial because the City owned nearly as much land west of Highway 522 280 in rural areas as it did in urban areas east of Highway 280 Additionally, staff participated in 523 4-wheel-drive training at Hollister Hills Recreational Vehicle Area to safely operate emergency 524 vehicles in off-road conditions. This year, Open Space initiated a partnership with the Palo Alto 525 Fire Department to train their staff to use a new UTV based out of Station 2, which is frequently 526 used for Stanford events and can respond to the foothills for medical rescues when needed. The 527 training this year also covered topics such as crisis intervention, de-escalation, communications, 528 and the use of force. 529 Mr. Warner mentioned that approximately half of their ranger staff are EMTs. Throughout the 530 year, emergency responses included vehicle accidents on Page Mill Road, bicycle accidents 531 within the preserves, trips and falls, and clearing access when fallen trees blocked the roads 532 during storms. There was a plane crash at the Baylands last February, where a plane overshot 533 the runway and ended up in the marsh. This incident involved a large cleanup effort that lasted 534 many hours and required collaboration among various City departments, including the fire 535 department, Open Space, police department, airport, Environmental and Water Quality, 536 California Fish and Wildlife, and the Coast Guard. Additionally, staff participated in a large 537 mutual aid search at the Windy Hill Open Space Preserve in May 2025. 538 For fire fuel mitigation, Mr. Warner stated that Open Space annually mowed about 485 acres of 539 the 4,000 acres and conducted disking to turn the soil. Fuel breaks are essential for preventing 540 the rapid spread of fires. With input from a couple of rangers, the Community Wildfire 541 Protection Plan, previously known as the Foothills Fire Management Plan and last updated in 542 2018, was revised this year to align with new state standards and the Santa Clara County 543 Community Wildfire Protection Plan. In December 2025, 12 eucalyptus trees were removed 544 along Arastradero Road to improve the habitat and make the area safer in the event of a fire or 545 winter storm. The Community Wildfire Protection Plan expanded the Page Mill fire break by 546 about 200 feet off Page Mill Road. As a result, the Green Climber, a remote-controlled forestry 547 mulcher, was rented for approximately 3 months for use by Open Space staff and the 548 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, and the work was completed last summer. The 549 Green Climber provided better visibility, enabling operators to be more sensitive to hazards and 550 wildlife. In the Palo Alto Hills neighborhood, off Laurel Glen, vegetation was cut back from the 551 road to create an effective escape route for residents in the event of a wildfire. Additionally, a 552 significant amount of invasive French broom was removed from that area because it is a fire 553 hazard. 554 Wildfire Response teams and rangers responded to 2 prescribed burns (Peterson and Ohlone) at 555 Sanborn County Park and responded to 3 wildfires (the Roble Fire, the Creek Fire off Deer Creek 556 Road, and the Elena Fire in Los Altos Hills). Rangers do not engage with vehicle fires due to the 557 presence of chemicals. Instead, rangers ensure that everyone is safe or receiving medical 558 attention and secure the area to prevent the vehicle fire from spreading into the wildland. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 18 of 219 559 Mr. Warner highlighted the following accomplishments. Open Space replaced approximately 33 560 wayfinding posts within the Arastradero Nature Preserve and 28 wayfinding posts in the 561 Foothills Nature Preserve. The Baylands Nature Preserve was updating its signage, which 562 required significant administrative time from the supervisor and staff to ensure accuracy. Signs 563 typically lasted about 20 to 30 years. Staff have replaced or created new benches, including one 564 at Bobcat Point in the Foothills Nature Preserve. As infrastructure ages and needs replacement, 565 ongoing maintenance is a crucial part of the daily weekday work. Installing a gate was labor- 566 intensive due to its size and weight. This year, staff completed approximately 1,100 linear feet of 567 fence replacement or installation. To educate visitors about the coyotes present in the 568 Arastradero Preserve, coyote habitat signs were introduced. Binocular viewfinders were 569 installed at Vista Hill in the Foothills Nature Preserve, funded by the Friends of the Palo Alto 570 Parks. After the replacement of the decking (a project delayed since 2020), the Tracy Court 571 Bridge was reopened to horse traffic after horses were previously unable to cross due to rotted 572 boards. Recent trail work at Foothills Nature Preserve included improvements to upper Steep 573 Hollow, eliminating some old stairs and creating a more sustainable, less steep grade. Work was 574 completed on Los Trancos Trail in one area just above the interpretive center, covering about 575 1,000 linear feet, as well as another section extending from Madrone Fire Road to Trappers Fire 576 Road along a portion of Los Trancos Loop within the Foothills Nature Preserve. 577 Mr. Warner discussed the work completed by various City departments in Open Space areas. 578 The Public Works Department addressed the seepage issues at Boronda Lake Dam. Ranger staff, 579 particularly Ranger Dave Scott, coordinated this effort with the Public Works contractor to 580 install a weir box. Since earthen dams naturally seep water, it's crucial to monitor seepage as 581 they age to ensure their structural integrity. The Foothills Improvement Plan is 90 percent 582 complete. With input from Commissioner Kleinhaus and former Commissioner Greenfield, staff 583 will present the plan to the PRC later this year. Open Space collaborated with a Public Works 584 contractor to assess the condition of the bridges within the Arastradero Preserve and the 585 Baylands Preserve. On January 31, 2026, Public Works and Water Quality completed the 586 horizontal levee project at the Palo Alto Baylands. Unlike traditional levee designs, horizontal 587 levees were set back slightly, allowing space for wildlife to retreat as water levels rise. 588 Commissioner Kleinhaus recalled previous presentations regarding the horizontal levee project, 589 which had received support from the PRC. The horizontal levee would mitigate the effects of sea 590 level rise and serve as the final treatment stage for some of the water from the adjacent Water 591 Pollution Control Plant. The horizontal levee was recently planted. 592 Mr. Warner reported that Valley Water’s tide gate project was underway at the Baylands. In the 593 Foothills area, the Utilities Department was in Phase 4 of the project to underground the 594 electrical and communication lines in the Montebello Open Space Preserve. Phases 1, 2, and 5 595 were complete. Phase 3 was nearing completion, with approximately 10 utility poles remaining 596 to be removed. After this project, there will be no live aboveground electrical lines in the 597 Arastradero or Foothills Nature Preserves. The Arastradero Creek stabilization project was 598 progressing through environmental review and planning. In response to the exposure of an 8- 599 inch gas line during the winter storms in 2023 and a slide on the Arastradero Creek trail, the gas 600 lines will be relocated out of the creek bed and a restoration project will stabilize the creek. A 601 temporary repair was made in the summer of 2023. 602 Mr. Warner discussed wildlife monitoring and the response efforts for injured wildlife in the 603 preserves. Rangers assist animal control officers in capturing and transporting injured animals to Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 19 of 219 604 wildlife rescue or by removing the bodies of deceased animals, such as when vehicles collide 605 with animals. Open Space investigated wildlife conflicts, such as encounters with mountain lions 606 in the foothills and issues involving coyotes and humans. There were educational signs in the 607 Arastradero Preserve about coyotes. Mr. Warner shared photos of the following wildlife found 608 in Palo Alto's preserves. In the Foothills Nature Preserve, there is the western bluebird, a small 609 thrush that nests in cavities created by local woodpeckers. The oldest recorded western 610 bluebird was banded in 2001 and found in California in 2008. Steller's jays imitate the cries of 611 red-shouldered hawks, which was thought to serve as a warning for other birds to seek shelter 612 or as a way to scare off competing birds such as ravens. Columbian black-tailed deer in the 613 Foothills were frequently observed in the mornings or evenings on the lawns. These deer have 614 excellent eyesight, can move their ears independently to detect potential threats more 615 effectively, and use pheromone glands on their lower legs to communicate danger and identify 616 one another. 617 Mr. Warner mentioned that coyotes frequently visit all of Palo Alto's Open Spaces. While 618 coyotes can often be seen alone, they prefer to be in small packs. We are entering the pupping 619 season when mated pairs have pups and other coyotes from the pack move into the area to 620 help protect the den. Visitors to the preserves needed to keep dogs on a leash in areas with 621 known dens, as coyotes will be more defensive in those locations. Tarantulas are residents of 622 the preserves. Male tarantulas migrated in the fall, reached sexual maturity at around 5 years 623 old, and sought out females in their dens. Tarantulas typically live in gopher holes or other holes 624 in the ground. Female tarantulas can live up to 25 to 30 years, while males live about 7 to 12 625 years. Tarantulas can inject their urticating hairs (straight hairs on their legs and abdomen) into 626 predators or, if touched, stick to the skin, serving as a defense mechanism. California newt and 627 rough-skinned newt were in many of Palo Alto's preserves and usually emerged around this time 628 of year, especially during rainy evenings. To protect newts from human activity, Open Space 629 posted "Caution: Newt Xing" signs. Open Space also posted signs during tarantula season. There 630 had been a reduction in vehicle strikes involving tarantulas, with only 1 known incident last year. 631 The population number of newts was unknown. Protecting newts was an ongoing educational 632 effort because they were harder to spot. Staff worked diligently to relocate newts from 633 roadways and trails to minimize conflicts with humans. 634 Rangers advised people to stay out of the preserve after dark to protect the mountain lions that 635 lived there. Voices, barking dogs, and loud music could drive mountain lions away from their 636 habitats and potentially out of the preserves, increasing the risk of conflict with humans. Game 637 cameras positioned at a feeding site showed mountain lions leaving while feeding when they 638 heard human voices within a couple of hundred yards. Biweekly, rangers have discovered 639 domestic animals that owners released into the preserves. For example, a black domestic cat 640 named Panther was released in Foothills Nature Preserve in October 2025. To rescue Panther, 641 staff collaborated with animal control officers and a volunteer who specialized in trapping lost 642 animals. Panther went to the shelter and an elderly couple in Belmont adopted him. 643 Unfortunately, many domestic animals released into the preserves do not have a happy ending. 644 Mr. Warner hoped to see a reduction in the number of domestic animals released into the 645 preserves in 2026, encouraging owners instead to utilize available resources, such as animal 646 shelters. 647 Mr. Warner shared a photo of the aurora borealis over Foothills Nature Preserve taken in 648 October 2025. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 20 of 219 649 The Commission thanked the ranger team and staff for the comprehensive update and for 650 stewarding the roughly 4,000 acres of Open Space preserves. 651 Chair Freeman inquired about the number of Open Space rangers. Chair Freeman expressed a 652 desire for staff to deliver this presentation in other areas to raise awareness of the significant 653 work Open Space performs. 654 Mr. Warner answered that the Open Space team consisted of 2 full-time supervising rangers, 6 655 full-time rangers, 2 part-time assistant rangers, and 5 part-time technicians who work 2 to 3 656 days a week. 657 Vice Chair Wei wondered if there were trained volunteer park rangers. Vice Chair Wei was 658 impressed that the preserves attracted 1M visitors, given the team's small size. Vice Chair Wei 659 asked if the number of visitors had increased compared to the previous year and whether there 660 was any data on how many visitors were Palo Alto residents versus those from the Bay Area, 661 California, nationwide, and internationally. 662 Mr. Warner responded that there were no volunteer park rangers. A volunteer trail patrol 663 assisted during the opening of Foothills Nature Preserve in 2020, but interest in the program 664 eventually waned. Open Space did not have enough staff to provide adequate management for 665 a volunteer program. Mr. Warner did not have demographic data regarding the visitors. 666 Attendance at Foothills Nature Preserve surged after its opening in 2020, with numbers 667 remaining around 200,000 to 220,000 since then. 668 Lisa Myers, the Baylands Supervising Ranger, stated that most visitors to the Baylands came 669 from Palo Alto, East Palo Alto, Mountain View, and other areas along the Peninsula. 670 Approximately 20 percent of those visitors were drawn to Baylands specifically for birdwatching, 671 as it is a birding destination located along the Pacific Flyway. Baylands had several good birding 672 spots, including Emily Renzel Pond. Baylands stretches from the Mountain View border to Bay 673 Road in East Palo Alto, making it a popular route for bicycle commuters heading to Facebook, 674 Google, and other destinations. 675 Commissioner Axelrod regarded the Open Space preserves as some of Palo Alto's greatest 676 treasures. Commissioner Axelrod inquired about the success of allowing access to parking for 677 viewing the Perseid meteor showers, asking if many cars were still parked along Page Mill. 678 Commissioner Axelrod wanted to know whether Mr. Warner believed that was the best solution 679 or if additional measures were necessary, such as more signage, park-and-ride options, or other 680 strategies. Commissioner Axelrod asked if Palo Alto conducted prescribed burns. Commissioner 681 Axelrod noted that junior ranger programs were very popular in state parks and wondered if 682 Palo Alto had anything similar. 683 Mr. Warner recalled the first year of extreme visitation for the Perseid meteor shower was a 684 Saturday in 2023. Page Mill Road was shut down for over an hour because traffic was gridlocked 685 and not even first responders could get through. It was much better in 2025 when Open Space 686 provided people an area to park. In 2025, rangers issued 3 parking citations, requested several 687 handfuls of people to move along to the appropriate parking area, and responded to 1 vehicle 688 accident where 2 rangers provided medical aid until Fire arrived. Additionally, staff addressed a 689 vandalized sign. Overall, there were much fewer issues and less impact to the preserves and 690 resident neighbors. Mr. Warner thought they probably found a solution but it needed a little 691 adjustment. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 17 Packet Pg. 21 of 219 692 Mr. Warner mentioned that Open Space conducted a couple of pile burns in January. Those 693 were management burns in which dead and downed material from the surrounding area was 694 collected, piled together, and burned in a more controlled manner than traditional prescribed 695 burns, which involved open burning of an area. Open Space collaborated with Grass Roots 696 Ecology to strategically place the pile burns to target non-native invasive weeds that were 697 germinating and seeds. The goal was to eliminate those weeds and introduce biochar into the 698 environment, which could help propagate native grasses and wildflowers. Mr. Warner said that 699 a junior ranger program had been previously discussed but they did not have someone fully 700 dedicated to it; however, it could be implemented if more staff were available. After COVID, the 701 focus shifted to operational necessities but Mr. Warner would like the park ranger's role to 702 include more educational programs. 703 Commissioner Kleinhaus inquired about the causes of the 2 vehicle fires that occurred last year 704 and who was responsible for the cleanup from the aircraft that ended up in the Baylands. 705 Commissioner Kleinhaus noted there had been significant vegetation clearing around the bench 706 at Bobcat Point. In the future, Commissioner Kleinhaus advised staff to consider the 707 maintenance required to keep a bench in a location that demanded extensive vegetation 708 removal because it might be better to reconsider the bench's placement if small improvements 709 required extensive maintenance and vegetation clearance. Commissioner Kleinhaus shared that 710 it was a pleasure to meet Mr. Warner on the Arastradero trails. Commissioner Kleinhaus 711 mentioned that the Woodland Star Trail was recently resurfaced with black material resembling 712 asphalt, expressing concern that it could attract vehicles, so she suggested exploring lighter- 713 colored materials instead. Commissioner Kleinhaus was pleased to learn that the gas line would 714 be removed from the creek and that the creek would be restored. Commissioner Kleinhaus 715 believed that replacement of existing infrastructure was exempt from CEQA and she wondered 716 whether the creek project would come before the PRC for review. 717 Commissioner Kleinhaus emphasized the importance of educating the public about the 718 consequences of abandoning animals in the wild, as many do not survive and become prey for 719 coyotes and other predators. Commissioner Kleinhaus asked whether any data were available 720 on the population trends of various species (deer, coyotes, salamanders, etc.) within the 721 preserves. Commissioner Kleinhaus was excited to learn that 20 percent of visitors to the 722 Baylands come specifically to see birds, which was higher than the attendance for many of the 723 City's other program offerings. Commissioner Kleinhaus urged staff to remember that 724 birdwatching was a big attraction and the Baylands served as an important habitat for migratory 725 birds. 726 Mr. Warner was not a vehicle fire investigator; however, he understood that the first vehicle fire 727 occurred as a result of a crash and the second was due to an improperly maintained vehicle. Mr. 728 Warner mentioned that the clearing of the tall, thick vegetation around the bench at Bobcat 729 Point was done to enhance the view but the vegetation will gradually return and then be 730 properly managed. Mr. Warner explained that the Woodland Star Trail was compacted to 731 weatherize it. The ground-up rock material used on Woodland Star Trail was gray but will 732 eventually transform to resemble the appearance of Meadowlark Trail. Similar work was 733 performed on Meadowlark Trail about 1½ years ago and it has since changed to a more natural, 734 earth-like appearance. Mr. Warner stated that Open Space monitored mountain lion sightings 735 recorded on wildlife cameras. While staff may track observations of various species at their 736 discretion, there was no formal tracking procedure in place. Mr. Warner particularly enjoyed 737 coyotes and kept an eye on their activities. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 18 Packet Pg. 22 of 219 738 Ms. Myers said the pilot’s insurance company paid the agencies that billed for the cleanup in the 739 Baylands. 740 Ms. Robustelli stated that the gas line project would come to the PRC for a park improvement 741 ordinance. The PRC received an informational update regarding this project last year. 742 Commissioner Smith learned that the residents of Los Altos Hills frequently use Palo Alto’s park 743 and he wanted to know whether there were any differences in how we engaged with them. The 744 Friends of the Palo Alto Parks wondered if there was a way to encourage Los Altos Hills to 745 contribute financially, given that the park was located nearby. Commissioner Smith expressed 746 interest in exploring this suggestion in the future. 747 Mr. Warner said that the park was open to everyone and all visitors received equal treatment 748 with no preferential treatment given to anyone. Many residents from Palo Alto and Los Altos 749 Hills walk or bike to the preserve every day. Mr. Warner mentioned that there was an Open 750 Space Committee for Los Altos Hills. 751 Ms. Robustelli was not aware of any formal discussions regarding Los Altos Hills in recent years. 752 Ms. Robustelli mentioned that there had been significant use of Byrne Preserve, particularly 753 during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many people hiking in both Byrne Preserve and the nearby 754 Foothills Nature Preserve. Ms. Robustelli suggested that Los Altos Hills could be addressed 755 during the upcoming conversation about funding partners. 756 Commissioner Deng inquired about adding notes beneath the photographs to indicate specific 757 locations for educational purposes, such as where the fire occurred. Commissioner Deng wanted 758 to know whether any issues had arisen from the collaboration with local public safety agencies. 759 Mr. Warner stated that Open Space worked closely with the Palo Alto Fire Department, 760 maintaining a collaborative relationship that dated back to around 1967 or 1968. They were 761 excellent partners, working together on training exercises and emergency response efforts. 762 Station 8 was located in the foothills. Open Space collaborated significantly with the Public 763 Works Department. While Public Works was the primary agency responsible for Page Mill Road, 764 they were far away and managed many miles of road. Open Space was the nearest available 765 resource and was usually the first agency called to assist Public Works with anything needed on 766 Page Mill Road, such as when a tree blocked the road or there was snow on it. Open Space 767 worked closely with several community organizations, including Grassroots Ecology, 768 Environmental Volunteers, Friends of Foothills, and Friends of the Palo Alto Parks. 769 Ms. Myers mentioned that the Open Space staff at Baylands worked closely with Fire, Public 770 Works, airport staff, Water Quality officials, post-closure landfill staff from Zero Waste, and 771 animal control officers. Ms. Myers noted that a significant number of animals dumped in Open 772 Space were abandoned in the Baylands. The Junior Museum and Zoo managed the Lucy Evans 773 Baylands Nature Interpretive Center, and their naturalist or instructor staff worked out of that 774 building. 775 Public Comment: None 776 Chair Freeman inquired about visitation patterns and the key challenges in balancing public 777 access with the need for protection and safety. Chair Freeman wondered if the Commission 778 could help staff with their challenges by forming a PRC ad hoc committee or appointing a liaison 779 to address visitation patterns and the increasing demands on Open Space’s work. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 19 Packet Pg. 23 of 219 780 Ms. Myers stated that visitation trends at Baylands were similar to those at Foothills. Ms. Myers 781 noted that the main challenge at Baylands was not having enough staff during holidays and 782 weekends that coincided with popular events, such as the Perseid meteor shower and king 783 tides. 784 Mr. Warner stated that visitation at Foothills had plateaued over the last couple of years, 785 following a period of explosive growth when the park first opened. Mr. Warner identified the 786 main challenge as a lack of time to provide additional outreach and education, so he thought 787 that supplementing the ranger team would be helpful. With 14 years of experience as a ranger, 788 Mr. Warner observed cyclical patterns in the popularity of certain events, such as the Fourth of 789 July and the Perseid meteor shower, which presented challenges that many park districts faced. 790 Mr. Warner pointed out that, while the fire and police departments had mutual aid agreements, 791 park rangers did not, and that they had to manage the sudden influx of thousands of visitors 792 while minimizing impact on the natural environment. It remained a delicate balance between 793 encouraging people to enjoy nature and protecting these valuable resources, especially since 794 many of them were very special and there were not a lot of places left like that. The PRC could 795 assist in achieving this balance by identifying additional resources for Open Space to enhance 796 their ability to protect natural resources, engage the public, and provide responsible ways to 797 enjoy natural spaces. The PRC could suggest better ways for Open Space to connect 798 communities. For the Perseid meteor shower, Open Space collaborated with the Midpeninsula 799 Regional Open Space District, which had a staff of about 30 rangers to manage 70,000 acres of 800 land and 26 preserves. 801 Vice Chair Wei asked which resource was most urgently needed: capital to hire more ranger 802 staff or community support to recruit volunteers. Vice Chair Wei inquired whether Open Space 803 had submitted a budget proposal to the City Council for the number of staff necessary to 804 manage 1M visitors, and if there was any way the Commission could assist. Vice Chair Wei 805 emphasized the importance of nature as a crucial resource. Vice Chair Wei suggested exploring 806 potential corporate funding in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce or managing 807 volunteers through the Friends of the Parks. Vice Chair Wei acknowledged that Commissioner 808 Smith was a proponent of corporate social responsibility. Vice Chair Wei suggested that the 809 Commission consider forming an ad hoc committee to research local grant opportunities. Vice 810 Chair Wei noted that some community members had previously donated to the police 811 department and wondered if they could also contribute to Palo Alto’s parks. Vice Chair Wei 812 inquired whether Open Space would deliver a presentation on the role of park rangers as part of 813 the Career Path event on March 28. Vice Chair Wei believed the City could seek funding from 814 World Ranger Day to implement an idea proposed by Commissioner Kleinhaus the previous 815 year: to train youth rangers at a summer camp or to host a ranger day to showcase the work 816 rangers do. 817 Ms. Myers explained that Foothills had a staff of 5 full-time rangers and 1 supervising ranger 818 when it opened. In the 1970s, the City added 609 acres of Arastradero Preserve; however, Open 819 Space did not receive any additional staff. Following the Liddicoat Fire in 1985, the most 820 expensive fire in Santa Clara County to that point, Open Space added 2 park rangers to the staff 821 of 4 rangers and 1 supervisor, bringing the total to 7 rangers. When the City added Baylands, the 822 total size of Palo Alto’s Open Space doubled to 4,000 acres but Open Space did not get 823 additional staffing. Although Open Space added 1 park ranger position approximately 4 years 824 ago, it remained significantly understaffed to manage over 1M visitors. Ms. Myers noted that 825 the volunteer programs that Open Space had implemented over the years had not been Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 20 Packet Pg. 24 of 219 826 successful over the long term due to volunteers’ lack of commitment and turnover. Training 827 volunteers required considerable time and resources from the staff, leading Ms. Myers to 828 believe that adding more staff was the best solution. 829 Ben Heistein expressed that the timing was not ideal to advocate for increasing staffing levels, 830 expanding programming, and facilitating volunteer programs without securing external funding, 831 given the directive to reduce the City’s General Fund budget by 3 percent. Mr. Heistein 832 mentioned that it would take some time to identify potential partners to establish endowments 833 for operations and maintenance but it was a medium-term proposition worth exploring. 834 Ms. Robustelli suggested discussing endowments with existing funding partners. 835 Mr. Warner stated that they will participate in the upcoming Career Path event in Palo Alto and 836 the Midpeninsula Conservation job fair in Los Altos. Mr. Warner is on the board of directors for 837 the Park Rangers Association of California, which conducted outreach to promote interest in the 838 park ranger profession. Mr. Warner was acquainted with Jeff Ohlfs, who was the International 839 Ranger Foundation’s liaison to California and a former Chief Park Ranger for Joshua Tree 840 National Park. Mr. Ohlfs coordinated the World Ranger Day celebrations for the past few years. 841 Mr. Warner mentioned that they did not attend this year’s World Ranger Day celebration 842 because it was in southern California, near San Luis Obispo; however, in previous years, they 843 attended the event when it took place at Point Reyes National Seashore. 844 Commissioner Axelrod asked whether Mr. Warner identified a solution for peak-demand 845 periods, such as the Perseid meteor shower and the Fourth of July. Commissioner Axelrod 846 encouraged staff to plan for busy events and to communicate via social media about parking or 847 directing people to a park-and-ride. 848 Mr. Warner did not reach out on social media. The staff could strategically plan for busy days. 849 Open Space issued special-use permits for large hiking groups and summer camps, allowing staff 850 to prepare for those gatherings. Demand for larger groups to visit the preserves had significantly 851 increased. Last year, Open Space issued 67 permits. Mr. Warner mentioned that Ms. Robustelli 852 assisted staff at the gatehouse in Foothills during the aurora borealis. Mr. Warner stated that 853 the Open Spaces Ad Hoc Committee could further discuss Commissioner Axelrod’s suggestion. 854 Commissioner Kleinhaus suggested that on nights when Open Spaces expected a lot of people, 855 maybe the Youth Council could wear orange vests and help direct traffic, which would give 856 youth an opportunity to learn and get some volunteer hours. 857 Mr. Warner said that the ad hoc committee could consider Commissioner Kleinhaus’s 858 recommendation. 859 Ms. Myers explained that Baylands had some ham radio operators who served as eyes and ears 860 for the rangers; otherwise, they did not extensively use volunteers for the Fourth of July event. 861 Ms. Myers emphasized that Baylands needed professionally trained personnel to manage traffic 862 at the 3-way stop but staff could explore other options for involving volunteers. 