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2026-07-28 Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Packet
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 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 76, 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 General Public Comment for items not on the agenda will be accepted for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. In-person comments will be heard at the beginning of the agenda and remote comments will be heard at the end of the agenda. 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 IN-PERSON PUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. 1-3 minutes depending on number of speakers. In-person comments will be heard at the beginning of the agenda and remote comments will be heard at the end of 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 June 23, 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.Park Improvement Ordinance for the Improvements for the Arastradero Creek Stabilization and Utility Line Relocation and Repair project and Consideration of the CEQA Initial Study Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND).- 60 minutes – Staff Presentation 5.Informational Update on Ad Hoc Nature Connectivity Efforts – 45 minutes – Presentation COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s) VIRTUAL PUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. 1-3 minutes depending on number of speakers. In-person comments will be heard at the beginning of the agenda and remote comments will be heard at the end of the agenda. 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: July 28, 2026 Report #: 2607-6568 TITLE Approval of Minutes from June 23, 2026 BACKGROUND Staff recommends that the Parks and Recreation Commission review and approve the minutes from regular meeting June 23, 2026. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1 Item 1 Staff Report Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 5 of 192 1 MINUTES 2 PARKS & RECREATION Commission 3 Regular meeting 4 June 23, 2026 5 In-Person & Virtual Conference 6 Palo Alto, California 7 8 Commissioners Present: Chair Nellis Freeman; Commissioners Vadim Axelrod, Yudy Deng, Shani 9 Kleinhaus, and Roger Smith (left at 9:43 p.m.) 10 Commissioners Absent:Vice Chair Bing Wei, Commissioner Amanda Brown 11 Others Present: Travis Belt, Ed Getherall 12 Staff Present: Ben Heistein, Sarah Robustelli, Lam Do, Karin North, Tina Pham 13 CALL TO ORDER 14 Chair Freeman called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The clerk called the roll and noted 5 15 Commissioners were present. 16 IN-PERSON PUBLIC COMMENT 17 Doug P. urged the Commission to work with Valley Water to repair the sluice gate, citing 18 ongoing impacts on the ecological health of the Palo Alto Flood Basin. The commenter 19 referenced a written report submitted to the Commission, emphasized the importance of timely 20 action to restore the gate's functionality, and expressed hope for a coordinated effort to address 21 the issue. 22 AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS 23 Chair Freeman noted that the Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates and Department Report 24 had been moved to the end of the agenda. 25 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 26 1. Approval of Draft Minutes from the April 28, 2026 Parks and Recreation Commission Regular 27 Meeting 28 MOTION: Commissioner Axelrod moved, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to approve the Parks and 29 Recreation Commission meeting draft summary minutes of April 28, 2026. 30 MOTION PASSED: 5-0-2, Brown and Wei absent 31 1. Approval of Draft Minutes from the May 26, 2026 Parks and Recreation Commission Regular 32 Meeting 33 MOTION: Commissioner Deng moved, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to approve the Parks and 34 Recreation Commission meeting draft summary minutes of May 26, 2026. 35 MOTION PASSED: 5-0-2, Brown and Wei absent Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 6 of 192 36 BUSINESS ITEMS 2.Recommend Adoption of a Park Dedication Ordinance to Dedicate a Portion of the Measure E 39 site as Parkland. CEQA status – exempt under CEQA regulation 15601(b)(3) – 60 minutes – 40 Staff Presentation Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 7 of 192 79 corridor could provide meaningful ecological benefits between the Emily Renzel Wetlands and 80 the Baylands Harbor Marsh. Findings showed that the site currently functions as a wildlife 81 habitat, supports wildlife movement, and provides a hydrologic connection in its existing 82 condition. Multiple open-air and underground corridor concepts were evaluated and while 83 several alternatives were technically feasible, they would require substantial excavation, 84 avoidance of existing infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance while providing limited ecological 85 benefit compared with existing conditions. Targeted habitat enhancement was identified as 86 providing greater ecological benefit with less disturbance and lower cost. Using a site map, Mr. 87 Belt described the Measure E study area, located between the Emily Renzel Wetlands and the 88 Palo Alto Baylands Marsh, and includes portions of the Baylands Nature Preserve, the closed 89 landfill, and areas adjacent to the RWQCP. Because the site lies between 2 important habitat 90 areas and provides a hydrologic connection through an existing 18-inch underground pipeline, 91 City Council directed the study to evaluate whether a wetland wildlife corridor or other 92 beneficial environmental use could improve ecological connectivity. Mr. Belt explained that 93 Rincon conducted a literature review, field investigations, biological, hydrologic, excavation, site 94 constraint evaluations, and field surveys on November 13 and 18, 2025, to determine whether a 95 corridor would meaningfully improve ecological outcomes. 96 Using site photographs and constraint maps, Mr. Belt reviewed the 4 corridor alternatives 97 evaluated, including 2 open-air options (an open channel and a wide wetland swale) and 2 98 underground options (an oversized multi-barrel box culvert and an arch span culvert). The open- 99 air alternatives would require a wildlife corridor 100 feet wide for plants, invertebrates, and 100 aquatic species and approximately 200 feet wide at the top of bank for birds and small 101 mammals. Achieving those dimensions would require excavation of approximately 810,000 102 cubic feet of soil. Additional constraints include Embarcadero Road, the RWQCP, the Horizontal 103 Levee Pilot Project, the landfill maintenance facility, existing drainage infrastructure, and 104 relocation of utilities and park infrastructure. Mr. Belt emphasized that the Measure E site is not 105 ecologically blank, noting that it currently supports wildlife movement, habitat, and a hydrologic 106 connection through an existing 18-inch pipeline. Existing habitats include eucalyptus woodland, 107 pickleweed marsh, quailbush scrub, and landscaped areas. The evaluation found that white- 108 tailed kites currently use the site and identified 6 additional special-status species with high 109 potential to occur and 3 species with moderate potential under existing and future conditions. 110 Mr. Belt explained that the goal was not simply to determine whether a wetland corridor could 111 be constructed, but whether it would provide meaningful ecological benefit beyond existing 112 conditions. The study concluded that targeted habitat enhancements would provide greater 113 ecological benefit with less disturbance, lower cost, fewer construction impacts, and greater 114 compatibility with future wastewater treatment plant needs than constructing a wetland 115 wildlife corridor. 116 Summarizing the study, Mr. Belt reviewed the field and desktop evaluations, biological and 117 hydrologic assessments, and analysis of the 4 corridor alternatives. The wide open-air wetland 118 swale was identified as the ecologically preferred alternative but is heavily constrained by 119 limited site width and other existing conditions. The open channel would provide limited 120 ecological benefit, while the underground alternatives would primarily maintain hydrologic 121 connectivity with little benefit to wildlife or plants. Mr. Belt concluded that if restoration is 122 pursued at the Measure E site, targeted upland habitat enhancement is the preferred 123 alternative. Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 8 of 192 124 Ms. Pham returned to staff's Measure E recommendations following presentation of the 125 technical study results. It was reiterated that staff recommends reserving 2.4 acres for potential 126 biosolids processing, rededicating the remaining 7.7 acres as parkland, and adopting the 127 proposed Park Dedication Ordinance. 128 Chair Freeman stated that the staff report, supplemental Q&A, correspondence, and 129 presentation provided a comprehensive review of the item. It was emphasized that the issue 130 before the Commission is whether the City should rededicate the entire 10-acre Measure E site 131 as parkland or preserve approximately 2.4 acres adjacent to the RWQCP for potential future 132 biosolids processing. Chair Freeman summarized the work of the ad hoc committee, on which 133 he and Commissioner Kleinhaus served, noting that they reviewed the Measure E ballot 134 language, prior staff reports, historical background, and public correspondence, and participated 135 in a site walk-through with staff to better understand the issues before the PRC. It was indicated 136 that several observations guided the ad hoc committee's discussion. Measure E ballot language 137 specifically authorized removal of the site from parkland dedication for construction of a facility 138 to process yard trimmings, food waste, and other organic materials. No such facility was 139 constructed and Measure E contemplated returning the property to parkland after 10 years. 140 Chair Freeman added that the ad hoc committee considered the site's physical characteristics 141 during its walk-through, noting that much of the approximately 7.7 acres is constrained by 142 landfill conditions and unsuitable for traditional park development, while the 2.4-acre area has 143 historically served as a buffer between the RWQCP and Byxbee Park and has potential value for 144 habitat restoration, wildlife connectivity, and open space. 145 Commissioner Kleinhaus explained that the Rincon study established the ecological value of the 146 Measure E site, noting that the site supports wildlife, is used by special-status species, and could 147 be enhanced as upland habitat to strengthen connectivity between the Emily Renzel Wetlands 148 and the Baylands, even without an aquatic corridor. Commissioner Kleinhaus stated the 149 question is not simply whether to construct a new water connection, but whether to preserve 150 the site for habitat restoration rather than lose it to future development. The 7.7-acre capped 151 landfill has limited value for habitat restoration because the cap restricts tree planting and 152 burrowing wildlife. Parkland designation would not substantially change how that portion of the 153 site is used. Referring to a letter from former Mayor Emily Renzel, Commissioner Kleinhaus 154 noted that the Measure E site was intended to serve as a landscaped visual and odor buffer 155 separating the RWQCP from Byxbee Park. Commissioner Kleinhaus expressed respect for Emily 156 Renzel's legacy while acknowledging the complexity of operating the wastewater treatment 157 plant and the importance of protecting water quality in the Bay. 158 Commissioner Axelrod requested information on current biosolids hauling volumes and future 159 impacts. Ms. Pham stated that approximately 2 to 3 trucks, or 63 tons, of biosolids are hauled 160 off site each week and projected that completion of wastewater treatment plant upgrades in 161 2029 will increase biosolids production by approximately 20 to 25 percent, resulting in 3 to 5 162 truckloads per day. Karin North, Assistant Director of Public Works, explained that the City 163 maintains separate contracts for hauling and processing biosolids. AB 218 eliminated the use of 164 biosolids as alternative daily cover in landfills, increasing demand for processing capacity and 165 likely increasing future costs. Staff continues to evaluate treatment technologies and potential 166 regional partnerships, including San Jose, as future biosolids management options. Ms. Pham 167 added that staff's consultant identified several triggers for updating the biosolids facility plan, Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 9 of 192 168 including a doubling of off-haul and treatment costs, which could warrant earlier consideration 169 of on-site biosolids treatment. 170 Chair Freeman requested additional information regarding the circumstances that would trigger 171 the need for the reserved 2.4 acres. Ms. Pham explained that staff is continuing to refine the 172 long-range facility plan and biosolids facility plan and is evaluating implementation triggers 173 including increases in off-haul costs, advances in treatment technologies such as pyrolysis, and 174 opportunities for regional partnerships. It was noted that changes in any of those factors could 175 alter future biosolids planning and the potential need for on-site facilities. 176 Commissioner Kleinhaus asked whether preserving the 2.4-acre Measure E site is driven 177 primarily by potential future PFAS regulations rather than biosolids processing needs. Ms. Pham 178 explained that staff is evaluating multiple long-term planning factors, with potential PFAS 179 regulations representing one of the primary reasons for preserving flexibility. Although 180 California has not adopted PFAS regulations for biosolids, 3 states have done so and staff 181 continues to monitor regulatory developments while reserving space for potential future 182 treatment needs. Ms. North emphasized the importance of maintaining long-term flexibility for 183 the RWQCP, noting that the facility has limited opportunities for expansion and must continue 184 meeting evolving environmental regulations while protecting the Bay. It was explained that 185 previous long-range planning did not anticipate current nutrient reduction requirements and 186 that future regulations affecting liquid treatment and biosolids processing remain uncertain. It 187 was explained that preserving the Measure E site keeps future options available should 188 additional treatment facilities become necessary within the next 20–50 years. Commissioner 189 Kleinhaus noted that future PFAS regulations, the amount of land needed, and the timing of any 190 need remain uncertain while the Measure E site has continued to degrade. Commissioner 191 Kleinhaus supported returning the property to parkland and restoring it as upland habitat, 192 noting that voters approved Measure E as a temporary measure and could reconsider the site's 193 use if future treatment needs arise. Commissioner Kleinhaus acknowledged the challenges 194 facing the RWQCP but emphasized that the PRC's responsibility is to consider parkland. 195 Chair Freeman requested an update on efforts to purchase property adjacent to the RWQCP. 196 Ms. North stated that staff has pursued acquisition of nearby properties for many years and 197 continues negotiations as directed by City Council. Acquiring adjacent properties would provide 198 space for operations, personnel, construction staging, parking, and future liquid treatment 199 needs. Ms. Pham added that the biosolids facility plan concluded that the adjacent office 200 properties are not well suited for solids processing because of their distance from existing 201 treatment infrastructure. The 2.4-acre Measure E site remains the more practical location for 202 potential future biosolids facilities. 203 Commissioner Axelrod asked about the likelihood that the 2.4-acre Measure E site would be 204 needed within the next 20 years. Ms. Pham responded that the timing remains uncertain and 205 depends on multiple factors, including future PFAS and other regulatory requirements, 206 compliance timelines, increases in hauling and treatment costs, and potential disposal 207 restrictions. Given those uncertainties, staff believes reserving the 2.4 acres is the most prudent 208 approach. 209 Commissioner Deng asked how existing treatment capacity influences long-term biosolids 210 planning. Ms. Pham explained that long-range planning considers projected flows and growth Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 10 of 192 211 forecasts provided by the partner agencies over a 50-year horizon, rather than current dry- 212 weather flows alone. Current planning indicates the 80 MGD capacity is expected to meet future 213 needs, although capacity projections will continue to be reevaluated. Ms. North added that 214 wastewater flows have become more concentrated over time, resulting in higher ammonia 215 loads and increased biosolids production despite lower water volumes, making future 216 population growth an important factor in long-term planning. 217 Commissioner Deng asked how the regional partnership influences long-term planning and 218 decision-making. Ms. Pham explained that the RWQCP operates through longstanding 219 agreements with 5 partner agencies that hold capacity shares in the facility and participate in 220 decisions regarding capital improvements, financing, and operations. Amendments for major 221 projects require agreement among all partner agencies, with Palo Alto owning and 222 administering the facility. 223 Item 2 Public Comment 224 1. Stephen R., a resident of Old Palo Alto, stated that he supported Measure E in 2011 and believes 225 the staff recommendation is consistent with the voters' intent to process biosolids locally rather 226 than export them elsewhere. The commenter supported restoring 7.7 acres as parkland while 227 preserving the remainder of the site for potential future biosolids treatment. 228 2. Herb B. urged the Commission to recommend rededicating the entire Measure E site as 229 parkland. The commenter argued that the Commission should forward its recommendation to 230 City Council without waiting for completion of the biosolids facility plan, noting that any future 231 need to remove the property from parkland could be presented to voters. 232 3. Peter D. questioned Commissioner Kleinhaus's participation in the discussion and ad hoc 233 committee based on her prior involvement and position on Measure E. The commenter 234 criticized the ad hoc committee process, stating that it lacked sufficient public outreach and 235 transparency. It was further argued that rededicating the Measure E site would not change 236 existing site conditions and broader public engagement was encouraged before the Commission 237 forwards a recommendation to City Council. 238 4. Bret A. (Zoom) supported staff's recommendation, stating that it appropriately balances habitat 239 preservation with the City's responsibility to minimize environmental impacts from wastewater 240 treatment. The commenter agreed that preserving 7.7 acres as parkland while maintaining 241 future flexibility represents a reasonable compromise and keeps options open as technologies 242 and environmental regulations evolve. 243 Commissioner Axelrod asked staff for their opinion on the likelihood that the 2.4-acre Measure 244 E site would be needed within the next 10–20 years. Ms. Pham estimated the likelihood as 245 roughly even, while Ms. North stated that she believes the likelihood is somewhat greater based 246 on increasing treatment demands, evolving environmental regulations, and the long lead time 247 required to plan and construct wastewater treatment facilities. 248 Commissioner Axelrod asked whether rededicating the Measure E site would affect 249 maintenance of the existing 18-inch hydrologic connection. Ms. North explained that the 250 pipeline was installed to restore hydrologic connectivity between the Emily Renzel Wetlands and Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 11 of 192 251 the Baylands and, together with freshwater flows, supports the wetland system and mitigates 252 impacts to Matadero Creek. Maintenance requirements would not change if the site is 253 rededicated. 254 Commissioner Kleinhaus stated that she approached the issue with an open mind, reviewed 255 extensive background information, visited the site, and appreciated staff's responses to her 256 questions. Concern was expressed that biologically functional habitat in the Baylands has 257 continued to decline because of surrounding development and studies were cited showing 258 declines in bird populations. The Rincon study demonstrated that the Measure E site provides 259 an important upland wildlife corridor between the Emily Renzel Wetlands and the Baylands. 260 Commissioner Kleinhaus expressed hope that the City could acquire adjacent office properties 261 while preserving the site's ecological value. 262 Chair Freeman asked staff to explain the long-term environmental benefits and tradeoffs of 263 rededicating the entire Measure E site versus reserving 2.4 acres for future biosolids facilities. 264 Ms. Pham explained that staff does not anticipate a short-term need for the site but believes 265 reserving the 2.4 acres would provide flexibility to respond more quickly and cost-effectively if 266 future regulations or rising hauling costs require on-site treatment. Ms. North added that staff 267 plans to enhance habitat within the 2.4-acre area regardless of its parkland designation and 268 noted that staff's recommendation reflects City Council's direction to evaluate future space 269 needs. 270 Commissioner Smith expressed appreciation for staff's dedication and work at the Baylands, 271 particularly the improvements at Byxbee Park. 272 MOTION: Chair Freeman moved, seconded by Commissioner Kleinhaus, to recommend that the City 273 Council adopt a park dedication ordinance to dedicate 10 acres of the Measure E site at Byxbee Park as 274 parkland. The 2.4 acres should be ecologically enhanced with native plants and trees to provide habitat 275 and passive recreation value. 276 MOTION PASSED: 3-2-2, Brown and Wei absent 277 The PRC took a 6-minute break. 278 Sarah Robustelli, Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf, announced that the meeting would be 279 broadcast on Channel 30 rather than Channel 26, as stated in the agenda. 280 3. Study Session to Review Financial Feasibility Study Update for Driving Range Expansion at 281 Baylands Golf Links – 60 minutes – Staff Presentation 282 Lam Do, Superintendent of Open Space, Parks, and Golf, introduced a study session on the 283 financial feasibility of expanding the Baylands Golf Links driving range with a new ground-level 284 range and a second deck. It was noted that the item is for discussion only and that staff will 285 return to the Commission at a later date with a recommendation. Background was provided on 286 the 2018 renovation and reopening of the course as Baylands Golf Links, including conversion to 287 a links-style layout and installation of salt-tolerant paspalum turf irrigated with recycled water. 288 Mr. Do reported that the golf course has operated profitably since 2021 after initial post- Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 12 of 192 289 renovation debt service costs and that driving range revenues have continued to increase, 290 reaching approximately $772,000 in FY 2025. 291 Ed Getherall, representing National Golf Foundation Consulting, provided an overview of the 292 study evaluating expansion of the Baylands Golf Links driving range with a second deck and golf 293 technology enhancements ranging from ball tracking and virtual course play to game 294 improvement tools. Mr. Getherall summarized the report, which examined national golf trends, 295 local market conditions, site feasibility, conceptual design and cost estimates, market 296 opportunities, and 10-year utilization and financial projections. It was noted that the City's 297 objective is to evaluate opportunities to increase net revenue while expanding practice and 298 player development opportunities. Baylands Golf Links has performed strongly since reopening 299 following renovation, with play increasing to approximately 60,000 rounds in FY 2025 and total 300 revenue reaching a record $5.4M. Driving range revenue increased 11.6 percent in FY 2025 but 301 is beginning to level off because the existing tee stations are nearing capacity, supporting 302 consideration of a driving range expansion. Reviewing national golf trends, Mr. Getherall stated 303 that golf participation and rounds played remain at record or near-record levels, with continued 304 growth in facility utilization driven in part by technology and entertainment offerings. Growth in 305 female participation since 2020 was highlighted, although retention of new golfers remains 306 below 25 percent. Mr. Getherall noted that California has one of the largest inventories of 307 municipal golf facilities in the nation. 308 Concerning local market analysis, Mr. Getherall stated that Baylands Golf Links serves a large, 309 affluent population with strong golf participation and that the Bay Area is one of the nation's 310 strongest golf markets. The analysis concluded that the region is underserved by public golf 311 facilities, particularly driving ranges, and that comparable regional facilities demonstrate strong 312 market potential for an expanded Baylands driving range. Mr. Getherall discussed the growing 313 use of technology-enhanced driving ranges, stating that they attract new golfers and 314 complement traditional driving range and golf course use. Photographic examples of 315 technology-enhanced facilities were shown. Summarizing the market analysis, Mr. Getherall 316 concluded that the Baylands Golf Links driving range is well positioned for expansion because of 317 strong regional demand, limited competition, and significant potential to attract new golfers 318 through technology-enhanced amenities. Risks identified included future competition, economic 319 downturns, moderation of current golf demand, and changing consumer interest in golf 320 entertainment. Mr. Getherall indicated that expanding the Baylands Golf Links driving range to a 321 double-deck facility presents a strong market opportunity because the existing range is 322 approaching its capacity for organic growth and local market conditions remain favorable. The 323 proposed concept would expand the range from 27 to 68 tee stations on 2 levels, allow the City 324 flexibility in selecting technology, and move the tee line approximately 12 yards to reduce errant 325 balls entering a nearby parking lot. A phased implementation approach was presented, with an 326 estimated base project cost of $8.4M to $9.08M and optional features including a second-level 327 roof, screen wall, concession/restroom building, and exterior patios for additional cost. 328 Reviewing the 10-year financial projections, Mr. Getherall stated that the enhanced driving 329 range is projected to generate approximately $1.7M in gross operating revenue and $1.1M in 330 net income during the first full year, with incremental net revenue increasing from 331 approximately $515,000 in Year 1 to $710,000 by Year 5. A sensitivity analysis evaluating lower 332 utilization, lower bucket revenue, and operating cost assumptions indicated that financial 333 performance would vary with changes in those factors. A slide summarizing the projected Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 13 of 192 334 revenues under each scenario was shown. Concluding the presentation, Mr. Getherall reiterated 335 that the analysis identified a strong market opportunity for an expanded double-deck driving 336 range. Construction costs were identified as the greatest uncertainty and it was noted that the 337 financial analysis did not include potential revenue from food and beverage or pro shop sales. 338 Mr. Do reviewed additional site considerations, including the need for a parking study, FAA 339 approval for taller ball-retention nets and poles, and evaluation of project funding options. 340 Commission feedback was requested on whether to further evaluate a double-deck driving 341 range, incorporate golf technology, entertainment features, and food and beverage service, and 342 identify any additional information needed. Potential next steps include evaluating project 343 alternatives and funding sources before returning to the Commission with a recommendation 344 and subsequently to City Council. 