863 Vice Chair Wei pointed out that many parents were trained to direct traffic at schools, 864 suggesting that the PTA could be a valuable resource for volunteers and the children would 865 likely enjoy attending the event. 866 Mr. Warner stated that they could consider Vice Chair Wei’s suggestion. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 21 Packet Pg. 25 of 219 867 7. Review and Confirm the Parks & Recreation Commission Fiscal Year 2027 Work Plan 868 Chair Freeman stated that the Commission reviewed the work plan at their retreat. Chair 869 Freeman noted that Project/Goal 4 was “Natural Grass Pilot” but the Measure of Success stated 870 "Natural Grass Turf Pilot." 871 Ben Heistein stated that the pilot's scope was natural grass. If deemed appropriate, they would 872 consider turf in the next fiscal year. 873 Sarah Robustelli, the Division Manager for Open Space, Parks, and Golf, noted that Attachment 874 A to Item 7 reflected the Commission's discussion at the retreat. Ms. Robustelli invited 875 comments on whether to eliminate Project/Goal 7: Nature Connectivity or to propose any other 876 changes to the work plan. 877 Vice Chair Wei believed that Project/Goal 7: Nature Connectivity was unnecessary because it 878 duplicated the Open Space Ad Hoc Committee's efforts. 879 Commissioner Kleinhaus explained that Nature Connectivity encompassed all parks, not just the 880 preserves, thereby extending beyond the scope of the Open Space Ad Hoc Committee. Nature 881 Connectivity considered guidelines or direction for staff to implement the connectivity maps in 882 the City's Comprehensive Plan and Parks Master Plan to increase natural assets in Palo Alto's 883 parks. 884 Chair Freeman thought that Project/Goal 7 Nature Connectivity should remain in the work plan. 885 Vice Chair Wei inquired whether the Commission would collaborate with PAUSD, Safe Routes, 886 and/or the City Council, along with Caltrain, to close the crossing and implement any other 887 necessary changes following the 60-day study of the crossing. 888 Mr. Heistein assumed that the PAUSD and the City Council would be involved if Churchill were 889 closed. 890 Chair Freeman believed that there was little the Commission could do regarding Churchill. 891 Ms. Robustelli indicated that the staff planned to change “moderate staff time” in the Resources 892 Needed for Project 7 to “low staff time.” 893 Commissioner Kleinhaus stated that Project 7 would begin with low staff time but it may require 894 additional staff time once there were elements to review and consider. 895 8. Assignment of Commissioners to Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Roles 896 Chair Freeman was involved in Recreation Programs and requested an assignment as a liaison. 897 Ben Heistein noted that the word “turf” could be removed from the Natural Grass Turf Pilot Ad 898 Hoc Committee. 899 Commissioner Axelrod requested clarification on the necessity of the PAUSD/Safe Routes Ad 900 Hoc Committee, considering that the City's contract with PAUSD ended in November. 901 The PAUSD/Safe Routes Ad Hoc Committee included middle school athletics, so Chair Freeman 902 wanted to know where middle school athletics would go if the PAUSD/Safe Routes Ad Hoc 903 Committee were to change to Safe Routes. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 22 Packet Pg. 26 of 219 904 Mr. Heistein recommended that middle school athletics fall under Recreation Programs because 905 the Recreation staff managed it. 906 Chair Freeman suggested that Recreation Programs could include middle school athletics, 907 pickleball, and tennis. 908 There was a discussion about whether the Park Groups liaison should have a third member, 909 given the category's size; however, the Commission agreed to keep it at 2 members because 910 having 3 could be logistically challenging. 911 Sarah Robustelli, the Division Manager for Open Space, Parks, and Golf, inquired if 912 Commissioner Kleinhaus attended the Measure E meeting and whether she decided to stay on 913 the Park Dedication Ad Hoc Committee. Ms. Robustelli mentioned she had conversations with 914 Chair Freeman regarding Ventura and the Park Dedication Ad Hoc Committee. 915 Commissioner Kleinhaus attended the Measure E meeting held by the staff of Public Works and 916 the Water Pollution Control Plant. Commissioner Kleinhaus understood there were other 917 options, so she asked whether Park staff agreed with Public Works and the Water Pollution 918 Control Plant staff on what to do with the Measure E site. Because of Commissioner Kleinhaus’s 919 interest in Measure E, she wanted to stay on the Park Dedication Ad Hoc Committee. 920 The staff will revise the work plan based on the changes discussed and will make a final 921 presentation to the City Council in April. 922 The Commission agreed to change PAUSD/Safe Routes to Youth/Safe Routes. The liaison’s staff 923 contacts would be Adam Howard for Youth and Rose Mesterhazy for Safe Routes. Chair 924 Freeman removed himself from the Youth/Safe Routes Liaison but Vice Chair Wei and 925 Commissioner Axelrod will remain. 926 Commissioner Kleinhaus was the only member on Open Space Preserves and Urban Forestry. 927 Commissioner Smith will join Open Space Preserves. 928 COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS 929 Sarah Robustelli, the Division Manager for Open Space, Parks, and Golf, announced that the 930 Commission’s next meeting agenda included a Cubberley update and the San Antonio Road Area 931 Plan. The April agenda will include tennis/pickleball and middle school athletics. In May, staff 932 anticipated an agenda item on the second deck study. 933 Commissioner Axelrod questioned whether the San Antonio Road Area Plan would be presented 934 to the Commission in March or April, considering that the design concept would remain open for 935 another month and the results would not be available in March. 936 Ms. Robustelli explained that the San Antonio Road Area Plan was on the Commission’s March 937 agenda, despite the design concept remaining open, due to the timing of the Council’s meeting. 938 Chair Freeman added that the agenda item for the San Antonio Road Area Plan would include 939 accomplishments to date but it would likely return to the Commission at a future date. 940 ADJOURNMENT Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 23 Packet Pg. 27 of 219 941 Chair Freeman adjourned the meeting at 10:21 p.m. Item 1 Attachment A - February 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 24 Packet Pg. 28 of 219 1 MINUTES 2 PARKS & RECREATION Commission 3 Regular meeting 4 March 24, 2026 5 In-Person & Virtual Conference 6 Palo Alto, California 7 8 Commissioners Present:Chair Nellis Freeman, Vice Chair Bing Wei (Virtual); Commissioners 9 Vadim Axelrod, Yudy Deng, Shani Kleinhaus, and Roger Smith 10 Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Amanda Brown 11 Others Present: Councilmember Lythcott-Haims, Mitali Ganguly (consultant from 12 Raimi + Associates) 13 Staff Present: Sarah Robustelli, Ben Heistiein, Amanda Deml, Christine Paras, 14 Claire Raybould, Kristen O’Kane, Robert Cain, Alayna Cruz (clerk) 15 CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL 16 Chair Freeman called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. 17 The clerk called the roll and announced a quorum with 6 Commissioners present. 18 PUBLIC COMMENT 19 1. Lothrop S. (Zoom) provided public comment not related to an agenda item and shared their 20 views. 21 2. Christopher C. (Zoom) provided public comment not related to an agenda item and shared their 22 views. 23 3. Sathiyasangaree A. (Zoom) provided public comment not related to an agenda item and shared 24 their views. 25 4. Jason G. (Zoom) provided public comment not related to an agenda item and shared their views. 26 5. Rudolph H. (Zoom) provided public comment not related to an agenda item and shared their 27 views. 28 6. Houston S. (Zoom) provided public comment not related to an agenda item and shared their 29 views. 30 7. JaMondre B. (Zoom) provided public comment not related to an agenda item and shared their 31 views. 32 The PRC took a 7-minute break. 33 Chair Freeman reminded attendees of the City’s expectations for meetings, stating: “I just want to 34 remind everyone of the City's policy of inclusion and encourage respectful dialogue. The City of Palo 35 Alto is committed to a culture of belonging where all members of our diverse community feel 36 included, safe, and respected. We strongly reject the speakers' message of discrimination and hate. 37 We have allowed the speech only because the First Amendment of the Constitution requires us to 38 give everyone an equal chance to express their views.” Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 25 Packet Pg. 29 of 219 39 AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS 40 None. 41 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 42 Chair Freeman noted that minutes for the February 24 meeting are not yet available and will be 43 considered for approval at the next PRC meeting. 44 CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 45 1. Council Liaison Report 46 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims, Council liaison to the PRC, reported that City Council adopted an 47 ordinance incorporating the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against 48 Women (CEDAW) into the City Charter, noting broad support and recognition of former women 49 elected officials, including Enid Pearson, the oldest living member of that group at 101 years of age. 50 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims reported that the City is conducting board and commission 51 interviews with appointments expected in approximately 1 month, noted adoption of a bird-safe 52 glass ordinance, and summarized recent approvals, including 145 townhomes on Geng Road with 19 53 below-market-rate units and 7 additional units at Palo Alto Commons. Councilmember Lythcott- 54 Haims previewed upcoming Council items, including consideration of a temporary trial closure of the 55 Churchill railroad crossing in April to address safety concerns. Planning was noted for the City’s first 56 Pride event on June 7 from 2 to 5 p.m., led by Director Kristen O’Kane. Councilmember Lythcott- 57 Haims reported that the Cubberley ad hoc committee has eliminated a parcel tax option and is 58 evaluating a potential sales tax measure, with current polling focused on voter support and ballot 59 language, and noted the importance of the PRC’s input on the project. 60 2. Department Report 61 62 Sarah Robustelli, Division Manager of Open Space, Parks, and Golf, recapped the first Discover Your 63 Path career exploration event, noting participation from City departments, community 64 organizations, and PAUSD, as well as activities including a panel discussion, information tables, 65 interviews, and a resumé workshop. Ms. Robustelli thanked Councilmember Lythcott-Haims for her 66 involvement and stated that staff plans to continue the event with expanded collaboration. Ms. 67 Robustelli highlighted upcoming community events, including the Around the World in a Day 68 Festival on March 28 at Lucie Stern Community Center, the Earth Day Festival on April 19 at the Palo 69 Alto Art Center, and the May Fete Parade on May 2. It was noted that Cubberley updates will be 70 presented later in the meeting and it was reiterated that appointments are now required for access 71 to Cubberley, with contact information available on the slide presented. An update on summer 72 camps was provided, reporting 289 camps offered with 3,217 campers enrolled to date, noting 73 cancellation of 21 skateboarding camps due to low enrollment, and that overall participation 74 remains strong with anticipated continued growth and adjustments based on community demand. It 75 was announced that due to unseasonably warm weather, the Mitchell Park water feature is open 7 76 days a week from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. to provide a cooling amenity for the community. Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 26 Packet Pg. 30 of 219 77 Ms. Robustelli reported completion of fencing repairs along the golf course on Embarcadero Way 78 near Hole 9, replacement of the windscreen at Hoover Park, and upcoming windscreen 79 replacements at Hopkins and Mitchell Park tennis courts. Work at Peers Park has been completed, 80 including relocation of a water fountain to a more accessible location. Updates were given on 81 progress on the Heritage Park capital project, including resurfacing of the central walkway, 82 landscape refresh, installation of an ADA-accessible water fountain and dog bowl station, and 83 repairs to the arbor and benches. Remaining work includes installation of a gate for restroom 84 access, a new waste receptacle, updated signage, and final improvements, with completion 85 anticipated this fiscal year. Staff is analyzing flood basin level trends at the Baylands sluice gate and 86 has submitted a permit application to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for cleaning 87 and inspection. Ms. Robustelli concluded by noting public comments regarding the natural grass turf 88 pilot and reported that the project is moving forward. A related FY 2027 budget request will proceed 89 through the Finance Committee and City Council, with updates to be provided as progress 90 continues. 91 92 Chair Freeman thanked staff for the report and asked whether the May Fete Parade route and 93 expected attendance remain consistent. Ms. Robustelli confirmed that the route remains the same 94 and that attendance is typically strong, noting that weather is the primary variable. 95 96 Chair Freeman asked whether the number of summer camps offered is consistent with prior years 97 and inquired about skateboard camp offerings. Ms. Robustelli confirmed that skateboard camps 98 have been offered previously in Menlo Park and noted that lower enrollment this year was likely 99 due to the Redwood City location and associated travel distance. 100 101 Commissioner Smith commended staff for professionalism and responsiveness in completing the 102 Heritage Park project, noting positive feedback from members of the public. 103 104 Commissioner Kleinhaus asked about recent work at the Mitchell Park dog park. Ms. Robustelli 105 explained that the dog park was recently renovated and expanded and that planned turf 106 improvements were deferred due to wet weather conditions, with work to resume during more 107 suitable conditions. 108 109 Vice Chair Wei asked about attendance and participant demographics for the Discover Your Path 110 career event. Ms. Robustelli stated that attendance data was not immediately available and will be 111 provided at a later time, noting that outreach was broad. Vice Chair Wei expressed anticipation for 112 the Around the World in a Day Festival and noted plans to attend alongside the Youth Council 113 pickleball event. 114 115 Commissioner Axelrod commended staff efforts, requested consideration of adding dog water 116 stations at Peers Park, and asked about outreach for the Mitchell Park water feature and 117 adjustments to summer camp offerings following cancellation of skateboarding camps. Ms. 118 Robustelli confirmed that outreach for the water feature was conducted through City 119 communications and noted strong public response. It was stated that no replacement camps were Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 27 Packet Pg. 31 of 219 120 added, consistent with typical enrollment-based adjustments. Commissioner Axelrod suggested 121 potential use of Greer Park for future skateboarding camps. 122 123 Chair Freeman commended staff on improvements at Heritage Park, noting that the park has taken 124 on renewed vitality. 125 126 Commissioner Deng asked about the status of Cubberley staff operations and the transition to an 127 appointment-based system. Ms. Robustelli clarified that the office remains open but operates by 128 appointment only due to staffing reductions, noting that the change is ongoing and that staff will 129 not be relocated. 130 131 Commissioner Smith suggested reconsidering the appointment-only model at Cubberley, noting 132 potential impacts on public engagement during a time when support for the Cubberley renovation is 133 being sought. 134 135 Chair Freeman asked about participation in the upcoming Chili Cookoff in July. Ms. Robustelli 136 reported that 4 teams have registered to date, noted that early response is strong, and stated that 137 additional updates will be provided as the event approaches. 138 139 BUSINESS ITEMS 140 3. Ad Hoc Committee and Liaison Updates (Discussion) 141 Commissioner Axelrod, Open Space Preserves liaison, noted a review of the interpretive center 142 plans is scheduled for Thursday and stated that an update will be provided at a future meeting. 143 144 Chair Freeman provided an update on the Park Dedication ad hoc, noting that a prior Ventura Park 145 dedication and naming request has been added to the workplan and is under further review. Sarah 146 Robustelli, Division Manager of Open Space, Parks, and Golf, reported that staff has met with Palo 147 Alto Community Childcare and that the organization is supportive of moving forward, with next 148 steps to be brought forward as the process continues. 149 150 Chair Freeman, reporting for the Golf ad hoc, noted that the City has extended its facility use 151 agreement with First Tee–Silicon Valley through February 2029 to support youth programming and 152 ongoing discussions regarding long-term improvements. Ms. Robustelli noted her involvement in 153 the agreement and stated that related long-term planning, including the second deck study, will be 154 presented to the PRC in May. Chair Freeman relayed an update from Lam Do, noting that mild 155 weather conditions have supported strong golf course conditions, with turf remaining green and 156 winter growth aiding recovery of divots. 157 158 Chair Freeman reported renewed interest in advancing a skate park project, noting that a new 159 sponsor is exploring fundraising opportunities with Friends of Palo Alto Parks. Ms. Robustelli 160 provided an update on current skate park maintenance, stating that resurfacing of the historic bowl 161 is planned in coordination with the skate community, with updates to be provided in future 162 departmental reports. Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 28 Packet Pg. 32 of 219 163 164 4. Cubberley Project: Receive Results of Community Poll #2 and #3; Recommendation to City 165 Council on Adoption of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan. CEQA Status: A Draft Initial 166 Study Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) Report Was Circulated for a 30-day Public 167 Review Beginning on March 2, 2026, and Ending on April 1, 2026 168 169 Amanda Deml, Assistant Director for Community Services, presented an update on the Cubberley 170 Community Center Project, including results from Polls #2 and #3, the final Conceptual Master Plan, 171 and CEQA documentation. Poll #2 identified consistent priorities of upgrading infrastructure and 172 meeting safety standards, with general satisfaction for existing programs and support for funding 173 through parcel or sales tax. Poll #3 indicated increased support for facility updates and funding 174 measures, with priorities including infrastructure maintenance, preservation of trees, and provision 175 of safe spaces for youth. A fourth community poll was released on March 19 and will close on March 176 28, which will test ballot language and potential funding strategies, with results anticipated to be 177 reviewed by City Council on April 20. The final draft of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan was 178 described as a long-term, phased framework to guide future development and minimize program 179 disruption. Staff is exploring a range of funding sources, including development fees, grants, 180 philanthropy, a potential ballot measure, and community partnerships. 181 182 Ms. Deml presented Phase 1 of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan, describing a flexible, phased 183 approach that includes new and renovated facilities across the existing City-owned site and a 184 potential additional 7 acres from PAUSD. Ms. Deml noted that Phase 1 would enable full site 185 programming while maintaining operations during construction and would include a recreation and 186 wellness center with gymnasiums, a community pool, event and educational spaces, performing arts 187 improvements, and outdoor amenities such as natural play areas, gardens, and an amphitheater. 188 Phases 2 and 3 of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan were outlined as part of the long-term 189 vision. Phase 2 includes visual arts and technology facilities and Phase 3 completes the community 190 services area. Full-site planning supports comprehensive CEQA analysis and future flexibility as 191 funding becomes available. The Phase 1 walking and parking plan emphasizes pedestrian and bicycle 192 safety while maintaining vehicle access and key improvements would include enhanced access 193 points, additional drop-off areas, and expanded parking totaling 640 spaces. The plan reflects 194 extensive stakeholder input. It was noted that major event scheduling and potential off-site parking 195 will be important to manage demand. 196 197 Ms. Deml reported that the City has released a draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 198 (IS/MND) for the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan for a 30-day public review period, identifying 199 potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures, and noted that impacts were determined 200 to be "less than significant with mitigation incorporated" in the areas of air quality, geology and 201 soils, hazards and hazardous materials, noise, and transportation. Ms. Deml concluded by 202 emphasizing that the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan reflects a shared, long-term vision to 203 revitalize the site through a flexible, phased approach, balancing historic preservation, fiscal 204 responsibility, and evolving community needs. Staff believes the plan successfully advances City 205 Council’s vision for an inclusive, multi-generational community space. Next steps were outlined, 206 including presentation of the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan and finalized CEQA document to Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 29 Packet Pg. 33 of 219 207 City Council on April 20, 2026, and a recommendation that the PRC consider the draft IS/MND and 208 forward a recommendation for adoption of the conceptual master plan. 209 210 Chair Freeman acknowledged the extensive work by staff, ad hoc groups, partner commissions, and 211 the community in developing the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan and invited clarifying questions 212 from the Commission. 213 214 Commissioner Kleinhaus questioned why a Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared instead of 215 an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Claire Raybould, Manager of Current Planning, explained that 216 the Initial Study determined all potential impacts could be mitigated to less-than-significant levels 217 and, therefore, an EIR was not required. 218 219 Commissioner Kleinhaus sought clarification on why the plan does not include architectural or 220 detailed landscape design. Ms. Deml explained that the plan is conceptual and focused on site 221 layout, noting that architectural and detailed landscape design will occur in future phases with 222 community input, and that the plan includes general priorities such as native plantings and tree 223 preservation based on prior analysis and community feedback. 224 225 Commissioner Kleinhaus asked about the proportion of permeable green space within the Phase 1 226 outdoor area. Ms. Deml stated that the identified 390,000 square feet is believed to represent green 227 space and indicated that staff will confirm the breakdown of permeable versus non-permeable 228 areas. 229 230 Commissioner Kleinhaus inquired about the potential impacts of using park development impact 231 fees for Cubberley on other park projects. Ms. Deml responded that staff is evaluating the issue, 232 noting that funding eligibility is partly geographically based and that allocations would be assessed 233 citywide based on need. 234 235 Vice Chair Wei inquired about the capacity of the proposed amphitheater and the scale of outdoor 236 performing arts space and sought clarification on funding gaps and how the Commission could 237 assist. Ms. Deml responded that the amphitheater is designed as a flexible, multipurpose space 238 prioritizing open green area. Phase 1 costs were noted as currently estimated between $300M and 239 $400M. Commissioners were encouraged to share potential funding opportunities and support 240 outreach efforts as planning advances. 241 242 Chair Freeman sought confirmation that adoption of the Conceptual Master Plan establishes a 243 phased framework and does not commit the City to full buildout. Ms. Deml confirmed that adoption 244 does not obligate the City to fully fund the project. 245 246 Item 4 Public Comment 247 248 1. Marc G., representing the Friends of the Palo Alto Recreation and Wellness Center, expressed 249 support for the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan, acknowledged staff efforts, and stated that Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 30 Packet Pg. 34 of 219 250 the organization is interested in pursuing fundraising opportunities to support development of 251 the project and expand community services. 252 253 2. Penny E. (Zoom) expressed support for the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan and thanked staff 254 and the Commission. Concerns were raised about public understanding of the project’s need 255 given anticipated population growth, urging improved community outreach. The commenter 256 requested confirmation of a safe bicycle and pedestrian route at the north entrance abutting 257 the Charleston Shopping Center and raised concerns about potential lighting of tennis courts 258 near residential areas. 259 260 Chair Freeman thanked members of the public for their input and invited comments from the 261 Commission. 262 263 Commissioner Axelrod questioned whether the fourth public survey is the final planned survey and 264 sought clarification on the extent to which the master plan may still be modified. Ms. Deml 265 confirmed that the current survey is the final one and stated that the plan is a final draft conceptual 266 framework that remains subject to potential changes, noting that significant modifications could 267 affect the CEQA analysis and that prior commissions recommended approval with considerations for 268 City Council. 269 270 Commissioner Axelrod inquired whether planned playground and youth activity elements are being 271 coordinated with the nearby Magical Bridge Playground. Ms. Deml confirmed coordination efforts 272 and noted that the plan includes community-informed concepts such as natural play areas and 273 outdoor classrooms, with specific equipment to be determined in future design phases. 274 275 Commissioner Axelrod asked about potential impacts of construction on ongoing programs and 276 services during phased implementation. Ms. Deml acknowledged that construction will create 277 disruptions and explained that staff will implement mitigation strategies, including relocating 278 programs, using temporary facilities, and adjusting operations where feasible to maintain continuity 279 while addressing safety and noise constraints. 280 281 Commissioner Axelrod inquired whether any pre-Phase 1 improvements are planned in response to 282 public interest in near-term upgrades. Ms. Deml explained that current efforts focus on ongoing 283 maintenance and temporary repairs to keep facilities operational, noting that future improvements 284 will depend on polling outcomes and funding decisions, with only critical repairs addressed as 285 needed in the interim. 286 287 Vice Chair Wei requested clarification on the timeline for project phases, assuming potential ballot 288 approval. Ms. Deml explained that timelines are preliminary, noting that property acquisition could 289 occur in 2027, with construction beginning no sooner than 2030 and Phase 1 estimated to take 290 approximately 2 years, while some partner-led components could advance earlier. 291 292 Commissioner Smith expressed concern about limited participation in the first 2 polls relative to the 293 City’s population and asked whether response levels are typical according to the consultant. Ms. Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 31 Packet Pg. 35 of 219 294 Deml clarified that polling participants are selected through targeted outreach to a statistically 295 significant sample of registered voters and noted that staff continues to consider strategies to 296 increase broader community engagement. Commissioner Smith expressed support for the project 297 and interest in its long-term realization. 298 299 Commissioner Kleinhaus emphasized the importance of landscape context, tree preservation, and 300 visual clarity in the plan, noting that the absence of architectural and site renderings may contribute 301 to limited public enthusiasm. Concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of CEQA analysis given 302 the plan’s evolving nature, as well as potential impacts related to tennis court lighting, circulation, 303 and proximity to adjacent residential areas. Ms. Deml clarified that lighting of the tennis courts is 304 not included in the current plan and would require additional review and community input if 305 proposed in the future. 306 307 Chair Freeman requested clarification on what a minimum Phase 1 scenario could entail if funding is 308 below projections and whether partner-led funding could accelerate implementation. Ms. Deml 309 explained that Phase 1 can be implemented in subphases as funding becomes available and noted 310 that land acquisition is a key prerequisite for development on PAUSD property, while some 311 components on City-owned land could advance independently. 312 313 Chair Freeman asked how ballot language is being aligned with voter preferences for basic repairs 314 and safety improvements to Cubberley. Ms. Deml explained that these preferences have informed 315 current ballot language testing, noting that Poll #4 is evaluating a sales tax option reflecting those 316 priorities following elimination of the parcel tax option. Chair Freeman asked how Poll #4 reflects 317 adjustments based on prior polling and how future funding measures are being aligned with voter 318 priorities. Ms. Deml explained that each poll has informed subsequent questions and ballot 319 language refinements. Christine Paras, Assistant Director of Administrative Services, added that 320 polling is used iteratively to gauge support and refine messaging based on voter priorities. 