345 Chair Freeman reminded the Commission that the study session is focused on the financial 346 feasibility of expanding the driving range and associated technology enhancements, noting that 347 environmental impacts, FAA considerations, traffic, design alternatives, and other project details 348 would be evaluated in future phases. 349 Commissioner Kleinhaus recommended that future evaluation include consistency with the 350 Baylands Master Plan and requested additional visual information showing the proposed height, 351 location of the structure and ball-retention netting, and relationship to the Baylands. Mr. Do 352 stated that staff would provide examples of similar facilities. Chair Freeman noted that the staff 353 report includes a conceptual illustration of the lower and upper decks and height measurements 354 but agreed that additional conceptual renderings would be helpful. 355 Chair Freeman asked why the Stanford Golf Course was excluded from the regional competition 356 analysis. Mr. Do explained that the comparison focused on facilities offering technology- 357 enhanced driving ranges given that the proposed expansion includes technology features. 358 Commissioner Axelrod asked about the financial assumptions underlying the proposed project, 359 including potential funding sources, whether the cost estimate distinguishes routine netting 360 replacement from costs attributable to the second deck, and whether the revenue projections 361 assume increased user fees. Mr. Do responded that funding options would be evaluated with 362 the City's Office of Management and Budget and noted that similar capital projects, including 363 the golf course renovation, were financed through long-term debt. It was explained that the 364 netting estimate reflects the cost of constructing the netting to the required future height and 365 does not distinguish routine replacement costs from those attributable to the proposed 366 expansion. Mr. Do and Mr. Getherall further explained that the financial projections include 367 moderate fee increases associated with technology-enhanced driving range bays, reflecting 368 pricing commonly used at comparable facilities. 369 Commissioner Axelrod asked whether current or prospective users have been surveyed 370 regarding interest in technology-enhanced driving range features. Mr. Getherall responded that 371 such surveys were outside the scope of NGF's study but could be conducted using existing 372 customers or the broader Bay Area market. Commissioner Axelrod suggested a simple on-site 373 customer survey. 374 Chair Freeman sought clarification regarding the project cost estimate, asking whether 375 technology enhancements could be phased in and whether the estimated $8.4M project cost Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 14 of 192 376 should exclude the cost of replacing the aging ball-retention netting and poles if those 377 improvements would be required regardless of the expansion. Mr. Do explained that technology 378 could be implemented incrementally and stated that excluding the netting and pole 379 replacement could reduce the estimated project cost to approximately $4.1M. Mr. Getherall 380 agreed that, if the netting and poles would require replacement independent of the project, 381 those costs should not be fully attributed to the return-on-investment analysis, noting that the 382 base estimate includes infrastructure needed to support future technology installations. 383 Commissioner Deng asked whether ongoing maintenance costs were included in the 384 construction estimate and how the proposed project compares with other recreation capital 385 investments in terms of community benefit and financial return. Mr. Do explained that ongoing 386 maintenance would be funded through the golf course's regular operating budget and is not 387 included in the construction estimate. It was further noted that, compared with other 388 Community Services Department programs, the golf course generates sufficient revenue to 389 cover its operating costs and contribute revenue to the General Fund. 390 Commissioner Smith opined that the presentation exceeded an appropriate length of time and 391 stated that a second-deck driving range is unlikely to gain community support because of its 392 visual impact on the Baylands. Commissioner Smith questioned whether additional staff time 393 should be devoted to further evaluating this proposal. 394 Commissioner Kleinhaus requested additional information regarding the proposed increase in 395 ball-retention net height, operating hours, lighting, and project design assumptions. Mr. Do 396 stated that the proposed netting would increase from approximately 80 to 170 feet, that the 397 driving range would operate until approximately 9 p.m., and that lighting and other design 398 elements would be evaluated during a future design process. Mr. Getherall explained that the 399 cost estimates include construction costs but not design costs, while Mr. Do noted that the turf 400 selection has not yet been determined. Commissioner Kleinhaus expressed concern about the 401 project's overall cost given the City's current financial conditions. 402 Item 3 Public Comment 403 1. Herb B. questioned whether the City should bear the cost of replacing or increasing the driving 404 range netting, suggesting that responsibility should instead rest with the adjacent office 405 development. The commenter further questioned whether regional partners should contribute 406 to project costs, expressed concerns about intensifying development in the Baylands because of 407 liquefaction and sea-level rise, and urged that the proposal not advance without City Council 408 direction. 409 2. George Maxe, CEO of First Tee Silicon Valley (Zoom), stated that higher netting would make the 410 expanded practice area usable by preventing golf balls from leaving the driving range. The 411 commenter added that improving safety along the Embarcadero Road side of the range could 412 create an opportunity for a public-private partnership with First Tee to develop a youth golf 413 facility. 414 Commissioner Kleinhaus expressed concern that, if the project does not meet its financial 415 projections, pressure could develop to extend operating hours even later. Additional worries 416 were discussed regarding the visual impact of the proposed 170-foot netting, lighting, noise, and 417 consistency with the Baylands Master Plan, the City's Scenic Roads designation for Embarcadero Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 15 of 192 418 Road, and the recently adopted Dark Skies Ordinance. Commissioner Kleinhaus stated that 419 environmental and Baylands compatibility analyses should precede further investment in the 420 proposal. 421 Commissioner Axelrod reiterated interest in surveying current driving range users to gauge 422 public interest in the proposed expansion and technology enhancements, noting that they 423 would ultimately bear the cost through user fees. 424 Commissioner Deng stated that, while the preliminary financial analysis was encouraging, 425 additional information would be helpful regarding the range of potential project costs, projected 426 payback periods, and how the proposed investment compares with other recreation capital 427 priorities. 428 Commissioner Kleinhaus recommended that any public outreach include visual simulations of 429 the proposed project from Byxbee Park and other Baylands viewpoints and solicit input from 430 Baylands visitors as well as driving range users. 431 Chair Freeman stated that, although the financial feasibility discussion was a useful first step, 432 substantial additional analysis would be needed before the Commission could evaluate the 433 proposal. Mr. Do agreed, explaining that the study session was intended to initiate discussion of 434 the project's financial feasibility and identify issues requiring further evaluation. It was further 435 noted that the current driving range reaches capacity during peak hours, that additional 436 stakeholders would be involved, and that the proposal remains in the preliminary stages. 437 NO ACTION 438 CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 439 4. Council Liaison Report 440 No report was provided because Councilmember Lythcott-Haims was absent. 441 5. Department Report 442 Sarah Robustelli, Division Manager of Open Space, Parks, and Golf, highlighted recent 443 community events, including the opening of the Bryant Street Community Center, 2 family 444 movie nights with more than 300 attendees each, the ribbon cutting for Thursday Live on 445 California Avenue, and the inaugural Palo Alto Pride event. Upcoming events were announced, 446 including Thursday Live, the Family Movie Night series, the Fourth of July Chili Cookoff and 447 Summer Festival, the Municipal Service Center Open House, and the Twilight Concert Series. 448 Summer camps are underway, with the City's 49 specialty camps at 83 percent enrollment, 449 while participation at the Bryant Teen Center has continued to increase with expanded Friday 450 evening programming and additional educational workshops planned for the fall. It was noted 451 that a 4-acre vegetation fire occurred on June 22 within an Arastradero preserve, which was 452 quickly contained with no injuries or structures affected. The cause remains under investigation 453 and the affected area will remain closed through June 30 while crews monitor for flare-ups and 454 protect natural resources. Staff completed a refresh of the Arastradero Preserve Gateway 455 exhibits, including replacement of faded interpretive panels and other improvements to 456 enhance the visitor experience. Additionally, improvements continue at Bowden Park in Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 16 of 192 457 partnership with the Kiwanis Club, including repainting park benches, the arbor, and the 458 playground fence. 459 Commissioner Axelrod expressed support for the close proximity of the Bryant Teen Center and 460 the nearby senior center, noting the opportunity for intergenerational interaction. 461 Commissioner Axelrod noted his anticipation of the upcoming Municipal Service Center Open 462 House while mentioning past parking challenges and recommended better publicizing the 463 earlier start time for Thursday Live. Ms. Robustelli indicated that staff would relay the feedback. 464 Commissioner Kleinhaus asked about the location of the Arastradero preserve fire and whether 465 wildlife, including a family of coyotes, had been affected. Ms. Robustelli stated that the fire 466 occurred near Gate B on the Portola Valley side of the preserve and that staff would follow up 467 with rangers regarding any impacts to wildlife. 468 Commissioner Deng expressed appreciation to staff for organizing the City's community events 469 and stated that she looks forward to continuing to support them. 470 6. Ad Hoc Committees and Liaison Updates (Discussion) 471 Commissioner Axelrod reported that the Cubberley Master Plan has been approved, a sales tax 472 measure will appear on the November ballot, and existing tenants are expected to remain 473 through at least next year. It was announced that the Safe Routes to School representative, Rose 474 Mesterhazy, will be retiring and that a successor has not yet been identified. Chair Freeman 475 asked whether staff would follow up on identifying a replacement and Ms. Robustelli indicated 476 that she would contact Rose and her team. 477 Commissioner Deng reported that she will attend the next Youth Council meeting at the Bryant 478 Teen Center. Commissioner Deng attended the Cubberley tenants meeting and noted that 479 tenant concerns regarding dedicated space during future construction were addressed by 480 Councilmembers. 481 Commissioner Kleinhaus reported that she and Vice Chair Wei met with staff regarding the 482 nature connectivity initiative and plan to present an update at the next meeting on their 483 evaluation of existing plans and documents. 484 Chair Freeman noted that his updates included the golf driving range and Measure E items, 485 which were presented earlier in the meeting. It was further reported that the San Antonio 486 Community Advisory Group remains on hiatus pending additional information and has not met 487 in recent months. 488 VIRTUAL PUBLIC COMMENT 489 None. 490 COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 491 Sarah Robustelli, Division Manager of Open Space, Parks, and Golf, reported that the July 28 492 meeting is expected to include 2 Park Improvement Ordinance action items: the Foothills 493 Improvement Plan and the Arastradero Creek Pipeline project. Commissioner Kleinhaus 494 requested that the environmental review documentation for the Arastradero Creek Pipeline Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 17 of 192 495 project be shared with the Commission and asked staff to confirm that any required CEQA 496 documentation had been properly posted. Commissioner Axelrod asked whether staff would 497 have sufficient time to incorporate the Commission's previously discussed updates to the 498 Foothills Improvement Plan. Ms. Robustelli indicated that staff expects the requested updates to 499 be completed and agreed to follow up regarding the environmental review documentation after 500 the meeting. 501 ADJOURNMENT 502 The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 pm. Item 1 Attachment A - June 23, 2026, Parks and Recreation Draft Summary Minutes Item 1: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 18 of 192 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION DEPARTMENT REPORT July 28, 2026 PaloAlto.gov Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 19 of 192 RECAP: SUMMER FESTIVAL & CHILI COOKOFF Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 20 of 192 UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 21 of 192 SUMMER CAMP Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 22 of 192 GOLF: VISIT TO MARINERS POINT GOLF CENTER Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 23 of 192 COMPLETED: REPLACEMENT GREER PARK SIGN Before InstalledProgress Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 24 of 192 IN PROGRESS: GREER PARK SKATE BOWL before current progress Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 25 of 192 IN PROGRESS: MITCHELL PARK RESTROOM What: Replacing the existing two-stall restroom with a new four-stall modular restroom. Why: Project will increase restroom capacity to better serve the high-use area near the Magical Bridge Playground and tennis/pickleball courts. Estimated timeline: July - September 2026. Impacts: Intermittent pathway closures and temporary parking restrictions may occur during construction; detours and signage provided. Thank you to our partners Friends of the Palo Alto Parks for funding Temporary portable restrooms over the past year to address the need. Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 26 of 192 UPCOMING CIP WORK Adobe Loop Trail Repaving Scheduling between September – November El Camino Park Turf Replacement Scheduled for August – October Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 27 of 192 Item 2 Item 2 Staff Presentation Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 28 of 192 Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report From: Utilities Department Meeting Date: July 28, 2026 Report #: 2604-6259 TITLE Park Improvement Ordinance for the Improvements for the Arastradero Creek Stabilization and Utility Line Relocation and Repair project and Consideration of the CEQA Initial Study Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND). RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) recommend that the City Council adopt and approve a Park Improvement Ordinance (Attachment A) authorizing the Arastradero Creek Stabilization and Utility Line Relocation and Repair and recommend City Council approve the Initial Study Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND). BACKGROUND In March 2023, a community member informed the City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) Department about an exposed 8-inch steel natural gas pipeline in Arastradero Creek within the Pearson-Arastradero Preserve. The pipeline was previously inspected in May 2022, and no damage was reported at that time. However, a storm event in early 2023 caused significant erosion in Arastradero Creek, exposing the 8-inch high-pressure gas pipeline and threatened to expose a 16-inch potable water and 16-inch wastewater collection pipelines servicing the foothills. A Safety Related Condition Report was sent to the California Public Utilities Commission, as required by Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 191.23, on March 31, 2023. The City received approval from the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) under an emergency permit, to conduct a temporary creek stabilization project to protect the gas pipeline from damage caused by future storms. As part of the project, the City installed a combination of cobbles and boulder revetments in the eroded channel bed to protect the gas pipeline and prevent the upstream potable water transmission and sewer pipelines from being exposed. The existing gas, water, and wastewater pipelines serving the Palo Alto Foothills community currently lie parallel to one another approximately 3 feet below the bottom of the Item 4 Item 4 Staff Report Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 29 of 192 Arastradero Creek channel. The gas and water pipelines are sole pipelines that provide gas and water utility service to the Palo Alto Foothills community. 1, regular meeting as a discussion item. ANALYSIS 1 Parks and Recreation Commission, March 25, 2025; Agenda Item #6; SR #2503-4329, https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/viewer/preview?id=0&type=8&uid=5c27d9cc-281d-489e-9c71-08431b0113af Item 4 Item 4 Staff Report Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 30 of 192 along the trail, while also improving the condition of the trail itself. Additionally, willow poles harvested on-site would be placed downstream of the existing pipelines near the confluence with Arastradero Lake to encourage dispersed, multi-threaded flow and stabilize channel banks. Erosion control fabric and strategic revegetation would be incorporated to restore impacted areas and to reduce erosion risk on disturbed banks as part of construction. Item 4 Item 4 Staff Report Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 31 of 192 lot during construction. Construction workers will park their vehicles at the designated staging areas near Gate B. A construction laydown yard adjacent to Arastradero Creek will be used, including a portion near Gate B for the storage of equipment and material. -kind repairs to the trail surface, if necessary, during construction. Furthermore, the contractor’s use of the trail following significant rain events will be limited to prevent damage to the trail surface. At the completion of the Project, the contractor will be required to provide a final trail surface that meets or exceeds the pre-construction conditions to the satisfaction of the City. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Item 4 Item 4 Staff Report Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 32 of 192 The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) was published for public comment on 7/22/2026. The MND is currently available on the City’s website for public review from 7/22/2026 through 8/21/2026 (30-day public review period). The final MND will be included with the creek restoration and gas pipeline relocation project for City Council approval. TIMELINE ATTACHMENTS Item 4 Item 4 Staff Report Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 33 of 192 NOT YET APPROVED 1 163_20260721_ts24 Ordinance No. ____ Ordinance of the Council of Authorizing Work in Foothills Nature Preserve to Relocate Utility Lines, Stabilize Arastradero Creek, and Grade Arastradero Trail (Park Improvement Ordinance) The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows: SECTION 1. Findings and Declarations. The City Council finds and declares as follows: A. The City’s Foothills Nature Preserve (“Foothills”), is dedicated parkland under several sections of PAMC Chapter 22.08. B. Article VIII of the Charter of the City of Palo Alto and Section 22.08.005 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) require that, before any substantial building, construction, reconstruction or development is commenced or approved, upon or with respect to any land held by the City for park purposes, the Council shall first cause to be prepared and by ordinance approve and adopt a plan therefor. C. The City, led by its Utilities Department, intends to relocate certain pipelines carrying water, wastewater, and gas that are located within Foothills. In addition, the City will place grade control structures within Arastradero Creek to stabilize the ground and do minor grading of Arastradero Trail to remediate erosion and facilitate proper drainage. SECTION 2. The City Council hereby approves the following Plan under Article VIII (Parks) of the City Charter and PAMC section 22.08.005: A. Stabilization of Arastradero Creek. This involves construction of a series of rock and step- pools and approximately 25 Post-Assisted Log Structures (PALS) and four grade control log structures in and along the creek. A step-pool structure is a series of short weirs composed of rocks and coarse sediment that directs water to tumble into a shallow pool below the weir. PALS are hand-built, permeable structures that mimic and promote the processes of wood accumulation in natural streams. They are made of collections of logs, cobbles, and other natural debris that are held in place by wooden posts driven into the ground in and around the material. Log grade control structures consist of channel spanning logs keyed and anchored into the banks engineered to resist mobilization and to retain a minimum elevation upstream of the structure by sediment retention. Exhibits marked C-1.0, C-3.2, and C-3.3 generally show the proposed improvements. B. Pipeline Relocation. Existing gas pipeline will be lowered and water, and wastewater pipelines will be relocated as generally shown in Exhibits marked U-2.0 and U-3.1, including required vegetation clearing. Existing pipelines and structures will be capped, abandoned in place and filled with a combination of soil and cement slurry (as specified on the Exhibits) except for a section of the pipelines that are within the jurisdiction of the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). This section will be completely removed as required by RWQCB. Item 4 Attachment A Park Improvement Ordinance Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 34 of 192 2 Areas disturbed by vegetation clearing and pipeline removal shall be backfilled and revegetated in accordance with the approved restoration and revegetation plan. C. Minor Grading of Arastradero Trail. This includes repairing slope erosion which runs along the left bank of the creek, restoring functionality to existing drainage features along the trail, while also improving the condition of the trail itself. Additionally, willow poles harvested on-site would be placed downstream of the existing pipelines near the confluence with Arastradero Lake to encourage dispersed, multi-threaded flow and stabilize channel banks. Erosion control fabric and strategic revegetation would be incorporated to restore impacted areas and to reduce erosion risk on disturbed banks as part of construction. Exhibit marked C-1.0 generally shows the proposed improvements. SECTION 3. CEQA. A mitigated negative declaration for this Project has been publicly circulated and approved by the City Council. SECTION 4. Severability. If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this ordinance, or the application to any person or circumstances, shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other provisions of this Ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application and, to this end, the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby declared to be severable. // // // // // // Item 4 Attachment A Park Improvement Ordinance Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 35 of 192 3 SECTION 5. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be effective on the 31st day after adoption. INTRODUCED: PASSED: AYES: NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENT: ATTEST: ____________________________ ____________________________ City Clerk Mayor APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED: ____________________________ ____________________________ Assistant City Attorney City Manager ____________________________ Director, Community Services ____________________________ Director, Utilities ATTACHMENTS: U-2.0 Utilities Demo Plan, Plan View, Profile (Gas) U-3.1 Utilities Plan View (Water/Sewer) C-1.0 Grading Plan C-3.2 Details C-3.3 Details Item 4 Attachment A Park Improvement Ordinance Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 36 of 192 ΔΔ Δ PROJECT #340190 DRAWN BY: CHECKED BY: ORIGINAL DRAWING SIZE: 24 X 36 ARASTRADERO CREEK RESTORATION AND PIPELINE RELOCATION PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA DATE ISSUES AND REVISIONS NO SHEET OF 18 03/30/26 90% DESIGN 0 2169-G East Francisco Blvd. San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 454-8868 Phone www.wra-ca.com c: \ u s e r s \ k i m r a \ c i t y o f p a l o a l t o \ w g w e n g i n e e r i n g - s h a r e d d r i v e s p \ 0 3 g a s \ 0 1 - s o l i c i t a t i o n s \ r f p \ p r 1 9 0 9 3 6 - 2 0 2 4 t o 2 0 2 6 - a r a s t r a d e r o c r e e k p r o j e c t \ 5 . 0 - d e s i g n \ u t l g a s \ u - 2 . 0 g a s m a i n d e s i g n . d w g FOR PERMIT REVIEW ONLY NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION 90% DESIGN THIS DOCUMENT IS RELEASED FOR THE PURPOSE OF AGENCY REVIEW ON THE AUTHORITY OF CHRISTOPHER FENG, PE #C-94524 Feet 0 10 20 U-2.0 UTILITES DEMO PLAN, PLAN VIEW, PROFILE (GAS) ARA S T R A D E R O C R E E K UNP A V E D R O A D UNPAV E D R O A D ARASTRADERO CREEK KR (CPA) AP, NS (CPA) Item 4 Attachment A Park Improvement Ordinance Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 37 of 192 A-A- A-A- PROJECT #340190 DRAWN BY: CHECKED BY: ORIGINAL DRAWING SIZE: 24 X 36 ARASTRADERO CREEK RESTORATION AND PIPELINE RELOCATION PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA DATE ISSUES AND REVISIONS NO SHEET OF 18 03/30/26 90% DESIGN 0 2169-G East Francisco Blvd. San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 454-8868 Phone www.wra-ca.com c: \ u s e r s \ e m e j i a \ c i t y o f p a l o a l t o \ w g w e n g i n e e r i n g - s h a r e d d r i v e s p \ 0 3 g a s \ 0 1 - s o l i c i t a t i o n s \ r f p \ p r 1 9 0 9 3 6 - 2 0 2 4 t o 2 0 2 6 - a r a s t r a d e r o c r e e k p r o j e c t \ 5 . 0 - d e s i g n \ u t l w a t e r \ d e s i g n s h e e t s \ a r a s t r a d e r o p l a n s h e e t s . d w g FOR PERMIT REVIEW ONLY NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION 90% DESIGN THIS DOCUMENT IS RELEASED FOR THE PURPOSE OF AGENCY REVIEW ON THE AUTHORITY OF CHRISTOPHER FENG, PE #C-94524 U-3.1 UTILITIES PLAN VIEW (Water/Sewer) Feet 0 30 60 Item 4Attachment A Park Improvement Ordinance Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 38 of 192 STATION 360 370 380 390 400 360 370 380 390 400 56+0056+5057+0057+5058+0058+5059+0059+5060+0060+5061+0061+5061+75 (E) SEWAGE PIPELINE & WATER SUPPLY PIPELINE MA T C H L I N E SH E E T C - 1 . 1 36" FOOTER BOULDER BANK-ATTACHED PALS CHANNEL-SPANNING PALS LOB ALIGNMENT ROB ALIGNMENT PROPOSED GAS LINE, SEE SHEET U-2.0 S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OHOH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LO D LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LO D LODLOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LO D LO D LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LO D LO D LO D LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LO D LO D LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LOD LO D LO D LO D LO D LOD LOD LOD LOD LOG LOG LO G LOGLOG LOG LOG LOG LO G LO G LO G LO G LOG LOG LOGLOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LO G LOG LO G LOG LOG LOG LO G LO G LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LO G LOGLOG LOG LOGLOGLOGLOG LO G LOG LO G LO G LO G LO G LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LOG LO G LO G LOG LO G LO G UTILITY BORE PIT (FIELD FIT) ARASTRADERO CREEK CENTERLINE ALIGNMENT EXISTING CREEK ALIGNMENT-Left-25.00 36" WEIR BOULDERS COMPOSED OF ON-SITE SALVAGED AND IMPORTED ROCK. ONCE EXISTING ROCK IS EXHAUSTED, BUILD WITH SEASONED EUCALYPTUS LOGS OR OTHER IMPORTED BOULDERS EXISTING CREEK ALIGNMENT-Right-25.00 56+00 57+0 0 58+00 59+00 60+00 61+ 0 0 61+84 56+ 0 0 57 + 0 0 58+0 0 59+00 60+00 61+0 0 61+76 UTILITY RECEIVING PIT (FIELD DETERMINE) SEDIMENT DELIVERY POINTS STUFF HEADCUT WITH ONSITE VEGETATIVE SLASH/SMALL WOODY DEBRIS TIGHTLY PACK UNDERCUT BANK AND BOTTOM OF INCISED CHANNEL WITH ONSITE VEGETATIVE SLASH/DEBRIS/IMPORTED SEDIMENT - ENSURE NO AIR POCKETS. PACK SMALLER/MEDIUM SIZED SALVAGED WOODY DEBRIS AND LOGS ON TOP, FILL ENTIRE INCISED CHANNEL UP TO NATURAL BANK SLOPES DROP CHANNEL-SPANNING LOGS ON TOP TO COMPACT THE CHANNEL FILL, AND PIN LOGS IN PLACE 3 C-2.0 2 C-3.0 1 C-3.0 DROP EXISTING "HAZARD" TREE (TREE 202) INTO CHANNEL FACING UPSTREAM (WITH COME-ALONG SO ROOTWAD IS PRESERVED) TEMPORARY CREEK CROSSING MA T C H L I N E S H E E T C - 1 . 1 56+0 0 57 + 0 0 58+0 0 59+00 60+00 61+ 0 0 62+00 63+00 BUILD PAL USING FELLED TREE (384) (382) (380)(378) (376 ) (374) (376) (37 8 ) (38 0 ) (38 2 ) (3 8 4 ) (3 8 6 ) 377376 37 5 374 373 383 384 385 386 387 LIMIT OF DISTURBANCE LIMIT OF GRADING EXISTING GRADE UTILITY POLE OVERHEAD UTILITIES UNDERGROUND ELECTRIC LINE SEWER LINE WATER LINE GAS LINE EXISTING TRAIL STAGING AREA HEADCUT FILL (E) CULVERT (E) EMERGENCY REPAIR EARTHEN FILL WEIR BOULDERS BANK-ATTACHED PALS CHANNEL-SPANNING PALS PROPOSED GRADE PROFILE EXISTING GRADE PROFILE (E) TREE TREE TO BE REMOVED (P) UTILITY PITS TEMPORARY CREEK CROSSING (200) S W G OH LOG LOD LEGEND N 5 PROJECT #340190 DRAWN BY: BMM, MSD, EWR CHECKED BY: CCF, CHL ORIGINAL DRAWING SIZE: 24 X 36 ARASTRADERO CREEK RESTORATION AND PIPELINE RELOCATION PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA DATE ISSUES AND REVISIONS NO SHEET OF 19 05/06/26 60% PLAN SET 0 2169-G East Francisco Blvd. San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 454-8868 Phone www.wra-ca.com l: \ a c a d 2 0 0 0 f i l e s \ 3 4 0 0 0 0 \ 3 4 0 1 9 0 \ c a d \ 9 0 % d e s i g n \ p l o t s h e e t d w g s \ g r a d i n g - p l a n . d w g NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION 60% DESIGN THIS DOCUMENT IS RELEASED FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINAL REVIEW UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF CHRISTOPHER FENG, PE #C-94524SCALE: 1" = 20' PLAN VIEWA SCALE: 1" = 20' PROFILE VIEW - CREEK CENTERLINE1 C-1.0 GRADING PLAN Item 4Attachment A Park Improvement Ordinance Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 39 of 192 CHINK ALL VOIDS (TYP) 36" FOOTER BOULDER (TYP) PLACE GRAVEL BEDDING AS NECESSARY FOR POSITIONING BOULDERS (3" MIN)PLACE GRAVEL BEDDING AS NECESSARY FOR POSITIONING BOULDERS (3" MIN) DROP WEIR PROFILE C-C'DROP WEIR PROFILE B-B' HORIZONTAL SLOPE -7% SCOUR POOL PLACE COBBLE MIX ON DOWNSTREAM END OF DROP WEIRS. FILL VOIDS WITH NATIVE EARTHEN MATERIAL BIODEGRADABLE FABRIC WRAP BIODEGRADABLE FABRIC AROUND GRAVEL BEDDING. ENSURE FABRIC REMAINS A FEW INCHES BELOW SURFACE ON UPSTREAM END CHINK ALL VOIDS (TYP) LOW FLOW MUST CREST IN CHANNEL CENTER36" BOULDER (TYP.) CUT EXPOSED BIODEGRADABLE FABRIC ON THE FRONT FACE OF STRUCTURE PLACE GRAVEL BEDDING AS NECESSARY FOR POSITIONING BOULDERS (3" MIN) BIODEGRADABLE FABRIC BURIED SILL BOULDER (TYP) DROP WEIR CROSS SECTION BANKFULL ELEVATION 6" MIN SILL 6" MIN SILL GROUND FLOW DROP WEIR PLAN VIEW LOW HIGHHIGH BIODEGRADABLE FABRIC B B' C C' SCOUR POOL DEPTH 2-3 FEET GRAVEL BEDDING, TYP PROPOSED GRADE SALVAGED GRAVEL/COBBLE EXISTING GRADE NATIVE MATERIAL 2:1 GRADED SLOPE PROJECT #340190 DRAWN BY: BMM, MSD, EWR CHECKED BY: CCF, CHL ORIGINAL DRAWING SIZE: 24 X 36 ARASTRADERO CREEK RESTORATION AND PIPELINE RELOCATION PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA DATE ISSUES AND REVISIONS NO SHEET OF 19 05/06/26 60% PLAN SET 0 2169-G East Francisco Blvd. San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 454-8868 Phone www.wra-ca.com l: \ a c a d 2 0 0 0 f i l e s \ 3 4 0 0 0 0 \ 3 4 0 1 9 0 \ c a d \ 9 0 % d e s i g n \ p l o t s h e e t d w g s \ d e t a i l s . d w g NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION 60% DESIGN THIS DOCUMENT IS RELEASED FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINAL REVIEW UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF CHRISTOPHER FENG, PE #C-94524 10 NOT TO SCALE DROP WEIR1 C-3.2 C-3.2 DETAILS NOT TO SCALE TYPICAL CHANNEL GRADING DETAIL2 C-3.2 Item 4Attachment A Park Improvement Ordinance Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 40 of 192 CUT LOG ENDS AS NEEDED TO ENSURE SMOOTH CONNECTION FILL GAPS BETWEEN LOGS WITH GRAVEL PLACE GRAVEL BEDDING AS NECESSARY FOR POSITIONING LOGS (3" MIN) PLACE GRAVEL BEDDING AS NECESSARY FOR POSITIONING LOGS (3" MIN) DROP LOG WEIR PROFILE C-C'DROP LOG WEIR PROFILE B-B' HORIZONTAL SLOPE -7% SCOUR POOL PLACE COBBLE MIX ON DOWNSTREAM END OF DROP WEIRS. FILL VOIDS WITH NATIVE EARTHEN MATERIAL BIODEGRADABLE FABRIC WRAP BIODEGRADABLE FABRIC AROUND GRAVEL BEDDING. ENSURE FABRIC REMAINS A FEW INCHES BELOW SURFACE ON UPSTREAM END LOW FLOW MUST CREST IN CHANNEL CENTER±1' Ø EUCALYPTUS LOG PLACE GRAVEL BEDDING AS NECESSARY FOR POSITIONING LOGS (3" MIN) BIODEGRADABLE FABRIC BURIED FOOTER LOG (TYP) DROP LOG WEIR CROSS SECTION BANKFULL ELEVATION GROUND FLOW DROP LOG WEIR PLAN VIEW BIODEGRADABLE FABRIC B B' C C' SCOUR POOL DEPTH 2-3 FEET GRAVEL BEDDING, TYP HIGH LOW HIGH FILL GAPS BETWEEN LOGS WITH GRAVEL PROJECT #340190 DRAWN BY: BMM, MSD, EWR CHECKED BY: CCF, CHL ORIGINAL DRAWING SIZE: 24 X 36 ARASTRADERO CREEK RESTORATION AND PIPELINE RELOCATION PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA DATE ISSUES AND REVISIONS NO SHEET OF 19 05/06/26 60% PLAN SET 0 2169-G East Francisco Blvd. San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 454-8868 Phone www.wra-ca.com l: \ a c a d 2 0 0 0 f i l e s \ 3 4 0 0 0 0 \ 3 4 0 1 9 0 \ c a d \ 9 0 % d e s i g n \ p l o t s h e e t d w g s \ d e t a i l s . d w g NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION 60% DESIGN THIS DOCUMENT IS RELEASED FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINAL REVIEW UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF CHRISTOPHER FENG, PE #C-94524 10 NOT TO SCALE DROP LOG WEIR1 C-3.3 C-3.3 DETAILS Item 4Attachment A Park Improvement Ordinance Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 41 of 192 Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN,and the GIS User Community I Utility Work Arastradero Preserve 0 0.2 0.40.1 MilesMap Created By: Michael Warner, Supervising Ranger, City of Palo Alto. Trails Fire Roads MROSD Lands Palo Alto Open Space LandsUPDATED: 7/15/2026 !@ Storm Deposit Removal GATE B ARASTRADERO LAKE !"$ !i ARASTRADERO GATEWAY "& Work Area / Gas Line RepairTrail / Road ClosureWeekdays Heavy Truck Traffic / Weekday Use Not Recomended "& +R Staging Area Water Tank GATE A !"$ Item 4 Attachment B Trail Closure Map Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 42 of 192 ARASTRADERO CREEK REHABILITATION & PIPELINE RELOCATION PROJECT PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION PRESENTATION July 28, 2026 www.PaloAlto.gov Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 43 of 192 1 PRESENTATION AGENDA •Background •Permitting •CEQA •Arastradero Creek Rehabilitation •Utility Relocations •Project Schedule •Recommendation •Support Staff: •Michael Warner, Supervising Park Ranger, Pearson Arastradero Nature Preserve •Chris Feng, WRA Restoration Engineer •Liv Niederer, WRA Environmental Planner Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 44 of 192 2 PROJECT MAP Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 17 Packet Pg. 45 of 192 3 BACKGROUND •Exposed natural gas pipeline in Arastradero Preserve •Utilities Notified - March 2023 •Parallel Potable Water and Wastewater Pipelines •Emergency Creek Repair •USACE Approval – Regional General Permit No. 5 •September – October 2023 •Permanent Creek Stabilization Project •SFRWQCB Requirement •Evaluation of Multiple Projects Alternatives •Park and Recreation Commission Presentation •March 25, 2025 Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 18 Packet Pg. 46 of 192 4 PERMITTING & CEQA USACE •Anticipating Project Approval – September 30, 2026 •Conducting Section 7 Consultation CDFW •Anticipating Project Approval – August 31, 2026 SFRWQCB •Preliminary Project Approval – June 2, 2026 •Anticipating Final Project Approval – August 31, 2026 CEQA •Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration •Public Comment – July 22, 2026 through August 21, 2026 Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 19 Packet Pg. 47 of 192 5 ARASTRADERO CREEK REHABILITAIONPROCESS BASED RESTORATION Rock and Step-Pools •10 - Short Weirs Over 225’ •36” Weir Boulder Footers Post-Assisted Log Structures (PALS) •25 Permeable Structures •Promote Wood and Sediment Accumulation Grade Control Log Structures •Anchored Logs Span Channel •Resist Mobilization and Retain Sediment 10-year Monitoring Period •GPS Surveying, Photo, Habitat and Vegetation Monitoring Rock and Step-Pool Post-Assisted Log Structure Grade Control Log Structure Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 20 Packet Pg. 48 of 192 5 ARASTRADERO CREEK REHABILITAIONLIMIT OF DISTURBANCE MAP •LOD – Limit of Disturbance •Vegetation Clearing Areas •Creek Access and Sediment Fill Locations Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 21 Packet Pg. 49 of 192 6 UTILITY PIPELINE RELOCATION WORKNATURAL GAS Natural Gas Pipeline Relocation •Install 225’ by HDD - 17’ Below Creek •Section of Pipe Removed – 50’ •Remaining Pipe Abandoned and Slurry Filled – 175’ HDD – Horizontal Directional Drilling •Requires Vegetation Clearing •No Tree removal required Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 22 Packet Pg. 50 of 192 6 UTILITY PIPELINE RELOCATION WORKWATER AND WASTEWATER Potable Water and Wastewater Relocation •Relocated 580’ each to Arastradero Trail •Section of Pipes Removed – 50’ each •Remaining Pipes Abandoned and Slurry Filled – 580’ •Requires Vegetation Clearing •Wastewater Manhole Cone Removal •No tree removal required Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 23 Packet Pg. 51 of 192 7 PROJECT SCHEDULE •CEQA Public Comment Closes – August 21, 2026 •Anticipated Construction Permits – September 30, 2026 •USACE, CDFW, and SFRWCQB •Creek Rehabilitation & Gas Utility Construction – June 1, 2027 •Water & Wastewater Utility Construction – June 1, 2028 •Creek Monitoring – 2027 through 2037 •2 Years – WRA Environmental Consultants •8 Years – New Contract Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 24 Packet Pg. 52 of 192 8 ARASTRADERO PRESERVE IMPACTS During Construction Entrance to Project Site – Gate B •Large Trucks to be Escorted to Project Site Trail Closures •Duration of Work Window (June through October) •Monday through Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm •Notices Posted in Preserve and Webpage •Pump Station & Acorn Trail •Detour – Meadowlark/Acorn Trail Construction Stockpile Area at Project Site •Temporary Repair Stockpile Area •Pre-construction Surveys and Training •Biological Monitoring During Construction Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 25 Packet Pg. 53 of 192 9 RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) recommend that the City Council adopt a Park Improvement Ordinance (Attachment A) authorizing the Arastradero Creek Stabilization and Utility Line Relocation and Repair and recommend City Council approve the Initial Study Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND), pending any edits after public comment. Project Information Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 26 Packet Pg. 54 of 192 9 ADDITIONAL SLIDESCREEK DESIGN Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 27 Packet Pg. 55 of 192 9 ADDITIONAL SLIDESCREEK DESIGN Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 28 Packet Pg. 56 of 192 9 ADDITIONAL SLIDESVEGETATION CLEARING AREAS Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 29 Packet Pg. 57 of 192 9 ADDITIONAL SLIDESREVEGATATION PLAN Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 30 Packet Pg. 58 of 192 9 ADDITIONAL SLIDESREVEGATATION PLAN Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 31 Packet Pg. 59 of 192 9 ADDITIONAL SLIDESLIMIT OF DISTURBANCE Item 4 Item 4 Staff Presentation Item 4: Staff Report Pg. 32 Packet Pg. 60 of 192 Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report From: Community Services Department Meeting Date: July 28, 2026 Report #: 2607-6567 TITLE Informational Update on Ad Hoc Nature Connectivity Efforts RECOMENDATION Receive the informational update from the Ad Hoc on Nature Connectivity Efforts BACKGROUND The Parks and Recreation Commission established the Nature Connectivity Ad Hoc Committee to explore opportunities to strengthen biodiversity and pollinator connectivity throughout Palo Alto's park system. This effort is identified in the Commission's FY27 Work Plan as Project/Goal 7, which was presented to the City Council and includes reviewing existing City policies, evaluating regional best practices, and developing guidelines or policy recommendations for future Commission consideration. The Ad Hoc Committee has met over the past several months to review existing City plans, discuss regional approaches, and identify opportunities to integrate biodiversity and pollinator- supportive practices into park planning and maintenance. ANALYSIS The Ad Hoc Committee will provide the Commission with an informational update on its work to date. The attached presentation summarizes the committee's review of existing policies in Palo Alto and regionally and identified areas for future consideration. Staff will continue supporting the Ad Hoc Committee as it refines its recommendations, which will be brought back to the Commission for consideration at a future meeting, aiming to finish this work by the calendar year. Item 5 Item 5 Staff Report Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 61 of 192 FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT ATTACHMENT Item 5 Item 5 Staff Report Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 62 of 192 Nature Connectivity Ad Hoc Commissioners Kleinhaus and Wei, July 2026 Goal: To strengthen biodiversity and pollinator connectivity across the Palo Alto park system, consistent with the PA Comprehensive Plan, Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan and the S/CAP, and informed by regional best practices. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 63 of 192 WHY NATURE CONNECTIVITY? ●Parks and natural areas cannot sustain biodiversity in isolation. ●Connected habitat allows wildlife to move, find food and shelter, reproduce, and adapt to environmental change. ●Parks, creeks, trees, gardens, and green spaces can form an ecological network connecting the Baylands, neighborhoods, and foothills. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 64 of 192 WORKPLAN OBJECTIVES •Review existing Palo Alto City policies and plans and Evaluate regional best practices. •Develop guidelines for incorporating native plants into parklands, for both new development and ongoing maintenance of city properties. •Propose program-level policy recommendations for integration into park planning and capital projects, with emphasis on locally-native and pollinator-supportive plant standards, and habitat continuity across parks, trails, and civic landscapes. •Reduce ecological barriers. •Identify opportunities for alignment with related City efforts. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 65 of 192 WHY LOCALLY NATIVE PLANTS? Nature is not just a collection of species. It is a co-evolved network of relationships. •Locally native plants are the basis of local ecosystems' food webs - they support all stages of species life cycles •When appropriately selected and established, locally native plants require less irrigation and fertilizer and are better adapted to local seasons and climate. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 66 of 192 MAYOR VEENKER TAKES THE MONARCH PLEDGE (2026) The monarch butterfly is a beautiful, iconic species. The western population has declined by 99% since the 1980s. Through the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayors’ Monarch Pledge, Palo Alto has committed to undertake actions supporting monarchs and other pollinators. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 67 of 192 Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 68 of 192 PALO ALTO COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2030: NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ELEMENT Vision ●Palo Alto will respect and manage natural resources in a way that sustains the natural environment and protects our foothills, baylands, creeks, parks, urban forest, wildlife and open space legacy. A substantial portion of the City will remain as open space. ●Even in built-up areas, the network of parks will provide access to nature and an urban forest will provide ecological and health benefits and a source of beauty for residents. Goal N-1 Protect, conserve and enhance Palo Alto's citywide system of open space, including connected and accessible natural and urban habitats, ecosystems, and natural resources, providing a source of public health, natural beauty and enjoyment for Palo Alto residents. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 69 of 192 Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 70 of 192 PARKS, TRAILS, NATURAL OPEN SPACE & RECREATION MASTER PLAN PRINCIPLES PLAYFUL •HEALTHY •SUSTAINABLE •INCLUSIVE •ACCESSIBLE •FLEXIBLE •BALANCED •NATURE Nature: Incorporates native species and habitat corridors, and creates opportunities to learn about and interact with nature. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 71 of 192 NATURAL CONNECTIVITY Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 72 of 192 PARKS MASTER PLAN— Goal 4 Goal 4: Protect natural habitat and integrate nature, natural ecosystems and ecological principles throughout Palo Alto Policy 4.C Connect natural areas, open space, creeks and vegetated areas in parks and on public land to create wildlife, bird, pollinator and habitat corridors by planting with native oaks and other species that support pollinators or provide high habitat values. Policy 4.D Promote, expand and protect habitat and natural areas in parks and open space. Program 4.D.1 Identify and pursue strategies and opportunities to expand native trees and planting areas in urban parks. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 73 of 192 PARKS MASTER PLAN — PROJECTS Integrate nature into urban parks. This project includes converting areas in parks - usually turfgrass that is not used for recreation - into native plantings (e.g. riparian, grassland, or oak woodland) or a specific habitat planting (e.g. pollinator, hummingbird, or butterfly). Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 74 of 192 Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 75 of 192 SUSTAINABILITY & CLIMATE ACTION PLAN (S/CAP): NATURAL ENVIRONMENT Key Actions - Restore and enhance biodiversity ●Enhance pollinator habitat by including native plants and pollinator-friendly plant landscaping with all park improvement projects when feasible. ●Evaluate and modify plant palette selection in project plans to maximize biodiversity and soil health, adapt to the changing climate, and incorporate buffers for existing natural ecosystems. ●Coordinate implementation of the Urban Forest Master Plan, Parks Master Plan, Green Stormwater Infrastructure Plan, and other citywide planning efforts through interdepartmental collaboration. Key Performance Indicator Native species on City property and in new landscape projects (to measure biodiversity). Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 76 of 192 Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 17 Packet Pg. 77 of 192 GREEN STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN Integrates nature-based stormwater features to improve water quality, reduce flooding, and increase climate resilience. ●GSI uses vegetated, permeable landscapes to restore more natural hydrology and enhance wildlife habitat. ●Habitat is an identified benefit, but the plan does not require locally native plants or provide detailed guidance for enhancing wildlife habitat value. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 18 Packet Pg. 78 of 192 URBAN FOREST MASTER PLAN Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 19 Packet Pg. 79 of 192 URBAN FOREST MASTER PLAN Vision ●Trees, vegetation, soil, water, and wildlife have individual value and interdependent attributes and must be cared for as a whole. ●The urban forest should be contiguous, complex, and resilient in the face of urbanization and climate change. Direction for City Trees ●No tree species may exceed 10% of the population, reducing vulnerability to pests and disease. ●In parks, this diversity requirement may be relaxed to maintain a preference for native species. ●Parks should make the most of opportunities to plant species rich in wildlife benefits. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 20 Packet Pg. 80 of 192 HOW CALIFORNIA CITIES ADDRESS URBAN BIODIVERSITY ●Many cities have Urban Forest Plans focused on canopy, tree health, climate resilience, equity, and risk management. ●Some plans, including those of Palo Alto, Mountain View, Oakland, and East Palo Alto, explicitly address native species, wildlife habitat, and biodiversity. ●Relatively few cities have explicit biodiversity planning or measurement frameworks. Examples include Mountain View’s Biodiversity and Urban Forest Plan (2026), the San Francisco Biodiversity Guidelines (2023), and the LA City Biodiversity Index and Baseline Report (2022). ●Even fewer cities have measurable or enforceable native-plant, landscaping, habitat, or development standards. Encinitas provides one example. ●Definitions vary considerably, particularly for “native,” “locally native,” “regionally native,” “functional,” “climate-adapted,” “habitat,” and “biodiversity.” Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 21 Packet Pg. 81 of 192 PALO ALTO HAS AN EXCELLENT FOUNDATION ●Adopted plans and policies support habitat connectivity, native plants, pollinator habitat, and biodiversity. ●Extensive natural assets include parks and open space, the urban forest, native oaks, creeks, the foothills, and the Baylands. ●Existing inventories and resources include the Great Oak Count. ●City expertise spans Parks and Open Space, Urban Forestry, and Sustainability. ●Strong nonprofit partnerships and community-led projects include Environmental Volunteers, Grassroots Ecology, Save the bay, Canopy, and the Primrose Way Pollinator Garden. ●Bird-friendly design and Dark Sky ordinances provide complementary wildlife protections. ●The S/CAP provides a foundation for future measurement and reporting. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 22 Packet Pg. 82 of 192 CITY PROGRAMS AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS Many cities support biodiversity through City programs and partnerships with nonprofits, volunteers, and community groups. Palo Alto works with organizations such as Canopy, Grassroots Ecology, Environmental Volunteers and Save The Bay, as well as community volunteers supporting projects such as the Primrose Way Pollinator Garden. Similar partnerships throughout the region engage volunteers to: ●Restore and maintain native habitats by removing invasive plants and planting native trees, shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers. ●Create and maintain pollinator gardens and habitat connections. ●Steward creeks, shorelines, parks, and open spaces. ●Propagate native plants and collect seeds. ●Care for young street and park trees. ●Support environmental education and nature-based activities. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 23 Packet Pg. 83 of 192 WORKPLAN OBJECTIVES: NEXT STEPS ✓ Review existing Palo Alto City policies and plans and Evaluate regional best practices. •Develop guidelines for incorporating native plants into parklands, for both new development and ongoing maintenance of city properties. •Propose program-level policy recommendations for integration into park planning and capital projects, with emphasis on locally-native and pollinator-supportive plant standards, and habitat continuity across parks, trails, and civic landscapes. •Reduce ecological barriers. •Identify opportunities for alignment with related City efforts. Item 5 Item 5 Presentation Item 5: Staff Report Pg. 24 Packet Pg. 84 of 192 4 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Tuesday, July 21, 2026 1:18 AM To:Palo Alto Free Press; board@pausd.org; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Zelkha, Mila; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Lauing, Ed; Reckdahl, Keith Subject:The Shocking Truth about Police Canines 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 https://youtu.be/cSbEj6RIoDE Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 85 of 192 5 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Monday, July 20, 2026 3:44 PM To:Seanjames143@yahoo.com; Gerry Gras; Damon Silver; Reckdahl, Keith; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; Diana Diamond; Gennady Sheyner; Dave Price; Human Relations Commission; Richard Konda; Raj Jayadev; Nicole Chiu-Wang; Charisse Domingo; Charlotte Casey; city.council@menlopark.gov; Cecilia Taylor; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Patrice Ventresca; Burt, Patrick; Zelkha, Mila; Michael Ybarra; Enberg, Nicholas; mark weiss; Reifschneider, James; Steve Wagstaffe; Robert Handa; Susan Hayase; Robert Salonga; Salem Ajluni; sam.liccardo@gmail.com; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; MGR-Melissa Stevenson Diaz; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Jeff Conrad; Jay Boyarsky; james pitkin; David Piper; Emily Mibach; Nancy Goodban; Jim Lawrence; Supervisor Otto Lee; Malinsky, Jason; The Office of Mayor Matt Mahan; Matt King; Ann James; Anne Cribbs; Ann Ravel; Van Le; Ruth Silver Taube; Braden Cartwright; EPA Today; Freddie.Quintana@sen.ca.gov; Rose Lynn; Roberta Roth; Sheree Roth; Zahra Billoo; Bill Armaline; Sean Allen; Supervisor Betty Duong; District5@bos.sccgov.org; district1 @bos.sccgov.org Subject:Fwd: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/NReFCEKglRf1L1ADUNfyf7I5XL? domain=facebook.com 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 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1557323072429157&set=a.364235128404630&type=3&mi bextid=wwXIfr Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 86 of 192 6 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Monday, July 20, 2026 10:28 AM To:sam.liccardo@gmail.com Cc:Lauing, Ed; Reckdahl, Keith; Vicki Veenker; Josh Becker; assemblymember.berman@assembly.ca.gov; city.council@menlopark.gov; GRP-City Council; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; city.council@gilroy.org Subject:Around Town: A mission to Israel, schools to watch - Palo Alto Online 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 https://www.paloaltoonline.com/community/2026/07/19/around-town-a-mission-to-israel-schools-to- watch/ Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 87 of 192 7 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Sunday, July 19, 2026 10:02 AM To:Shounak Dharap Cc:Sam Liccardo; Salem Ajluni; Donna Wallach; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Zahra Billoo; Musa Tariq; Sean Allen; Ruth Silver Taube; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; EPA Today; Braden Cartwright; Diana Diamond; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Dave Price; Emily Mibach; Brandon Pho; Raj Jayadev; Yusra Hussain; Carla Torres; Laurie Valdez; Raymond Goins; Roberta Ahlquist; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight; cromero@cityofepa.org; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Susan Hayase; Supervisor Otto Lee; Gennady Sheyner; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David; DuJuan Green; Reifschneider, James; Nash, Betsy; Cecilia Taylor; PD Kristina Bell; Nancy Goodban; Bill Newell; Rebecca Kieler; GRP-City Council; city.council@menlopark.gov; city.council@gilroy.org; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; CityCouncil; Council, City; San José Spotlight; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Jeff Rosen; Jessica Speiser; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Rosen, Jeff; Reckdahl, Keith; Vicki