321 322 Chair Freeman inquired about strategies to increase voter awareness and engagement, including 323 use of conceptual materials at past events and future outreach efforts. Ms. Deml described ongoing 324 activation and marketing efforts, including events and programming at Cubberley to draw new 325 visitors, such as ArtLift grant-funded activities. Additional ideas from Commissioners were invited to 326 build community interest and participation. 327 328 Commissioner Deng asked about the role of Concordia Consulting Group in the Cubberley 329 Conceptual Master Plan. Ms. Deml confirmed that Concordia supported development of the plan 330 and remains under contract, noting that their role is concluding as the project transitions to final 331 stages following CEQA analysis. 332 333 Commissioner Deng suggested broader outreach to all registered voters regarding a potential ballot 334 measure. Ms. Deml indicated uncertainty regarding staff access to that approach. Ms. Paras noted 335 that outreach is typically conducted through open public engagement efforts and stated that staff 336 will consider the suggestion for future polling. Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 32 Packet Pg. 36 of 219 337 Chair Freeman reiterated that the Commission’s role is to evaluate whether the Cubberley 338 Conceptual Master Plan provides a sound, flexible, and community-informed framework, and 339 expressed support for advancing the plan to City Council. Ms. Deml invited Councilmember Lythcott- 340 Haims to provide additional remarks. 341 342 Councilmember Lythcott-Haims addressed polling methodology, noting that results are based on a 343 representative sample of likely voters, and explained the shift from a parcel tax to a sales tax due to 344 lower approval thresholds and polling outcomes. Councilmember Lythcott-Haims stated that City 345 Council will consider whether to advance a ballot measure in June and noted anticipated community 346 outreach efforts. Additional partnership opportunities were highlighted, including interest from 347 multiple organizations, and it was emphasized that land acquisition remains the primary priority 348 before advancing further project details. 349 350 Chair Freeman invited a motion to recommend that City Council adopt the Cubberley Conceptual 351 Master Plan. Commissioner Smith made the motion and Vice Chair Wei seconded. Chair Freeman 352 then called for any final discussion prior to the vote. 353 354 Commissioner Kleinhaus acknowledged the extensive work on the plan but stated discomfort 355 recommending adoption to City Council without clearer visualization of design elements, citing 356 community feedback favoring more modest improvements and preservation of trees and open 357 space, and indicated an intent to abstain from supporting the motion. 358 359 MOTION: Commissioner Smith moved, seconded by Vice Chair Wei, to recommend that Council 360 adopt the Cubberley Conceptual Master Plan. 361 362 MOTION PASSED: 5-0-1-1 (Kleinhaus abstain, Brown absent) 363 364 The PRC took an 8-minute break. 365 366 5.San Antonio Road Area Plan Land Use and Transportation Alternatives Study Session. 367 CEQA Status: Exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15262 (Discussion) 368 369 Robert Cain, Principal Planner for the Department of Planning and Development Services, 370 introduced the San Antonio Road Area Plan (SARAP), noting a focus on parkland and outdoor space, 371 and stated that staff is seeking input from the Commission and other advisory bodies ahead of a City 372 Council study session in April and future policy discussions later in the year. The goals of the San 373 Antonio Road Area Plan are improving livability, mobility, safety, sustainability, and economic 374 vitality. The plan will establish design concepts, zoning and development standards, and 375 implementation strategies including potential funding approaches. The San Antonio Road Area Plan 376 boundary was described, noting it encompasses approximately 275 acres along San Antonio Road 377 from Alma Street to the Baylands, includes key corridors and adjacent neighborhoods, and consists 378 of a mix of industrial, commercial, and residential uses in proximity to major transportation and 379 open space areas The project timeline was outlined, noting a 3-year planning process currently in 380 the alternatives phase, with policy discussions to return to the Commission later this year, Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 33 Packet Pg. 37 of 219 381 environmental review and draft plan development next year, and anticipated City Council adoption 382 in early 2028. The planning approach was described, noting subdivision of the area into smaller 383 neighborhoods to support walkability, residential infill, and neighborhood-serving open space and 384 amenities, along with improvements to transportation, pedestrian and bicycle safety, and 385 streetscape character. Mr. Cain identified key areas of anticipated change and noted opportunities 386 to incorporate new park and outdoor spaces within those areas. 387 388 Mr. Cain described the outdoor space strategy, noting existing park assets but identifying gaps in 389 access near U.S. 101, and explained that new park space will rely on partnerships with private 390 development due to lack of publicly owned land, with opportunities identified in larger 391 redevelopment sites and parcel consolidation areas. Community outreach indicated strong support 392 for small neighborhood parks, mini parks, and pedestrian-oriented paseos. PRC input was invited on 393 preferred types of outdoor spaces. Key areas were identified of anticipated development and staff 394 will seek City Council input on building heights and densities, with potential for 4,000 to 7,000 new 395 residential units, significantly exceeding current capacity identified in the Housing Element. The 396 Maxar subarea was described as a key redevelopment opportunity, noting potential for mixed 397 residential uses, mid-block pedestrian and bicycle connections, and incorporation of neighborhood 398 parks, with options for either larger or multiple smaller park spaces. Feedback was invited on park 399 configurations and supporting amenities such as retail and dining. The CTI subarea was 400 characterized as a potential redevelopment opportunity through parcel consolidation, noting the 401 potential to incorporate new park or outdoor space. Staff will seek City Council direction on 402 appropriate levels of housing and office development, balancing funding opportunities for amenities 403 with existing land use conditions. Mr. Cain outlined proposed mobility improvements, including 404 enhanced connections between Palo Alto and Mountain View, new mid-block pedestrian and bicycle 405 crossings, and coordination with planned upgrades to the San Antonio/101 interchange to improve 406 multimodal access, including a potential grade-separated connection. 407 408 Mr. Cain highlighted potential land use alternatives, including residential-only and mixed-use 409 scenarios, noting that increased office development could support community benefits such as 410 parks and affordable housing while requiring consideration of the jobs-housing balance. The PRC's 411 input was requested on the size, type, location, and character of outdoor spaces. Four concepts 412 were outlined: (1) a larger park or plaza along East Charleston; (2) a smaller internal park with 413 additional dispersed parks; (3) a single consolidated interior park; and (4) a network of paseos and 414 expanded pedestrian spaces in lieu of a centralized park. Mobility alternatives discussed focused on 415 pedestrian-first design, low-stress bicycle routes, improved first- and last-mile connections, and 416 strategies for parking, demand management, and smart corridor technology. Mr. Cain explained 417 that the plan evaluates streets and intersections in smaller segments. It was emphasized that the 418 existing San Antonio Road median and trees are intended to remain largely unchanged, with most 419 options having minimal tree impacts, while some alternatives may shift curbs to accommodate 420 bicycle and pedestrian improvements and require replanting. Mr. Cain emphasized efforts to 421 increase tree canopy, improve intersection safety, incorporate green stormwater infrastructure, and 422 strengthen connections to Caltrain and transit in coordination with VTA. Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 34 Packet Pg. 38 of 219 423 Chair Freeman thanked staff for the report and acknowledged the level of detail and outreach. It 424 was clarified that the PRC’s focus is on outdoor space strategy, community-serving uses, and 425 connectivity, and that the item is for input only at this stage. Commissioners were then invited to 426 ask clarifying questions. 427 428 Commissioner Kleinhaus inquired about the use of transfer of development rights as a potential 429 tool. Mr. Cain explained that the City’s current program is limited and not being considered for this 430 area. Commissioner Kleinhaus noted its successful use in Mountain View and suggested it as a 431 potential option to explore. 432 433 Commissioner Axelrod sought clarification on the balance between developing underutilized parcels 434 and rezoning. Mr. Cain clarified that the focus is on underutilized sites rather than vacant land, 435 noted that rezonings and policy changes have increased housing capacity in the area, and explained 436 that the plan will help define appropriate limits for future development while individual projects 437 would still be initiated by private developers. 438 439 Chair Freeman requested clarification on how incentives for higher-value uses such as office 440 development would translate into open space outcomes. Mr. Cain explained that existing tools 441 include parkland dedication requirements or in-lieu fees based on project size and noted that 442 additional incentives under consideration could allow increased development in exchange for 443 providing publicly accessible open space or other community benefits, with specific tools to be 444 determined in future policy discussions. 445 446 Chair Freeman raised concern about the functionality of smaller parks and how to ensure they are 447 usable rather than symbolic. Mr. Cain noted that effectiveness depends on programming. Sarah 448 Robustelli, Division Manager of Open Space, Parks, and Golf, added that design will be shaped 449 through community engagement during later phases. Chair Freeman reiterated that since staff is 450 seeking Commission input on park size, this would be preliminary feedback from his perspective. 451 452 Vice Chair Wei referenced Johnson Park, a park near her home, as an example and inquired about 453 the process for gathering community input on park size and types. Mr. Cain explained that feedback 454 was collected through a community workshop and online survey using preference rankings, noting 455 that it was not a statistically representative poll. Ms. Robustelli clarified that Johnson Park is 456 approximately 2.5 acres. 457 458 Item 5 Public Comment 459 1. Penny E. (Zoom), a member of the SARAP community advisory group (CAG) but speaking as an 460 individual, raised concerns about the scale of proposed housing growth in the SARAP area and 461 the lack of identified funding for supporting infrastructure and community facilities. The 462 adequacy and configuration of proposed park space was questioned and concern was expressed 463 about park placement near major roadways. The commenter encouraged stronger integration 464 of Cubberley and broader community connections into the plan and requested clarification on 465 the timeline for a traffic study and its implications for land use decisions. Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 35 Packet Pg. 39 of 219 466 2. John P. (Zoom) expressed concerns about traffic impacts associated with proposed housing 467 growth in the San Antonio Road Area Plan and questioned whether mobility alternatives 468 adequately address existing vehicle traffic, suggesting potential use of Montrose Avenue as an 469 alternative bicycle route. Appreciation was expressed for staff efforts and for prioritizing tree 470 canopy. 471 472 Chair Freeman thanked members of the public for their comments and returned the item to the 473 Commission for discussion. 474 475 Vice Chair Wei emphasized the importance of a traffic analysis to support safe access to open 476 spaces, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists, and noted the need for cohesive park design that 477 integrates play areas, seating, and green space within smaller parks. Vice Chair Wei expressed 478 appreciation for staff progress and prioritization of tree canopy and open space. 479 480 Commissioner Kleinhaus referenced parkland standards of 3 acres per 1,000 residents and 481 expressed concern that the proposed park space in the SARAP may be insufficient to serve 482 anticipated population growth, emphasizing the need for additional parkland to meet community 483 needs. 484 485 Commissioner Kleinhaus stated a preference not to include additional office development, 486 expressed concern about increased building heights and traffic, and supported keeping residential 487 development closer to the lower end of the proposed range. Comments supported bike lanes and 488 alternative mobility options but noted that driving will still occur. It was suggested that removing 489 some on-street parking along San Antonio Road could create space for trees and pedestrian use. 490 Commissioner Kleinhaus discussed park size, noting challenges with large and small parks, and 491 suggested a mix of each, emphasizing the importance of design, tree canopy, and ensuring that 492 parks function as usable spaces rather than linear or sidewalk-like areas. 493 494 Chair Freeman repeated his concerns about distributed mini parks becoming residual or 495 underutilized spaces, noting that usability should reflect population density and household 496 composition, and expressed a preference for larger parks located near population centers with 497 adequate space for play and activity. Mitali Ganguly, consultant from Raimi + Associates, clarified 498 that detailed design will occur in later phases with community input and noted that the area plan 499 will establish standards and tools to ensure smaller parks are functional and not leftover spaces. 500 501 Commissioner Axelrod noted that projected growth of 4,000 to 7,000 dwelling units could result in 502 over 10,000 new residents in this area and referenced parkland standards, indicating a need for 503 substantially more green space, including larger anchor parks within neighborhoods as well as 504 smaller parks. Commissioner Axelrod recommended locating parks away from major roadways, 505 particularly for safety, and emphasized the need to improve access to the San Antonio Caltrain 506 station, including parking and safer bicycle routes not located on San Antonio Road. 507 508 Vice Chair Wei agreed with applying the 3-acre parkland standard for this area. Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 36 Packet Pg. 40 of 219 509 Commissioner Deng stated appreciation for the intent to distribute outdoor spaces across parcels 510 and reiterated that the Commission would like to better understand how those spaces will be usable 511 and meaningfully accessible to the public. 512 513 Chair Freeman thanked staff for the presentation and noted the importance of shaping open space 514 in the SARAP area, stating that input from the CAG will be shared, and emphasized the need to 515 provide adequate open space for future users. Mr. Cain thanked the Commission for the 516 opportunity to present and for their comments and feedback. 517 518 COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 519 Chair Freeman stated that the PRC workplan will be presented to City Council on April 6. Sarah 520 Robustelli, Division Manager of Open Space, Parks, and Golf, noted that multiple commissions will 521 be presenting workplans at that meeting. Chair Freeman added that the Council will consider 522 approval of the PRC workplan and that any updates will be reported at a future meeting. 523 524 Ms. Robustelli reviewed upcoming agenda items, noting the April 28 meeting will include 525 continuation of the tennis and pickleball discussion and informational updates on the Foothills 526 Improvement Plan and middle school athletics. May meeting items will include the second deck 527 study, park improvement ordinances for the Foothills Improvement Plan and the Arastradero Creek 528 pipeline, and a sluice gate update likely within the departmental report. 529 530 Commissioner Kleinhaus requested that the CEQA document for the Arastradero Creek pipeline 531 project be shared when available. Ms. Robustelli confirmed that it will be shared upon release. 532 533 Chair Freeman reminded Commissioners to meet with their ad hoc committees and liaisons and 534 provide updates at the next meeting, noting that the workplan timeline is approaching and that 535 updates will be important following City Council approval and to keep the PRC informed on ad hoc 536 and liaison activities. 537 538 ADJOURNMENT 539 The meeting was adjourned at 10:29 p.m. Item 1 Attachment B - March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 37 Packet Pg. 41 of 219 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION DEPARTMENT REPORT April 28, 2026 PaloAlto.gov Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 42 of 219 RECAP: EARTH DAY FESTIVIAL Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 43 of 219 UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 44 of 219 UPDATES Project Webpage: www.PaloAlto.gov/CubberleyProject Scan the QR Code to sign -up for the project newsletter Community Services Department Planting Work Party for Bowden Park Next Week Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 45 of 219 COMMUNITY GARDENS – Spotlight Volunteer Work Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 46 of 219 BRIONES PARK – Spotlight Volunteer Work Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 47 of 219 HOPKINS PARK - Improvements before after Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 48 of 219 HERITAGE PARK – Site Amenities Replacement (PG-21000) Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 49 of 219 Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 50 of 219 Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report From: Public Works Department Meeting Date: April 28, 2026 Report #: 2603-6179 TITLE Informational Update on the Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Project (PE-21000). BACKGROUND Foothills Nature Preserve (Preserve), approximately 1,400 acres of open space provides a wide variety of outdoor activities to the community. The Preserve experienced a significant increase in the number of visitors when it was opened to the public in 2020. This increase required safety, access, and parking improvements. Although visitation to the Preserve has returned to pre-pandemic levels, rangers continue to observe ongoing safety issues, particularly during weekends and holidays. Between 2021 and 2025, staff conducted several meetings with various stakeholder groups, the Open Space Liaisons and the Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) to identify improvements to the preserve. These improvements included new pedestrian pathways along preserve roads, parking reconfiguration, fencing, crosswalks, speed humps, signage, etc. for improved safety and access for visitors. Funding was added to the Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Capital Improvement Project (PE-21000) in fiscal year 2023. On August 22, 20231, staff presented a preliminary improvements plan to the PRC and received their feedback. On April 15, 2024, Council approved a professional services contract2 with BKF Engineers to provide design and construction administration services for the project. Staff received minor Architectural Review Board conditional approval for the project in February 2025. On September 8, 2025, during the fiscal year 2026 budget amendment process, the City Council discussed the need to scale back the project scope to safety and access improvements, referred 1 Parks and Recreation Commission, August 22, 2023; Agenda Item #3 https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/public-works/engineering-services/parks-and-recreation- commission-staff-report-foothills-draft-improvement-project-8-22-23-final.pdf 2 City Council, April 15, 2024; Agenda Item #7; CMR # 2402-2583 https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=82779&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto Item 4 Item 4 Staff Report Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 51 of 219 the project to the PRC, and directed staff to return with potential reductions in scope and funding for the fiscal year 2026 mid-year budget review. Per Council direction, staff prioritized and reduced the project scope to primarily safety improvements along Preserve roads, and visitors access improvements around Boronda Lake and Vista Hill areas only, which are generally the higher traffic areas. Staff presented the reduced scope to the PRC on October 28, 20255. PRC was supportive of the proposed reduced scope and provided input regarding adding a gravel parking lot across Boronda Lake and minor parking and traffic control features improvements. ANALYSIS New designated pedestrian pathways along preserve roads connecting entrance, Boronda Lake and Vista Hill and separating pedestrians from vehicles. Pathways will be approximately three to four feet wide and constructed of quarry fines material. The pathways may have gaps where necessary to preserve existing trees. Asphalt curb or boulders along the edge of the pedestrian pathways to provide a safety barrier between pedestrians and vehicles as feasible. Removal of unnecessary/excess asphalt on western side of Vista Hill. Reconfiguration and delineation of existing parking spaces around Boronda Lake and Vista Hill to provide safer and efficient access for vehicles. Removal of some parallel gravel parking spaces near Boronda Lake and entrance road to accommodate new pathways and to improve traffic flow and safety. New gravel parking lot across Boronda Lake to improve access and to offset the removal of parallel gravel parking spaces in the area. Parking modification in the Boronda Lake area enhances safety and operational efficiency without changing the total number of parking spaces. An accessible parking stall at existing Boronda Lake parking lot. Turn-around zone at existing Boronda Lake parking lot. Traffic control features such as speed humps, crosswalks, signage, and striping throughout the preserve where necessary to improve safety. 5 Parks and Recreation Commission, October 28, 2025; Agenda Item #4; Report # 2510-5288 https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/public-works/engineering- services/meetings2649packet_20251028224303498.pdf Item 4 Item 4 Staff Report Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 52 of 219 New dirt island with asphalt curb at the intersection south of Vista Hill to enforce one way traffic and to guide vehicles to stay on designated route. This replaces the previously proposed tiger teeth spikes at the intersection as they were determined to be unsuitable for this application upon further review. New benches along Vista Hill viewpoint. Upon further review of site conditions, staff identified that portions of the pavement in the Vista Hill and Boronda Lake areas require repair. Since the asphalt work was not part of the original project scope and CIP funding has been reduced, the asphalt repair areas may be incorporated as additive bid items, contingent upon available funding at the time of construction contract award. Cost Estimate The preliminary conceptual cost estimate for the prioritized scope outlined in this report ranges from $350,000 to $400,000. The conceptual cost estimate will be refined as the design is finalized. Actual cost can vary depending on market conditions and other unforeseen factors. Environmental Review The proposed project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (minor improvements to existing facilities). Next Steps The project design is in progress. Staff anticipates returning to the PRC in May 2026 for a Park Improvements Ordinance (PIO) recommendation to Council. Project design is anticipated to be completed by summer 2026, with bidding and construction anticipated in fall/winter 2026. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT Staff provided the City Council with an update on mid-year budget adjustments based on the PRC’s feedback on the reduced project scope and revised cost estimate. On February 23, 20267, Council approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Appropriation which included reduction in the budget for the Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Project (PE- 21000) by $200,000 and returned the funds to the infrastructure reserve. This reduction followed the City Council directive on September 8, 2025, to prioritize the project scope focusing primarily on safety and access improvements. Funding for this CIP is available in Fiscal Year 2026 Adopted Capital Improvement Program Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements (PE-21000). 7 City Council, February 23, 2026; Agenda Item #8; CMR # 2512-5662 https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=86652&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto Item 4 Item 4 Staff Report Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 53 of 219 ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Plan Item 4 Item 4 Staff Report Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 54 of 219 BK F E N G I N E E R S 25 5 S H O R E L I N E D R I V E SU I T E 2 0 0 RE D W O O D C I T Y , C A 9 4 0 6 5 (6 5 0 ) 4 8 2 - 6 3 0 0 ww w . b k f . c o m Parking 6 nose-in asphalt (10-minute zone) Parking 9 parallel gravel (to remove) Parking 4 parallel gravel (to remove) Parking 2 parallel asphalt Parking 10 existing, reduce to 6 nose-in asphalt (convert 2 spaces to turn-around zone and 2 spaces to accessible parking) Parking 8 parallel gravel (to remove) Parking 12 nose-in asphalt Parking 34 nose-in asphalt Parking 12 nose-in asphalt Parking 8 nose-in asphalt Parking 7 nose-in asphalt Parking 4 nose-in asphalt Parking 5 parallel asphalt VISTA HILL LEGEND 3' Pedestrian Pathway 4' Pedestrian Pathway Existing Asphalt Curb Add Gapped Asphalt Curb or Boulders Speed Humps Crosswalk Hatched-Striped Turnaround Zone ATTACHMENT A: FOOTHILLS NATURE PRESERVE IMPROVEMENTS PLAN CHA M I S E T R A I L CHAMIS E T R A I L CHAMISE TRAIL Parking Summary: Total general parking within preserve: 292 New parking to be added for proposed project: 12-14 Parking to be removed for proposed project: 23-25 Net loss parking for proposed project: 9-13 Net total general parking within preserve: 279-283 Note: Only 250 vehicles are allowed in the preserve at any given time. Asphalt Curb Island for One-Way Intersection Existing Bench New Bench Location COY O T E T R A I L CHAMISE TRAIL WOO D R A T T R A I L FIRE STATION 8 Existing bench (to remain) Use existing asphalt for pathway Remove excess asphalt as space allows Parking 16-18 nose-in gravel (to add) Google Image: Wooden Curb Stops Arastradero: Wooden and Concrete Curb StopsGoogle Image: Parking Delineator "Buttons" Accessible Parking Stall Existing bench (to relocate) Existing bench (to remain) Add directional and STOP signage and striping as needed Add STOP signage and striping as needed 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 Photo KeyX Asphalt Repair Locations (additive bid item) 10 Item 4 Attachment A - Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Plan Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 55 of 219 FOOTHILLS NATURE PRESERVEIMPROVEMENTSINFORMATIONAL UPDATE Parks and Recreation Commission April 28, 2026 Paloalto.gov Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 56 of 219 1 OVERVIEW •Background •Outreach and Improvements Plan Development •Updated Improvement Plan •Timeline and Next Steps Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 57 of 219 2 BACKGROUND •Foothills Nature Preserve opened to the general public in 2020. •Significant increase in visitation. • Impacts of increased visitation: ▪Visitors walking off -trail into sensitive areas. ▪Safety concerns due to pedestrians sharing preserve roads. ▪Confusion due to lack of signage and unmarked parking areas. ▪Traffic violations. • Need for pedestrian access, safety and parking improvements. Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 58 of 219 3 OUTREACH AND IMPROVEMENTS PLAN DEVELOPMENT •March 2021/August 2023: Stakeholders and PRC open space liaisons meetings. •August 22, 2023: Staff presented preliminary improvements plan to PRC. •April 15, 2024: Council approved a design services contract. •February 2025: Minor ARB Conditional Approval. •June 4, 2025: PRC open space liaisons meeting (feedback: pathway widths, trees preservation,and parking). •September 8, 2025: Council referred the project to PRC for potential scope reductions during FY 2026 budget amendments. •October 7, 2025: PRC open space liaisons meeting (feedback: remove excess asphalt at Vista Hill; remove/revisit parking lot across Boronda Lake). •October 28, 2025: Staff presented reduced scope to PRC (feedback: add back gravel parking lot across Boronda Lake; parking and traffic control discussion) Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 59 of 219 4 UPDATED IMPROVEMENT PLAN Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 60 of 219 5 PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS •New pedestrian pathways connecting Entrance, Boronda Lake, and Vista Hill.Curb or boulders along the pedestrian pathways. •Existing parking reconfiguration and striping. •Removal of some parallel gravel parking near Boronda Lake and Entrance. •New gravel parking lot across Boronda Lake (October 28th PRC input). •Accessible parking stall at Boronda Lake (October 28 th PRC input). •Additional benches at Vista Hill (October 28th PRC input). •Removal of excess asphalt at Vista Hill. •Traffic control features. Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 61 of 219 6 ASPHALT CURB ISLAND AT VISTA HILL New dirt island with asphalt curb at the intersection south of Vista Hill to enforce one way traffic and to guide vehicles to stay on designated route. PROPOSED Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 62 of 219 7 GRAVEL PARKING LOT ACROSS BORONDA LAKE PROPOSEDEXISTING PROPOSED EXISTING PROPOSED Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 63 of 219 8 TURNAROUND AND ACCESSIBLE PARKING AT BORONDA LAKE Convert two-spaces into a turn -around zone and two-spaces into an accessible parking at existing Boronda Lake parking lot. Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 64 of 219 9 TIMELINE AND NEXT STEPS •PRC Informational Update (April 2026) •PRC Recommendation for Park Improvement Ordinance (PIO) (May 2026) •Final Project Design/Construction Documents (Summer 2026) •Council adoption of PIO (Summer 2026) •Bidding and Council Award for Construction Contract (Fall 2026) •Construction (Fall/Winter 2026) Visit the project webpage for more information: www.paloalto.gov/foothillsproject Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 65 of 219 Questions and Comments Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 66 of 219 Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 17 Packet Pg. 67 of 219 Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report From: Community Services Department Meeting Date: April 28, 2026 Report #: 2604-6273 TITLE Middle School Athletics Program: Future Management Model and Program Direction RECOMMENDATION Receive an update and provide a recommendation on the preferred management model for the Middle School Athletics Program, including whether to continue City operation while exploring potential external management options through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process. BACKGROUND The City of Palo Alto (City) became involved in the Middle School Athletics (MSA) after-school program in 1997, following its prior operation by the Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD). At that time, the City hired part-time coaches, PAUSD employed Athletic Directors, and equipment costs and revenue were shared between both entities. Beginning in 2009–2010 season, the City assumed full responsibility for the program, including staffing, associated costs, and revenue management. PAUSD continues to provide school facilities for practices and games at no charge to the City. During the October 7, 20241 City Council meeting when discussing the Parks and Recreation Commission work plan, the City Council tasked the Parks and Recreation Commission with evaluating the City’s MSA program. The Commission was asked to provide approaches to align the program with universal student access for students and applicable state laws, as well as to explore the feasibility of transferring program management to local non-profit organizations. Currently, the Recreation Division within the Community Services Department of the City of Palo Alto operates the Middle School Athletics afterschool program at three public middle schools: Greene, Fletcher, and J.L. Stanford. 1 City Council, October 7, 2024; Agenda Item #17; SR #2406-3167, https://recordsportal.paloalto.gov/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=83021&dbid=0&repo=PaloAlto Item 5 Item 5 Staff Report Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 68 of 219 The program is divided into three athletic seasons: MSA Program JLS Greene Fletcher Item 5 Item 5 Staff Report Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 69 of 219 Compliance with State Law 3; however, since the MSA program is run directly by the City as one of its recreational programs, fees are assessed to participants. Participation and Revenue Program Fees: Although strong demand indicates that the current registration fee does not significantly deter participation, it may still present a barrier for some families. Typically, the program has around 75 registrants who utilize the City’s fee reduction program, which offers up to a 50 percent discount on the registration cost. However, staff currently do not have a mechanism to collect data on families who opt out due to financial constraints. Continued outreach is planned to increase awareness of available financial support. Program Capacity: Demand regularly exceeds program capacity, resulting in waitlists, especially for sports constrained by space or team sizes. While some sports such as Cross Country and Track and Field can accommodate more participants, others are limited by facility availability and coaching. To address equity concerns related to first-come, first-served registration, the City implemented a lottery-based enrollment system for the 2024 to 2025 school year. Families enter during an open registration window, and participants were randomly selected. Although this improves fairness, students placed on waitlists still face limited access. Staff continue their efforts to recruit additional coaches and explore new sports offerings to expand capacity. Staff continue to strive for universal access so that if a child cannot participate in their first choice, they can still choose another option. This is most difficult in the winter when we only offer basketball and outdoor options are limited due to weather. 3 See Education Code section 49011. Item 5 Item 5 Staff Report Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 70 of 219 ANALYSIS The above background was shared during the July 22, 2025 PRC meeting5, there was agreement that any program change that would increase the cost of program registration or increase city subsidy should not be considered. Since that meeting, staff have met with the MSA Ad hoc (Commissioners Wei, Brown, Smith) and reevaluated the previously identified options to improve the program. Tiered fee structure Currently the program charges the same registration fee for each sport, rather than setting each registration fee based on the different operating costs. This option would reduce the cost of sports with lower operating expenses; while raising the costs for sports with higher operating costs. Because this approach would lead to higher fees for some participants, staff and the Ad Hoc Committee recommend eliminating the tiered fee structure as a viable option. Non-profit partners to assist with fee reduction This is an option that creates the most positive change to the program. Staff have secured $10,000 from Palo Alto Recreation Foundation to support several students with complete financial assistance. This is a start to reducing program costs for those in need. Staff will continue to strengthen this partnership and explore other opportunities. The process of offering free MSA programming will provide data on the number of families in need of additional financial assistance. Partial program management The partial program management model would allow individual sports to be contracted out and managed by other organizations. The organizations would have sport specific expertise, which could help identify more coaches and have organizational structure that would allow for reduced registration fees for participants. In completing a request for information, one organization did provide information that they could offer the running sports (Cross Country and Track and Field) at a reduced participation rate. This method could decrease the costs of sports that are contracted to other organizations but would increase the costs of all remaining sports. Increased costs would be dependent on sport but as an example, if girls’ volleyball was removed as a city operated program, costs would go up by roughly $20 to other sports (new registration fees for remaining sports would be $355) or a city subsidy increase of $22,000. The increase to other sports or the larger city subsidy would be required because although there would be savings on coaching, referees and minor equipment savings, there is still a reduction of revenue and the staffing costs for the full-time staff and athletic directors would remain. If multiple sports were run by multiple organizations costs would go up with each sport reduction. Not only would costs go up but this could create a quality control issue between 5 July 22nd Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda, Item #5 Item 5 Item 5 Staff Report Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 71 of 219 sports. This option results in concerns for increasing costs and equity between sports, therefore staff and the Ad Hoc recommend removing this option. Full program management Item 5 Item 5 Staff Report Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 72 of 219 Discussion of Middle School Athletics: Future model and program direction Parks and Recreation Commission April 28, 2026 www.paloalto.gov Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 73 of 219 RECOMMENDATION •Receive Middle School Athletics (MSA) update •Provide feedback on preferred management model Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 74 of 219 BACKGROUND MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETICS •1997 – City of Palo Alto and Palo Alto Unified School District partnership •2009/2010 – City takes on full responsibility •October 7, 2024 - City Council asks Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Commission to review MSA Program •July 22, 2025 - Staff provide first MSA update to Parks and Recreation Commission Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 75 of 219 CITY COUNCIL REQUEST City Council Request- October 7th, 2024 •Provide approaches to align the program with universal student access for students and applicable state laws, as well as to explore the feasibility of outsourcing program operations to local non-profit organizations. Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 76 of 219 CURRENT MSA PROGRAM Current MSA program run by the Recreation Division Program operates at each of the three public middle schools; Greene, Fletcher and J.L Stanford (JLS) Each sport has a registration fee of $335 •Fee reduction of up to 50% off available Average around 1200 registrations a year with 70 on the waitlist Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 77 of 219 CURRENT MSA PROGRAM: Offerings by Season Fall Sports (Late August -Early November) Girls Volleyball Boys Flag Football Girls Flag Football (new) Co -ed Cross Country Winter Sports (Mid November – Late January) Girls Basketball Boys Basketball Spring Sports (February – End of March) Boys Volleyball Co -ed Track and Field Co -ed Wrestling Co -ed Tennis Ultimate Frisbee (Palo Alto only) Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 78 of 219 CURRENT MSA PROGRAM: City Staffing Site/Role City Staffing MSA Coordinator (Recreation Coordinator) JLS Athletic Director (Rec Leader III) 10–15 Seasonal Coaches Rec Leaders I or II Greene Athletic Director (Rec Leader III) 10–15 Seasonal Coaches Rec Leaders I or II Fletcher Athletic Director (Rec Leader III) 10–15 Seasonal Coaches Rec Leaders I or II City Staffing for Middle School Athletics Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 79 of 219 CURRENT MSA PROGRAM: Participation and Fees •~1,200 registrations each year •Registration fee is $335 dollars per sport played •Registration fees pay for •Staffing (hourly and full time) •League fees •Referees •Uniforms •Equipment •Staffing costs represent over 80% of expenses •Single registration fee across all sports to ensure equal access for all Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 80 of 219 ANALYSIS In evaluating the MSA program and any future models we will look at the following •Compliance with state law •Participation and expenses •Program accessibility •Program capacity Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 81 of 219 COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW •Extracurricular activities offered by school districts must be offered free of cost. •City run programming is allowed to assess fees for its programing. Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 82 of 219 PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY: Fees •With current fees, program demand reminds high •Fees could be a barrier for families •25/26 school year, 73 registrations utilized fee reduction program •Staff don’t have a mechanism to collecting data on families that can’t participate due to fees. Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 83 of 219 PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY: Capacity Demand regularly exceeds program capacity •Staff tries to reduce or eliminated waitlists wherever possible •Capacity is limited by •Coaching availability •Team sizes •Facility space Registration was a first come first serve model, but has been updated to provide a more equitable experience •Open registration periods •Random selection into program •doesn't reduce possibility of waitlists Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 17 Packet Pg. 84 of 219 ANALYSIS - possible future models At July 22nd, 2025 Parks and Recreation Meeting the following alternative models were discussed •Tiered Fee Structure •Non-profit partnerships •Partial Program management •Full program management Focus on solutions •No increase in registration costs to participants •No increase in city subsidy •Increase program capacity Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 18 Packet Pg. 85 of 219 EXPLORING ALTERNATIVES: Fee Structure Tiered fee structure •Create a tiered fee structure based on costs of running each sport •Decrease the costs of some sports while increasing the costs of others based on operating costs •While this would make some sports cheaper, it would make other sports more expensive as costs would remain the same. Recommendation – remove tiered fee structure to focus on other areas if improvement. Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 19 Packet Pg. 86 of 219 EXPLORING ALTERNATIVES: Partnership with non-profits Partnership with nonprofit fundraising support •Nonprofit could engage in fundraising and community partnership •Focus on reducing costs or increasing financial assistance •Partnership with Palo Alto Recreation Foundation •$10,000 for upcoming school year •Full scholarship for 60 students •Collect data of families in need Recommendation - Continue to strengthen partnership with PARF and look for new partnership opportunities Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 20 Packet Pg. 87 of 219 EXPLORING ALTERNATIVES: Program Management Partial Program Management •Contract individual sports to individual organizations •Sport specific expertise •Sport specific coaching hires •Decreased registration fees •Removing individual sports increase cost to remaining sports •Savings in coaching costs, referee contract, minor equipment savings •Need for full time staff and hourly athletic directors remains •Example- Girls volleyball •Registration increase by $20 (new registration $355) •Or increase city subsidy $22,000 Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 21 Packet Pg. 88 of 219 EXPLORING ALTERNATIVES: Program management Partial Program Management •Each sport removed increases registration fees •If each sport was removed •Staffing to manage contracts •Manage multiple groups onsite •Quality control between sports Recommendation- Due to raised costs to remaining sports and equity issues between sports it’s recommended to remove this as an option moving forward Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 22 Packet Pg. 89 of 219 EXPLORING ALTERNATIVES: Program management Full Program Management •Contract entire program to single organization •General sports and hiring expertise •Decreased registration fees •Increased capacity •No identified organization •Contracting results in reduced program flexibility and adaptability Recommendation: Staff recommends performing an RFP(request for proposal) to ensure this idea is fully vetted. Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 23 Packet Pg. 90 of 219 NEXT STEPS Staff and Ad hoc recommend the following •Continue City operation of MSA program •Focus on coaching hires •Eliminating waitlists •Continue to strengthen partnership with non-profits to increase financial assistance •Collect data on families in need of additional financial assistance •Perform Request for Proposals (RFP) •Weigh qualified groups against city operations. Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 24 Packet Pg. 91 of 219 Presented by: Adam Howard, Senior Community Services Manager Item 5 Item 5 Staff Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 25 Packet Pg. 92 of 219 Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report From: Community Services Department Meeting Date: April 28, 2026 Report #: 2604-6289 TITLE Review and Confirm the Revised Parks and Recreation Commission Fiscal Year 2027 Work Plan RECOMMENATION Staff recommends that the Parks and Recreation Commission review and confirm the revised Fiscal Year 2027 Year Work Plan, including the City Council directed additions. BACKGROUND The Parks and Recreation Commission held its annual retreat on February 13, 2026, during which a draft Fiscal Year 2027 Work Plan was developed. That Commission subsequently reviewed and confirmed that draft work plan at its February 24, 20261 meeting. The draft work plan was presented to the City Council on April 4, 20262 for review and feedback. ANALYSIS Following City Council review, two additional items were recommended for inclusion in the Commission’s Fiscal Year 2027 Work Plan. These additions are reflected in Attachment A and are shown in bold. Staff met with the Chair and Vice Chair to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating these items within the FY27 work plan. Based on that discussion, staff believes the additions can be accommodated within the existing work plan framework, recognizing that prioritization and workload balancing will be necessary. 1 Parks and Recreation Commission, February 24, 2026; Item #7, SR#2602-5964, 2 City Council, April 4, 2026; Agenda Item #14, SR# 2512-5594, Item 6 Item 6 Staff Report Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 93 of 219 The Council-directed additions include: Project/Goal 4: Natural Grass Pilot and Non-Athletic Field Synthetic Turf Policy Development of a Non-Playing Field Synthetic Turf Policy addressing applications such as playgrounds, landscaping, and the golf course driving range. Project/Goal 7: Nature Connectivity Development of guidelines to support the incorporation of native plants into new development and ongoing maintenance of City properties, including parkland. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT ATTACHMENT Item 6 Item 6 Staff Report Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 94 of 219 Parks and Recreation Commission Revised Draft FY2027 Workplan Staff Liaison: Sarah Robustelli, Division Manager Lead Department: Community Services About the Commission The purpose of the Parks and Recreation Commission is to advise the City Council on matters pertaining to the activities of the Open Space & Parks, Golf, and Recreation divisions of the Community Services Department, ns. isFY27 July 1, 2026-June 30, 2027. The Commission is composed of seven officers, or space, and recreation matters. webpage. Current Commissioners • Nellis Freeman (Chair) • Bing Wei (Vice Chair) • Vadim Axelrod • Amanda Brown • Yudy Deng • Shani Kleinhaus • Roger Smith Mission Statement The purpose of the Parks and Recreation Commission is to advise the City Council on policy matters pertaining to the activities of the Open Space, Parks and Golf Division, and the Recreation Division of the Community Services Item 6 Revised Draft Parks and Recreation Commission FY27 Work Plan Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 95 of 219 Prior Year Accomplishments • Based on feedback during the December 18, 2024, discussion again during January 28, 2025 and feedback was provided on the proposed plan for FY 2026-2030. Park Dedication FY26 • On June 18, 2025, a ribbon-cutting event was held for Fred Eyerly Tower Well Park. Baylands Comprehensive Conservation Plan (BCCP) Update • Reviewed the draft 2022 BCCP including scope, and next steps • Highlighted gaps, grammatical and technical errors and the need for strengthening conversation actions including monitoring • Evaluated opportunities to strengthen wildlife conversation • Recommended focusing on the action plan Nature Preserve Access Policy • Reviewed whether to restrict or expand access within parks and open space preserves, balancing environmental protection, safety, and recreational use as part of the Nature Preserve Access Policy follow-up. • Evaluated trail conditions and habitat impacts at Pearson-Arastradero Preserve, supported a seasonal, data- informed management approach, and reviewed public input gathered through a 30-day on-site outreach and comment period. • Provided final recommendations on trail management and habitat protection priorities and formally concluded the Ad Hoc Committee’s work following completion of Council- 28, 2025, meeting. Recreation Wellness Center • Collaborated with City staff on stakeholder and community outreach initiatives. • Co-hosted a community meeting with City staff in January 2025 to discuss the proposed center and explore potential locations. • Continued collaboration with the Friends of Palo Alto Recreation Wellness Center Board of Directors, providing updates to the PRC based on relevant input received. • Transitioned to the liaison role as the work is ongoing. Playing Fields • Item 6 Revised Draft Parks and Recreation Commission FY27 Work Plan Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 96 of 219 • Advanced a formal recommendation to City Council through the Parks and Recreation Commission at its October 28, 2025, meeting. Racquet Courts Policy Update • Staff and the PRC ad hoc committee completed a comprehensive review racquet sports policies, including field reservations, tennis, and pickleball. • The work included a best-practices policy review of tennis court reservation practices to support resident access, and implementation of pickleball improvements such as striping at Fletcher School/Terman Park and evaluation of multi-use court opportunities. • March 2026 following a twelve-month effort that included two PRC presentations and extensive engagement with tennis and pickleball stakeholders. Middle School Athletics • alternative models would create better programing for the community. • Evaluated contracting out both individual sports and the entire athletics program • in programming to meet the needs of the community. Cubberley Project • Worked with staff on community engagement and activation to increase community awareness and involvement. PROJECT/GOAL 1: CIP Review , Natural Open Space, and y in project selection, and implement best practices -term capital planning and inter-departmental coordination. BENEFICIAL IMPACTS TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS STATE MANDATED / LOCAL LAW / COUNCIL- Optimize implementation of the Parks Master Plan 2026-January 2027 Moderate staff time HIGH PRIORITY LOWER COUNCIL-DIRECTED POLICY UPDATE Item 6 Revised Draft Parks and Recreation Commission FY27 Work Plan Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 97 of 219 Review CIP and to ensure alignment with the Master Plan PROJECT/GOAL 2: Park Dedication our community BENEFICIAL IMPACTS TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS STATE MANDATED / LOCAL LAW / COUNCIL- Increase dedicated parkland to provide recreational opportunities, promote the health and well-being of the community, and Moderate staff time (CSD, CAO, Planning, PWE, Real Estate) Recommendation of one or more sites for dedication as parkland .D, -8.1) HIGH PRIORITY LOWER COUNCIL-DIRECTED POLICY UPDATE Work with staff to assess the suitability of Ventura Community Center (PACCC) for parkland Work with staff to assess the suitability of Rinconada Gardens, San Antonio Avenue at Ponce Drive, Los Altos Treatment Plant Site (wetland area), and Baylands Measure E Site (landfill slope portion). Pursue dedication of Greer Park sewer easement associated with the 2850 W. Bayshore Road development project Review previously identified locations and consider new potential sites for park PROJECT/GOAL 3: Baylands Comprehensive Conservation Plan (BCCP) BENEFICIAL IMPACTS TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS STATE MANDATED / LOCAL LAW / COUNCIL- Work towards releasing the Baylands Comprehensive Conservation Plan which was previously developed but not completed guideline, for for environmental infrastructure 2027-FY2028 Moderate to high staff time Continue review of 2022 BCCP and consultant deliverables. PRC recommendation and City Council adoption of the updated BCCP. (Parks Master HIGH PRIORITY LOWER COUNCIL-DIRECTED POLICY UPDATE Item 6 Revised Draft Parks and Recreation Commission FY27 Work Plan Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 98 of 219 • Continue review of Draft 2022 BCCP as needed • Identify work needed to move forward with BCCP updates as possible and appropriate • implementation. Identify topics appropriate for future amendments or related planning efforts beyond the current BCCP update. Provide additional advisory input as requested by staff or PRC. PROJECT/GOAL 4: Natural Grass Pilot and Non-Athletic Field Synthetic Turf Policy unities to transition from synthetic turf and propose language for non-athletic fields synthetic turf policy BENEFICIAL IMPACTS TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS STATE MANDATED / LOCAL LAW / COUNCIL- High level of staff time Natural Grass Pilot City Council for evaluation Engage with stakeholders for feedback Propose Policy Language to City Council HIGH PRIORITY LOWER COUNCIL-DIRECTED POLICY UPDATE Work with staff to review and recommend and propose a rubric of success measures for the Cubberley Propose a Non-Playing Field Synthetic Turf Policy covering playgrounds, landscaping, and . Meet with stakeholders periodically for feedback PROJECT/GOAL 5: Courts Policy Update BENEFICIAL IMPACTS TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS STATE MANDATED / LOCAL LAW / COUNCIL- Item 6 Revised Draft Parks and Recreation Commission FY27 Work Plan Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 99 of 219 Proactive Pickleball and Tennis court management 7 Court reservation policy update recommendation to City Council HIGH PRIORITY LOWER COUNCIL-DIRECTED POLICY UPDATE Meet with stakeholders periodically/monthly if necessary for feedback -residents -day utilization report with hourly breakdowns (tennis and pickleball) - Meet with stakeholders for feedback and review court reservation systems and use policy and recommend an update as appropriate PROJECT/GOAL 6: Cubberley Project Cubberley Project. BENEFICIAL IMPACTS TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS STATE MANDATED / LOCAL LAW / COUNCIL- ecreation and Park facilities for the High level of staff time CSD, ASD, CMO community engagement. 2026 ballot measure. Master Plan recommendation forwarded to City Council for approval HIGH PRIORITY LOWER COUNCIL-DIRECTED POLICY UPDATE Item 6 Revised Draft Parks and Recreation Commission FY27 Work Plan Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 100 of 219 • Provide input on policy questions related to future use of space. • Advise on near-term site activation strategies. • Support completion of the Cubberley Community Center Master Plan. • Support ongoing community engagement efforts • Work with community stakeholder, like friends of palo alto parks, recreation wellness center, etc. • redevelopment. PROJECT/GOAL 7: Nature Connectivity an and Parks & Recreation BENEFICIAL IMPACTS TIMELINE RESOURCES NEEDED MEASURE OF SUCCESS STATE MANDATED / LOCAL LAW / COUNCIL- ● City Policy analysis and synthesis ● Summary of policy gaps and opportunities ● Best-practice reference summary ● Set of PRC policy recommendations Low staff time raft of policy recommendations to 4.C HIGH PRIORITY LOWER COUNCIL-DIRECTED POLICY UPDATE ● Review existing City policies and plans (Comprehensive Plan, Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan, Urban Forest Master Plan, Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP), and stormwater / green infrastructure guidance and other relevant plans) to assess how biodiversity and pollinator connectivity are addressed. ● Evaluate regional best practices, including Mountain View’s Biodiversity and Urban Forest Plan and San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department biodiversity frameworks, to identify applicable policy approaches and available resources for Palo Alto. ● Developing guidelines for incorporating native plants into both new development and ongoing maintenance of city properties, including parkland. ● Develop program-level policy recommendations for integration into park planning and capital projects, with emphasis on: ○ Locally native and pollinator-supportive plant standards ○ Habitat continuity across parks, trails, and civic landscapes ○ Reducing ecological barriers within park projects and renovations • Identify opportunities for alignment with related City efforts (e.g., climate, sustainability, urban forestry) to reinforce consistent implementation. Item 6 Revised Draft Parks and Recreation Commission FY27 Work Plan Item 6: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 101 of 219 1 Vidal, Eric From:Warner, Michael Sent:Tuesday, April 21, 2026 9:47 AM To:ParkRec Commission; Open Space Cc:Robustelli, Sarah Subject:Re: Arastradero Preserve new sign edit I'll follow up tomorrow From: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 9:34 AM To: Warner, Michael <Michael.Warner@paloalto.gov>; Open Space <Open.Space@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> Subject: FW: Arastradero Preserve new sign edit Good Afternoon Mike, Can you confirm if you responded to this e-mail. Eric Vidal Coordinator Rec Prog | Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 496-6962 | Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Sabina Hentz <sabinahentz@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, April 8, 2026 9:20 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov>; Open Space <Open.Space@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Warner, Michael <Michael.Warner@paloalto.gov> Subject: Re: Arastradero Preserve new sign edit CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. hello there, I am following up on my email on March 25 about the sign at the Arastradero Preserve. Please see above. Looking forward to your reply. Thank you. On Wed, Mar 25, 2026 at 9:44AM Sabina Hentz <sabinahentz@gmail.com> wrote: Hello there,I hope you’re having a wonde i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. • This is a personal email address. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 102 of 219 2 Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast CGBANNERINDICATOR hello there, I am following up on my email on March 25 about the sign at the Arastradero Preserve. Please see above. Looking forward to your reply. Thank you. On Wed, Mar 25, 2026 at 9:44 AM Sabina Hentz <sabinahentz@gmail.com> wrote: Hello there, I hope you’re having a wonderful day. I am a long-time resident of Palo Alto and have boarded my horse at Portola Pastures in Portola Valley for the past 15 years, bordering the Arastradero Preserve. We frequently ride on the preserve’s trails, which are truly a special and treasured place. I recently noticed that the updated signage at the preserve (photo attached) no longer mentions horses. Previously, the signage clearly indicated trail-use priorities, with horses given the right of way. Without this guidance, many visitors appear unaware of proper trail etiquette. We often encounter cyclists approaching at high speeds—sometimes from behind—as well as runners who may not recognize the risks involved. As you know, horses are prey animals and can react unpredictably if startled, which makes awareness and respectful behavior essential for everyone’s safety—both riders and other trail users. I am writing on behalf of riders at Portola Pastures, and I believe the broader equestrian community would strongly support reinstating clear signage that acknowledges horses and emphasizes appropriate trail etiquette and right of way. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Sabina Hentz Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 103 of 219 3 Vidal, Eric From:ParkRec Commission Sent:Tuesday, April 21, 2026 9:36 AM To:LeDrew, Lance; ParkRec Commission Subject:RE: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park Thanks for the clarification. I will forward this to Andrew. Eric Vidal Coordinator Rec Prog | Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 496-6962 | Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: LeDrew, Lance <Lance.LeDrew@paloalto.gov> Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 9:30 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Subject: RE: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park I don’t know anything about this. I would send to Andrew Joice at Mitchell park. Best, Lance From: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 9:28 AM To: LeDrew, Lance <Lance.LeDrew@paloalto.gov> Subject: FW: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park Good morning Lance, This was sent to the Parks and recs Commission Inbox. Please see and respond to e-mail below. Eric Vidal Coordinator Rec Prog | Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 496-6962 | Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 104 of 219 4 From: Regina Elmore <regina.elmore@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, April 16, 2026 6:45 PM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Subject: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello, I am aware that theSan Francisco Mime Troup(SFMT) is trying to connect with Palo Alto Parks and Rec with the objective of once again holding their free performance at Mitchell Park. Will you please allow them to perform inMitchell Park (without a fee)? They are a Bay Area asset that we should i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast CGBANNERINDICATOR Hello, I am aware that the San Francisco Mime Troup (SFMT) is trying to connect with Palo Alto Parks and Rec with the objective of once again holding their free performance at Mitchell Park. Will you please allow them to perform in Mitchell Park (without a fee)? They are a Bay Area asset that we should be proud to host in our park. What will it take to make this happen so that SFMT can perform in Mitchell Park this summer? Sincerely, Regina Elmore Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 105 of 219 5 Vidal, Eric From:LeDrew, Lance Sent:Tuesday, April 21, 2026 9:30 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:RE: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park I don’t know anything about this. I would send to Andrew Joice at Mitchell park. Best, Lance From: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 9:28 AM To: LeDrew, Lance <Lance.LeDrew@paloalto.gov> Subject: FW: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park Good morning Lance, This was sent to the Parks and recs Commission Inbox. Please see and respond to e-mail below. Eric Vidal Coordinator Rec Prog | Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 496-6962 | Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Regina Elmore <regina.elmore@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, April 16, 2026 6:45 PM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Subject: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello, I am aware that theSan Francisco Mime Troup(SFMT) is trying to connect with Palo Alto Parks and Rec with the objective of once again holding their free performance at Mitchell Park. Will you please allow them to perform inMitchell Park (without a fee)? They are a Bay Area asset that we should i This messa e needs our attention Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 106 of 219 6 • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast CGBANNERINDICATOR Hello, I am aware that the San Francisco Mime Troup (SFMT) is trying to connect with Palo Alto Parks and Rec with the objective of once again holding their free performance at Mitchell Park. Will you please allow them to perform in Mitchell Park (without a fee)? They are a Bay Area asset that we should be proud to host in our park. What will it take to make this happen so that SFMT can perform in Mitchell Park this summer? Sincerely, Regina Elmore Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 107 of 219 7 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Tuesday, April 21, 2026 7:00 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Create Safe Spaces with Every Step: Flooring for Wet Areas👣 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there, Make a splash this summer! Your guests will love you!! Refresh and create safe parks & splash pools! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. 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SEE MARINE MATS HERE Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 108 of 219 8 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of AccessMat® Beach Accessibility Mats AccessMat® Beach Accessibility Mats $804.00 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of AccessRec Accessdeck USA Ground Accessibility & Mobility Mat AccessRec Accessdeck USA Ground Accessibility & Mobility Mat $225.00 Learn More From access & beach mats, to pool, terrain, and water wheelchairs... ACCESSREC provide access for everyone! 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SEE ALL RECREATION SURFACES HERE For Questions & Quotes, Call Andi Tel:706.619.6670 andi@lightasairboats.com CAMPS & PARKS CATALOG WATER RECREATION CATALOG RESORTS CATALOG Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 109 of 219 9 YACHT CATALOG To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Button Text To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InCustom We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 110 of 219 10 Vidal, Eric From:Howard, Adam Sent:Monday, April 20, 2026 8:41 AM To:Tom Haxton Cc:ParkRec Commission Subject:RE: Request for update on Middle School Sports evaluation Good morning Tom, The Staff report should be posted by tomorrow. Thank you Adam Howard Sr. Community Services Manager, Recreation City of Palo Alto Phone: 650-329-2192 E-mail: adam.howard@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov Please think of the environment before printing this email – Thank you! From: Tom Haxton <tomhaxton@gmail.com> Sent: Saturday, April 18, 2026 2:22 PM To: Howard, Adam <Adam.Howard@paloalto.gov> Cc: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Subject: Re: Request for update on Middle School Sports evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi Adam, Is the staff report available yet? Best regards, Tom On Wed, Mar 4, 2026 at 9:42 PM Tom Haxton <tomhaxton@gmail.com> wrote: Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 111 of 219 11 Hi Adam, Thank you. I look forward to reading the staff report. Best regards, Tom On Wed, Feb 25, 2026 at 9:10 AM Howard, Adam <Adam.Howard@paloalto.gov> wrote: Hi Tom, The MSA conversation was scheduled for March, but due to some scheduling issues it had to be rescheduled to April. The meeting in April will be on Tuesday 28th. I can send agenda and staff reports once they are available, typically a week or two before the meeting. Thank you Adam Howard Sr. Community Services Manager, Recreation City of Palo Alto Phone: 650-329-2192 E-mail: adam.howard@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov Please think of the environment before printing this email – Thank you! Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 112 of 219 12 From: Tom Haxton <tomhaxton@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, February 23, 2026 5:38 PM To: Howard, Adam <Adam.Howard@paloalto.gov> Cc: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Subject: Re: Request for update on Middle School Sports evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi Adam, Thank you again for the December update. I see that the item is not on the February agenda. Would you be able to confirm whether the timeline remains that it is likely to be on the March agenda? I appreciate the continued work on this and look forward to participating when it comes forward. Best regards, Tom On Mon, Dec 29, 2025 at 10:29 AM Tom Haxton <tomhaxton@gmail.com> wrote: Hi Adam, Thank you for the update. I look forward to attending the commission meeting and learning more about the proposed RFP parameters and timeline. Best regards, Tom On Mon, Dec 29, 2025 at 10:16 AM Howard, Adam <Adam.Howard@paloalto.gov> wrote: Good morning Tom, Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 113 of 219 13 We plan to return to the Commission in early 2026, likely in February or March, though that timing has not yet been finalized. At that time, we will formalize the guidelines for issuing an RFP (Request for Proposals). This will be a more formal process than the RFI (Request for Information) and could result in a group entering a contract with the City to operate the MSA program. At the Commission meeting, the RFP parameters will be discussed and finalized. These parameters will be used to guide and evaluate any proposals the City receives. The next steps and proposed timeline will also be discussed during that meeting. Once the meeting date is confirmed, I will be sure to notify you. Thank you, Adam Howard Sr. Community Services Manager, Recreation City of Palo Alto Phone: 650-329-2192 E-mail: adam.howard@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov Please think of the environment before printing this email – Thank you! From: Tom Haxton <tom.haxton@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 24, 2025 7:22 PM Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 114 of 219 14 To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Howard, Adam <Adam.Howard@paloalto.gov> Subject: Request for update on Middle School Sports evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Parks and Recreation Commission and cc Adam Howard, staff liaison, Thank you for your service on the commission. As Director of the Palo Alto Middle School Athletics Community Organization (PAMSACO), the local nonprofit whose JLS Cross Country pilot program helped prompt the City’s evaluation of middle school sports, I am writing to request an update on the status of that evaluation. By way of background, the City Council voted unanimously on October 7, 2024 to evaluate transferring management of middle school sports to local nonprofits as part of the FY2025 work plan. I appreciate that the commission formed an ad-hoc committee and that staff prepared an initial report following the Request for Information issued in July 2025. At this point, however, I am not aware of any subsequent milestones or anticipated next steps, and I would appreciate an update on the current status and timeline. I would also like to flag a factual issue in the July 2025 staff report for the record. The report states that Rising Stars LLC estimated its fees at $225 per student. The RFI response, however, listed costs as $225 per hour per instructor, which would translate to approximately $675 per student based on current enrollment and staffing. This distinction is material to any cost comparison and may warrant clarification in future discussions or documents. Thank you for your time and for your continued work on this issue. I would be happy to provide any additional information that may be helpful. Best regards, Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 115 of 219 15 Tom Tom Haxton Director, Palo Alto Middle School Athletics Community Organization (PAMSACO) Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 116 of 219 16 Vidal, Eric From:Tom Haxton <tomhaxton@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, April 18, 2026 2:22 PM To:Howard, Adam Cc:ParkRec Commission Subject:Re: Request for update on Middle School Sports evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • Some Recipients have never replied to this person. • This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Hi Adam, Is the staff report available yet? Best regards, Tom On Wed, Mar 4, 2026 at 9:42 PM Tom Haxton <tomhaxton@gmail.com> wrote: Hi Adam, Thank you. I look forward to reading the staff report. Best regards, Tom On Wed, Feb 25, 2026 at 9:10 AM Howard, Adam <Adam.Howard@paloalto.gov> wrote: Hi Tom, The MSA conversation was scheduled for March, but due to some scheduling issues it had to be rescheduled to April. The meeting in April will be on Tuesday 28th. I can send agenda and staff reports once they are available, typically a week or two before the meeting. Thank you Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 117 of 219 17 Adam Howard Sr. Community Services Manager, Recreation City of Palo Alto Phone: 650-329-2192 E-mail: adam.howard@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov Please think of the environment before printing this email – Thank you! From: Tom Haxton <tomhaxton@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, February 23, 2026 5:38 PM To: Howard, Adam <Adam.Howard@paloalto.gov> Cc: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Subject: Re: Request for update on Middle School Sports evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi Adam, Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 17 Packet Pg. 118 of 219 18 Thank you again for the December update. I see that the item is not on the February agenda. Would you be able to confirm whether the timeline remains that it is likely to be on the March agenda? I appreciate the continued work on this and look forward to participating when it comes forward. Best regards, Tom On Mon, Dec 29, 2025 at 10:29 AM Tom Haxton <tomhaxton@gmail.com> wrote: Hi Adam, Thank you for the update. I look forward to attending the commission meeting and learning more about the proposed RFP parameters and timeline. Best regards, Tom On Mon, Dec 29, 2025 at 10:16 AM Howard, Adam <Adam.Howard@paloalto.gov> wrote: Good morning Tom, We plan to return to the Commission in early 2026, likely in February or March, though that timing has not yet been finalized. At that time, we will formalize the guidelines for issuing an RFP (Request for Proposals). This will be a more formal process than the RFI (Request for Information) and could result in a group entering a contract with the City to operate the MSA program. At the Commission meeting, the RFP parameters will be discussed and finalized. These parameters will be used to guide and evaluate any proposals the City receives. The next steps and proposed timeline will also be discussed during that meeting. Once the meeting date is confirmed, I will be sure to notify you. Thank you, Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 18 Packet Pg. 119 of 219 19 Adam Howard Sr. Community Services Manager, Recreation City of Palo Alto Phone: 650-329-2192 E-mail: adam.howard@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov Please think of the environment before printing this email – Thank you! From: Tom Haxton <tom.haxton@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 24, 2025 7:22 PM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Howard, Adam <Adam.Howard@paloalto.gov> Subject: Request for update on Middle School Sports evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Parks and Recreation Commission and cc Adam Howard, staff liaison, Thank you for your service on the commission. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 19 Packet Pg. 120 of 219 20 As Director of the Palo Alto Middle School Athletics Community Organization (PAMSACO), the local nonprofit whose JLS Cross Country pilot program helped prompt the City’s evaluation of middle school sports, I am writing to request an update on the status of that evaluation. By way of background, the City Council voted unanimously on October 7, 2024 to evaluate transferring management of middle school sports to local nonprofits as part of the FY2025 work plan. I appreciate that the commission formed an ad-hoc committee and that staff prepared an initial report following the Request for Information issued in July 2025. At this point, however, I am not aware of any subsequent milestones or anticipated next steps, and I would appreciate an update on the current status and timeline. I would also like to flag a factual issue in the July 2025 staff report for the record. The report states that Rising Stars LLC estimated its fees at $225 per student. The RFI response, however, listed costs as $225 per hour per instructor, which would translate to approximately $675 per student based on current enrollment and staffing. This distinction is material to any cost comparison and may warrant clarification in future discussions or documents. Thank you for your time and for your continued work on this issue. I would be happy to provide any additional information that may be helpful. Best regards, Tom Tom Haxton Director, Palo Alto Middle School Athletics Community Organization (PAMSACO) Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 20 Packet Pg. 121 of 219 21 Vidal, Eric From:Regina Elmore <regina.elmore@gmail.com> Sent:Thursday, April 16, 2026 6:45 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Hello, I am aware that the San Francisco Mime Troup (SFMT) is trying to connect with Palo Alto Parks and Rec with the objective of once again holding their free performance at Mitchell Park. Will you please allow them to perform in Mitchell Park (without a fee)? They are a Bay Area asset that we should be proud to host in our park. What will it take to make this happen so that SFMT can perform in Mitchell Park this summer? Sincerely, Regina Elmore Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 21 Packet Pg. 122 of 219 22 Vidal, Eric From:Mike Bloom <mbloom_8@cox.net> Sent:Thursday, April 16, 2026 12:52 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:JAYPRO SPORTS A SOURCEWELL PARTNER CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. • This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Good Day, I am the manufacturer’s representative for Jaypro Sports for the area. Jaypro Sports is an indoor/outdoor sports equipment manufacturer with 70 years of experience. We have developed the most robust and reliable equipment for facilities of all shapes and sizes. Our complete line of indoor gymnasium and outdoor field equipment is designed for all levels of play, from Professional to Recreational. We oƯer products for Baseball/Softball, Basketball/Gymnasium, Benches/Bleachers, Facilities, field Netting, Field Marking, Field Hockey/Lacrosse, Football, Soccer, Tennis/Pickleball, Track & Field, and Volleyball, designed to perform, manufactured to last. We are a partner with Sourcewell, so if you are a member agency then there is already contractual competitive pricing available for you. I can send a Sourcewell price list if you so desire, just let me know. If not a member of Sourcewell, that is okay, we can still oƯer quotes that would be very competitive. If you would like to have as a reference, here are two links to our current Jaypro Sports catalog, this one is the flipbook, https://www.jaypro.com/Flipbook/, if you want a downloadable version then there is this link: https://shop.jayprosports.com/assets/docs/catalog/2025_Catalog_Jaypro_Sports_All_Sports.pdf. Any questions please let me know. Please forward this to anyone in your organization that may have an interest in our equipment, much appreciated, thank you. Kind regards, Mike Bloom Mike Bloom – Jaypro Sports C. 623-262-1373 E. mbloom_8@cox.net https://JayproSports.com Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 22 Packet Pg. 123 of 219 23 Vidal, Eric From:Postmaster <postmaster@paloalto.gov> Sent:Thursday, April 16, 2026 12:27 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:You have new held messages To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Logo You have new held messages You can release all of your held messages and permit or block future emails from the senders, or manage messages individually. Release all Permit all Block all You can also mana e held messa es in our Personal Portal. Spam Policy ulysses@reliablevirtualteam.com Quick thought 2026-04-16 11:01 Release Permit Block Release all Permit all Block all To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. © 2019 Mimecast Services Limited. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 23 Packet Pg. 124 of 219 24 Vidal, Eric From:Simon Ortiz <simon@citydata.ai> Sent:Thursday, April 16, 2026 9:37 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:CityData.AI On-site visit CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Greetings, Parks and Recreation Commission. Do it like Sonoma County, San Leandro, and Santa Clara: Understanding park usage and visit trends by using anonymized cellphone data from CityParks. We'll be in the Bay Area the week of April 26th to May 15th, and we would like to stop by your office or City Hall for a quick 20-minute introduction. CityData.AI supports hundreds of Parks and Recreation agencies across the US by providing big data + AI models about visitor footfalls, along with ground truth validation. We are honored to have been selected by the Arizona State Parks & Trails Department as well as Texas State Parks and Wildlife for usage analytics and visitation insights. Our CityParks product includes: • Hourly & Daily Usage Patterns: Know exactly when your parks, trails and facilities hit peak capacity. • Visitor Origins & Movement Patterns: Understand the origin blocks, neighborhoods and counties where visitors to your parks come from. • 7-Year Historical Trends: Compare current attendance to 2020-2025 data to quantify true growth. • Inferred Visitor Demographics: Infer the income, age range, and household types of your park users to better target programming. • Attendance for Events & Festivals: Estimate attendance for events, festivals, and fairs organized by your city or county. • Field Task Optimization: Prioritizing maintenance tasks for field teams based on actual usage of parks and trails. Are you open to a brief conversation on this? If so, let me know, and we can find a time that aligns for an in-person visit at your office during that week. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 24 Packet Pg. 125 of 219 25 All the best, CITYDATA.ai San Francisco, California, USA Mobility Intelligence: Apps + Big Data+ Ai for a smarter, safer, and sustainable planet. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 25 Packet Pg. 126 of 219 26 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Thursday, April 16, 2026 7:03 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Rev Up Your Guest's Summer Experience! CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there, Great for Rental. Stand Out This Season! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. Tour, Explore or Fly With Awake Boards! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Awake RÄVIK Explore Surfboard Awake RÄVIK Explore Surfboard $11,989.00 The beginner friendly electric surfboard. It makes electric surfing easier than ever. Top Speed: 25 mph Weight: 46 lbs Effortless, Stable, Durable Learn More EXPLORE AWAKE SURBOARDS HERE Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 26 Packet Pg. 127 of 219 27 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Waterslide Chutes Waterslide Chutes $1,280.00 Nothing quite like the rush of a water slide on a hot summer day. 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Learn More EXPLORE REDSHARK WATER BIKES HERE Ride, Surf, Float – Offer the Ultimate Summer Experience! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Sublue WhiteShark Mix Underwater Scooter Sublue WhiteShark Mix Underwater Scooter To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Sublue WhiteShark MixPro Underwater Scooter Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 27 Packet Pg. 128 of 219 28 $499.00 Measuring only 18" long is compact and lightweight making it the perfect companion for boating or on the beach. Dimensions: 18.30 x 9.05 x 9.05 in Weight: 4.42 lbs Speed: 3.36 mph Operating Time: 30 mins Learn More Sublue WhiteShark MixPro Underwater Scooter $699.00 Dimensions: 18.30 x 9.05 x 9.05 in Weight(battery included): 7.82 lbs Speed: High Speed 4.03 mph/ Low speed 2.68 mph Operating Time : 60 mins Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Sublue Navbow Underwater Scooter Sublue Navbow Underwater Scooter $999.00 Dimensions: L 19.13" x W 12.87" xH 6.97 in Weight : 7.49 lbs Speed: Free 2.24 mph/ Sport: 3.36 mph / Turbo: 4.47 mph Battery Life : 60mins Learn More EXPLORE SUBLUE SEASCOOTERS HERE For Questions & Quotes, Call Andi Tel:706.619.6670 andi@lightasairboats.com To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water | Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 28 Packet Pg. 129 of 219 29 Vidal, Eric From:Jenny Lewis <jenlewis@outdoor-fit.com> Sent:Thursday, April 16, 2026 6:46 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Built for corrections - now proven in parks CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • You've never replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.IMG_2945 Built for the Toughest Environments - Now Proven in Parks How our corrections experience is benefiting parks Our foundation comes from correctional facilities, where safety, durability, and reliability aren’t optional. Equipment must withstand constant use, attempted tampering, and harsh conditions day in and day out. That same engineering benefits parks and recreation spaces. With heavy-gauge steel construction, tamperproof design, and weatherproof coatings, Outdoor-Fit equipment is built to handle high-traffic public use, reduce the impact of vandalism, and stand up to the elements without compromise. The result? Fewer repairs, fewer replacements, and a significantly lower total cost of ownership over time. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 29 Packet Pg. 130 of 219 30 Municipalities choosing Outdoor-Fit aren’t just investing in fitness, they’re investing in long-term reliability that reduces maintenance demands and protects budgets. If you're planning upgrades or looking to activate your space with equipment that’s proven in the most demanding environments, we’d be happy to share layout options tailored to your park. Request a Custom Fitness Park La out To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.LinkedIn To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Instagram To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.YouTube To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Website Outdoor-Fit Exercise Systems Inc., 95 Simmonds Drive, Dartmouth, NS B3B 1N7, 1-877-760- 6337 Unsubscribe Manage preferences Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 30 Packet Pg. 131 of 219 31 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Wednesday, April 15, 2026 7:00 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Summer is coming: Be Guest Ready! 🛝🏞 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there, Refresh or create your splash park! Design a Standout Splash Experience! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. 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SEE POOL EQUIPMENT HERE Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 32 Packet Pg. 133 of 219 33 For Questions & Quotes, Call Andi Tel:706.619.6670 andi@lightasairboats.com CAMPS & PARKS CATALOG RESORTS CATALOG WATER RECREATION CATALOG To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Button Text To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InCustom We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 33 Packet Pg. 134 of 219 34 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Tuesday, April 14, 2026 7:00 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Shop Now for Summer Water Fun! 🚣 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there, Give Your Guests The Best Summer Days On The Water! These boats and canoes deliver! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Wenonah Prospector 16' Flex-Core River Canoe - 56 Lbs. Wenonah Prospector 16' Flex-Core River Canoe - 56 Lbs. $3,624.00 Built to handle rivers, lakes, and everything in between. 16’ long • 37” max width • 56 lbs Flex-Core build • 2.5” rocker for quick turns LEARN MORE To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Wenonah Aurora 16' Flex-Core Touring Canoe - 55 Lbs. Wenonah Aurora 16' Flex-Core Touring Canoe - 55 Lbs. $3,524.00 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 34 Packet Pg. 135 of 219 35 Exploring, day-tripping, and moving water adventures. 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LEARN MORE SEE ALL PUFFIN ROW BOATS HERE To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Gig Harbor Nisqually 8' Rowboat – Lightweight Fiberglass Dinghy Tender Boat Gig Harbor Nisqually 8' Rowboat – Lightweight Fiberglass Dinghy Tender Boat $11,985.00 Good rowing qualities, sails like a champ, motors 8 knots with a 2 hp outboard, and safely carries 3 people and a dog! LEARN MORE To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Gig Harbor Nisqually 8' Sailing & Rowing Boat, Lightweight Fiberglass Tender Gig Harbor Nisqually 8' Sailing & Rowing Boat, Lightweight Fiberglass Tender Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 35 Packet Pg. 136 of 219 36 $15,985.00 A lightweight, multi-purpose rowing and sailing boat designed for versatility and performance. The Nisqually delivers exceptional capability in a small, easy-to-handle package. LEARN MORE SEE ALL GIG HARBOR ROW BOATS HERE EXPLORE ALL ROW BOATS HERE For Questions or a Quote - Call or Email Dave 864.367.6161 dave@lightasairboats.com PARKS & CAMPS CATALOG HERE RESORTS CATALOG HERE WATER RECREATION CATALOG HERE To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InButton Tex To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InCustom We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 36 Packet Pg. 137 of 219 37 Vidal, Eric From:José A. Curbelo, PhD. <jose@ochobajos.org> Sent:Thursday, April 9, 2026 9:07 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:South American Music Artists for 2026/27 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ! This message could be suspicious • The sender's email address couldn't be verified. • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Parks and Rec Colleagues, Good evening. I hope you are well. This is José Curbelo. I am reaching out about South American music artists for 2026/27. Below is information about the U.S. and South America-based ensembles. Please advise if you need more information about the ensembles or their confirmed 2026/27 U.S. routing. Thanks, -- José A. Curbelo, PhD. Ocho Bajos Music jose@ochobajos.org Tel: +1 732-759-0963 WhatsApp: +1 763-350-2681 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 37 Packet Pg. 138 of 219 38 Las Guaracheras WATCH To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.facebook To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.instagram To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.youtube To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.spotify To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.external-link Las Guaracheras is a powerful Latin music sextet formed in 2017 in the city of Cali, Colombia. Their repertoire spans Afro-Caribbean rhythms such as salsa, as well as music from Colombia’s Pacific region. In their compositions, Las Guaracheras place a strong emphasis on gender perspective and on the recognition and empowerment of women’s roles in the music industry - particularly within Colombia’s Latin Music scene. Through their lyrics, they convey a manifesto of female power and resilience. Las Guaracheras were 2024/25 Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation Performing Arts Global Exchange artists. The ensemble has performed and conducted multi-age, bilingual educational programming at U.S. venues such as: UCSB Arts & Lectures (CA), Lincoln Center (NY), Twin Cities Jazz Festival (MN), TOArts (CA), Edmonds Fine Arts Center (WA), etc. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 38 Packet Pg. 139 of 219 39 Alejandro Brittes WATCH To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.facebook To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.instagram To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.youtube To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.spotify To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.external-link Brazil-based Argentine composer, educator, and musician Alejandro Brittes has been featured at U.S. venues and institutions such as Library of Congress, Georgetown University, UC Berkeley, University of Texas El Paso, Mission Concepción (TX), Stanford Live (CA) etc. and has collaborated with ensembles such as Camerata Del Sol (NM), Havana Quartet (MN), Wichita Symphony Orchestra (KS), Ensemble Ibérica (MO) as well as ensembles of the Saint Paul Conservatory of Music (MN). Brittes collaborates with ensembles at U.S. institutions and universities in rehearsing and performing works of his original "(L)Este" concert, which explores the origins of chamamé and its roots in Guaraní and Baroque traditions in the context of the Jesuit Missions of South America. Chamamé is declared by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Here are videos of their latest collaborations with Wichita Symphony Orchestra and Ensemble Ibérica, and here are videos of their latest U.S. tours in 2024 and 2025. Alejandro Brittes was a 2023/24 Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation Iber Exchange artist. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 39 Packet Pg. 140 of 219 40 Nidia Gón ora WATCH To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.facebook To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.instagram To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.youtube To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.spotify To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.external-link The most recognized singer from the Colombian Pacific coast, Latin Grammy®-nominated Nidia Góngora is part of the Mid Atlantic Tours 2025-26 Roster. She recently released he recent work "Pacífico Maravilla", and was featured at Intervision 2025. Prof. Góngora holds a degree in Early Childhood Education, and is a researcher o traditional music from the Southern Colombian Pacific, a region whose music has been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. The ensemble does bilingual workshops, lecture demonstrations, etc. with different age groups. Workshops focus on the traditional music and dance of the Colombian Pacific region, with rhythms such as Currulao, Juga, and Bunde, with a special emphasis on the rhythmic patterns o the marimba and percussion instruments. Recently touring the U.S. in Fall 2025 being presented at Chicago World Music Festival, Lotus Fest (IN), Krannert Center (IL), etc., Nidia will also be featured at respected U.S. venues in 2026 such as: New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, University Musical Society (MI), Forbes Center (VA), etc. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 40 Packet Pg. 141 of 219 41 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.https://youtu.be/HmQlFJVqbho?si=iD8QaOGWQr9Zo6ab Sebastián Natal WATCH To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.facebook To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.instagram To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.youtube To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.spotify To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.external-link Sebastián Natal from Montevideo, Uruguay - now in NYC - began his career accompanying legends of Afro-Uruguayan music, and now tours with artists such as Pedrito Martínez. NYC-based Sebastián Natal Candombe Sextet performs Afro-Uruguayan Candombe Jazz Fusion and explores the rich, centuries-old Afro-Uruguayan tradition of candombe, an expression also declared as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Natal has been featured at venues such as Jacob´s Pillow, Blue Note NYC, Lincoln Center Atrium, San José Jazz Festival (CA), etc. Natal also produces bililngual hands-on education programming about Candombe with various age and skill groups. Natal has produced two documentaries on Candombe: Tambor: de la Raíz a la Esencia (2022), a self-produced documentary, and Candombe: Visiones del Ayer, Hoy Mañana (2024), a subsequent documentary funded by the government of Uruguay. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 41 Packet Pg. 142 of 219 42 Ludom WATCH To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.facebook To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.instagram To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.youtube To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.spotify To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.external-link Now signed with Universal Music, Rio de Janeiro artist Ludom opens a new chapter in her career in 2026, weaving together her musical influences — blending Brazilian music (MPB, a genre that merges samba, jazz, and folk influences), hip-hop, gospel, and Afro-jazz — into a deeply personal journey of self-discovery. Having spent recent years touring across Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, and the United States, Ludom now brings the sound of multiple diasporas into a singular and contemporary expression. She has been featured at U.S. venues such as Stanford Live (CA), Hobby Center (TX), Exit Zero Jazz Festival (NJ), Levitt Pavilion Denver (CO), etc. Her educational work primarily revolves around conducting masterclasses with a focus on the Afro-Brazilian traditions of Candomblé and interactive classes covering traditional Brazilian rhythms including Samba, Bossa Nova, Forró, Axé, and Maracatu. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 42 Packet Pg. 143 of 219 43 Ludom was a 2024/25 Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation Performing Arts Global Exchange artist. Rob Curto WATCH To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.facebook To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.instagram To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.youtube To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.spotify To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.external-link Rob Curto is a Philadelphia-based pianist, composer, accordionist, and educator who grew up immersed in swing era jazz, but early on in his career became fascinated with Brazilian music. He went on to become deeply involved in playing choro and forró music, living in Brazil for 5 years, perfecting his craft and performing with local musicians in Brasilía, Rio de Janeiro and Recife. Curto performed 7 years with Latin Grammy®-winner Lila Downs, and toured/recorded with respected Klezmer musicians David Krakauer and Frank London. His ensembles have been featured at venues such as Ordway Center (MN), Lowell Folk Festival (MA), Kennedy Center (DC), Skirball Center (CA), etc. Unsubscribe Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 43 Packet Pg. 144 of 219 44 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Thursday, April 9, 2026 7:02 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Guests Favorites! Get Ready to Ride the Waves! 🌊 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there Our hottest ride! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. 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To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Island Hopper 12 Passenger Banana Taxi Elite Class 19' Banana Boat Tube Island Hopper 12 Passenger Banana Taxi Elite Class 19' Banana Boat Tube $2,349.00 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Island Hopper 14 passenger Banana Bus Elite Class Banana Boat Tube Island Hopper 14 passenger Banana Bus Elite Class Banana Boat Tube $2,849.00 Learn More Iconic yellow and blue banana boats, or check out our Shark & Whale designs. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 45 Packet Pg. 146 of 219 46 The best banana boats for commercial beach operators worldwide! SEE ALL BANANA BOATS HERE For Questions & Quotes, Call Andi 706.619.6670 andi@lightasairboats.com PARKS & CAMPS CATALOG WATER RECREATION CATALOG RESORTS CATALOG To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Button Text To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InCustom We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 46 Packet Pg. 147 of 219 47 Vidal, Eric From:Sabina Hentz <sabinahentz@gmail.com> Sent:Wednesday, April 8, 2026 9:20 AM To:ParkRec Commission; Open Space Cc:Warner, Michael Subject:Re: Arastradero Preserve new sign edit Attachments:Arastradero Sign.jpeg CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. • This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast hello there, I am following up on my email on March 25 about the sign at the Arastradero Preserve. Please see above. Looking forward to your reply. Thank you. On Wed, Mar 25, 2026 at 9:44 AM Sabina Hentz <sabinahentz@gmail.com> wrote: Hello there, I hope you’re having a wonderful day. I am a long-time resident of Palo Alto and have boarded my horse at Portola Pastures in Portola Valley for the past 15 years, bordering the Arastradero Preserve. We frequently ride on the preserve’s trails, which are truly a special and treasured place. I recently noticed that the updated signage at the preserve (photo attached) no longer mentions horses. Previously, the signage clearly indicated trail-use priorities, with horses given the right of way. Without this guidance, many visitors appear unaware of proper trail etiquette. We often encounter cyclists approaching at high speeds—sometimes from behind—as well as runners who may not recognize the risks involved. As you know, horses are prey animals and can react unpredictably if startled, which makes awareness and respectful behavior essential for everyone’s safety—both riders and other trail users. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 47 Packet Pg. 148 of 219 48 I am writing on behalf of riders at Portola Pastures, and I believe the broader equestrian community would strongly support reinstating clear signage that acknowledges horses and emphasizes appropriate trail etiquette and right of way. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Sabina Hentz Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 48 Packet Pg. 149 of 219 49 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Wednesday, April 8, 2026 7:02 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Remember That Beach Club You Wanted?🌴 ☀ CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. 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To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Spinera Aquapark The "Pirates Tower" Spinera Aquapark The "Pirates Tower" $10,200.00 Placed right behind a yacht or used as a standalone showstopper in a lake or beachfront. ☑ 16.4 ft x 12.3 ft x 12.5 ft ☑ Capacity: Up to 6 people Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Spinera Aquapark - The "Pirates Rock" Spinera Aquapark - The "Pirates Rock" $4,674.15 ☑ Compact yet bursting with adventure, Pirates Rock combines jumping, climbing, and sliding into one all-in-one module ☑ Perfect for Kids of all ages! 9.5 ft x 8.2 ft x 8.5 ft, Capacity: 3–6 people (up to 3 adults + 3 children) Learn More SEE PIRATES/CLIMBING HERE Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 49 Packet Pg. 150 of 219 50 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Aquaglide Velocity 10' Water Slide Aquaglide Velocity 10' Water Slide $5,039.99 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Aquaglide Velocity 6' Water Slide Aquaglide Velocity 6' Water Slide $2,399.99 Learn More ☑ Features a ladder-style climbing wall that leads to a ten-foot-high or six-foot high drop-zone ☑ Between slides, an interior mesh floor provides a shaded alternative splash or rest area. 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To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Button Text To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office preventedownload of this picture from the Internet.Custom We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 51 Packet Pg. 152 of 219 52 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 7:02 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Keep Guests Safe in the Water 🛟😊 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. 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If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 54 Packet Pg. 155 of 219 55 Vidal, Eric From:Postmaster <postmaster@paloalto.gov> Sent:Friday, April 3, 2026 7:09 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:You have new held messages To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Logo You have new held messages You can release all of your held messages and permit or block future emails from the senders, or manage messages individually. Release all Permit all Block all You can also mana e held messa es in our Personal Portal. Spam Policy info@rtube.com.tw Deposit on Hold & Account Verification Required 2026-04-02 20:06 Release Permit Block Release all Permit all Block all To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. © 2019 Mimecast Services Limited. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 55 Packet Pg. 156 of 219 56 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Thursday, April 2, 2026 7:02 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Guests Don't See These Pedal Boats Every Day!⚓ CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there, Stand Out This Summer! 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To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Adventure Glass Dragon Platform 4 Person Pedal Boat Adventure Glass Dragon Platform 4 Person Pedal Boat $4,403.00 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Adventure Glass Big Bird Swan or Pelican Platform Pedal Boat - 5 Person Adventure Glass Big Bird Swan or Pelican Platform Pedal Boat - 5 Person $7,872.00 Learn More EXPLORE OUR USA MADE BOATS HERE Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 56 Packet Pg. 157 of 219 57 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Martini Nautica Sea Buggy 330 Pedal Boat 4 Person Martini Nautica Sea Buggy 330 Pedal Boat 4 Person $4,883.00 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Martini Nautica Jolie 6 Person Pedal Boat Martini Nautica Jolie 6 Person Pedal Boat $4,975.00 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Martini Nautica Sunny Time Special 5 Person Pedal Boat Martini Nautica Sunny Time Special 5 Person Pedal Boat $5,110.00 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Martini Nautica Happy Hour 5 Person Pedal Boat Martini Nautica Happy Hour 5 Person Pedal Boat $5,350.00 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Martini Nautica Unicorn 4 Person Pedal Boat Martini Nautica Unicorn 4 Person Pedal Boat $5,497.00 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Martini Nautica Mallard Duck 4 Person Pedal Boat Martini Nautica Mallard Duck 4 Person Pedal Boat $5,497.00 Learn More EXPLORE OUR ITALIAN PEDAL BOATS HERE For Questions & Quotes, Call Andi Tel:706.619.6670 andi@lightasairboats.com SEE ALL PEDAL BOATS HERE PARKS & CAMPS CATALOG HERE RESORTS CATALOG HERE Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 57 Packet Pg. 158 of 219 58 RECREATION CATALOG HERE To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water | Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 58 Packet Pg. 159 of 219 59 Vidal, Eric From:Postmaster <postmaster@paloalto.gov> Sent:Wednesday, April 1, 2026 12:20 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:You have new held messages To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Logo You have new held messages You can release all of your held messages and permit or block future emails from the senders, or manage messages individually. Release all Permit all Block all You can also mana e held messa es in our Personal Portal. Spam Policy dennis@businesscoachvas.com Virtual Assistant Services 2026-04-01 09:00 Release Permit Block Release all Permit all Block all To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. © 2019 Mimecast Services Limited. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 59 Packet Pg. 160 of 219 60 Vidal, Eric From:Ribeiro, Mark Sent:Wednesday, April 1, 2026 9:09 AM To:Robustelli, Sarah; ParkRec Commission; Heistein, Ben; Chacon, Miguel Subject:RE: Request for Habitat Restoration and Ecological Diversity at Jerry Bowden Park Adding @Chacon, Miguel to this string. (Please note and update your records of the City’s change in website URL and staff e-mail below.) MARK RIBEIRO Community Services Manager |Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 496-6910 | mark.ribeiro@paloalto.gov www.paloalto.gov From: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:24 PM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov>; Ribeiro, Mark <Mark.Ribeiro@paloalto.gov>; Heistein, Ben <Benjamin.Heistein@paloalto.gov> Subject: RE: Request for Habitat Restoration and Ecological Diversity at Jerry Bowden Park Yes, @Heistein, Ben has responded. SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 4:39 PM To: Ribeiro, Mark <Mark.Ribeiro@paloalto.gov> Cc: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> Subject: FW: Request for Habitat Restoration and Ecological Diversity at Jerry Bowden Park This was sent yesterday. Not sure if already addressed. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 60 Packet Pg. 161 of 219 61 Eric Vidal Coordinator Rec Prog | Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 496-6962 | Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Elixua Mendoza <mendozaelixua@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, March 30, 2026 10:11 AM To: parks@cityofpaloalto.gov Subject: Request for Habitat Restoration and Ecological Diversity at Jerry Bowden Park CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. To the Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Department,I am writing as a lon -time resident to express my deep frustration regarding the recent removal of nearly all vegetation at Jerry Bowden Park. This park was once a thriving, unique space, but its sudden clearing has turned a vibra i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast CGBANNERINDICATOR To the Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Department, I am writing as a long-time resident to express my deep frustration regarding the recent removal of nearly all vegetation at Jerry Bowden Park. This park was once a thriving, unique space, but its sudden clearing has turned a vibrant area into what I can only describe as a "green desert." Visiting this park with my children has always been a highlight of our week. We used to spend hours observing a wide variety of birds nesting and foraging in the dense shrubs. Since the clearing, the silence is striking; the habitat is gone, and the birds have largely disappeared. It is deeply saddening to see a public space stripped of its ecological value, leaving no place for local wildlife to shelter or thrive. Furthermore, I have noticed a distinct lack of pollinators. To restore the park’s health, I strongly urge the city to move beyond purely decorative landscaping and instead implement a plan that supports a diverse range of species. I would like to formally request a replanting strategy that includes: • Diverse Avian Habitats: Selecting plants that provide both nesting cover and food sources (seeds and berries) to attract a wider variety of bird species back to the neighborhood. • Pollinator Support: Incorporating a variety of flowering plants specifically chosen to attract butterflies and bees, ensuring there is a bloom cycle throughout the year. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 61 Packet Pg. 162 of 219 62 • Hydration Stations: Integrating butterfly puddling stones or small, integrated water features to support pollinators and birds, which are essential for a functional ecosystem. Based on ecological best practices for our region, I suggest prioritizing the following native species: • Coffeeberry (Frangula californica): Provides essential berries for a wide range of birds and serves as a host plant for the Pale Swallowtail butterfly. • California Wild Rose (Rosa californica): Offers dense thickets for bird nesting and excellent nectar for pollinators. • Narrowleaf Milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis): Critical for Monarch butterflies and other beneficial insects. • Sage Varieties (Salvia spp.): Specifically chosen to provide high-quality nectar for hummingbirds and bees. I would also encourage the use of natural, untreated wood mulch to support soil health rather than synthetic alternatives. The removal of this vegetation has negatively impacted my family’s use of the park and the local environment. I am requesting transparency on why this was done all at once and a clear timeline for when we can expect a thoughtful, wildlife-focused restoration of this space. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Elixua Mendoza Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 62 Packet Pg. 163 of 219 63 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Wednesday, April 1, 2026 7:04 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Elevate Your Lakefront Experience! CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there The upgrade your guests will notice—and keep coming back for. Here's a full lineup of inflatables made for lake and yacht life! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Spinera Aquapark - The "Pirates Rock" Spinera Aquapark - The "Pirates Rock" $4,674.15 Compact yet bursting with adventure, Pirates Rock combines jumping, climbing, and sliding into one all-in-one module. Perfect for Kids of all ages! 9.5 ft x 8.2 ft x 8.5 ft, Capacity: 3–6 people (up to 3 adults + 3 children) Learn More Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 63 Packet Pg. 164 of 219 64 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Aquaglide Velocity 10' Water Slide Aquaglide Velocity 10' Water Slide $5,039.99 Features a ladder-style climbing wall that leads to a ten-foot-high drop-zone. 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To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Yachtbeach 4.10 Luxury Sea Pool 13'6" X 13'6" Yachtbeach 4.10 Luxury Sea Pool 13'6" X 13'6" Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 64 Packet Pg. 165 of 219 65 $7,999.00 Aesthetic soft, non-skid, durable saltwater and UV-resistant materials guarantee luxurious and long- lasting comfort. Has 16 high-quality mounting and carrying handles which are easy to combine with all other Yacht Beach products. | External dimensions: 13'6"x13'6" | Depth: 7‘ | Weight: 148 lbs Learn More Explore All of Our Top Water Islands Here For Questions & Quotes, Call Andi 706.619.6670 andi@lightasairboats.com Yours in Wind, Water, and Waves, - The Light As Air Boats Team To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InButton Tex To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InCustom We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 65 Packet Pg. 166 of 219 66 Vidal, Eric From:Robustelli, Sarah Sent:Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:24 PM To:ParkRec Commission; Ribeiro, Mark; Heistein, Ben Subject:RE: Request for Habitat Restoration and Ecological Diversity at Jerry Bowden Park Yes, @Heistein, Ben has responded. SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 4:39 PM To: Ribeiro, Mark <Mark.Ribeiro@paloalto.gov> Cc: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> Subject: FW: Request for Habitat Restoration and Ecological Diversity at Jerry Bowden Park This was sent yesterday. Not sure if already addressed. Eric Vidal Coordinator Rec Prog | Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 496-6962 | Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Elixua Mendoza <mendozaelixua@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, March 30, 2026 10:11 AM To: parks@cityofpaloalto.gov Subject: Request for Habitat Restoration and Ecological Diversity at Jerry Bowden Park CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. To the Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Department,I am writing as a lon -time resident to express my deep frustration regarding the recent removal of nearly all vegetation at Jerry Bowden Park. This park was once a thriving, unique space, but its sudden clearing has turned a vibra Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 66 Packet Pg. 167 of 219 67 i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast CGBANNERINDICATOR To the Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Department, I am writing as a long-time resident to express my deep frustration regarding the recent removal of nearly all vegetation at Jerry Bowden Park. This park was once a thriving, unique space, but its sudden clearing has turned a vibrant area into what I can only describe as a "green desert." Visiting this park with my children has always been a highlight of our week. We used to spend hours observing a wide variety of birds nesting and foraging in the dense shrubs. Since the clearing, the silence is striking; the habitat is gone, and the birds have largely disappeared. It is deeply saddening to see a public space stripped of its ecological value, leaving no place for local wildlife to shelter or thrive. Furthermore, I have noticed a distinct lack of pollinators. To restore the park’s health, I strongly urge the city to move beyond purely decorative landscaping and instead implement a plan that supports a diverse range of species. I would like to formally request a replanting strategy that includes: • Diverse Avian Habitats: Selecting plants that provide both nesting cover and food sources (seeds and berries) to attract a wider variety of bird species back to the neighborhood. • Pollinator Support: Incorporating a variety of flowering plants specifically chosen to attract butterflies and bees, ensuring there is a bloom cycle throughout the year. • Hydration Stations: Integrating butterfly puddling stones or small, integrated water features to support pollinators and birds, which are essential for a functional ecosystem. Based on ecological best practices for our region, I suggest prioritizing the following native species: • Coffeeberry (Frangula californica): Provides essential berries for a wide range of birds and serves as a host plant for the Pale Swallowtail butterfly. • California Wild Rose (Rosa californica): Offers dense thickets for bird nesting and excellent nectar for pollinators. • Narrowleaf Milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis): Critical for Monarch butterflies and other beneficial insects. • Sage Varieties (Salvia spp.): Specifically chosen to provide high-quality nectar for hummingbirds and bees. I would also encourage the use of natural, untreated wood mulch to support soil health rather than synthetic alternatives. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 67 Packet Pg. 168 of 219 68 The removal of this vegetation has negatively impacted my family’s use of the park and the local environment. I am requesting transparency on why this was done all at once and a clear timeline for when we can expect a thoughtful, wildlife-focused restoration of this space. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Elixua Mendoza Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 68 Packet Pg. 169 of 219 69 Vidal, Eric From:Lydia Kou 顧錦珍 <lydiakou@gmail.com> Sent:Tuesday, March 31, 2026 2:51 PM To:Council, City; Planning Commission; ParkRec Commission Subject:Cubberley Master Plan - Comments on Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first mail to some recipients. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Council Members, Planning & Transportation Commissioners, Park & Recreational Commissioners, and City Staff: I have grave and significant concerns regarding both the project and the adequacy of the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND). 1. Inadequate Use of an MND for a Long-Term, Phased Project 2. Failure to Analyze the Whole of the Project 3. Insufficient Detail to Support Aesthetic Impact Conclusions 4. Lack of Alternatives Analysis 5. Inadequate Analysis of Cumulative Impacts, Including Traffic and Circulation 6. Direct Impacts to Adjacent Residential Properties 1. Inadequate Use of an MND for a Long-Term, Phased Project The City's reliance on an MND for a long-term, multi-phased master plan is not supported by substantial evidence. The project contemplates phased redevelopment over an extended and uncertain time horizon, with evolving, adaptable design, uncertain funding, and undefined operational intensity. As reflected in public meetin s and pro ect materials, the City has indicated that the site will be activated through current and future programmatic partnerships, including identified partners and additional, as-yet undisclosed users. These anticipated uses introduce further uncertainty regarding the scale, frequency, and intensity of site activity, including potential overlapping events and peak demand conditions. Under these conditions, the IS/MND does not demonstrate that all impacts will be less than significant. Substantial evidence supports a fair argument that the project may result in significant impacts, and an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is required. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 69 Packet Pg. 170 of 219 70 These comments are based on the project description, technical studies, and statements made in pubic meetings, all of which constitute substantial evidence in the record. 2. Failure to Analyze the Whole of the Project The IS/MND does not adequately evaluate full buildout conditions and instead relies in part on future design development and additional study. CEQA requires analysis of the whole of the project and does not permit deferral of impact analysis or reliance on future discretionary actions. In particular, the level of activity at full buildout -- including peak demand, overlapping uses, and event-driven intensity -- is not clearly defined and appears to depend on future programming decisions and partnerships. The IS/MND relies on generalized assumptions regarding project use and trip generation despite this uncertainty. This raises concerns regarding improper segmentation and piecemealing, as well as the adequacy of the impact analysis. 