Veenker; Patrice Ventresca; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Jay Boyarsky; Rodriguez, Miguel; Damon Silver; james pitkin; Lewis james; Seanjames143@yahoo.com; Yolanda Sena; Friends of Cubberley; Rose Lynn; Lotus Fong; Justin Zalkin; Zelkha, Mila; Charlotte Casey; Charisse Domingo; Human Relations Commission; Burt, Patrick; planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org; Nash, Betsy; Anna Griffin; Socorro McCord; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org; Robert Salonga; Robert Handa; Jeff Hayden; bryan gobin; Seher Awan; Palo Alto Free Press; yolanda; Yolanda Conaway; Goodell, Erin; Alaniz, John; Bill Armaline; Bill Johnson; Enberg, Nicholas; Beth von Emster; Ari Tarver Subject:Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 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 Shounak, No problem! I will be happy to remove you from this email exchange. Peace, Avram” Eliminate The State Of Israel Now” Finkelstein Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 88 of 192 8 On Sun, Jul 19, 2026 at 9:55 AM Shounak Dharap <sdharap@pausd.org> wrote: Aram— I've been included on many of your email threads, and I've come away appreciating your engagement on issues that span from the hyperlocal to the national, while at the same time wondering whether this rapid-fire format provides any meaningful value to the recipient of your questioning or to the observers. I've been in politics for far less time than many on this thread, but even in that time it seems to me that short-form media has increasingly commodified the short answer to the leading question as a substitute for thoughtful conversation on issues that can't be boiled down to a one-liner. I think emails like this put the recipient in an impossible position: respond succinctly and invite a cascade of follow- ups; respond thoughtfully and deeply and risk the other side not engaging in kind—wasting time and effort that could have gone toward the same issues on a larger scale; or not respond at all and hand the writer an excuse to paint the recipient as uncaring. Just my humble opinion, with all the respect in the world for your willingness to hold us elected officials accountable for the people we serve and the actions we take. I'd be happy to discuss this or anything else with you individually or offline in person, but for now, please feel free to drop me from this thread. I don't believe I have anything of value to add to this conversation on national and international issues that are well beyond the bailiwick of a local school board member. Best, Shounak From: Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 9:34 AM To: Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> Cc: Salem Ajluni <ajluni@hotmail.com>; Donna Wallach <donnaisanactivist@gmail.com>; Gerry Gras <gerrygras@earthlink.net>; Dana St. George <danasg@earthlink.net>; Zahra Billoo <zbilloo@cair.com>; Musa Tariq <m-tariq@cair.com>; Sean Allen <sallen6444@yahoo.com>; Ruth Silver Taube <ruthsilvertaube16@gmail.com>; Lythcott-Haims, Julie <Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; EPA Today <epatoday@epatoday.org>; Braden Cartwright <bcartwright@padailypost.com>; Diana Diamond <dianaLdiamond@gmail.com>; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23 <jessica@speiser.net>; Dave Price <price@padailypost.com>; Emily Mibach <emibach@padailypost.com>; Brandon Pho <brandon@sanjosespotlight.com>; Raj Jayadev <raj@siliconvalleydebug.org>; Yusra Hussain <Yusrahussainmd@gmail.com>; Carla Torres <xicanamagic@hotmail.com>; Laurie Valdez <6crzekidz@gmail.com>; Raymond Goins <goinsrayl@gmail.com>; Roberta Ahlquist <roberta.ahlquist@sjsu.edu>; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto <wilpf.peninsula.paloalto@gmail.com>; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight <jennifer@sanjosespotlight.com>; cromero@cityofepa.org <cromero@cityofepa.org>; rabrica@cityofepa.org <rabrica@cityofepa.org>; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg <supervisor.ellenberg@bos.sccgov.org>; Susan Hayase <shayase@onemain.com>; Supervisor Otto Lee <supervisor.lee@bos.sccgov.org>; Gennady Sheyner <gsheyner@embarcaderomedia.org>; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org <supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org>; Shounak Dharap <sdharap@pausd.org>; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com <jason.green@bayareanewsgroup.com>; Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 89 of 192 9 <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David <dangel@dao.sccgov.org>; DuJuan Green <dujuang@sbcglobal.net>; Reifschneider, James <james.reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Nash, Betsy <bnash@menlopark.gov>; Cecilia Taylor <cmrstaylor@gmail.com>; PD Kristina Bell <kbell@redwoodcity.org>; Nancy Goodban <nancy.goodban@gmail.com>; Bill Newell <billnewell2850@gmail.com>; Rebecca Kieler <beccakieler12@gmail.com>; GRP-City Council <council@redwoodcity.org>; city.council@menlopark.gov <city.council@menlopark.gov>; city.council@gilroy.org <city.council@gilroy.org>; citycouncil@mountainview.gov <citycouncil@mountainview.gov>; CityCouncil <CityCouncil@morganhill.ca.gov>; CityCouncil <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>; San José Spotlight <info@sanjosespotlight.com>; Josh Becker <becker.josh@gmail.com>; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com <marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com>; Jeff Rosen <info@jeffrosen.org>; Jessica Speiser <jessica4sccboe@gmail.com>; Shikada, Ed <Ed.Shikada@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lauing, Ed <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Rosen, Jeff <JRosen@dao.sccgov.org>; Keith Reckdahl <reckdahl@yahoo.com>; Vicki Veenker <vicki.veenker@gmail.com>; Patrice Ventresca <patriceventresca@gmail.com>; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg <planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg>; ParkRec Commission <ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jay Boyarsky <jboyarsky@da.sccgov.org>; Rodriguez, Miguel <miguel.rodriguez@pdo.sccgov.org>; Damon Silver <damon.silver@pdo.sccgov.org>; james pitkin <jamespitkin777@yahoo.com>; Lewis james <alphonse9947@gmail.com>; Seanjames143@yahoo.com <Seanjames143@yahoo.com>; Yolanda Sena <ysena@smcgov.org>; Friends of Cubberley <friendsofcubberley94303@gmail.com>; Rose Lynn <roselynn95035@yahoo.com>; Lotus Fong <lyfong@pacbell.net>; Justin Zalkin <jzalkin@gmail.com>; Mila Zelkha <mila.zelkha@gmail.com>; Charlotte Casey <ccasey@pacbell.net>; Charisse Domingo <charisse@siliconvalleydebug.org>; Human Relations Commission <hrc@cityofpaloalto.org>; Burt, Patrick <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>; planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org <planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org>; Nash, Betsy <BNash@menlopark.org>; Anna Griffin <griffinam@sbcglobal.net>; Socorro McCord <luquehere@gmail.com>; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org <eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org>; Robert Salonga <rsalonga@bayareanewsgroup.com>; Robert Handa <robert.handa@nbcuni.com>; Jeff Hayden <laptoplg@mac.com>; bryan gobin <bryan.gobin.unc@gmail.com>; Seher Awan <firebrand.dr@gmail.com>; Palo Alto Free Press <paloaltofreepress@gmail.com>; yolanda <yolanda@rocketmail.com>; Yolanda Conaway <yconaway@pausd.org>; Goodell, Erin <erin.goodell@paloalto.gov>; John.alaniz@cityofpaloalto.org <John.alaniz@cityofpaloalto.org>; Bill Armaline <warmali@yahoo.com>; Bill Johnson <Bjohnson@embarcaderopublishing.com>; Enberg, Nicholas <nicholas.enberg@cityofpaloalto.org>; Beth von Emster <beth.vonemster@gmail.com>; Ari Tarver <ari.tarver@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 7/19/2026 Hi Sam, 1. But you still support Israel’s right to exist? And make a distinction between so-called offensive weapons and weapons for defense, Correct? 2. Have you publicly committed to taking zero AIPAC funds in the future? Yes, No, explain? 3. Do you support a one-state solution? Yes, No, explain? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 90 of 192 10 4. And you still support sending billions of dollars a year to extremely wealthy Israel, money badly needed for programs here at home, correct? Explain? 5. Last for today: Israel has a very large supply of nuclear weapons, agreed? Iran has zero nuclear weapons. Do you agree Iran, as a sovereign nation, is as entitled as Israel, or any other nation, to produce its own nuclear weapons? Yes, No, explain. Sam, I Look forward to your answers to the above questions and your continued dialogue on these life and death issues. Avram “ Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein -aka -Aram James On Sun, Jul 19, 2026 at 7:43 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Aram, after this email, I'm going to stop responding to this litany of "1000 questions" after this email, because I have plenty of other work to do on this Sunday. In response to a few of your recent questions: 1. No, that's a false statement. I've never been endorsed by AIPAC, and my public statement (making clear my opposition to offensive military aid to Israel and my endorsement of "Block the Bombs" makes it highly unlikely that I ever will be. I encourage you to visit AIPAC's website for yourself: unlike hundreds of other members of Congress who can receive contributions from AIPAC members through their portal, I cannot. 2. Yes, I visited the West Bank in December of 2019, at the same time that I visited other parts of Israel. I met with the late Saeb Erekat and other Palestinian Authority officials in Ramallah, and met with an Arab journalist in East Jerusalem as well. I travelled with my wife (not part of any other group) in a rental car into other parts of the West Bank, including Bethlehem and Nazareth, and I recall a couple of other stops on the way to Capernaum. That was my only trip to Israel, and during the first half of the trip, I travelled with a group of Democratic elected officials funded by the American Israel Education Foundation, which I understand to be affiliated with AIPAC. I have not returned to Israel since, and I declined to attend any AIPAC-sponsored trips during my tenure in Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 4:02 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below statement accurate? 1. AIPAC endorsed Liccardo AIPAC publicly endorsed Sam Liccardo in the CA-16 House race. That endorsement encouraged AIPAC’s network of donors to contribute to his campaign, but an endorsement itself is not a financial contribution. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:48 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 91 of 192 11 Is the below statement correct? Based on publicly available information, there is no evidence that Sam Liccardo has traveled to Gaza. For the West Bank, I also could not find evidence that he has personally visited. Searches of his public statements, biography, congressional materials, and news coverage do not document a trip there. There is, however, evidence that he visited Israel: • In a public post marking the first anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks, Liccardo wrote that he had visited Kibbutz K’far Aza in December 2019, recalling the people he met there. It’s worth noting that some members of Congress have publicly documented trips to both Israel and the Palestinian territories, but I did not find Sam Liccardo listed among those delegations. So, the available evidence indicates: • Gaza: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • West Bank: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • Israel: Yes—he has publicly stated that he visited Israel in December 2019. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:26 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: 7/18/2028 Hi Sam, Further research suggests you also went on another trip to Israel on AIPAC’s dime (2019) when you were mayor or on the San Jose City Council? True? False? Thanks, Avram According to the publicly available travel request, city records, and congressional travel disclosures, Sam Liccardo’s documented AIEF-sponsored trip to Israel in December 2019 was Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 92 of 192 12 described as an educational seminar focused on Israeli society, security, innovation, and the U.S.– Israel relationship. The stated purpose of the trip included: • Learning about Israel’s political system and society. • Discussing regional security issues and U.S.–Israel relations. • Visiting sites related to innovation and technology. • Meeting with political, security, and community leaders. • Exploring historical and religious locations. Typical activities on these AIEF educational seminars include: • Briefings from Israeli government and military officials. • Discussions with foreign policy experts. • Visits to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities. • Tours of historical, archaeological, and religious sites. • Visits to areas near Israel’s borders to receive security briefings. • Meetings with Israeli academics, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders. The San Jose City Council memorandum authorizing Liccardo’s travel specifically identified the trip as an Educational Seminar in Israel for Pacific Northwest Progressive Leaders, with travel to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias, and stated that all travel expenses would be paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF). The value of the trip reported in ethics disclosures was approximately $12,345, covering airfare, lodging, meals, and other travel-related expenses, paid by AIEF under applicable ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize the day-by-day itinerary for the 2019 seminar, including the cities visited and the types of meetings and site visits participants attended. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:16 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information accurate? The publicly available House travel disclosure for Sam Liccardo’s congressional trip to Israel, the reported value of the trip was approximately $12,345.02. The sponsor-reported breakdown was: • Transportation: $5,598.40 • Lodging: $1,696.00 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 93 of 192 13 • Meals: $1,260.06 • Other expenses (such as ground transportation, guides, admissions, etc.): $3,790.56 Total reported value: $12,345.02. According to the disclosure, these expenses were paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational travel for members of Congress under House ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize who Liccardo met on the trip, what sites he visited, and the stated purpose of the travel from the official itinerary and ethics filings. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 2:47 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information correct? I searched for additional records covering Sam Liccardo’s career before and after entering Congress. Based on the publicly available evidence I could find: • There is one publicly documented official trip to Israel. • The trip was paid for by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit organization affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational trips for members of Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 11:21 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: You're welcome, Sam!! I will get back to you with a more substantive response in the near future. In the meantime, I have a few questions for you below. I look forward to your responses. Peace, Avram Finkelstein aka Aram James **One of your proud Jewish constituents who wants the vile war-crimes state of Israel eliminated. P.S. 1 How many times have you traveled to Israel? 2. If so, under what circumstances? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 94 of 192 14 3. Were your trips to Israel, if you in fact went, paid for by AIPAC money? 4. If not, who paid for your trips? 5. When you were mayor of San Jose or on city council, who paid for your trips to Israel? 6. Have you traveled to Palestine? Gaza? West Bank? Other locations in Palestine? 7. If not, why have you not taken a fact-finding trip to Gaza and the West Bank? 8. Have you publicly called for a one-state solution? 9. Have you publicly condemned Israel 🇮🇱 as a war-crimes genocidal state? If Not, Why Not? 19. Have you publicly called for the elimination of the rogue apartheid state, war-crimes state of Israel? If Not, Why Not, Sam? ****Sam, I'm proud of you for your willingness to open up a constructive conversation with me on this critical issue. Look forward to more of the same. Avram “Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Thanks Aram. First, you’re incorrect: I’ve never received money directly from AIPAC, and they’re certainly not giving to me now. They will not accept contributions for me on their website, unlike hundreds of other members of Congress. Among the reasons why they won’t ever contribute to me is my cosponsorship of the “Block the Bombs” bill, and public statements like this: https://liccardo.house.gov/massie-amendment I’m sure I’ve received contributions from local community residents who are members of AIPAC, though not nearly as much as my opponent in 2024, and I’m also confident I received more contributions from members of the Muslim or Arab-American communities who object to the conduct of the Israeli leadership. I had to raise $6 million in that race, so the amounts you’re citing are less than 2% of my raise in that cycle. In your future missives, I encourage you to present facts more accurately and with relevant context. Sam Sam Liccardo Member of Congress 16th District of California (this email is being sent from my private account, and is not official correspondence) On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 12:30 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 95 of 192 15 For Sam Liccardo’s successful 2024 House campaign: • Direct AIPAC PAC contributions: $10,000 (the maximum PAC contribution for the primary and general election combined). This would appear in FEC filings as a contribution from the AIPAC PAC. • Including AIPAC-affiliated individual donors: Public campaign finance trackers report a total of about $80,000–$90,000 in support associated with AIPAC’s network during the 2023–2024 cycle. This larger figure includes donations from individuals identified as part of AIPAC’s donor network, not just the PAC itself. So if someone says “Liccardo took $10,000 from AIPAC,” they’re referring only to the PAC’s direct contribution. If they cite a figure around $80,000–$90,000, they’re using a broader methodology that includes affiliated individual donors as well. If you’d like, I can also break down: • the exact FEC entries for the $10,000, • who the major AIPAC-affiliated individual donors were, or • how Liccardo compares with other California members of Congress on AIPAC-linked fundraising. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 96 of 192 16 Vidal, Eric From:Shounak Dharap <sdharap@pausd.org> Sent:Sunday, July 19, 2026 9:55 AM To:Aram James; Sam Liccardo Cc:Salem Ajluni; Donna Wallach; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Zahra Billoo; Musa Tariq; Sean Allen; Ruth Silver Taube; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; EPA Today; Braden Cartwright; Diana Diamond; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Dave Price; Emily Mibach; Brandon Pho; Raj Jayadev; Yusra Hussain; Carla Torres; Laurie Valdez; Raymond Goins; Roberta Ahlquist; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight; cromero@cityofepa.org; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Susan Hayase; Supervisor Otto Lee; Gennady Sheyner; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David; DuJuan Green; Reifschneider, James; Nash, Betsy; Cecilia Taylor; PD Kristina Bell; Nancy Goodban; Bill Newell; Rebecca Kieler; GRP-City Council; city.council@menlopark.gov; city.council@gilroy.org; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; CityCouncil; Council, City; San José Spotlight; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Jeff Rosen; Jessica Speiser; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Rosen, Jeff; Reckdahl, Keith; Vicki Veenker; Patrice Ventresca; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Jay Boyarsky; Rodriguez, Miguel; Damon Silver; james pitkin; Lewis james; Seanjames143@yahoo.com; Yolanda Sena; Friends of Cubberley; Rose Lynn; Lotus Fong; Justin Zalkin; Zelkha, Mila; Charlotte Casey; Charisse Domingo; Human Relations Commission; Burt, Patrick; planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org; Nash, Betsy; Anna Griffin; Socorro McCord; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org; Robert Salonga; Robert Handa; Jeff Hayden; bryan gobin; Seher Awan; Palo Alto Free Press; yolanda; Yolanda Conaway; Goodell, Erin; Alaniz, John; Bill Armaline; Bill Johnson; Enberg, Nicholas; Beth von Emster; Ari Tarver Subject:Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 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 Aram— I've been included on many of your email threads, and I've come away appreciating your engagement on issues that span from the hyperlocal to the national, while at the same time wondering whether this rapid-fire format provides any meaningful value to the recipient of your questioning or to the observers. I've been in politics for far less time than many on this thread, but even in that time it seems to me that short-form media has increasingly commodified the short answer to the leading question as a substitute for thoughtful conversation on issues that can't be boiled down to a one-liner. I think emails like this put the recipient in an impossible position: respond succinctly and invite a cascade of follow-ups; respond Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 97 of 192 17 thoughtfully and deeply and risk the other side not engaging in kind—wasting time and effort that could have gone toward the same issues on a larger scale; or not respond at all and hand the writer an excuse to paint the recipient as uncaring. Just my humble opinion, with all the respect in the world for your willingness to hold us elected officials accountable for the people we serve and the actions we take. I'd be happy to discuss this or anything else with you individually or offline in person, but for now, please feel free to drop me from this thread. I don't believe I have anything of value to add to this conversation on national and international issues that are well beyond the bailiwick of a local school board member. Best, Shounak From: Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 9:34 AM To: Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> Cc: Salem Ajluni <ajluni@hotmail.com>; Donna Wallach <donnaisanactivist@gmail.com>; Gerry Gras <gerrygras@earthlink.net>; Dana St. George <danasg@earthlink.net>; Zahra Billoo <zbilloo@cair.com>; Musa Tariq <m-tariq@cair.com>; Sean Allen <sallen6444@yahoo.com>; Ruth Silver Taube <ruthsilvertaube16@gmail.com>; Lythcott-Haims, Julie <Julie.LythcottHaims@cityofpaloalto.org>; EPA Today <epatoday@epatoday.org>; Braden Cartwright <bcartwright@padailypost.com>; Diana Diamond <dianaLdiamond@gmail.com>; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23 <jessica@speiser.net>; Dave Price <price@padailypost.com>; Emily Mibach <emibach@padailypost.com>; Brandon Pho <brandon@sanjosespotlight.com>; Raj Jayadev <raj@siliconvalleydebug.org>; Yusra Hussain <Yusrahussainmd@gmail.com>; Carla Torres <xicanamagic@hotmail.com>; Laurie Valdez <6crzekidz@gmail.com>; Raymond Goins <goinsrayl@gmail.com>; Roberta Ahlquist <roberta.ahlquist@sjsu.edu>; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto <wilpf.peninsula.paloalto@gmail.com>; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight <jennifer@sanjosespotlight.com>; cromero@cityofepa.org <cromero@cityofepa.org>; rabrica@cityofepa.org <rabrica@cityofepa.org>; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg <supervisor.ellenberg@bos.sccgov.org>; Susan Hayase <shayase@onemain.com>; Supervisor Otto Lee <supervisor.lee@bos.sccgov.org>; Gennady Sheyner <gsheyner@embarcaderomedia.org>; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org <supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org>; Shounak Dharap <sdharap@pausd.org>; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com <jason.green@bayareanewsgroup.com>; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David <dangel@dao.sccgov.org>; DuJuan Green <dujuang@sbcglobal.net>; Reifschneider, James <james.reifschneider@cityofpaloalto.org>; Nash, Betsy <bnash@menlopark.gov>; Cecilia Taylor <cmrstaylor@gmail.com>; PD Kristina Bell <kbell@redwoodcity.org>; Nancy Goodban <nancy.goodban@gmail.com>; Bill Newell <billnewell2850@gmail.com>; Rebecca Kieler <beccakieler12@gmail.com>; GRP-City Council <council@redwoodcity.org>; city.council@menlopark.gov <city.council@menlopark.gov>; city.council@gilroy.org <city.council@gilroy.org>; citycouncil@mountainview.gov <citycouncil@mountainview.gov>; CityCouncil <CityCouncil@morganhill.ca.gov>; CityCouncil <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>; San José Spotlight <info@sanjosespotlight.com>; Josh Becker <becker.josh@gmail.com>; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com <marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com>; Jeff Rosen <info@jeffrosen.org>; Jessica Speiser <jessica4sccboe@gmail.com>; Shikada, Ed <Ed.Shikada@cityofpaloalto.org>; Lauing, Ed <Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org>; Rosen, Jeff <JRosen@dao.sccgov.org>; Keith Reckdahl <reckdahl@yahoo.com>; Vicki Veenker Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 98 of 192 18 <vicki.veenker@gmail.com>; Patrice Ventresca <patriceventresca@gmail.com>; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg <planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg>; ParkRec Commission <ParkRec.commission@cityofpaloalto.org>; Jay Boyarsky <jboyarsky@da.sccgov.org>; Rodriguez, Miguel <miguel.rodriguez@pdo.sccgov.org>; Damon Silver <damon.silver@pdo.sccgov.org>; james pitkin <jamespitkin777@yahoo.com>; Lewis james <alphonse9947@gmail.com>; Seanjames143@yahoo.com <Seanjames143@yahoo.com>; Yolanda Sena <ysena@smcgov.org>; Friends of Cubberley <friendsofcubberley94303@gmail.com>; Rose Lynn <roselynn95035@yahoo.com>; Lotus Fong <lyfong@pacbell.net>; Justin Zalkin <jzalkin@gmail.com>; Mila Zelkha <mila.zelkha@gmail.com>; Charlotte Casey <ccasey@pacbell.net>; Charisse Domingo <charisse@siliconvalleydebug.org>; Human Relations Commission <hrc@cityofpaloalto.org>; Burt, Patrick <pat.burt@cityofpaloalto.org>; planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org <planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org>; Nash, Betsy <BNash@menlopark.org>; Anna Griffin <griffinam@sbcglobal.net>; Socorro McCord <luquehere@gmail.com>; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org <eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org>; Robert Salonga <rsalonga@bayareanewsgroup.com>; Robert Handa <robert.handa@nbcuni.com>; Jeff Hayden <laptoplg@mac.com>; bryan gobin <bryan.gobin.unc@gmail.com>; Seher Awan <firebrand.dr@gmail.com>; Palo Alto Free Press <paloaltofreepress@gmail.com>; yolanda <yolanda@rocketmail.com>; Yolanda Conaway <yconaway@pausd.org>; Goodell, Erin <erin.goodell@paloalto.gov>; John.alaniz@cityofpaloalto.org <John.alaniz@cityofpaloalto.org>; Bill Armaline <warmali@yahoo.com>; Bill Johnson <Bjohnson@embarcaderopublishing.com>; Enberg, Nicholas <nicholas.enberg@cityofpaloalto.org>; Beth von Emster <beth.vonemster@gmail.com>; Ari Tarver <ari.tarver@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 7/19/2026 Hi Sam, 1. But you still support Israel’s right to exist? And make a distinction between so-called offensive weapons and weapons for defense, Correct? 2. Have you publicly committed to taking zero AIPAC funds in the future? Yes, No, explain? 3. Do you support a one-state solution? Yes, No, explain? 4. And you still support sending billions of dollars a year to extremely wealthy Israel, money badly needed for programs here at home, correct? Explain? 