3. Insufficient Detail to Support Aesthetic Impact Conclusions The IS/MND concludes that aesthetic impacts would be less than significant; however, the level of detail provided is insufficient to support that conclusion. While the project includes a conceptual site plan and general building locations, key elements that drive aesthetic and compatibility impacts -- including building massing, height articulation, architectural treatment, lighting design, and the intensity of adjacent uses -- remain undefined or subject to change. This lack of specificity is particularly important at the interface with adjacent residential properties, where visual character, lighting, and activity levels are highly sensitive to final design. The introduction of circulation areas, structured parking, and elevated active uses in close proximity to homes further underscores the need for a more detailed analysis. CEQA requires that environmental impacts be evaluated based on a sufficiently detailed and stable project description. Where critical design features remain unresolved, the City cannot support a conclusion, based on substantial evidence, that aesthetic and compatibility impacts will be less than significant. 4. Lack of Alternatives Analysis The IS/MND fails to consider any reasonable alternatives to the proposed project. Although a MND is not required to include a full alternatives analysis, CEQA requires preparation of an EIR where substantial evidence supports a fair argument that a project may result in significant impacts. Here, such evidence exists, particularly with respect to traffic, circulation, and neighborhood compatibility. Feasible alternatives are readily apparent and would substantially reduce these impacts, including a less intensive buildout, reduced parking and circulation infrastructure, or a site design that prioritizes open space and buffers adjacent residential areas. The absence of any evaluation of these alternatives further underscores that a MND is not the appropriate level of review for this project. 5. Inadequate Analysis of Cumulative Impacts, Including Traffic and Circulation The IS/MND fails to adequately analyze cumulative transportation impacts. The project is located within a rapidly developing area, with substantial planned and foreseeable growth in Palo Alto and adjacent jurisdictions. While the document includes a cumulative analysis, it does not demonstrate that cumulative traffic conditions at full buildout -- including overlapping peak uses, event-driven activities, and nearby projects -- have been evaluated in a manner that reflects reasonably foreseeable site activity. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 70 Packet Pg. 171 of 219 71 The transportation analysis appears to rely primarily on a limited set of approved or pending projects and generalized assumptions regarding trip generation and project use. However, the project is estimated to generate approximately 2,800 daily trips, and, as reflected in project materials and public statements, future pro rammin and partnerships are expected to influence site activity levels. This introduces uncertainty regarding peak demand and traffic distribution that is not clearly addressed in the analysis. In addition, the IS/MND does not clearly demonstrate that cumulative conditions reflect reasonably foreseeable growth in the immediate vicinity, including planning efforts currently underway such as the San Antonio Road Area Plan. That plan, which covers a large area near the project site and is intended to guide increased housing, mobility changes, and redevelopment, represents a substantial potential source of future trips and circulation demand. Even if not yet adopted, such plannin efforts constitute reasonably foreseeable growth that should be considered in a cumulative analysis. The project also proposes substantial changes to site access, internal circulation, and parking, including new and expanded driveways, drop-off and pick-up areas, and a structured parking facility. These features, by their nature and configuration are reasonably expected to concentrate vehicle activity at specific locations and times, particularly during peak periods. The IS/MND does not clearly evaluate operational conditions such as queuing, access to the parking structure, localized congestion, cut-through traffic, or conflicts among vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists near residential edges. Nor does it demonstrate how cumulative traffic conditions will interact with these site-specific circulation features. Therefore, without a detailed and realistic assessment of cumulative traffic, circulation, and parking operations at full buildout -- including reasonably foreseeable growth in the surrounding area -- the City cannot support a conclusion, based on substantial evidence, that transportation impacts will be less than significant. 6. Direct Impacts to Adjacent Residential Properties I am gravely concerned about direct impacts to neighboring properties. The plan introduces a new roadway with pick-up/drop-off activity and a parking structure topped with active recreational uses (tennis courts) in close proximity to existing homes. These features, by their nature and proximity, are reasonably expected to result in traffic, noise (includin elevated recreational noise), li htin , and privacy impacts. he IS/MND does not analyze these localized impacts with sufficient specificity to support a findin of less than significant impact. For these reasons, I respectfully request that the City prepare a full EIR that evaluates the project at full buildout, analyze cumulative impacts, considers reasonable alternatives, and fully discloses and mitigates impacts to adjacent residents. Kind regards, Lydia -------- Lydia Kou (顧錦珍) https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiakou (650) 996-0028 | Lydiakou@gmail.com Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 71 Packet Pg. 172 of 219 72 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 72 Packet Pg. 173 of 219 73 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Tuesday, March 31, 2026 7:00 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Turn Up the Fun - Guests Can Ride, Soar & Splash! 💦🌴 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there The upgrade your guests will notice—and keep coming back for! 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Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 73 Packet Pg. 174 of 219 74 Learn More SEE SPINNING TUBES HERE To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Island Hopper 10 passenger Red Shark 17' Banana Boat Tube Island Hopper 10 passenger Red Shark 17' Banana Boat Tube $2,099.00 Learn More To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. 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Perfect for Kids of all ages! 9.5 ft x 8.2 ft x 8.5 ft, Capacity: 3–6 people (up to 3 adults + 3 children) Learn More Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 74 Packet Pg. 175 of 219 75 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Image of Aquaglide Velocity 10' Water Slide Aquaglide Velocity 10' Water Slide $5,039.99 Features a ladder-style climbing wall that leads to a ten-foot-high drop-zone. Between slides, an interior mesh floor provides a shaded alternative splash or rest area Learn More SEE ALL BOUNCERS HERE For Questions & Quotes, Call Andi 706.619.6670 andi@lightasairboats.com PARKS & CAMPS CATALOG WATER RECREATION CATALOG RESORTS CATALOG To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Button Text To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InCustom We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 75 Packet Pg. 176 of 219 76 Vidal, Eric From:Elixua Mendoza <mendozaelixua@gmail.com> Sent:Monday, March 30, 2026 10:11 AM To:parks@cityofpaloalto.gov Subject:Request for Habitat Restoration and Ecological Diversity at Jerry Bowden Park CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To the Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Department, I am writing as a long-time resident to express my deep frustration regarding the recent removal of nearly all vegetation at Jerry Bowden Park. This park was once a thriving, unique space, but its sudden clearing has turned a vibrant area into what I can only describe as a "green desert." Visiting this park with my children has always been a highlight of our week. We used to spend hours observing a wide variety of birds nesting and foraging in the dense shrubs. Since the clearing, the silence is striking; the habitat is gone, and the birds have largely disappeared. It is deeply saddening to see a public space stripped of its ecological value, leaving no place for local wildlife to shelter or thrive. Furthermore, I have noticed a distinct lack of pollinators. To restore the park’s health, I strongly urge the city to move beyond purely decorative landscaping and instead implement a plan that supports a diverse range of species. I would like to formally request a replanting strategy that includes: • Diverse Avian Habitats: Selecting plants that provide both nesting cover and food sources (seeds and berries) to attract a wider variety of bird species back to the neighborhood. • Pollinator Support: Incorporating a variety of flowering plants specifically chosen to attract butterflies and bees, ensuring there is a bloom cycle throughout the year. • Hydration Stations: Integrating butterfly puddling stones or small, integrated water features to support pollinators and birds, which are essential for a functional ecosystem. Based on ecological best practices for our region, I suggest prioritizing the following native species: • Coffeeberry (Frangula californica): Provides essential berries for a wide range of birds and serves as a host plant for the Pale Swallowtail butterfly. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 76 Packet Pg. 177 of 219 77 • California Wild Rose (Rosa californica): Offers dense thickets for bird nesting and excellent nectar for pollinators. • Narrowleaf Milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis): Critical for Monarch butterflies and other beneficial insects. • Sage Varieties (Salvia spp.): Specifically chosen to provide high-quality nectar for hummingbirds and bees. I would also encourage the use of natural, untreated wood mulch to support soil health rather than synthetic alternatives. The removal of this vegetation has negatively impacted my family’s use of the park and the local environment. I am requesting transparency on why this was done all at once and a clear timeline for when we can expect a thoughtful, wildlife-focused restoration of this space. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Elixua Mendoza Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 77 Packet Pg. 178 of 219 78 Vidal, Eric From:Claire E <clairee44@gmail.com> Sent:Friday, March 27, 2026 1:16 PM To:Heistein, Ben Cc:ParkRec Commission Subject:Re: Natural Grass Pilot Project CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • Some Recipients have never replied to this person. • This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Hi Ben, Thank you so much for the reply. I am delighted you will work on high-performance natural grass field designs with proper drainage, lighting, and turf selection. And that you will integrate organic practices. This is all good news! I would like to learn more about the plans, especially regarding Cubberly. It seems the best place to start with a natural grass pilot would be the larger play area, where some rotation of the field could be done to give a rest to the goal areas. Would it be possible to add lighting to this area so that winter time evening games could happen there? Also, I see the Ad Hoc Committee lists Vadim Axelrod and Amanda Brown as working with you on these plans. Is it possible to attend and/or to get minutes of these meetings? Thank you! Claire Elliott On Mon, 23 Mar 2026 at 15:42, Heistein, Ben <Benjamin.Heistein@paloalto.gov> wrote: Ms. Elliot, Thanks for your support of the natural grass pilot. Council has directed staff to move forward with this project to improve field playability and durability, and to explore long-term options for transitioning away from synthetic turf at Cubberley. In FY27, we plan to work with an agronomist for technical guidance on turf management, along with a separate design consultant to develop high-performance natural grass field designs with proper drainage, lighting, and turf selection. The program, both in terms of maintaining our existing fields and future field construction, will integrate organic practices—such as aeration and compost topdressing—while maintaining a performance-based approach to meet heavy-use demands and budget constraints. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 78 Packet Pg. 179 of 219 79 We appreciate your continued support and for the provided recommendations. Ben Heistein Assistant Director - Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3516 |Ben.Heistein@paloalto.gov www.paloalto.gov From: Claire E <clairee44@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, March 13, 2026 12:13 PM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Subject: Natural Grass Pilot Project CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Parks and Rec Commissioners, I am a Palo Alto resident and retired ecologist who would very much like to see El Camino Park be the last synthetic turf field installed by the city. One step toward making that a reality, would be a successful natural grass pilot project. I am encouraged that the city has committed to designing and implementing a pilot natural grass field. I hope that you can expedite this project. Please also ensure that t is well planned has a sufficient budget for both design, installation and most importantly maintenance. Well designed and maintained natural grass fields have been shown to provide a playing capacity similar to the expected capacity of synthetic fields. Please work with city staff to: • Create a a natural grass pilot project. • Hire an agronomist experienced in design and maintenance of grass fields that have shown to provide for extended play. • Consider hiring a contractor that is responsible for all three: the design, installation and maintenance so they have a vested interest in keeping the field safe and the grass healthy. • Ensure that a contract is written that holds back resources to the contractor until they show the fields are functioning well and being adequately maintained. • Lastly, the pilot should include installation of lighting to allow for evening play so that the hours of play can fairly be compared with artificial turf fields with lights. Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 79 Packet Pg. 180 of 219 80 An advocate for natural grass fields in Los Gatos suggested that Palo Alto look into working with Field Source in Ohio run by Ryan DeMay. They also said this organization could be helpful: Natural Grass Advisory Group. Lastly Rika Gopinath, at Beyond Pesticides, offers advisory services to municipalities in avoiding pesticide use in grass management. She can be reached at Rika@beyondpesticides.org. Thank you for considering my input as you move forward to plan this important project. Claire Elliott Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 80 Packet Pg. 181 of 219 81 Vidal, Eric From:adnoiseam1 <adnoiseam1@gmail.com> Sent:Thursday, March 26, 2026 7:24 AM To:Council, City; ParkRec Commission; parks@cityofpaloalto.gov; pwps@cityofpaloalto.gov; O'Kane, Kristen; Robustelli, Sarah; PlannerOnDuty; Sustainability Email; info@canopy.org; info@cnps-scv.org Subject:Urgent Concern: Loss of Privacy and Habitat at Jerry Bowden Park CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. • This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To the City of Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Department, I am writing to you today both as a long-time resident and as someone who deeply valued Jerry Bowden Park as a place for quiet reflection. To be honest, I am completely shocked—and frankly, quite upset—to see that the bushes and vegetation have been entirely removed. I recently went to the park, a place where I used to feel comfortable "treading" and spending time, and the experience now feels very weird and exposed. Those bushes provided a vital sense of privacy. They created a sanctuary where one could sit and feel shielded from the bustle of the street. Now, that feeling of safety and calm is gone, and the space feels hollow. I am struggling to understand why such a drastic decision was made. Why was the only option to clear- cut everything? If there were concerns about overgrowth, why weren't the bushes simply trimmed or shaped to maintain visibility while preserving the greenery? It is disappointing to think that this decision might have been made in a split second just to create a "clearer" view for policing, perhaps due to the occasional presence of unhoused individuals. Even if that were the case, I don't feel we truly know the reality of what was happening in those bushes. Removing an entire ecosystem and a community’s sense of privacy based on a moment’s assumption feels like an overreach. The loss of these bushes doesn't just affect my morning walk; it affects the birds, pollinators, and small wildlife that relied on that habitat. I truly loved those bushes, and I believe the park needs that layer of nature to be a functional public space. I would like to formally ask the following: Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 81 Packet Pg. 182 of 219 82 • Reasoning: What was the specific catalyst for removing every single bush rather than opting for maintenance and pruning? • Restoration: Is there a plan to replant? I strongly urge the city to bring back the greenery— specifically native California shrubs like Toyon or Coffeeberry—that can provide both beauty and the privacy that residents deserve. • Community Voice: Why was the neighborhood not consulted before such a visible and emotional change was made to our local park? Jerry Bowden Park was a special, tucked-away spot, and I am asking the City to take immediate steps to restore the vegetation that made it feel like a park rather than a vacant lot. I look forward to your response and a timeline for when we can expect to see new growth in the area. Sincerely, Chad Wellw Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 82 Packet Pg. 183 of 219 83 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Thursday, March 26, 2026 7:03 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Boats That Make Waves! 🚤 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. 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Camps & Parks Catalo Water Recreation Catalo Resorts Catalo For Questions or a Quote - Call or Email Dave 864.367.6161 dave@lightasairboats.com To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office preventedownload of this picture from the Internet.Button Text To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office preventedownload of this picture from the Internet.Custom Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 84 Packet Pg. 185 of 219 85 We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 85 Packet Pg. 186 of 219 86 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Wednesday, March 25, 2026 10:03 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Turn Guest's Lake Days Into Adventures ☀🌊 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there Make waves this summer! Made with heavy-duty, commercial-grade materials trusted by camps, resorts, and waterparks worldwide. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. 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To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InButton Tex To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InCustom We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 88 Packet Pg. 189 of 219 89 Vidal, Eric From:Mike Jenzeh <mike.jenzeh@rainlikewater.com> Sent:Wednesday, March 25, 2026 9:50 AM Subject:Rainlikewater Proposal and Contract Attached. CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ! This message could be suspicious • The sender's email address couldn't be verified. • This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Please find attached our proposal and contract for your review. The document outlines the details of the requested services. Rainlikewater-Proposal&Contract.PDF Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 89 Packet Pg. 190 of 219 90 Vidal, Eric From:Sabina Hentz <sabinahentz@gmail.com> Sent:Wednesday, March 25, 2026 9:44 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Arastradero Preserve new sign edit CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Hello there, I hope you’re having a wonderful day. I am a long-time resident of Palo Alto and have boarded my horse at Portola Pastures in Portola Valley for the past 15 years, bordering the Arastradero Preserve. We frequently ride on the preserve’s trails, which are truly a special and treasured place. I recently noticed that the updated signage at the preserve (photo attached) no longer mentions horses. Previously, the signage clearly indicated trail-use priorities, with horses given the right of way. Without this guidance, many visitors appear unaware of proper trail etiquette. We often encounter cyclists approaching at high speeds—sometimes from behind—as well as runners who may not recognize the risks involved. As you know, horses are prey animals and can react unpredictably if startled, which makes awareness and respectful behavior essential for everyone’s safety—both riders and other trail users. I am writing on behalf of riders at Portola Pastures, and I believe the broader equestrian community would strongly support reinstating clear signage that acknowledges horses and emphasizes appropriate trail etiquette and right of way. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Sabina Hentz Item A Public Comments 03.25.26 - 04.21.26 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 90 Packet Pg. 191 of 219 1 Vidal, Eric From:Vidal, Eric Sent:Tuesday, April 28, 2026 2:30 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:FW: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park From: Vidal, Eric Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 10:24 AM To: Joice, Andrew <Andrew.Joice@paloalto.gov> Subject: RE: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park Thank you for looking into this Andrew. Eric Vidal Coordinator Rec Prog | Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 496-6962 | Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Joice, Andrew <Andrew.Joice@paloalto.gov> Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 10:01 AM To: Vidal, Eric <Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov> Subject: RE: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park Hi Eric, I have spoken to someone from their organization before, however once they found out they needed to pay to rent a space in the park to perform they haven’t called back. The space isn’t too expensive to rent so I am not sure what the issue is. But it could be that they want to do a larger style thing and they then would need a special events permit from PD which can get expensive. Thanks, Andrew Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 91 Packet Pg. 192 of 219 2 Andrew Joice Program Assistant II Community Services Department (650) 329-2690 | Andrew.Joice@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Vidal, Eric <Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov> Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 9:37 AM To: Joice, Andrew <Andrew.Joice@paloalto.gov> Subject: FW: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park The was sent to PRC inbox. Lance is not aware of this group, so I was asked to forward it your way. Can you reach out to the group. Eric Vidal Coordinator Rec Prog | Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 496-6962 | Eric.Vidal@paloalto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Regina Elmore <regina.elmore@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, April 16, 2026 6:45 PM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Subject: San Francisco Mime Troup is greatly missed at Mitchell Park CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello, I am aware that theSan Francisco Mime Troup(SFMT) is trying to connect with Palo Alto Parks and Rec with the objective of once again holding their free performance at Mitchell Park. Will you please allow them to perform inMitchell Park (without a fee)? They are a Bay Area asset that we should i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast CGBANNERINDICATOR Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 92 Packet Pg. 193 of 219 3 Hello, I am aware that the San Francisco Mime Troup (SFMT) is trying to connect with Palo Alto Parks and Rec with the objective of once again holding their free performance at Mitchell Park. Will you please allow them to perform in Mitchell Park (without a fee)? They are a Bay Area asset that we should be proud to host in our park. What will it take to make this happen so that SFMT can perform in Mitchell Park this summer? Sincerely, Regina Elmore Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 93 Packet Pg. 194 of 219 4 Vidal, Eric From:Light As Air Boats <hello@lightasairboats.com> Sent:Tuesday, April 28, 2026 7:01 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:The Perfect Combo for Camps & Resorts: Shade + Splash ☀🏖 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. SHOP NOW Hi there, Be cool at the pool! Your guests will love you!! To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. 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For Questions or a Quote - Call or Email Dave 864.367.6161 dave@lightasairboats.com See All Pool Equipment Here Parks & Camps Catalog Here Water Recreation Catalog Here Resorts Catalog Here To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InButton Tex To help prprivacy, Mprevented download from the InCustom We don’t want to spam you. If you're no longer interested in enjoying adventures out on the water Unsubscribe here. Light As Air Boats 13801 Walsingham Rd. Suite A-116 Largo, Florida 33774 Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 96 Packet Pg. 197 of 219 7 Vidal, Eric From:Patricia Fukuda <pfukuda@sloan.mit.edu> Sent:Monday, April 27, 2026 7:01 PM To:ParkRec Commission Cc:Ed Subject:"Public comment on item 5: Middle School Athletics evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is their first mail to some recipients. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Dear Members of the Parks and Recreation Commission, We are Palo Alto residents and the parents of Luke, a current 8th grader at JLS Middle School. We are writing in strong support of the City's issuance of a Request for Proposals for the middle school athletic program. Our son had never joined a cross country or track & field team before. At the start of 8th grade, we had a choice between Middle School Athletics and PAMSACO. Uncertainty around coaching continuity in the MSA option was a concern for us. After hearing encouraging feedback from another family whose son had participated in PAMSACO the prior year, we enrolled Luke in the program led by Tom Haxton — and we are glad we did. The program was exceptionally well-run. Three experienced and deeply committed coaches — Tom Haxton, Tyler Chenhall, and Maria Polykov — created an environment where athletes were supported, communication with parents was consistent and clear, and, most importantly, the kids enjoyed. During pickups, I consistently saw participants energized and engaged after their runs. By the final session, attendance had grown from where it began — a sign of a program that earns its participants' enthusiasm. Inspired by his experience, Luke chose to run a 10K race as his ROPES project at JLS. In March, he finished 6th overall and 1st among all participants aged 13 to 24. He is now participating in Track & Field and plans to continue both cross country and T&F through high school. What began as a middle school program became the foundation of a genuine athletic pursuit. This is what well-run youth athletic programs can do. Cross country and track & field are among the most inclusive sports available which makes the quality of their leadership all the more consequential. We have seen firsthand what strong coaching and program management can mean for a young athlete. Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 97 Packet Pg. 198 of 219 8 We strongly encourage the City to issue the RFP and to support the continuation of programs like this for youth development. Sincerely, Patricia & Ed O'Donnell -- Patricia Fukuda O'Donnell pfukuda@sloan.mit.edu 917-608-7840 Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 98 Packet Pg. 199 of 219 9 Vidal, Eric From:Coles, Charlie Sent:Monday, April 27, 2026 2:10 PM To:Goldstein, Paul; Bansal, Megha Cc:pabacpaloalto@googlegroups.com; ParkRec Commission; Robustelli, Sarah; Heistein, Ben; Laxa, Chelsea; Warner, Michael Subject:RE: 4/28/26 Meeting Item #4 Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Project (Resending on behalf of Megha Bansal, as the original email may not have gone through to PABAC) Dear Mr. Goldstein, Thank you for your questions. I wanted to clarify that the proposed Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Plan includes the City’s standard speed tables or speed humps, as appropriate along with warning signage where needed to help slow vehicular traffic while allowing for a smooth transition for bicyclists. Staff is not proposing speed bumps such as the one at the Preserve entrance in the proposed plan. Park Rangers will follow up with further details on the maintenance of the Steep Hollow trail. Regards, Megha Megha Bansal, PE, PMP Senior Engineer, Public Works 250 Hamilton Avenue | Palo Alto, CA 94301 D: 650.329.2693 | E: megha.bansal@paloalto.gov www.paloalto.gov CHARLIE COLES Senior Transportation Planner OƯice of Transportation (650) 329-2166 | Charlie.Coles@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: 'Paul B Goldstein' via PABAC <pabacpaloalto@googlegroups.com> Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2026 11:42 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: pabacpaloalto@googlegroups.com Subject: [PABAC] 4/28/26 Meeting Item #4 Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Project Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 99 Packet Pg. 200 of 219 10 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. To Parks and Recreation Commission: I am a member of PABAC and also a frequent hiker in Foothills Nature Preserve, although generally on weekdays. This seems like a sensible plan. I am concerned about the proposed “speed humps”. I certainly hope that they are nothing like the speed bumps at the entrance station. The speed bumps at the entrance station force a complete stop (which is appropriate there). The proposed new speed humps should allow a vehicle or bicycle to pass at 15 mph. For the safety of cyclists, the speed humps should be prominently marked: an unexpected speed bump can cause a cyclist to lose control and crash. On a separate note, last year maintenance was done on the Steep Hollow trail. There certainly were areas of this trail that were hazardous, but the maintenance work did not do much to improve the situation. The upper flight of steps was removed, and in my estimation, this section is actually more difficult to negotiate than it was before, especially in the downhill direction. There had been a step-up around a tree root below Bridge #7 and that has been eliminated, but the result is now more slippery, and very muddy after a rain. The steps near the junction with Trappers Trail Fire Road were plowed over, I don’t know why. If there is a general plan to remove all steps on the trails, I think this is a mistake and should be reevaluated. Respectfully submitted Paul Goldstein Palo Alto -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "PABAC" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to pabacpaloalto+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/pabacpaloalto/665A4D97-701D-48B4- 9CB1-EE67D8039E75@stanford.edu. Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 100 Packet Pg. 201 of 219 11 Vidal, Eric From:Bansal, Megha Sent:Monday, April 27, 2026 1:54 PM To:pabacpaloalto@googlegroups.com Cc:ParkRec Commission; Coles, Charlie; Robustelli, Sarah; Heistein, Ben; Laxa, Chelsea; Warner, Michael Subject:RE: 4/28/26 Meeting Item #4 Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Project Dear Mr. Goldstein, Thank you for your questions. I wanted to clarify that the proposed Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Plan includes the City’s standard speed tables or speed humps, as appropriate along with warning signage where needed to help slow vehicular traffic while allowing for a smooth transition for bicyclists. Staff is not proposing speed bumps such as the one at the Preserve entrance in the proposed plan. Park Rangers will follow up with further details on the maintenance of the Steep Hollow trail. Regards, Megha Megha Bansal, PE, PMP Senior Engineer, Public Works 250 Hamilton Avenue | Palo Alto, CA 94301 D: 650.329.2693 | E: megha.bansal@paloalto.gov www.paloalto.gov From: 'Paul B Goldstein' via PABAC <pabacpaloalto@googlegroups.com> Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2026 11:42 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: pabacpaloalto@googlegroups.com Subject: [PABAC] 4/28/26 Meeting Item #4 Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Project CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. To Parks and Recreation Commission: I am a member of PABAC and also a frequent hiker in Foothills Nature Preserve, although generally on weekdays. This seems like a sensible plan. I am concerned about the proposed “speed humps”. I certainly hope that they are nothing like the speed bumps at the entrance station. The speed bumps at Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 101 Packet Pg. 202 of 219 12 the entrance station force a complete stop (which is appropriate there). The proposed new speed humps should allow a vehicle or bicycle to pass at 15 mph. For the safety of cyclists, the speed humps should be prominently marked: an unexpected speed bump can cause a cyclist to lose control and crash. On a separate note, last year maintenance was done on the Steep Hollow trail. There certainly were areas of this trail that were hazardous, but the maintenance work did not do much to improve the situation. The upper flight of steps was removed, and in my estimation, this section is actually more difficult to negotiate than it was before, especially in the downhill direction. There had been a step-up around a tree root below Bridge #7 and that has been eliminated, but the result is now more slippery, and very muddy after a rain. The steps near the junction with Trappers Trail Fire Road were plowed over, I don’t know why. If there is a general plan to remove all steps on the trails, I think this is a mistake and should be reevaluated. Respectfully submitted Paul Goldstein Palo Alto -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "PABAC" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to pabacpaloalto+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/pabacpaloalto/665A4D97-701D-48B4- 9CB1-EE67D8039E75@stanford.edu. Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 102 Packet Pg. 203 of 219 13 Vidal, Eric From:Nimna Ranatunga <nims84@gmail.com> Sent:Sunday, April 26, 2026 10:57 PM To:ParkRec Commission Cc:DC Subject:Public comment on the Middle School Athletic program, Palo Alto Attachments:Gmail - Concerns Regarding 7th& 8th Grade JLS MS Flag Football Session_Redacted.pdf CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first mail to some recipients. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Dear Parks and Recreation Commission, We are parents of a PAUSD middle schooler (JLS) and an elementary school (Hoover) student living in Palo Alto, and are beneficiaries as well as strong supporters of the Palo Alto education ecosystem (PTAs, PIE, Children's Theater, Friends of PA libraries etc). We have actively participated in a range of youth sports programs both city-run and private/non profit run and value the role these programs play in student development and community building. Our experience with the city-run middle school sports programs since 2025 has been disappointing. We have participated in Ultimate Frisbee, flag football and track and field seasons at JLS - these were poorly executed, with issues in organization, consistency, and overall program delivery. They either lacked committed and able coaches, or were loaded with too many participants. Following the last flag football season, we shared detailed feedback with the city in October (attached here for reference), but did not receive any acknowledgement or response after repeated requests. In contrast, our experience with the cross country program organized under PAMSACO, a local non- profit, was highly positive with well-structured practices/communication, consistent coaching, and meaningful opportunities for students to participate in meets. It set a high standard for what a middle school sports program can and should look like. We want to emphasize that we are strong proponents of the PAMSACO model to deliver MS athletic programs. In addition, we have a similar experience with East Palo Alto Razorhawks, a local non profit youth rugby football club that we participate, volunteer and coach. Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 103 Packet Pg. 204 of 219 14 Given our drastically different experience, we would strongly advocate for adopting a structure similar to the PAMSACO model in city-run middle school sports programs. We believe this approach would significantly improve organization, coaching quality, and overall student experience. Hence we request the Commission to issue an RFP, as soon as possible, to rectify MS sports. Thank you for your time and consideration. DC Jayasundera & Nimna Ranatunga Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 104 Packet Pg. 205 of 219 15 Vidal, Eric From:Lily Lam <mslilylam@gmail.com> Sent:Sunday, April 26, 2026 9:41 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Public comment on item 5: middle school sports CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Hello Parks and Rec Commission, I would like to voice my support for PAMSACO to run the middle school athletics program, if the binary is that either it takes over, or the Parks & Rec department continues to run all sports. The organization has proven that it's possible to run a better program for cross country at a lower cost to families with higher quality coaches and oversight, and they are willing to do it on a larger scale. It should be a no brainer to say yes. Please make it possible! Thank you, Lily Lam Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 105 Packet Pg. 206 of 219 16 Vidal, Eric From:Paul B Goldstein <marmot@stanford.edu> Sent:Sunday, April 26, 2026 11:42 AM To:ParkRec Commission Cc:pabacpaloalto@googlegroups.com Subject:4/28/26 Meeting Item #4 Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements Project CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organiza on. Be cau ous of opening a achments and clicking on links. To Parks and Recrea on Commission: I am a member of PABAC and also a frequent hiker in Foothills Nature Preserve, although generally on weekdays. This seems like a sensible plan. I am concerned about the proposed “speed humps”. I certainly hope that they are nothing like the speed bumps at the entrance sta on. The speed bumps at the entrance sta on force a complete stop (which is appropriate there). The proposed new speed humps should allow a vehicle or bicycle to pass at 15 mph. For the safety of cyclists, the speed humps should be prominently marked: an unexpected speed bump can cause a cyclist to lose control and crash. On a separate note, last year maintenance was done on the Steep Hollow trail. There certainly were areas of this trail that were hazardous, but the maintenance work did not do much to improve the situa on. The upper flight of steps was removed, and in my es ma on, this sec on is actually more difficult to nego ate than it was before, especially in the downhill direc on. There had been a step-up around a tree root below Bridge #7 and that has been eliminated, but the result is now more slippery, and very muddy a er a rain. The steps near the junc on with Trappers Trail Fire Road were plowed over, I don’t know why. If there is a general plan to remove all steps on the trails, I think this is a mistake and should be reevaluated. Respec ully submi ed Paul Goldstein Palo Alto Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 106 Packet Pg. 207 of 219 17 Vidal, Eric From:Warner, Michael Sent:Friday, April 24, 2026 12:30 PM To:Sabina Hentz; ParkRec Commission; Open Space Cc:Robustelli, Sarah Subject:RE: Arastradero Preserve new sign edit Attachments:Aras- Sign 1999 to 2018.jpg; Aras 2026 Signs.JPG; Aras Signs 2018 -2025.PNG Hi Sabina, Thank you for your email. Regarding the new signs not having a box addressing horses / equestrian use. There has never been a box addressing horse use within the preserves beyond the multiuse triangle, which has been a feature since at least 2006 as individual signs, and 2017 on the regulatory signs. I believe you may be mistaking the dog symbol on the previous generation sign as a horse. I have attached photos of the current signs and two previous generations back to 2001. Prior to 2001, dating back to when the preserve was purchased in 1977, staff used Carsonite markers with prohibited uses highlighted as stickers at each trailhead. I am very aware of how horses can be unpredictable and the variability of each horse’s training, as I have worked for other agencies that ran cattle grazing programs and allowed equestrian use across 20,000 acres of land and 150 miles of trail. There are already plans in progress to add Slow and Say Hello (Trail Partners) signage in the preserve and in the bulletin boards, which was outlined in the Park & Rec Commission meeting in April 2024 & October 2025 when updates for the Ad Hoc Nature Access Committee were given to the Commission. We will not be updating the current regulatory signage as that would be a waste of fiscal resources, and the signs are meant to communicate prohibitions against common violations, not common user profiles. I hope this answers your questions, if you have any further concerns, please let me know. Best Regards, - Mike Michael Warner Supervising Park Ranger Foothills, Pearson – Arastradero Nature Preserves & Esther Clark Park (650) 329-2423 | Michael.Warner@cityofpaloalto.org Palo Alto Open Space Website Please note my normal workdays are Wednesday – Saturday. Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 107 Packet Pg. 208 of 219 18 From: Sabina Hentz <sabinahentz@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, April 8, 2026 9:20 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov>; Open Space <Open.Space@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Warner, Michael <Michael.Warner@paloalto.gov> Subject: Re: Arastradero Preserve new sign edit CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. hello there, I am following up on my email on March 25 about the sign at the Arastradero Preserve. Please see above. Looking forward to your reply. Thank you. On Wed, Mar 25, 2026 at 9:44AM Sabina Hentz <sabinahentz@gmail.com> wrote: Hello there,I hope you’re having a wonde i This message needs your attention • No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. • This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast CGBANNERINDICATOR hello there, I am following up on my email on March 25 about the sign at the Arastradero Preserve. Please see above. Looking forward to your reply. Thank you. On Wed, Mar 25, 2026 at 9:44 AM Sabina Hentz <sabinahentz@gmail.com> wrote: Hello there, I hope you’re having a wonderful day. I am a long-time resident of Palo Alto and have boarded my horse at Portola Pastures in Portola Valley for the past 15 years, bordering the Arastradero Preserve. We frequently ride on the preserve’s trails, which are truly a special and treasured place. Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 108 Packet Pg. 209 of 219 19 I recently noticed that the updated signage at the preserve (photo attached) no longer mentions horses. Previously, the signage clearly indicated trail-use priorities, with horses given the right of way. Without this guidance, many visitors appear unaware of proper trail etiquette. We often encounter cyclists approaching at high speeds—sometimes from behind—as well as runners who may not recognize the risks involved. As you know, horses are prey animals and can react unpredictably if startled, which makes awareness and respectful behavior essential for everyone’s safety—both riders and other trail users. I am writing on behalf of riders at Portola Pastures, and I believe the broader equestrian community would strongly support reinstating clear signage that acknowledges horses and emphasizes appropriate trail etiquette and right of way. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Sabina Hentz Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 109 Packet Pg. 210 of 219 20 Vidal, Eric From:Robert Neff <rmrneff@sonic.net> Sent:Friday, April 24, 2026 12:16 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Foothills Nature Preserve Improvements (Item 4) comments Hello PRC Members and Staff, Thank you for bringing forward the Foothills Natures Preserve Improvements work. I think these are terrific changes that will help separate walking visitors from drivers on the roads throughout the preserve, reducing vehicular speeds and improving safety. I have two comments: The plans remove all parking from near the park entrance except for temporary 10-minute spaces. I think there is a trailhead there. Where should visitors park to access that trailhead? Should there be longer term parking near the entrance? Quite a few speed bumps are suggested, and I think that will help moderate traffic speeds. I'm concerned about one on the downhill from the lake to the picnic area at the bo om of the hill. Perhaps that is to slow downhill traffic before a trail crossing? Bikes tend get up to high speeds, including kids, if they go down that hill. I hope that does not surprise novice cyclists and result in crashes. The speed bump should be well marked with paint and speed-bump signs. I hope that one is not under the trees, where it might be harder to see. Perhaps there should also be a speed hump at the bo om of that hill, before the entrance to the parking lot and the adjacent picnic area. Thank for this set of improvements to the preserve, and thank you for your work for our city. -- Robert Neff On Emerson near Loma Verde. Palo Alto Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 110 Packet Pg. 211 of 219 21 Vidal, Eric From:Weifeng Pan <weifengpan33@gmail.com> Sent:Friday, April 24, 2026 8:09 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Public comment on item 5: Middle School Athletics evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Members of the Parks and Recreation Commission, I'm writing to support Mr. Tom Haxton's petition for the commission to conduct a request for proposals in time to inform the 2026-2027 school year, at the April 28, 2026 meeting. As founder of the local nonprofit PAMSACO, Mr. Haxton more than demonstrated that the City should not be in the business of running the middle school athletic program, and that nonprofit organizations like PAMSACO are able to offer our children a much better sports experience at much lower cost. Stop gaslighting Palo Alto parents and citizens!! Regards, Weifeng Pan Palo Alto resident Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 111 Packet Pg. 212 of 219 22 Vidal, Eric From:Arun Bodapati <bodapa@gmail.com> Sent:Friday, April 24, 2026 7:50 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Public Comment on Item 5: Middle School Athletics Evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Dear Members of the Parks and Recreation Commission, I am writing to express my strong support for PAMSACO, the local non-profit that operates the JLS Middle School Cross Country team. My son participated in the program last year, and we were incredibly impressed by the organization. They have done a fantastic job managing the team and providing a positive experience for the students. Based on our positive experience, we believe the commission should take steps to make these programs official. Thank you for your time and for all you do for our community's recreational programs. Best regards, Arun Nanda Bodapati (Parent of a kid attending JLS Middle School) -- Arun Bodapati Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 112 Packet Pg. 213 of 219 23 Vidal, Eric From:Seyoung Wang <wang302302@gmail.com> Sent:Friday, April 24, 2026 12:23 AM To:ParkRec Commission Cc:Kanghee Ko Subject:Public Comment on Middle School Athletics Program Structure and Student Experience CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. • This is their first mail to some recipients. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Dear Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Commission, I would like to share some concerns regarding the current structure of the MSA program, based on our recent experience and observations. At present, practice schedules are primarily determined by coach availability, which has resulted in an impractical start time of around 4:15 PM. In contrast, under the previous model, students were able to begin practice immediately after school, easily accessing nearby parks or running safe routes throughout Palo Alto. This allowed for a more natural transition from school to athletics and made participation significantly more accessible. Under the current structure, however, practice is limited to a narrow window of time in a restricted location, heavily dependent on coach availability. As a result, a significant number of registered students are unable to consistently attend practice and are instead expected to simply participate in meets without adequate preparation. This shift has also affected the overall student experience. Students are no longer able to clearly see or feel their own progress over time, nor do they experience the sense of accomplishment, teamwork, and friendship that naturally develops through consistent and meaningful practice. Instead, participation has become largely mechanical—driven by scheduling constraints rather than athletic development or student engagement. In some cases, even attendance is disrupted due to transportation or scheduling conflicts tied to the limited practice structure. Student feedback in this regard has been overwhelmingly negative, with many expressing frustration over the lack of meaningful practice opportunities and limited inclusion. In addition, the organization of meets has not consistently supported fair participation. Students who have independently trained for field events such as long jump and high jump have, in some cases, been Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 113 Packet Pg. 214 of 219 24 unable to participate in competition due to logistical or administrative issues during meets. This has been particularly discouraging for students who invested significant effort in preparing for these events, only to be unable to showcase their skills. As a result, many students are currently feeling demotivated and disappointed. Instead of feeling rewarded for their effort and progress, they are left discouraged as they prepare for the next meet under the same structural limitations. Overall, I believe these issues highlight the importance of a more flexible, student-centered program design—one that prioritizes accessibility, consistent practice opportunities, and meaningful athletic development. I would also like to emphasize the broader purpose of middle school athletics. The ultimate goal of a middle school sports program is not to develop elite athletes, but rather to support the holistic development of adolescents during a critical stage of growth. This includes promoting mental and emotional well-being, fostering friendships and teamwork, building trust between schools and the local community, and contributing to the overall positive development of students during their middle school years. Unfortunately, under the current structure, many of these objectives are not being effectively achieved. Over the past two years, many students in the JLS community—particularly current 7th and 8th graders— had meaningful and positive experiences with PAMSACO and Coach Tom. Through this program and his coaching, they developed a genuine interest in track & field and cross country, while also experiencing joy, motivation, and a strong sense of belonging each other. However, as the structure has changed, these same students have now gone through a cross country and track season that has been confusing and, in many respects, difficult for them to understand or fully engage with. As a result, many of the students have even asked their parents to raise concerns directly with the City, expressing their frustration with the current situation. After experiencing both seasons this year, many parents—especially of 7th and 8th grade students— have begun to question the City’s capacity to effectively manage and support a program of this nature. In addition, the current scheduling and meet organization, along with the lack of meaningful feedback or recognition of student progress, appears to be contributing to a system where students feel unheard and unable to understand or advocate for their own experience. This has created an environment where dissatisfaction and concern are growing among participants. It has been especially disheartening for parents to observe students who, over the past two years, were growing with confidence and enthusiasm, now feeling discouraged and even demotivated due to an unprepared and inconsistent structure this year. In some cases, students who were previously excited and engaged in their athletic experience are now expressing frustration and showing signs of emotional withdrawal. For families who have witnessed the positive impact of a well-structured program in previous years with PAMSACO, this shift has been particularly difficult to see. Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 114 Packet Pg. 215 of 219 25 We trust that the City will take these concerns into account and ensure a thorough and thoughtful decision-making process. Thank you for your support Best, Seyoung Wang (JLS middle school 8th grader’s mom) Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 115 Packet Pg. 216 of 219 26 Vidal, Eric From:Tom Haxton <tom.haxton@gmail.com> Sent:Thursday, April 23, 2026 11:30 PM To:ParkRec Commission Cc:Howard, Adam Subject:Public comment on item 5: Middle School Athletics evaluation CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention • Some Recipients have never replied to this person. • This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Dear Parks and Recreation Commission, I appreciate the time that city staff, the ad-hoc committee, and this commission have put into the process ordered by the City Council on October 7, 2024, evaluating the middle school athletic program, recommending approaches to align the program with universal access for students and state law, and evaluating transferring program management to local nonprofits. I'm writing as the founder and president of the local nonprofit (PAMSACO) whose advocacy contributed to this resolution. As explained below, I urge you to resolve at the April 28, 2026, meeting to conduct a request for proposals in time to inform the 2026-2027 school year if feasible, and as a priority regardless. It is worth emphasizing that the City Council's resolution served two purposes: (1) to eliminate fees to families and (2) to improve the level of service and reduce costs by transferring management to local nonprofits. Council Member Burt spoke to the first objective at the meeting (video link): State law has since clarified … that school districts basically are prohibited from using cities as a fiscal vehicle to run their own middle school athletics programs…. Under the state constitution extracurricular activities of schools have to be provided to all students free of charge. Mayor Stone spoke to the second objective (video link): I might possibly add an amendment to add on to council member Burt's request. A lot of cities regionally … that have also taken on the responsibility of middle school athletics have outsourced to local nonprofits. That could be a good option to provide expertise to another group and maybe offer some cost savings as well while increasing the level of service. Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 116 Packet Pg. 217 of 219 27 The staff report has identified a modest opportunity to reduce fees for low-income students by securing $10,000 from the Palo Alto Recreation Foundation, which would allow the City to reduce fees for low-income families for one year. Transferring management to a local nonprofit would go much further: it would allow us to eliminate fees for low-income students entirely while improving the level of service for all students. I encourage this Commission to evaluate that path more rigorously than the staff report recommends. The staff report considers two transfer models: partial management and full management. In evaluating the partial management model, it is unclear if staff considered reducing the amount it spends on overhead not directly related to coaching or day-to-day operations of teams. That overhead–compensation of full-time city employees and school athletic directors–totaled $261,000 in a recent year, approximately $218 per registrant, contributing the dominant share to the $335 registration fee. The report does not consider whether those overhead positions could be reduced or reassigned as the City's role in the program shrinks — an assumption worth noting, though the stronger case for change lies in full management, which eliminates that overhead entirely. On full management, the report reaches a surprisingly weak conclusion given the evidence available. It states that staff is "not aware of any groups that are interested and qualified to take on the entire program," and the Ad Hoc Committee recommends removing full management as an option on that basis. This conclusion rests on a misreading of the RFI responses. The July 22, 2025 Informational Update categorized PAMSACO's response as a "Partial Management Model" — but the first paragraph of our RFI response, included as an attachment to that same report, explicitly states that "we are also open to managing additional sports in the future." A qualified local nonprofit expressed interest in full program management. That interest was not recognized. I believe we can improve both the level of service and access by managing the full program, and I hope the Commission will resolve at the April 28, 2026, meeting to conduct a request for proposals in time to inform the 2026-2027 school year if feasible, and as a priority regardless. By operating a cross country team for JLS for the last two seasons, we have demonstrated that our model improves the level of service, increases access, and reduces costs. The level of service in the city's MSA program currently depends almost entirely on the quality of coaches. While some volunteer and paid coaches have been excellent, the $23.48/hour the city pays has not proven adequate for recruiting and retaining quality coaches. For example: • The parent volunteer who became the head Greene cross country coach in 2024 was told he would be an assistant within a team of 4-5 coaches, but found out on the first day of practice that he was the only coach. • A JLS basketball team's only coach left in the middle of the 2023-2024 season with less than one day's notice, with the season continuing only because a parent with no basketball experience volunteered to take over. By dramatically reducing overhead, PAMSACO can pay coaches $50/hour, enough to recruit and retain quality coaches. The improvement in level of service is clearly seen by the many students and families who have experienced both PAMSACO's JLS cross country team and the MSA program's JLS track and field team over the last two years. Our model increases access by offering free registration to all low-income students, a large improvement over the MSA program's 50% reduction. Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 117 Packet Pg. 218 of 219 28 Our model reduces costs, increasing access for lower middle-income students as well. Over two seasons we have operated a self-sufficient cross country team while charging $185 to $200 per student, compared to the MSA program's $335. Our model will scale well across multiple schools and sports, which we can describe fully in a proposal. We already have processes in place for nonprofit governance, equitable registration, background checks, insurance, payroll, and coach recruitment. These processes will apply across sports. For each sport, we would engage a director responsible for recruiting and hiring coaches, setting the sport's budget, and coordinating with schools and the league as needed. This lean structure is expected to cost a small fraction of the $261,000 currently invested in overhead, while delivering a meaningfully higher level of service. I urge you to resolve at the April 28, 2026, meeting to conduct a request for proposals in time to inform the 2026-2027 school year if feasible, and as a priority regardless. Best regards, Tom Haxton President, PAMSACO Item A Public Comments 04.21.26-04.28.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 118 Packet Pg. 219 of 219