5. Last for today: Israel has a very large supply of nuclear weapons, agreed? Iran has zero nuclear weapons. Do you agree Iran, as a sovereign nation, is as entitled as Israel, or any other nation, to produce its own nuclear weapons? Yes, No, explain. Sam, I Look forward to your answers to the above questions and your continued dialogue on these life and death issues. Avram “ Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein -aka -Aram James On Sun, Jul 19, 2026 at 7:43 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 99 of 192 19 Aram, after this email, I'm going to stop responding to this litany of "1000 questions" after this email, because I have plenty of other work to do on this Sunday. In response to a few of your recent questions: 1. No, that's a false statement. I've never been endorsed by AIPAC, and my public statement (making clear my opposition to offensive military aid to Israel and my endorsement of "Block the Bombs" makes it highly unlikely that I ever will be. I encourage you to visit AIPAC's website for yourself: unlike hundreds of other members of Congress who can receive contributions from AIPAC members through their portal, I cannot. 2. Yes, I visited the West Bank in December of 2019, at the same time that I visited other parts of Israel. I met with the late Saeb Erekat and other Palestinian Authority officials in Ramallah, and met with an Arab journalist in East Jerusalem as well. I travelled with my wife (not part of any other group) in a rental car into other parts of the West Bank, including Bethlehem and Nazareth, and I recall a couple of other stops on the way to Capernaum. That was my only trip to Israel, and during the first half of the trip, I travelled with a group of Democratic elected officials funded by the American Israel Education Foundation, which I understand to be affiliated with AIPAC. I have not returned to Israel since, and I declined to attend any AIPAC-sponsored trips during my tenure in Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 4:02 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below statement accurate? 1. AIPAC endorsed Liccardo AIPAC publicly endorsed Sam Liccardo in the CA-16 House race. That endorsement encouraged AIPAC’s network of donors to contribute to his campaign, but an endorsement itself is not a financial contribution. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:48 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below statement correct? Based on publicly available information, there is no evidence that Sam Liccardo has traveled to Gaza. For the West Bank, I also could not find evidence that he has personally visited. Searches of his public statements, biography, congressional materials, and news coverage do not document a trip there. There is, however, evidence that he visited Israel: • In a public post marking the first anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks, Liccardo wrote that he had visited Kibbutz K’far Aza in December 2019, recalling the people he met there. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 100 of 192 20 It’s worth noting that some members of Congress have publicly documented trips to both Israel and the Palestinian territories, but I did not find Sam Liccardo listed among those delegations. So, the available evidence indicates: • Gaza: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • West Bank: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • Israel: Yes—he has publicly stated that he visited Israel in December 2019. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:26 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: 7/18/2028 Hi Sam, Further research suggests you also went on another trip to Israel on AIPAC’s dime (2019) when you were mayor or on the San Jose City Council? True? False? Thanks, Avram According to the publicly available travel request, city records, and congressional travel disclosures, Sam Liccardo’s documented AIEF-sponsored trip to Israel in December 2019 was described as an educational seminar focused on Israeli society, security, innovation, and the U.S.–Israel relationship. The stated purpose of the trip included: • Learning about Israel’s political system and society. • Discussing regional security issues and U.S.–Israel relations. • Visiting sites related to innovation and technology. • Meeting with political, security, and community leaders. • Exploring historical and religious locations. Typical activities on these AIEF educational seminars include: • Briefings from Israeli government and military officials. • Discussions with foreign policy experts. • Visits to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 17 Packet Pg. 101 of 192 21 • Tours of historical, archaeological, and religious sites. • Visits to areas near Israel’s borders to receive security briefings. • Meetings with Israeli academics, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders. The San Jose City Council memorandum authorizing Liccardo’s travel specifically identified the trip as an Educational Seminar in Israel for Pacific Northwest Progressive Leaders, with travel to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias, and stated that all travel expenses would be paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF). The value of the trip reported in ethics disclosures was approximately $12,345, covering airfare, lodging, meals, and other travel-related expenses, paid by AIEF under applicable ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize the day-by-day itinerary for the 2019 seminar, including the cities visited and the types of meetings and site visits participants attended. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:16 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information accurate? The publicly available House travel disclosure for Sam Liccardo’s congressional trip to Israel, the reported value of the trip was approximately $12,345.02. The sponsor-reported breakdown was: • Transportation: $5,598.40 • Lodging: $1,696.00 • Meals: $1,260.06 • Other expenses (such as ground transportation, guides, admissions, etc.): $3,790.56 Total reported value: $12,345.02. According to the disclosure, these expenses were paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational travel for members of Congress under House ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize who Liccardo met on the trip, what sites he visited, and the stated purpose of the travel from the official itinerary and ethics filings. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 2:47 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 18 Packet Pg. 102 of 192 22 Is the below information correct? I searched for additional records covering Sam Liccardo’s career before and after entering Congress. Based on the publicly available evidence I could find: • There is one publicly documented official trip to Israel. • The trip was paid for by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit organization affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational trips for members of Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 11:21 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: You're welcome, Sam!! I will get back to you with a more substantive response in the near future. In the meantime, I have a few questions for you below. I look forward to your responses. Peace, Avram Finkelstein aka Aram James **One of your proud Jewish constituents who wants the vile war-crimes state of Israel eliminated. P.S. 1 How many times have you traveled to Israel? 2. If so, under what circumstances? 3. Were your trips to Israel, if you in fact went, paid for by AIPAC money? 4. If not, who paid for your trips? 5. When you were mayor of San Jose or on city council, who paid for your trips to Israel? 6. Have you traveled to Palestine? Gaza? West Bank? Other locations in Palestine? 7. If not, why have you not taken a fact-finding trip to Gaza and the West Bank? 8. Have you publicly called for a one-state solution? 9. Have you publicly condemned Israel 🇮🇱 as a war-crimes genocidal state? If Not, Why Not? 19. Have you publicly called for the elimination of the rogue apartheid state, war-crimes state of Israel? If Not, Why Not, Sam? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 19 Packet Pg. 103 of 192 23 ****Sam, I'm proud of you for your willingness to open up a constructive conversation with me on this critical issue. Look forward to more of the same. Avram “Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Thanks Aram. First, you’re incorrect: I’ve never received money directly from AIPAC, and they’re certainly not giving to me now. They will not accept contributions for me on their website, unlike hundreds of other members of Congress. Among the reasons why they won’t ever contribute to me is my cosponsorship of the “Block the Bombs” bill, and public statements like this: https://liccardo.house.gov/massie-amendment I’m sure I’ve received contributions from local community residents who are members of AIPAC, though not nearly as much as my opponent in 2024, and I’m also confident I received more contributions from members of the Muslim or Arab-American communities who object to the conduct of the Israeli leadership. I had to raise $6 million in that race, so the amounts you’re citing are less than 2% of my raise in that cycle. In your future missives, I encourage you to present facts more accurately and with relevant context. Sam Sam Liccardo Member of Congress 16th District of California (this email is being sent from my private account, and is not official correspondence) On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 12:30 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: For Sam Liccardo’s successful 2024 House campaign: • Direct AIPAC PAC contributions: $10,000 (the maximum PAC contribution for the primary and general election combined). This would appear in FEC filings as a contribution from the AIPAC PAC. • Including AIPAC-affiliated individual donors: Public campaign finance trackers report a total of about $80,000–$90,000 in support associated with AIPAC’s network during the 2023–2024 cycle. This larger figure includes donations from individuals identified as part of AIPAC’s donor network, not just the PAC itself. So if someone says “Liccardo took $10,000 from AIPAC,” they’re referring only to the PAC’s direct contribution. If they cite a figure around $80,000–$90,000, they’re using a broader methodology that includes affiliated individual donors as well. If you’d like, I can also break down: Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 20 Packet Pg. 104 of 192 24 • the exact FEC entries for the $10,000, • who the major AIPAC-affiliated individual donors were, or • how Liccardo compares with other California members of Congress on AIPAC-linked fundraising. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 21 Packet Pg. 105 of 192 25 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Sunday, July 19, 2026 9:34 AM To:Sam Liccardo Cc:Salem Ajluni; Donna Wallach; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Zahra Billoo; Musa Tariq; Sean Allen; Ruth Silver Taube; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; EPA Today; Braden Cartwright; Diana Diamond; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Dave Price; Emily Mibach; Brandon Pho; Raj Jayadev; Yusra Hussain; Carla Torres; Laurie Valdez; Raymond Goins; Roberta Ahlquist; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight; cromero@cityofepa.org; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Susan Hayase; Supervisor Otto Lee; Gennady Sheyner; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org; Shounak Dharap; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David; DuJuan Green; Reifschneider, James; Nash, Betsy; Cecilia Taylor; PD Kristina Bell; Nancy Goodban; Bill Newell; Rebecca Kieler; GRP-City Council; city.council@menlopark.gov; city.council@gilroy.org; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; CityCouncil; Council, City; San José Spotlight; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Jeff Rosen; Jessica Speiser; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Rosen, Jeff; Reckdahl, Keith; Vicki Veenker; Patrice Ventresca; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Jay Boyarsky; Rodriguez, Miguel; Damon Silver; james pitkin; Lewis james; Seanjames143@yahoo.com; Yolanda Sena; Friends of Cubberley; Rose Lynn; Lotus Fong; Justin Zalkin; Zelkha, Mila; Charlotte Casey; Charisse Domingo; Human Relations Commission; Burt, Patrick; planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org; Nash, Betsy; Anna Griffin; Socorro McCord; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org; Robert Salonga; Robert Handa; Jeff Hayden; bryan gobin; Seher Awan; Palo Alto Free Press; yolanda; Yolanda Conaway; Goodell, Erin; Alaniz, John; Bill Armaline; Bill Johnson; Enberg, Nicholas; Beth von Emster; Ari Tarver Subject:Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 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 7/19/2026 Hi Sam, 1. But you still support Israel’s right to exist? And make a distinction between so-called offensive weapons and weapons for defense, Correct? 2. Have you publicly committed to taking zero AIPAC funds in the future? Yes, No, explain? 3. Do you support a one-state solution? Yes, No, explain? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 22 Packet Pg. 106 of 192 26 4. And you still support sending billions of dollars a year to extremely wealthy Israel, money badly needed for programs here at home, correct? Explain? 5. Last for today: Israel has a very large supply of nuclear weapons, agreed? Iran has zero nuclear weapons. Do you agree Iran, as a sovereign nation, is as entitled as Israel, or any other nation, to produce its own nuclear weapons? Yes, No, explain. Sam, I Look forward to your answers to the above questions and your continued dialogue on these life and death issues. Avram “ Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein -aka -Aram James On Sun, Jul 19, 2026 at 7:43 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Aram, after this email, I'm going to stop responding to this litany of "1000 questions" after this email, because I have plenty of other work to do on this Sunday. In response to a few of your recent questions: 1. No, that's a false statement. I've never been endorsed by AIPAC, and my public statement (making clear my opposition to offensive military aid to Israel and my endorsement of "Block the Bombs" makes it highly unlikely that I ever will be. I encourage you to visit AIPAC's website for yourself: unlike hundreds of other members of Congress who can receive contributions from AIPAC members through their portal, I cannot. 2. Yes, I visited the West Bank in December of 2019, at the same time that I visited other parts of Israel. I met with the late Saeb Erekat and other Palestinian Authority officials in Ramallah, and met with an Arab journalist in East Jerusalem as well. I travelled with my wife (not part of any other group) in a rental car into other parts of the West Bank, including Bethlehem and Nazareth, and I recall a couple of other stops on the way to Capernaum. That was my only trip to Israel, and during the first half of the trip, I travelled with a group of Democratic elected officials funded by the American Israel Education Foundation, which I understand to be affiliated with AIPAC. I have not returned to Israel since, and I declined to attend any AIPAC-sponsored trips during my tenure in Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 4:02 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below statement accurate? 1. AIPAC endorsed Liccardo AIPAC publicly endorsed Sam Liccardo in the CA-16 House race. That endorsement encouraged AIPAC’s network of donors to contribute to his campaign, but an endorsement itself is not a financial contribution. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:48 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 23 Packet Pg. 107 of 192 27 Is the below statement correct? Based on publicly available information, there is no evidence that Sam Liccardo has traveled to Gaza. For the West Bank, I also could not find evidence that he has personally visited. Searches of his public statements, biography, congressional materials, and news coverage do not document a trip there. There is, however, evidence that he visited Israel: • In a public post marking the first anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks, Liccardo wrote that he had visited Kibbutz K’far Aza in December 2019, recalling the people he met there. It’s worth noting that some members of Congress have publicly documented trips to both Israel and the Palestinian territories, but I did not find Sam Liccardo listed among those delegations. So, the available evidence indicates: • Gaza: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • West Bank: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • Israel: Yes—he has publicly stated that he visited Israel in December 2019. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:26 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: 7/18/2028 Hi Sam, Further research suggests you also went on another trip to Israel on AIPAC’s dime (2019) when you were mayor or on the San Jose City Council? True? False? Thanks, Avram According to the publicly available travel request, city records, and congressional travel disclosures, Sam Liccardo’s documented AIEF-sponsored trip to Israel in December 2019 was described as an Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 24 Packet Pg. 108 of 192 28 educational seminar focused on Israeli society, security, innovation, and the U.S.–Israel relationship. The stated purpose of the trip included: • Learning about Israel’s political system and society. • Discussing regional security issues and U.S.–Israel relations. • Visiting sites related to innovation and technology. • Meeting with political, security, and community leaders. • Exploring historical and religious locations. Typical activities on these AIEF educational seminars include: • Briefings from Israeli government and military officials. • Discussions with foreign policy experts. • Visits to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities. • Tours of historical, archaeological, and religious sites. • Visits to areas near Israel’s borders to receive security briefings. • Meetings with Israeli academics, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders. The San Jose City Council memorandum authorizing Liccardo’s travel specifically identified the trip as an Educational Seminar in Israel for Pacific Northwest Progressive Leaders, with travel to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias, and stated that all travel expenses would be paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF). The value of the trip reported in ethics disclosures was approximately $12,345, covering airfare, lodging, meals, and other travel-related expenses, paid by AIEF under applicable ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize the day-by-day itinerary for the 2019 seminar, including the cities visited and the types of meetings and site visits participants attended. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:16 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information accurate? The publicly available House travel disclosure for Sam Liccardo’s congressional trip to Israel, the reported value of the trip was approximately $12,345.02. The sponsor-reported breakdown was: • Transportation: $5,598.40 • Lodging: $1,696.00 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 25 Packet Pg. 109 of 192 29 • Meals: $1,260.06 • Other expenses (such as ground transportation, guides, admissions, etc.): $3,790.56 Total reported value: $12,345.02. According to the disclosure, these expenses were paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational travel for members of Congress under House ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize who Liccardo met on the trip, what sites he visited, and the stated purpose of the travel from the official itinerary and ethics filings. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 2:47 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information correct? I searched for additional records covering Sam Liccardo’s career before and after entering Congress. Based on the publicly available evidence I could find: • There is one publicly documented official trip to Israel. • The trip was paid for by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit organization affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational trips for members of Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 11:21 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: You're welcome, Sam!! I will get back to you with a more substantive response in the near future. In the meantime, I have a few questions for you below. I look forward to your responses. Peace, Avram Finkelstein aka Aram James **One of your proud Jewish constituents who wants the vile war-crimes state of Israel eliminated. P.S. 1 How many times have you traveled to Israel? 2. If so, under what circumstances? 3. Were your trips to Israel, if you in fact went, paid for by AIPAC money? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 26 Packet Pg. 110 of 192 30 4. If not, who paid for your trips? 5. When you were mayor of San Jose or on city council, who paid for your trips to Israel? 6. Have you traveled to Palestine? Gaza? West Bank? Other locations in Palestine? 7. If not, why have you not taken a fact-finding trip to Gaza and the West Bank? 8. Have you publicly called for a one-state solution? 9. Have you publicly condemned Israel 🇮🇱 as a war-crimes genocidal state? If Not, Why Not? 19. Have you publicly called for the elimination of the rogue apartheid state, war-crimes state of Israel? If Not, Why Not, Sam? ****Sam, I'm proud of you for your willingness to open up a constructive conversation with me on this critical issue. Look forward to more of the same. Avram “Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Thanks Aram. First, you’re incorrect: I’ve never received money directly from AIPAC, and they’re certainly not giving to me now. They will not accept contributions for me on their website, unlike hundreds of other members of Congress. Among the reasons why they won’t ever contribute to me is my cosponsorship of the “Block the Bombs” bill, and public statements like this: https://liccardo.house.gov/massie-amendment I’m sure I’ve received contributions from local community residents who are members of AIPAC, though not nearly as much as my opponent in 2024, and I’m also confident I received more contributions from members of the Muslim or Arab-American communities who object to the conduct of the Israeli leadership. I had to raise $6 million in that race, so the amounts you’re citing are less than 2% of my raise in that cycle. In your future missives, I encourage you to present facts more accurately and with relevant context. Sam Sam Liccardo Member of Congress 16th District of California (this email is being sent from my private account, and is not official correspondence) On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 12:30 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 27 Packet Pg. 111 of 192 31 For Sam Liccardo’s successful 2024 House campaign: • Direct AIPAC PAC contributions: $10,000 (the maximum PAC contribution for the primary and general election combined). This would appear in FEC filings as a contribution from the AIPAC PAC. • Including AIPAC-affiliated individual donors: Public campaign finance trackers report a total of about $80,000–$90,000 in support associated with AIPAC’s network during the 2023–2024 cycle. This larger figure includes donations from individuals identified as part of AIPAC’s donor network, not just the PAC itself. So if someone says “Liccardo took $10,000 from AIPAC,” they’re referring only to the PAC’s direct contribution. If they cite a figure around $80,000–$90,000, they’re using a broader methodology that includes affiliated individual donors as well. If you’d like, I can also break down: • the exact FEC entries for the $10,000, • who the major AIPAC-affiliated individual donors were, or • how Liccardo compares with other California members of Congress on AIPAC-linked fundraising. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 28 Packet Pg. 112 of 192 32 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, July 18, 2026 9:20 PM To:Reckdahl, Keith; Lauing, Ed; Stone, Greer; Burt, Patrick; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; sam.liccardo@gmail.com; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Zelkha, Mila; Sheree Roth; GRP-City Council; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Human Relations Commission; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; HRW Silicon Valley; Friends of Cubberley; EPA Today; Diana Diamond; Gennady Sheyner; Bill Johnson; Braden Cartwright; Emily Mibach Cc:Vicki Veenker; Lythcott-Haims, Julie Subject:In April 1967, a Palo Alto history teacher named Ron Jones invented a classroom movement called The Third Wave and shut it down on day five when 200 students showed up in uniform expecting a national leader 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 In April 1967, a Palo Alto history teacher named Ron Jones invented a classroom movement called The Third Wave and shut it down on day five when 200 students showed up in uniform expecting a national leader Source: ScienceBlog.com https://share.newsbreak.com/j1nog2ra?s=i0 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 29 Packet Pg. 113 of 192 33 Vidal, Eric From:Postmaster <postmaster@paloalto.gov> Sent:Saturday, July 18, 2026 4:04 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 barronpark.paloalto@gmail.com Barron Park Summer 2026 Newsletter 2026-07-18 15:57 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 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 30 Packet Pg. 114 of 192 34 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, July 18, 2026 4:03 PM To:Sam Liccardo Cc:Salem Ajluni; Donna Wallach; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Zahra Billoo; Musa Tariq; Sean Allen; Ruth Silver Taube; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; EPA Today; Braden Cartwright; Diana Diamond; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Dave Price; Emily Mibach; Brandon Pho; Raj Jayadev; Yusra Hussain; Carla Torres; Laurie Valdez; Raymond Goins; Roberta Ahlquist; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight; cromero@cityofepa.org; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Susan Hayase; Supervisor Otto Lee; Gennady Sheyner; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org; Shounak Dharap; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David; DuJuan Green; Reifschneider, James; Nash, Betsy; Cecilia Taylor; PD Kristina Bell; Nancy Goodban; Bill Newell; Rebecca Kieler; GRP-City Council; city.council@menlopark.gov; city.council@gilroy.org; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; CityCouncil; Council, City; San José Spotlight; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Jeff Rosen; Jessica Speiser; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Rosen, Jeff; Reckdahl, Keith; Vicki Veenker; Patrice Ventresca; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Jay Boyarsky; Rodriguez, Miguel; Damon Silver; james pitkin; Lewis james; Seanjames143@yahoo.com; Yolanda Sena; Friends of Cubberley; Rose Lynn; Lotus Fong; Justin Zalkin; Zelkha, Mila; Charlotte Casey; Charisse Domingo; Human Relations Commission; Burt, Patrick; planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org; Nash, Betsy; Anna Griffin; Socorro McCord; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org; Robert Salonga; Robert Handa; Jeff Hayden; bryan gobin; Seher Awan; Palo Alto Free Press; yolanda; Yolanda Conaway; Goodell, Erin; Alaniz, John; Bill Armaline; Bill Johnson; Enberg, Nicholas; Beth von Emster Subject:Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 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 Sam, Is the below statement accurate? 1. AIPAC endorsed Liccardo AIPAC publicly endorsed Sam Liccardo in the CA-16 House race. That endorsement encouraged AIPAC’s network of donors to contribute to his campaign, but an endorsement itself is not a financial contribution. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 31 Packet Pg. 115 of 192 35 On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:48 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below statement correct? Based on publicly available information, there is no evidence that Sam Liccardo has traveled to Gaza. For the West Bank, I also could not find evidence that he has personally visited. Searches of his public statements, biography, congressional materials, and news coverage do not document a trip there. There is, however, evidence that he visited Israel: • In a public post marking the first anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks, Liccardo wrote that he had visited Kibbutz K’far Aza in December 2019, recalling the people he met there. It’s worth noting that some members of Congress have publicly documented trips to both Israel and the Palestinian territories, but I did not find Sam Liccardo listed among those delegations. So, the available evidence indicates: • Gaza: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • West Bank: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • Israel: Yes—he has publicly stated that he visited Israel in December 2019. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:26 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: 7/18/2028 Hi Sam, Further research suggests you also went on another trip to Israel on AIPAC’s dime (2019) when you were mayor or on the San Jose City Council? True? False? Thanks, Avram Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 32 Packet Pg. 116 of 192 36 According to the publicly available travel request, city records, and congressional travel disclosures, Sam Liccardo’s documented AIEF-sponsored trip to Israel in December 2019 was described as an educational seminar focused on Israeli society, security, innovation, and the U.S.–Israel relationship. The stated purpose of the trip included: • Learning about Israel’s political system and society. • Discussing regional security issues and U.S.–Israel relations. • Visiting sites related to innovation and technology. • Meeting with political, security, and community leaders. • Exploring historical and religious locations. Typical activities on these AIEF educational seminars include: • Briefings from Israeli government and military officials. • Discussions with foreign policy experts. • Visits to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities. • Tours of historical, archaeological, and religious sites. • Visits to areas near Israel’s borders to receive security briefings. • Meetings with Israeli academics, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders. The San Jose City Council memorandum authorizing Liccardo’s travel specifically identified the trip as an Educational Seminar in Israel for Pacific Northwest Progressive Leaders, with travel to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias, and stated that all travel expenses would be paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF). The value of the trip reported in ethics disclosures was approximately $12,345, covering airfare, lodging, meals, and other travel-related expenses, paid by AIEF under applicable ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize the day-by-day itinerary for the 2019 seminar, including the cities visited and the types of meetings and site visits participants attended. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:16 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information accurate? The publicly available House travel disclosure for Sam Liccardo’s congressional trip to Israel, the reported value of the trip was approximately $12,345.02. The sponsor-reported breakdown was: • Transportation: $5,598.40 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 33 Packet Pg. 117 of 192 37 • Lodging: $1,696.00 • Meals: $1,260.06 • Other expenses (such as ground transportation, guides, admissions, etc.): $3,790.56 Total reported value: $12,345.02. According to the disclosure, these expenses were paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational travel for members of Congress under House ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize who Liccardo met on the trip, what sites he visited, and the stated purpose of the travel from the official itinerary and ethics filings. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 2:47 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information correct? I searched for additional records covering Sam Liccardo’s career before and after entering Congress. Based on the publicly available evidence I could find: • There is one publicly documented official trip to Israel. • The trip was paid for by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit organization affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational trips for members of Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 11:21 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: You're welcome, Sam!! I will get back to you with a more substantive response in the near future. In the meantime, I have a few questions for you below. I look forward to your responses. Peace, Avram Finkelstein aka Aram James **One of your proud Jewish constituents who wants the vile war-crimes state of Israel eliminated. P.S. 1 How many times have you traveled to Israel? 2. If so, under what circumstances? 3. Were your trips to Israel, if you in fact went, paid for by AIPAC money? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 34 Packet Pg. 118 of 192 38 4. If not, who paid for your trips? 5. When you were mayor of San Jose or on city council, who paid for your trips to Israel? 6. Have you traveled to Palestine? Gaza? West Bank? Other locations in Palestine? 7. If not, why have you not taken a fact-finding trip to Gaza and the West Bank? 8. Have you publicly called for a one-state solution? 9. Have you publicly condemned Israel 🇮🇱 as a war-crimes genocidal state? If Not, Why Not? 19. Have you publicly called for the elimination of the rogue apartheid state, war-crimes state of Israel? If Not, Why Not, Sam? ****Sam, I'm proud of you for your willingness to open up a constructive conversation with me on this critical issue. Look forward to more of the same. Avram “Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Thanks Aram. First, you’re incorrect: I’ve never received money directly from AIPAC, and they’re certainly not giving to me now. They will not accept contributions for me on their website, unlike hundreds of other members of Congress. Among the reasons why they won’t ever contribute to me is my cosponsorship of the “Block the Bombs” bill, and public statements like this: https://liccardo.house.gov/massie-amendment I’m sure I’ve received contributions from local community residents who are members of AIPAC, though not nearly as much as my opponent in 2024, and I’m also confident I received more contributions from members of the Muslim or Arab-American communities who object to the conduct of the Israeli leadership. I had to raise $6 million in that race, so the amounts you’re citing are less than 2% of my raise in that cycle. In your future missives, I encourage you to present facts more accurately and with relevant context. Sam Sam Liccardo Member of Congress 16th District of California (this email is being sent from my private account, and is not official correspondence) On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 12:30 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 35 Packet Pg. 119 of 192 39 For Sam Liccardo’s successful 2024 House campaign: • Direct AIPAC PAC contributions: $10,000 (the maximum PAC contribution for the primary and general election combined). This would appear in FEC filings as a contribution from the AIPAC PAC. • Including AIPAC-affiliated individual donors: Public campaign finance trackers report a total of about $80,000–$90,000 in support associated with AIPAC’s network during the 2023–2024 cycle. This larger figure includes donations from individuals identified as part of AIPAC’s donor network, not just the PAC itself. So if someone says “Liccardo took $10,000 from AIPAC,” they’re referring only to the PAC’s direct contribution. If they cite a figure around $80,000–$90,000, they’re using a broader methodology that includes affiliated individual donors as well. If you’d like, I can also break down: • the exact FEC entries for the $10,000, • who the major AIPAC-affiliated individual donors were, or • how Liccardo compares with other California members of Congress on AIPAC-linked fundraising. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 36 Packet Pg. 120 of 192 40 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, July 18, 2026 3:49 PM To:Sam Liccardo Cc:Salem Ajluni; Donna Wallach; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Zahra Billoo; Musa Tariq; Sean Allen; Ruth Silver Taube; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; EPA Today; Braden Cartwright; Diana Diamond; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Dave Price; Emily Mibach; Brandon Pho; Raj Jayadev; Yusra Hussain; Carla Torres; Laurie Valdez; Raymond Goins; Roberta Ahlquist; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight; cromero@cityofepa.org; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Susan Hayase; Supervisor Otto Lee; Gennady Sheyner; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org; Shounak Dharap; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David; DuJuan Green; Reifschneider, James; Nash, Betsy; Cecilia Taylor; PD Kristina Bell; Nancy Goodban; Bill Newell; Rebecca Kieler; GRP-City Council; city.council@menlopark.gov; city.council@gilroy.org; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; CityCouncil; Council, City; San José Spotlight; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Jeff Rosen; Jessica Speiser; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Rosen, Jeff; Reckdahl, Keith; Vicki Veenker; Patrice Ventresca; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Jay Boyarsky; Rodriguez, Miguel; Damon Silver; james pitkin; Lewis james; Seanjames143@yahoo.com; Yolanda Sena; Friends of Cubberley; Rose Lynn; Lotus Fong; Justin Zalkin; Zelkha, Mila; Charlotte Casey; Charisse Domingo; Human Relations Commission; Burt, Patrick; planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org; Nash, Betsy; Anna Griffin; Socorro McCord; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org; Robert Salonga; Robert Handa; Jeff Hayden; bryan gobin; Seher Awan; Palo Alto Free Press; yolanda; Yolanda Conaway; Goodell, Erin; Alaniz, John; Bill Armaline; Bill Johnson; Enberg, Nicholas; Beth von Emster Subject:Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 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 Sam, Is the below statement correct? Based on publicly available information, there is no evidence that Sam Liccardo has traveled to Gaza. For the West Bank, I also could not find evidence that he has personally visited. Searches of his public statements, biography, congressional materials, and news coverage do not document a trip there. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 37 Packet Pg. 121 of 192 41 There is, however, evidence that he visited Israel: • In a public post marking the first anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks, Liccardo wrote that he had visited Kibbutz K’far Aza in December 2019, recalling the people he met there. It’s worth noting that some members of Congress have publicly documented trips to both Israel and the Palestinian territories, but I did not find Sam Liccardo listed among those delegations. So, the available evidence indicates: • Gaza: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • West Bank: No public evidence that he has traveled there. • Israel: Yes—he has publicly stated that he visited Israel in December 2019. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:26 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: 7/18/2028 Hi Sam, Further research suggests you also went on another trip to Israel on AIPAC’s dime (2019) when you were mayor or on the San Jose City Council? True? False? Thanks, Avram According to the publicly available travel request, city records, and congressional travel disclosures, Sam Liccardo’s documented AIEF-sponsored trip to Israel in December 2019 was described as an educational seminar focused on Israeli society, security, innovation, and the U.S.–Israel relationship. The stated purpose of the trip included: • Learning about Israel’s political system and society. • Discussing regional security issues and U.S.–Israel relations. • Visiting sites related to innovation and technology. • Meeting with political, security, and community leaders. • Exploring historical and religious locations. Typical activities on these AIEF educational seminars include: Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 38 Packet Pg. 122 of 192 42 • Briefings from Israeli government and military officials. • Discussions with foreign policy experts. • Visits to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities. • Tours of historical, archaeological, and religious sites. • Visits to areas near Israel’s borders to receive security briefings. • Meetings with Israeli academics, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders. The San Jose City Council memorandum authorizing Liccardo’s travel specifically identified the trip as an Educational Seminar in Israel for Pacific Northwest Progressive Leaders, with travel to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias, and stated that all travel expenses would be paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF). The value of the trip reported in ethics disclosures was approximately $12,345, covering airfare, lodging, meals, and other travel-related expenses, paid by AIEF under applicable ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize the day-by-day itinerary for the 2019 seminar, including the cities visited and the types of meetings and site visits participants attended. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:16 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information accurate? The publicly available House travel disclosure for Sam Liccardo’s congressional trip to Israel, the reported value of the trip was approximately $12,345.02. The sponsor-reported breakdown was: • Transportation: $5,598.40 • Lodging: $1,696.00 • Meals: $1,260.06 • Other expenses (such as ground transportation, guides, admissions, etc.): $3,790.56 Total reported value: $12,345.02. According to the disclosure, these expenses were paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational travel for members of Congress under House ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize who Liccardo met on the trip, what sites he visited, and the stated purpose of the travel from the official itinerary and ethics filings. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 39 Packet Pg. 123 of 192 43 On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 2:47 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information correct? I searched for additional records covering Sam Liccardo’s career before and after entering Congress. Based on the publicly available evidence I could find: • There is one publicly documented official trip to Israel. • The trip was paid for by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit organization affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational trips for members of Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 11:21 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: You're welcome, Sam!! I will get back to you with a more substantive response in the near future. In the meantime, I have a few questions for you below. I look forward to your responses. Peace, Avram Finkelstein aka Aram James **One of your proud Jewish constituents who wants the vile war-crimes state of Israel eliminated. P.S. 1 How many times have you traveled to Israel? 2. If so, under what circumstances? 3. Were your trips to Israel, if you in fact went, paid for by AIPAC money? 4. If not, who paid for your trips? 5. When you were mayor of San Jose or on city council, who paid for your trips to Israel? 6. Have you traveled to Palestine? Gaza? West Bank? Other locations in Palestine? 7. If not, why have you not taken a fact-finding trip to Gaza and the West Bank? 8. Have you publicly called for a one-state solution? 9. Have you publicly condemned Israel 🇮🇱 as a war-crimes genocidal state? If Not, Why Not? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 40 Packet Pg. 124 of 192 44 19. Have you publicly called for the elimination of the rogue apartheid state, war-crimes state of Israel? If Not, Why Not, Sam? ****Sam, I'm proud of you for your willingness to open up a constructive conversation with me on this critical issue. Look forward to more of the same. Avram “Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Thanks Aram. First, you’re incorrect: I’ve never received money directly from AIPAC, and they’re certainly not giving to me now. They will not accept contributions for me on their website, unlike hundreds of other members of Congress. Among the reasons why they won’t ever contribute to me is my cosponsorship of the “Block the Bombs” bill, and public statements like this: https://liccardo.house.gov/massie-amendment I’m sure I’ve received contributions from local community residents who are members of AIPAC, though not nearly as much as my opponent in 2024, and I’m also confident I received more contributions from members of the Muslim or Arab-American communities who object to the conduct of the Israeli leadership. I had to raise $6 million in that race, so the amounts you’re citing are less than 2% of my raise in that cycle. In your future missives, I encourage you to present facts more accurately and with relevant context. Sam Sam Liccardo Member of Congress 16th District of California (this email is being sent from my private account, and is not official correspondence) On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 12:30 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: For Sam Liccardo’s successful 2024 House campaign: • Direct AIPAC PAC contributions: $10,000 (the maximum PAC contribution for the primary and general election combined). This would appear in FEC filings as a contribution from the AIPAC PAC. • Including AIPAC-affiliated individual donors: Public campaign finance trackers report a total of about $80,000–$90,000 in support associated with AIPAC’s network during the 2023–2024 cycle. This larger figure includes donations from individuals identified as part of AIPAC’s donor network, not just the PAC itself. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 41 Packet Pg. 125 of 192 45 So if someone says “Liccardo took $10,000 from AIPAC,” they’re referring only to the PAC’s direct contribution. If they cite a figure around $80,000–$90,000, they’re using a broader methodology that includes affiliated individual donors as well. If you’d like, I can also break down: • the exact FEC entries for the $10,000, • who the major AIPAC-affiliated individual donors were, or • how Liccardo compares with other California members of Congress on AIPAC-linked fundraising. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 42 Packet Pg. 126 of 192 46 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, July 18, 2026 3:27 PM To:Sam Liccardo Cc:Salem Ajluni; Donna Wallach; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Zahra Billoo; Musa Tariq; Sean Allen; Ruth Silver Taube; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; EPA Today; Braden Cartwright; Diana Diamond; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Dave Price; Emily Mibach; Brandon Pho; Raj Jayadev; Yusra Hussain; Carla Torres; Laurie Valdez; Raymond Goins; Roberta Ahlquist; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight; cromero@cityofepa.org; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Susan Hayase; Supervisor Otto Lee; Gennady Sheyner; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org; Shounak Dharap; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David; DuJuan Green; Reifschneider, James; Nash, Betsy; Cecilia Taylor; PD Kristina Bell; Nancy Goodban; Bill Newell; Rebecca Kieler; GRP-City Council; city.council@menlopark.gov; city.council@gilroy.org; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; CityCouncil; Council, City; San José Spotlight; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Jeff Rosen; Jessica Speiser; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Rosen, Jeff; Reckdahl, Keith; Vicki Veenker; Patrice Ventresca; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Jay Boyarsky; Rodriguez, Miguel; Damon Silver; james pitkin; Lewis james; Seanjames143@yahoo.com; Yolanda Sena; Friends of Cubberley; Rose Lynn; Lotus Fong; Justin Zalkin; Zelkha, Mila; Charlotte Casey; Charisse Domingo; Human Relations Commission; Burt, Patrick; planning.commision@cityofpaloalto.org Subject:Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 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 7/18/2028 Hi Sam, Further research suggests you also went on another trip to Israel on AIPAC’s dime (2019) when you were mayor or on the San Jose City Council? True? False? Thanks, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 43 Packet Pg. 127 of 192 47 Avram According to the publicly available travel request, city records, and congressional travel disclosures, Sam Liccardo’s documented AIEF-sponsored trip to Israel in December 2019 was described as an educational seminar focused on Israeli society, security, innovation, and the U.S.–Israel relationship. The stated purpose of the trip included: • Learning about Israel’s political system and society. • Discussing regional security issues and U.S.–Israel relations. • Visiting sites related to innovation and technology. • Meeting with political, security, and community leaders. • Exploring historical and religious locations. Typical activities on these AIEF educational seminars include: • Briefings from Israeli government and military officials. • Discussions with foreign policy experts. • Visits to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities. • Tours of historical, archaeological, and religious sites. • Visits to areas near Israel’s borders to receive security briefings. • Meetings with Israeli academics, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders. The San Jose City Council memorandum authorizing Liccardo’s travel specifically identified the trip as an Educational Seminar in Israel for Pacific Northwest Progressive Leaders, with travel to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias, and stated that all travel expenses would be paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF). The value of the trip reported in ethics disclosures was approximately $12,345, covering airfare, lodging, meals, and other travel-related expenses, paid by AIEF under applicable ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize the day-by-day itinerary for the 2019 seminar, including the cities visited and the types of meetings and site visits participants attended. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 3:16 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information accurate? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 44 Packet Pg. 128 of 192 48 The publicly available House travel disclosure for Sam Liccardo’s congressional trip to Israel, the reported value of the trip was approximately $12,345.02. The sponsor-reported breakdown was: • Transportation: $5,598.40 • Lodging: $1,696.00 • Meals: $1,260.06 • Other expenses (such as ground transportation, guides, admissions, etc.): $3,790.56 Total reported value: $12,345.02. According to the disclosure, these expenses were paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational travel for members of Congress under House ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize who Liccardo met on the trip, what sites he visited, and the stated purpose of the travel from the official itinerary and ethics filings. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 2:47 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information correct? I searched for additional records covering Sam Liccardo’s career before and after entering Congress. Based on the publicly available evidence I could find: • There is one publicly documented official trip to Israel. • The trip was paid for by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit organization affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational trips for members of Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 11:21 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: You're welcome, Sam!! I will get back to you with a more substantive response in the near future. In the meantime, I have a few questions for you below. I look forward to your responses. Peace, Avram Finkelstein aka Aram James **One of your proud Jewish constituents who wants the vile war-crimes state of Israel eliminated. P.S. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 45 Packet Pg. 129 of 192 49 1 How many times have you traveled to Israel? 2. If so, under what circumstances? 3. Were your trips to Israel, if you in fact went, paid for by AIPAC money? 4. If not, who paid for your trips? 5. When you were mayor of San Jose or on city council, who paid for your trips to Israel? 6. Have you traveled to Palestine? Gaza? West Bank? Other locations in Palestine? 7. If not, why have you not taken a fact-finding trip to Gaza and the West Bank? 8. Have you publicly called for a one-state solution? 9. Have you publicly condemned Israel 🇮🇱 as a war-crimes genocidal state? If Not, Why Not? 19. Have you publicly called for the elimination of the rogue apartheid state, war-crimes state of Israel? If Not, Why Not, Sam? ****Sam, I'm proud of you for your willingness to open up a constructive conversation with me on this critical issue. Look forward to more of the same. Avram “Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Thanks Aram. First, you’re incorrect: I’ve never received money directly from AIPAC, and they’re certainly not giving to me now. They will not accept contributions for me on their website, unlike hundreds of other members of Congress. Among the reasons why they won’t ever contribute to me is my cosponsorship of the “Block the Bombs” bill, and public statements like this: https://liccardo.house.gov/massie-amendment I’m sure I’ve received contributions from local community residents who are members of AIPAC, though not nearly as much as my opponent in 2024, and I’m also confident I received more contributions from members of the Muslim or Arab-American communities who object to the conduct of the Israeli leadership. I had to raise $6 million in that race, so the amounts you’re citing are less than 2% of my raise in that cycle. In your future missives, I encourage you to present facts more accurately and with relevant context. Sam Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 46 Packet Pg. 130 of 192 50 Sam Liccardo Member of Congress 16th District of California (this email is being sent from my private account, and is not official correspondence) On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 12:30 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: For Sam Liccardo’s successful 2024 House campaign: • Direct AIPAC PAC contributions: $10,000 (the maximum PAC contribution for the primary and general election combined). This would appear in FEC filings as a contribution from the AIPAC PAC. • Including AIPAC-affiliated individual donors: Public campaign finance trackers report a total of about $80,000–$90,000 in support associated with AIPAC’s network during the 2023– 2024 cycle. This larger figure includes donations from individuals identified as part of AIPAC’s donor network, not just the PAC itself. So if someone says “Liccardo took $10,000 from AIPAC,” they’re referring only to the PAC’s direct contribution. If they cite a figure around $80,000–$90,000, they’re using a broader methodology that includes affiliated individual donors as well. If you’d like, I can also break down: • the exact FEC entries for the $10,000, • who the major AIPAC-affiliated individual donors were, or • how Liccardo compares with other California members of Congress on AIPAC-linked fundraising. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 47 Packet Pg. 131 of 192 51 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, July 18, 2026 3:16 PM To:Sam Liccardo Cc:Salem Ajluni; Donna Wallach; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Zahra Billoo; Musa Tariq; Sean Allen; Ruth Silver Taube; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; EPA Today; Braden Cartwright; Diana Diamond; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Dave Price; Emily Mibach; Brandon Pho; Raj Jayadev; Yusra Hussain; Carla Torres; Laurie Valdez; Raymond Goins; Roberta Ahlquist; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight; cromero@cityofepa.org; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Susan Hayase; Supervisor Otto Lee; Gennady Sheyner; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org; Shounak Dharap; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David; DuJuan Green; Reifschneider, James; Nash, Betsy; Cecilia Taylor; PD Kristina Bell; Nancy Goodban; Bill Newell; Rebecca Kieler; GRP-City Council; city.council@menlopark.gov; city.council@gilroy.org; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; CityCouncil; Council, City; San José Spotlight; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Jeff Rosen; Jessica Speiser; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Rosen, Jeff; Reckdahl, Keith; Vicki Veenker; Patrice Ventresca; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Jay Boyarsky; Rodriguez, Miguel; Damon Silver Subject:Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 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 Sam, Is the below information accurate? The publicly available House travel disclosure for Sam Liccardo’s congressional trip to Israel, the reported value of the trip was approximately $12,345.02. The sponsor-reported breakdown was: • Transportation: $5,598.40 • Lodging: $1,696.00 • Meals: $1,260.06 • Other expenses (such as ground transportation, guides, admissions, etc.): $3,790.56 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 48 Packet Pg. 132 of 192 52 Total reported value: $12,345.02. According to the disclosure, these expenses were paid by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational travel for members of Congress under House ethics rules. If you’re interested, I can also summarize who Liccardo met on the trip, what sites he visited, and the stated purpose of the travel from the official itinerary and ethics filings. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 2:47 PM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Sam, Is the below information correct? I searched for additional records covering Sam Liccardo’s career before and after entering Congress. Based on the publicly available evidence I could find: • There is one publicly documented official trip to Israel. • The trip was paid for by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit organization affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational trips for members of Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 11:21 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: You're welcome, Sam!! I will get back to you with a more substantive response in the near future. In the meantime, I have a few questions for you below. I look forward to your responses. Peace, Avram Finkelstein aka Aram James **One of your proud Jewish constituents who wants the vile war-crimes state of Israel eliminated. P.S. 1 How many times have you traveled to Israel? 2. If so, under what circumstances? 3. Were your trips to Israel, if you in fact went, paid for by AIPAC money? 4. If not, who paid for your trips? 5. When you were mayor of San Jose or on city council, who paid for your trips to Israel? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 49 Packet Pg. 133 of 192 53 6. Have you traveled to Palestine? Gaza? West Bank? Other locations in Palestine? 7. If not, why have you not taken a fact-finding trip to Gaza and the West Bank? 8. Have you publicly called for a one-state solution? 9. Have you publicly condemned Israel 🇮🇱 as a war-crimes genocidal state? If Not, Why Not? 19. Have you publicly called for the elimination of the rogue apartheid state, war-crimes state of Israel? If Not, Why Not, Sam? ****Sam, I'm proud of you for your willingness to open up a constructive conversation with me on this critical issue. Look forward to more of the same. Avram “Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Thanks Aram. First, you’re incorrect: I’ve never received money directly from AIPAC, and they’re certainly not giving to me now. They will not accept contributions for me on their website, unlike hundreds of other members of Congress. Among the reasons why they won’t ever contribute to me is my cosponsorship of the “Block the Bombs” bill, and public statements like this: https://liccardo.house.gov/massie-amendment I’m sure I’ve received contributions from local community residents who are members of AIPAC, though not nearly as much as my opponent in 2024, and I’m also confident I received more contributions from members of the Muslim or Arab-American communities who object to the conduct of the Israeli leadership. I had to raise $6 million in that race, so the amounts you’re citing are less than 2% of my raise in that cycle. In your future missives, I encourage you to present facts more accurately and with relevant context. Sam Sam Liccardo Member of Congress 16th District of California (this email is being sent from my private account, and is not official correspondence) On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 12:30 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: For Sam Liccardo’s successful 2024 House campaign: Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 50 Packet Pg. 134 of 192 54 • Direct AIPAC PAC contributions: $10,000 (the maximum PAC contribution for the primary and general election combined). This would appear in FEC filings as a contribution from the AIPAC PAC. • Including AIPAC-affiliated individual donors: Public campaign finance trackers report a total of about $80,000–$90,000 in support associated with AIPAC’s network during the 2023– 2024 cycle. This larger figure includes donations from individuals identified as part of AIPAC’s donor network, not just the PAC itself. So if someone says “Liccardo took $10,000 from AIPAC,” they’re referring only to the PAC’s direct contribution. If they cite a figure around $80,000–$90,000, they’re using a broader methodology that includes affiliated individual donors as well. If you’d like, I can also break down: • the exact FEC entries for the $10,000, • who the major AIPAC-affiliated individual donors were, or • how Liccardo compares with other California members of Congress on AIPAC-linked fundraising. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 51 Packet Pg. 135 of 192 55 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, July 18, 2026 2:48 PM To:Sam Liccardo Cc:Salem Ajluni; Donna Wallach; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Zahra Billoo; Musa Tariq; Sean Allen; Ruth Silver Taube; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; EPA Today; Braden Cartwright; Diana Diamond; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Dave Price; Emily Mibach; Brandon Pho; Raj Jayadev; Yusra Hussain; Carla Torres; Laurie Valdez; Raymond Goins; Roberta Ahlquist; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight; cromero@cityofepa.org; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Susan Hayase; Supervisor Otto Lee; Gennady Sheyner; supervisor.abe-koga@bos.sccgov.org; Shounak Dharap; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Angel, David; DuJuan Green; Reifschneider, James; Nash, Betsy; Cecilia Taylor; PD Kristina Bell; Nancy Goodban; Bill Newell; Rebecca Kieler; GRP-City Council; city.council@menlopark.gov; city.council@gilroy.org; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; CityCouncil; Council, City; San José Spotlight; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Jeff Rosen; Jessica Speiser; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Rosen, Jeff; Reckdahl, Keith; Vicki Veenker; Patrice Ventresca; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Jay Boyarsky; Rodriguez, Miguel; Damon Silver Subject:Re: Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 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 Sam, Is the below information correct? I searched for additional records covering Sam Liccardo’s career before and after entering Congress. Based on the publicly available evidence I could find: • There is one publicly documented official trip to Israel. • The trip was paid for by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF), a nonprofit organization affiliated with AIPAC that sponsors educational trips for members of Congress. On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 11:21 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 52 Packet Pg. 136 of 192 56 You're welcome, Sam!! I will get back to you with a more substantive response in the near future. In the meantime, I have a few questions for you below. I look forward to your responses. Peace, Avram Finkelstein aka Aram James **One of your proud Jewish constituents who wants the vile war-crimes state of Israel eliminated. P.S. 1 How many times have you traveled to Israel? 2. If so, under what circumstances? 3. Were your trips to Israel, if you in fact went, paid for by AIPAC money? 4. If not, who paid for your trips? 5. When you were mayor of San Jose or on city council, who paid for your trips to Israel? 6. Have you traveled to Palestine? Gaza? West Bank? Other locations in Palestine? 7. If not, why have you not taken a fact-finding trip to Gaza and the West Bank? 8. Have you publicly called for a one-state solution? 9. Have you publicly condemned Israel 🇮🇱 as a war-crimes genocidal state? If Not, Why Not? 19. Have you publicly called for the elimination of the rogue apartheid state, war-crimes state of Israel? If Not, Why Not, Sam? ****Sam, I'm proud of you for your willingness to open up a constructive conversation with me on this critical issue. Look forward to more of the same. Avram “Eliminate The State of Israel Now” Finkelstein On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM Sam Liccardo <sam.liccardo@gmail.com> wrote: Thanks Aram. First, you’re incorrect: I’ve never received money directly from AIPAC, and they’re certainly not giving to me now. They will not accept contributions for me on their website, unlike hundreds of other members of Congress. Among the reasons why they won’t ever contribute to me is my cosponsorship of the “Block the Bombs” bill, and public statements like this: https://liccardo.house.gov/massie-amendment Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 53 Packet Pg. 137 of 192 57 I’m sure I’ve received contributions from local community residents who are members of AIPAC, though not nearly as much as my opponent in 2024, and I’m also confident I received more contributions from members of the Muslim or Arab-American communities who object to the conduct of the Israeli leadership. I had to raise $6 million in that race, so the amounts you’re citing are less than 2% of my raise in that cycle. In your future missives, I encourage you to present facts more accurately and with relevant context. Sam Sam Liccardo Member of Congress 16th District of California (this email is being sent from my private account, and is not official correspondence) On Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 12:30 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: For Sam Liccardo’s successful 2024 House campaign: • Direct AIPAC PAC contributions: $10,000 (the maximum PAC contribution for the primary and general election combined). This would appear in FEC filings as a contribution from the AIPAC PAC. • Including AIPAC-affiliated individual donors: Public campaign finance trackers report a total of about $80,000–$90,000 in support associated with AIPAC’s network during the 2023–2024 cycle. This larger figure includes donations from individuals identified as part of AIPAC’s donor network, not just the PAC itself. So if someone says “Liccardo took $10,000 from AIPAC,” they’re referring only to the PAC’s direct contribution. If they cite a figure around $80,000–$90,000, they’re using a broader methodology that includes affiliated individual donors as well. If you’d like, I can also break down: • the exact FEC entries for the $10,000, • who the major AIPAC-affiliated individual donors were, or • how Liccardo compares with other California members of Congress on AIPAC-linked fundraising. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 54 Packet Pg. 138 of 192 58 Vidal, Eric From:José A. Curbelo, PhD. <jose@ochobajos.org> Sent:Saturday, July 18, 2026 1:08 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Las Guaracheras from Cali, Colombia - Sept.2026 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. • You've never replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Parks and Rec Colleagues, Good afternoon. I hope you are well. This is José Curbelo. The teaching artists, all-women salsa and Latin Jazz sextet Las Guaracheras - from Cali, Colombia - will be featured at the Lotus World Music & Arts Festival (October 1-4, 2026) and at venues in TX, NM, UT and NV. They have last minute U.S. availability for bilingual Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept.15-Oct.15) educational and performance programming in U.S. West. They were just featured at Joe´s Pub in NYC. Please advise a good time to call. 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 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 55 Packet Pg. 139 of 192 59 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 jazz 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. institutions such as: UCSB Arts & Lectures (CA), Lincoln Center (NY), San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Berklee School of Music (MA), University of Florida, Twin Cities Jazz Festival (MN), etc. In July 2026 they are featured at respected U.S. venues such as: Museum of Fine Arts Boston, Joe´s Pub (NYC), The Ark (MI), etc. Fall 2026 will be their sixth U.S. tour. Unsubscribe Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 56 Packet Pg. 140 of 192 60 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, July 18, 2026 12:30 AM To:Jeff Rosen; sam.licardo@sanjoseca.gov; Patrice Ventresca; Sean Allen; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; Emily Mibach; Dave Price; Angel, David; Roberta Ahlquist; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; Vicki Veenker; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; editor@paweekly.com; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Dana St. George; Gerry Gras; city.council@menlopark.gov; Council, City; GRP-City Council; Bill Newell; Burt, Patrick; Paul George @ PPJC; Friends of Cubberley; Veenker, Vicki; Veenker, Vicki; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; Braden Cartwright; Brandon Pho; Yusra Hussain; Human Relations Commission; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; sam.liccardo@gmail.com; The Office of Mayor Matt Mahan; EPA Today; cromero@cityofepa.org; Raymond Goins; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Nancy Goodban; Senator Becker; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; District5@bos.sccgov.org; district1@bos.sccgov.org; PD Kristina Bell; Jay Boyarsky; james pitkin; Reifschneider, James; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org; Jensen, Eric; Beth von Emster; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; Zelkha, Mila Subject:Sam “ AIPAC “ Liccardo 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 For Sam Liccardo’s successful 2024 House campaign: • Direct AIPAC PAC contributions: $10,000 (the maximum PAC contribution for the primary and general election combined). This would appear in FEC filings as a contribution from the AIPAC PAC. • Including AIPAC-affiliated individual donors: Public campaign finance trackers report a total of about $80,000–$90,000 in support associated with AIPAC’s network during the 2023–2024 cycle. This larger figure includes donations from individuals identified as part of AIPAC’s donor network, not just the PAC itself. So if someone says “Liccardo took $10,000 from AIPAC,” they’re referring only to the PAC’s direct contribution. If they cite a figure around $80,000–$90,000, they’re using a broader methodology that includes affiliated individual donors as well. If you’d like, I can also break down: • the exact FEC entries for the $10,000, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 57 Packet Pg. 141 of 192 61 • who the major AIPAC-affiliated individual donors were, or • how Liccardo compares with other California members of Congress on AIPAC-linked fundraising. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 58 Packet Pg. 142 of 192 62 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Friday, July 17, 2026 7:53 AM To:Julian Garcia; Meg Thomas; Shikada, Ed; Council, City; GRP-City Council; city.council@menlopark.gov; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission Subject:Terrifying 'doublet' earthquakes add to California's seismic dangers. Venezuela shows the risks 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 Terrifying ‘doublet’ earthquakes add to California’s seismic dangers. Venezuela shows the risks https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-06-26/venezuela-earthquake-terrifying-terrifying-back- to-back-quakes-show-dangers-for-california Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 59 Packet Pg. 143 of 192 63 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Thursday, July 16, 2026 4:04 PM To:Meg Thomas Cc:Julian Garcia; editor@paweekly.com; Dave Price; Shikada, Ed; Jasso, Tamara; city.council@gilroy.org; city.council@menlopark.gov; GRP-City Council; james pitkin; Reifschneider, James; Veenker, Vicki; Veenker, Vicki; Vicki Veenker; Stone, Greer; DuJuan Green; District5@bos.sccgov.org; district1 @bos.sccgov.org; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; EPA Today; Templeton, Cari; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; ParkRec Commission; Lauing, Ed; Reckdahl, Keith; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; Dana St. George; Gerry Gras; Gennady Sheyner; Brandon Pho; Braden Cartwright; Sean Allen; Patrice Ventresca; Human Relations Commission; Diana Diamond; Freddie.Quintana@sen.ca.gov; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org; Robert Handa; Roberta Ahlquist; Robert Salonga; Jay Boyarsky; Jeff Rosen; Raymond Goins; Zelkha, Mila; Pat M; Lythcott-Haims, Julie Subject:Re: Please reconsider your unwillingness to conduct a seismic-earthquake inspection at the Southwood Apartment Complex here in Palo Alto 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 Meg, 1. When was the last seismic-earthquake inspection completed on the Southwood properties? 2. Has one ever been done on the property at Southwood according to your records? 3. If so, will you forward the seismic report my way? I am glad the most recent fire inspection completed by the Palo Alto Fire Department on July 14, 2026, was satisfactory. However, I think you would agree that a fire inspection is NOT the same as an earthquake/seismic inspection. Given the age of the Southwood complex, approximately 40 years old, I continue to request a full seismic-earthquake inspection be completed in a timely fashion-consistent with best practices. Southwood has approximately 100 units with approximately 250 residences. Given our proximity to major earthquake faults and out of an abundance of caution, please reconsider your refusal to provide a complete seismic inspection ASAP. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 60 Packet Pg. 144 of 192 64 Best regards , Aram James 415-370-5056 P.S. If it is a matter of money, I am more than happy to contribute a few hundred dollars towards the cost of the seismic inspection. Public safety demands that my request be taken seriously. Please call me at anytime to discuss this matter. On Thu, Jul 16, 2026 at 3:33 PM Meg Thomas <mthomas@spiekercompanies.com> wrote: Hi Aram, Apologies for the delay in our response. On July 14, 2026 the Palo Alto Fire Department performed their annual inspection of the premises at 2850 Middlefield Road and all safety and health standards that are essential for the well-being of all residents were met and there were no property violations. We are unaware of any earthquake risks to the building, and a seismic inspection does not appear necessary based on the condition of the property and the latest inspection reports received. Please reach out with any specific concerns you may have. Thanks, Meg Thomas On Thu, Jun 25, 2026 at 11:44 AM Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote: 6/25/2026 Hi Julian, Thanks for returning my phone call this morning. As promised, I am sending this note to you in hopes of receiving the most current information on the earthquake/seismic safety of the Southwood Complex. Is there, for example, an annual report/inspection of Southwood to assess the integrity of the complex in the event of a major earthquake? Any information on this critical subject would be most appreciated. Thanks so much. Peace, Aram 415-370-5O56 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 61 Packet Pg. 145 of 192 65 -- Meg Thomas COO and Regional Property Manager Spieker Companies, Inc. (408) 221-0025 mthomas@spiekercompanies.com Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 62 Packet Pg. 146 of 192 70 Vidal, Eric From:Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> Sent:Wednesday, July 15, 2026 1:19 PM To:Vicki Veenker; Jessica Speiser, Educational Leader for California Democratic Delegate, Assembly District 23; Diana Diamond; Supervisor Betty Duong; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Supervisor Otto Lee; district1@bos.sccgov.org; District5@bos.sccgov.org; Dave Price; Gennady Sheyner; Riley Cooke; Braden Cartwright; Rose Lynn; Sean Allen; Pat M; <michael.gennaco@oirgroup.com>; julie.ruhlin@oirgroup.con; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; Human Relations Commission; EPA Today; Mora Oommen; Seanjames143@yahoo.com; Lewis james; Susan Hayase; Ruth Silver Taube; city.council@gilroy.org; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; Carla Torres; William Armaline; Penni Wilson; Reifschneider, James; Goodell, Erin; eric.figueroa@cityofpaloalto.org; Jensen, Eric; Damon Silver; Jay Boyarsky; Jeff Conrad; Jeff Rosen; Jeff Hayden; Brandon Pho; Bill Newell; Nancy Goodban; PD Kristina Bell; Josh Becker; marc.berman@cityofpaloalto.com; planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.0rg; Preminger, Steve; ParkRec Commission; Nicole Chiu-Wang; jgreen@dailynewsgroup.com; Cait James; Jennifer Morrow San José Spotlight; Josie James-Le; Marisa James-Le; Patrice Ventresca; Patrick Marshall; GRP-City Council; Reckdahl, Keith; Burt, Patrick; Zelkha, Mila; Mickie Winkler; james pitkin; Tim James; Jose Valle; Raj Jayadev; Charlotte Casey; Council, City; Colsaria Henderson; Charisse Domingo; Steve Wagstaffe; Bil Barber; Zahra Billoo; Justin Zalkin; editor@paweekly.com; Shikada, Ed; Lauing, Ed; Gerry Gras; Dana St. George; Bains, Paul; Paul George @ PPJC; cromero@cityofepa.org; rabrica@cityofepa.org; Richard Konda; Rick Callender; WILPF Peninsula Palo Alto; Roberta Ahlquist; Robert Handa; Robert Salonga; Emily Mibach; Tony Chen; Rebecca Kieler; Van Le; MGR-Melissa Stevenson Diaz; Bill Armaline; Sean Webby Subject:Subject: Cultivating Empathy to Counteract Hate 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 Subject: Cultivating Empathy to Counteract Hate Honorable Mayor, City Council Members, Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga, Superintendent of the Palo Alto Unified School District, and Palo Alto Unified School District Board of Education Trustees, I am writing to you today as a resident of Palo Alto and on behalf of the Coalition for Justice and Accountability. The recent discovery of swastikas and anti-Black racial slurs in public restrooms across Palo Alto is a painful affront to our entire community, not just a simple case of vandalism. While the police are rightly investigating these offensive acts as hate crimes designed to intimidate and demean, purely punitive measures or physical cleanup will not cure the underlying issue. We must confront a deeper, more unsettling question: what drives individuals, particularly our youth, to bring symbols of terror and genocide into our shared spaces? Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 63 Packet Pg. 147 of 192 71 A striking example of this issue was the racist mural located in the hallway of the Santa Clara County Palo Alto Branch of the Superior Court, specifically between departments 84 and 85. This mural depicted the colonization and subjugation of Native Californians, including the Muwekma Ohlone people, portraying them as subservient beings kneeling before oppressors. Following intense advocacy by the NAACP, the Coalition for Justice and Accountability, and the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe, the mural was recently covered with a giant curtain. While this is a tangible victory, such racialized visions must not be the perspective that defines our city, from our courthouses to our community at large. Ultimately, covering up these symbols is only a first step; it serves as a symbolic "cover up" that avoids the deeper work of complete removal and true systemic change. The urgency of this situation is underscored by other disturbing reports within the Palo Alto Unified School District. For instance, the Coalition for Justice and Accountability has highlighted the horrific systemic abuse and neglect of a 10-year-old African American student at Escondido Elementary, where staff reportedly failed to intervene during physical assaults. Additionally, an unconscionable "auction" incident occurred at Green Middle School, where a Black student was reportedly "auctioned off," demonstrating a dehumanizing culture that persists within our schools. These specific occurrences, much like the presence of swastikas in our restrooms, are not isolated misunderstandings; they are symptoms of institutional neglect. When such egregious behaviors are tolerated or met with insufficient responses, it creates a permissive atmosphere that emboldens youth to exhibit even more extreme and public forms of hate and bigotry. These incidents are symptoms of a systemic gap that I see every day. They signal a collective failure to teach the histories, struggles, and inherent dignity of our diverse neighbors. As a Black man living in this city, I believe the true purpose of public education extends beyond academic and career readiness; it must equip students to navigate and sustain a diverse democratic society. Without a solid understanding of historical injustices such as the Holocaust, slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, Japanese American incarceration, Indigenous histories, the Chinese Exclusion Act, and ongoing struggles against antisemitism, Islamophobia, anti-Asian violence, anti-Palestinian bias, and discrimination toward Latino, LGBTQ+, and disabled communities, our youth remain unequipped to understand the profound trauma these hateful symbols represent. Ignorance is the breeding ground for prejudice, and empathy is not an innate trait that children automatically develop. Rather, empathy is a value that a community must actively and deliberately cultivate. To effectively combat hate, we must prioritize education before vitriol ever manifests on our walls. Every act of bias represents a missed opportunity to teach the sacred worth of human difference. To this end, I am calling upon the City of Palo Alto and the Palo Alto Unified School District to establish a collaborative partnership and enact the following measures: • Implement age-appropriate curricula detailing the diverse histories and lived experiences of Palo Alto's residents. • Foster deeper collaborations with historians, community elders, survivors, and cultural institutions to enrich classroom learning and public dialogue. • Facilitate structured platforms for intercultural dialogue, allowing students to learn directly from one another's unique perspectives. • Provide educators with comprehensive professional development in culturally responsive pedagogy and constructive conflict resolution. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 64 Packet Pg. 148 of 192 72 • Establish a joint community task force comprising students, parents, teachers, and residents like myself to advise on educational strategies for strengthening mutual belonging and preventing bias. Our Asks In addition to the systemic changes outlined above, we specifically urge the Mayor of Palo Alto and Palo Alto City Council and Supervisor Abe-Koga and the Palo Alto Unified School District Board to issue formal public statements condemning these acts of hate and reaffirming our city's and county’s commitment to safety and inclusion for all residents. Furthermore, we call upon the city to actively solicit solidarity statements from local youth-oriented organizations, such as sports teams and community clubs, to demonstrate a unified front against bigotry among our younger generations. Palo Alto has a pivotal opportunity to meet this challenge not merely with condemnation and repair, but with transformative educational leadership. Let us choose understanding over fear, education over ignorance, and solidarity over division. I stand prepared to partner with you in building a community where every history is honored, and every student is empowered with the empathy to reject bigotry in all its forms. Respectfully, Raymond Goins On behalf of the Coalition for Justice and Accountability 669-400-6936 Richard Konda On behalf of the Coalition for Justice and Accountability 408-287-9710 Sincerely, ---- Richard Konda (he/him/his) Executive Director Phone: (408) 287-9710 Email: rkonda@asianlawalliance.org 991 W. Hedding Street, Ste. 202 San Jose, CA 95126 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 65 Packet Pg. 149 of 192 78 Vidal, Eric From:Caleb Larsen - The Portland Loo <clarsen@portlandloo.com> Sent:Tuesday, July 14, 2026 2:45 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:The Portland Loo 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 Hi , I hope you’re doing well. I recently saw in the news a growing need for public restrooms tied to upcoming projects and wanted to reach out. I work with The Portland Loo—a permanent, cost-effective, vandal-resistant stainless steel public restroom designed to handle the inevitable misuse and vandalism public restrooms face. Cities across the U.S. and Canada use our units in parks, transit hubs, and other high-traffic public spaces.. Curious if this is something on your radar—happy to share more if helpful. Best regards, Caleb Larsen Sales Associate | The Portland Loo Office: (971) 297-0744 7am-5:30pm PST Mon-Thurs Email: clarsen@PortlandLoo.com website: www.PortlandLoo.com CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 66 Packet Pg. 150 of 192 79 The materials in this electronic mail transmission (including all attachments) are private and confidential and are the property of the sender. The information contained in the material is privileged and is intended only for the use of the named addressee(s). If you are not the intended addressee, be advised that any unauthorized disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this material is strictly prohibited. If you have received this electronic transmission in error, please immediately notify the sender by telephone at (503) 226-4990 or send an electronic message to the original sender, and thereafter, destroy it immediately. View email in browser The Portland Loo · 1800 NW 169th Pl Ste A200 · Beaverton, OR 97006-7474 · USA update your preferences or unsubscribe Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 67 Packet Pg. 151 of 192 82 Vidal, Eric From:Soliman, Richard (ABC MF) <rsoliman@abc-companies.com> Sent:Tuesday, July 14, 2026 9:30 AM To:EnjoyOnline Subject:Recreation In Palo Alto Importance:High Good morning, I am a Palo Alto born native and my Family has resided in the Midtown neighborhood since 1955. I and many other kids who grew up in Palo Alto missed a lot of recreation opportunity due the cities lack of care for recreation that they do not like. We suƯered with a million soccer fields being built at even costs of other recreation fields, and all other sports fields not receiving funding for improvements and very little funding for upkeep. Numbers wise I do not know what those are, but physical proof I witnessed. This has also bled into the lack of other recreation for kids in other areas. We did get a one-time oƯ development of the Skatepark bowl at Greer Park which was in the 90’s and nothing else similar has been provided. Lots of services and recreation have not been developed. For example, since the early 80’s kids have been struggling to upkeep and rebuild a small community-built bike track at the midtown PG&E property along west Bayshore rd. It is constantly attempted to be removed or grown in with weeds. Palo Alto kids from a lot of neighborhoods use it and attempt to maintain it. As of lately a young group of kids are working hard with personnel tools and supplies to build a small new track across from the Greer skatepark on West Bayshore. During my youth I and many many other kids loved BMX racing, we were always forced to go to MoƯett field, Santa Clara, other Bay Area cities, and central valley cities to ride tracks. With this said it would be much appreciated since I have young children and older children that soon may be having kids of their own, that we could have a broader view of recreation type importance. instead of just funding, supporting, and pushing soccer on the city. Not everyone enjoys that sport, many kids like sports like Baseball and Football which one of has very little support and the other has none. Many kids like recreations like skateboards, scooters, and bicycles but there is little to none provided for these kids. About a year ago I heard rumors of a pump track idea next to the Greer park Skate bowl but then haven’t heard anything else about it. Could we get this project back on the board and completed so that kids other than soccer players also have recreation that they like? This would be a very very good addition for the community kids and adults. There are many companies now that build these tracks, one that is very good is Velo Solutions. This has become very popular recreation among kids and adults these days. Many other bay area cities have added these to the community parks. Please reply with opinions or thoughts on this request. Thank you Rich Soliman Google Account Manager – MoƯett Field rsoliman@abc-companies.com 510.745.7341 Ext. 22010 • M: 650.924.0306 654 Macon Rd. MoƯett Field, CA 94035 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 68 Packet Pg. 152 of 192 83 This e-mail may contain confidential and/or privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient (or have received this e-mail in error), please notify the sender immediately and delete this e-mail. Any unauthorized copying, disclosure, or distribution of the material in this e-mail is strictly forbidden Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 69 Packet Pg. 153 of 192 94 Vidal, Eric From:Office of Transportation <transportation@paloalto.gov> Sent:Wednesday, July 8, 2026 12:12 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Transportation Connect July 2026 CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. View this newsletter as a web page To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. A digital newsletter connecting the community to transportation news, updates, ways to share input & more. • Moving Forward: City Council Adopts the 2026 Bicycle & Pedestrian Transportation Plan • Churchill Avenue Potential Rail Crossing Closure Council Discussion Outcome • Rail Grade Separation Alternatives Progress and Upcoming Community Engagement • Quiet Zone Updates • Crescent Park Traffic Calming Project City Council Consideration • New Parking Permit Vendor Launched July 6 • Safety Action Plan Progress • Street Story Interactive Map to Report Near Miss Incidents • Quarry Road Transit Connection Update • Palo Alto Link Service Transition • Events & Meetings Transportation Updates Moving Forward: City Council Adopts the 2026 Bicycle & Pedestrian Transportation Plan Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 70 Packet Pg. 154 of 192 95 It’s official! On June 15, the City Council formally adopted the 2026 Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP). Special thanks to our committed community; your participation in workshops, surveys and street tours was instrumental in crafting this vision for a connected, low-stress network. Now, staff is gearing up for implementation. Next steps include collaborating with local schools on a holistic student e-bike safety and education strategy and kicking off project work along the Bryant Street bicycle boulevard. Staff will also be advancing key capital efforts like the South Palo Alto Bikeways Demonstration Project along E. Meadow Drive and Fabian Way, and a vital neighborhood undercrossing in the vicinity of El Dorado Avenue. The Adopted Final BPTP document will be available online later this summer. Churchill Avenue Potential Rail Crossing Closure Council Discussion Outcome Several safety priorities have been implemented and others evaluated to enhance safety measures at Palo Alto’s four train crossings. This includes Council-approved temporary human monitors stationed 24/7 at all Palo Alto crossings since February. Staff presented an analysis and evaluation of what would be required to implement a temporary closure to the City Council in April, following a listening session held in March to gain community feedback. In mid-May, the Council directed staff not to pursue a temporary closure of the Churchill Avenue rail crossing at Alma St. and instead continue exploring options for a long-term rail crossing guard program; accelerate safety improvement construction at Embarcadero Road this summer; expedite quiet zone implementation at all four Palo Alto crossings; and explore collaboration with Caltrain to enhance safety measures. Rail Grade Separation Alternatives Progress and Upcoming Community Engagement The City is working on a long-term project to separate at-grade crossings at Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive and Charleston Road. In December 2025, City Council selected preferred alternatives for the crossings. For Meadow Drive, Council directed staff to further evaluate the retaining wall and long bridge options for the Meadow Drive Hybrid alternative, which would slightly depress the roadway while also elevating the tracks. The Rail Committee reviewed structural and design considerations for both options on March 10, 2026. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 71 Packet Pg. 155 of 192 96 The City and Caltrain are conducting technical analyses and preparing 15% design plans for three grade separation projects: the Churchill Avenue Partial Underpass (featuring a vehicle underpass at Churchill and a pedestrian/bicycle undercrossing at Seale Avenue), the Meadow Drive Hybrid Alternative, and the Charleston Road Underpass grade separation projects. A 15% design plan is an initial layout to check a project’s feasibility before any final blueprints are made or construction begins. Join community meetings on September 25 and 26 to share input. Rail Committee discussions are planned for September and City Council consideration in the fall to advance alternatives into 35% design and environmental clearance. Learn more and follow along online. Quiet Zone Updates Quiet Zones are railroad crossings with enhanced safety measures that allow train operators to refrain from routinely sounding their horns. The City is working with Caltrain, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to establish quiet zones at all Palo Alto crossings. At the Palo Alto Avenue crossing, the City implemented safety measures that were reviewed by CPUC and FRA in February. CPUC identified minor additional changes that the City implemented this spring. Staff anticipate establishing a quiet zone in this location in fall 2026. For Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive and Charleston Road crossings, staff are collaborating with Caltrain to initiate the design phase for quiet zones at these three crossings. The design phase will be completed by the City over a period of 12 to 18 months, and Caltrain will subsequently lead construction of quad gates at these locations. Crescent Park Traffic Calming Project City Council Consideration In response to resident concerns, the Crescent Park Traffic Calming Project began in 2018 to address cut-through traffic, peak hour traffic volumes and high vehicle speeds during off-peak times. The pilot improvements were Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 72 Packet Pg. 156 of 192 97 installed in 2021 after community feedback. The concept designs for permanent improvements were prepared and revised and shared with Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) and approved by City Council. Following concerns raised by the PTC regarding its previous recommendation for the proposed curb bulb-out at Southwood Drive and East Crescent Drive, City Council will consider the final design for permanent improvements tentatively in August. New Parking Permit Vendor Launched July 6 Residential parking permits are available for purchase in a new parking permit vendor portal that launched on July 6. Permits can be purchased for Downtown, Evergreen Park-Mayfield, Southgate and Old Palo Alto districts, as well as employee parking permits for Cal Ave., Downtown, Evergreen Park-Mayfield, and Southgate districts. Visit the City’s parking webpage for more information specific to each program and to create your new account. Safety Action Plan Progress Implementation of the 2025 Safety Action Plan, which set a target of zero fatalities and serious injuries, has begun. In 2025, Transportation staff conducted speed surveys, which make speed limits on arterial streets eligible for radar gun enforcement. The Police Department has been posting variable message signs to encourage compliance with speed limits and has now hired appropriate staff to begin enforcement. Please drive at or under the speed limit. Street Story Interactive Map to Report Near Miss Incidents Based on community feedback during the initial phases of the Safety Action Plan and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan, the City is using a new interactive online tool developed by UC Berkeley that allows the public to report near-miss locations. In alignment with the City’s Safety Action Plan, this data helps staff be proactive about making safety improvements before injuries occur and can be used for other outreach initiatives such as support for transportation grant applications. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 73 Packet Pg. 157 of 192 98 Quarry Road Transit Connection Update In early May, the City held a community workshop on Quarry Road Transit Connection. The City and Stanford University asked stakeholders to share feedback on ways to improve transit, bicycling and walking access to the Palo Alto Caltrain Station and Transit Center (PATC). Participants shared pain points traveling through this area, including the lack of wayfinding signage, conflicts with vehicles turning right on red at the Quarry Road/El Camino intersection and a poor connection to Menlo Park. Feedback on draft improvement ideas included requests for two-way bike lanes and better visibility at the proposed protected intersection at Quarry Road/El Camino Real as well as suggestions for bus access to the new transitway into the PATC. On May 4 Council approved a grant funding agreement with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to accept up to $1 million for transit center planning. Palo Alto Link Service Transition Palo Alto Link services will wind down on October 30, 2026. An initial 18- month term of the pilot program was funded with Measure B Innovative Transit Funds. Partnership support from Stanford Research Park, additional Measure B funds and grants from the Bay Area Air Quality District extended the program to just over three and a half years. From March 7, 2023 through May 30, 2026, the service completed 154,408+ on-demand microtransit trips Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. This year’s budget prioritized a transition to alternative service options, which will be offered by the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (PATMA). The expanded suite of their usual offerings for low-income Palo Alto workers will extend to also include seniors and people with disabilities. Upcoming Meetings & Events Planning and Transportation Commission Wednesdays, July 8 and 29, 6 p.m. Hybrid, City Council Chambers Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee Thursday, August 6, 6:15 p.m. Virtual Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 74 Packet Pg. 158 of 192 99 Climate Action & Sustainability Committee Meeting Friday, August 7, 2 p.m. Hybrid, Community Meeting Room Rail Grade Separation Community Meeting Tuesday, August 25, 6 p.m. El Palo Alto Room, Mitchell Park Community Center Rail Grade Separation Community Meeting Wednesday, August 26, 6 p.m. El Palo Alto Room, Mitchell Park Community Center South Palo Alto Bike/Ped Rail Crossing Workshop Thursday, August 27, 6 p.m. Location To Be Determined Transportation Quick Links Main Page Palo Alto Link Parking Projects Biking & Walking 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.LinkedIn To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Twitter 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.Facebook Office of Transportation | 250 Hamilton Ave 5th Floor | Palo Alto, CA 94301 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Constant Contact Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 75 Packet Pg. 159 of 192 106 Vidal, Eric From:Ava Sullivian <Ava.Rank@hotmail.com> Sent:Wednesday, July 1, 2026 9:01 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:contacting palo alto 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 Palo Alto, Want Palo Alto's website to improve its Google ranking? Our SEO services focus on better visibility and more customers. Reply if you’d like me to share details. Thank you Ava Sullivian Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 76 Packet Pg. 160 of 192 107 Vidal, Eric From:Robustelli, Sarah Sent:Wednesday, July 1, 2026 9:28 AM To:Daniel Garblik Cc:ParkRec Commission; Jill Hartnett Subject:RE: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal Thanks Dan. I have sent an invite with the details. SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 9:22 AM To: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> Cc: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov>; Jill Hartnett <jillhinchmanhartnett@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Thank you Sarah, I appreciate you setting this up. I'm assuming this would be a Zoom call - if so, can we book between 12-3pm PT? If in-person, then I can do it later in the afternoon after 4:30pm. Please let me know what's best on your side. Thanks again, Dan On Tue, Jun 30, 2026 at 5:23 PM Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> wrote: Hi Dan, Commissioners have availability on Thursday, July 16 in the afternoon. Is there a specific time that works for you? Sarah Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 77 Packet Pg. 161 of 192 108 SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, June 29, 2026 9:23 AM To: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> Cc: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov>; Jill Hartnett <jillhinchmanhartnett@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Sounds great, thank you! On Mon, Jun 29, 2026 at 8:54 AM Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> wrote: Hi Dan, Thank you for the follow up, I am checking their schedule and will get back to you. Sarah Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 78 Packet Pg. 162 of 192 109 SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, June 26, 2026 10:51 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov>; Jill Hartnett <jillhinchmanhartnett@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello, I'm quickly following up on this note to see if it'd be possible to connect with Commissioners Freeman and Brown for input. Could we schedule a Zoom or in-person meeting at some point this summer to discuss? Thank you, Dan On Mon, Jun 8, 2026 at 10:20 AM Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> wrote: Hello Commissioners, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 79 Packet Pg. 163 of 192 110 This note is for the full commission, but addressed specifically to Commissioners Freeman and Brown: I'd like to request a meeting to walk you through a community-led proposal for a cafe at Rinconada Park, and to get your guidance on the right path forward. I'm Daniel Garblik, a Palo Alto parent living on Harker Avenue, just steps from Rinconada. I'm joined by Jill Hartnett, a Board Member of the Friends of the Junior Museum and Zoo. I've been communicating with Sarah Robustelli (cc'd), who suggested we reach out to the commission directly. The short version: Rinconada Park is one of the city's most active gathering places, sitting at the center of the JMZ, Lucie Stern, the Children's Library, the Art Center, the Pool, and Walter Hays. The nearest food and beverage option is over a mile away at Edgewood Plaza, too far for most families. Inspired by Ada's Cafe at Mitchell Park, we're proposing a community-run cafe in the cleared space off Hopkins Avenue. The concept: A community cafe operated in partnership with Covour Coffee (a local Midtown roaster) that also serves as a true gathering space, with programming like open mics, performances, and guest chef nights. The cafe could be structured to carry no financial risk to the city and to return value back into the surrounding Community Center institutions. Where we'd value your input: One of the main reasons we're requesting this meeting is to get your guidance on the right corporate and operating structure for a project like this. We've looked at several models (including the Ada's nonprofit precedent) and want to make sure we pursue the path the city would most welcome. We've presented public comments at the last two Parks and Recreation Commission meetings and have a brief proposal we could share in advance. Could we find 30 minutes in the next two to three weeks? I'm flexible on day and time, including evenings or weekends if that's easier. A Zoom works just as well as in-person. Thank you for considering this. We're grateful for the time and the chance to get your input. Dan Garblik 310-926-1700 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 80 Packet Pg. 164 of 192 111 Vidal, Eric From:Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent:Wednesday, July 1, 2026 9:22 AM To:Robustelli, Sarah Cc:ParkRec Commission; Jill Hartnett Subject:Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal 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 Thank you Sarah, I appreciate you setting this up. I'm assuming this would be a Zoom call - if so, can we book between 12-3pm PT? If in-person, then I can do it later in the afternoon after 4:30pm. Please let me know what's best on your side. Thanks again, Dan On Tue, Jun 30, 2026 at 5:23 PM Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> wrote: Hi Dan, Commissioners have availability on Thursday, July 16 in the afternoon. Is there a specific time that works for you? Sarah SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 81 Packet Pg. 165 of 192 112 (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, June 29, 2026 9:23 AM To: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> Cc: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov>; Jill Hartnett <jillhinchmanhartnett@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Sounds great, thank you! On Mon, Jun 29, 2026 at 8:54 AM Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> wrote: Hi Dan, Thank you for the follow up, I am checking their schedule and will get back to you. Sarah Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 82 Packet Pg. 166 of 192 113 SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, June 26, 2026 10:51 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov>; Jill Hartnett <jillhinchmanhartnett@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello, I'm quickly following up on this note to see if it'd be possible to connect with Commissioners Freeman and Brown for input. Could we schedule a Zoom or in-person meeting at some point this summer to discuss? Thank you, Dan On Mon, Jun 8, 2026 at 10:20 AM Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> wrote: Hello Commissioners, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 83 Packet Pg. 167 of 192 114 This note is for the full commission, but addressed specifically to Commissioners Freeman and Brown: I'd like to request a meeting to walk you through a community-led proposal for a cafe at Rinconada Park, and to get your guidance on the right path forward. I'm Daniel Garblik, a Palo Alto parent living on Harker Avenue, just steps from Rinconada. I'm joined by Jill Hartnett, a Board Member of the Friends of the Junior Museum and Zoo. I've been communicating with Sarah Robustelli (cc'd), who suggested we reach out to the commission directly. The short version: Rinconada Park is one of the city's most active gathering places, sitting at the center of the JMZ, Lucie Stern, the Children's Library, the Art Center, the Pool, and Walter Hays. The nearest food and beverage option is over a mile away at Edgewood Plaza, too far for most families. Inspired by Ada's Cafe at Mitchell Park, we're proposing a community-run cafe in the cleared space off Hopkins Avenue. The concept: A community cafe operated in partnership with Covour Coffee (a local Midtown roaster) that also serves as a true gathering space, with programming like open mics, performances, and guest chef nights. The cafe could be structured to carry no financial risk to the city and to return value back into the surrounding Community Center institutions. Where we'd value your input: One of the main reasons we're requesting this meeting is to get your guidance on the right corporate and operating structure for a project like this. We've looked at several models (including the Ada's nonprofit precedent) and want to make sure we pursue the path the city would most welcome. We've presented public comments at the last two Parks and Recreation Commission meetings and have a brief proposal we could share in advance. Could we find 30 minutes in the next two to three weeks? I'm flexible on day and time, including evenings or weekends if that's easier. A Zoom works just as well as in-person. Thank you for considering this. We're grateful for the time and the chance to get your input. Dan Garblik 310-926-1700 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 84 Packet Pg. 168 of 192 118 Vidal, Eric From:Robustelli, Sarah Sent:Tuesday, June 30, 2026 5:23 PM To:Daniel Garblik Cc:ParkRec Commission; Jill Hartnett Subject:RE: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal Hi Dan, Commissioners have availability on Thursday, July 16 in the afternoon. Is there a specific time that works for you? Sarah SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, June 29, 2026 9:23 AM To: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> Cc: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov>; Jill Hartnett <jillhinchmanhartnett@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Sounds great, thank you! On Mon, Jun 29, 2026 at 8:54 AM Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> wrote: Hi Dan, Thank you for the follow up, I am checking their schedule and will get back to you. Sarah Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 85 Packet Pg. 169 of 192 119 SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, June 26, 2026 10:51 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov>; Jill Hartnett <jillhinchmanhartnett@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello, I'm quickly following up on this note to see if it'd be possible to connect with Commissioners Freeman and Brown for input. Could we schedule a Zoom or in-person meeting at some point this summer to discuss? Thank you, Dan On Mon, Jun 8, 2026 at 10:20 AM Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> wrote: Hello Commissioners, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 86 Packet Pg. 170 of 192 120 This note is for the full commission, but addressed specifically to Commissioners Freeman and Brown: I'd like to request a meeting to walk you through a community-led proposal for a cafe at Rinconada Park, and to get your guidance on the right path forward. I'm Daniel Garblik, a Palo Alto parent living on Harker Avenue, just steps from Rinconada. I'm joined by Jill Hartnett, a Board Member of the Friends of the Junior Museum and Zoo. I've been communicating with Sarah Robustelli (cc'd), who suggested we reach out to the commission directly. The short version: Rinconada Park is one of the city's most active gathering places, sitting at the center of the JMZ, Lucie Stern, the Children's Library, the Art Center, the Pool, and Walter Hays. The nearest food and beverage option is over a mile away at Edgewood Plaza, too far for most families. Inspired by Ada's Cafe at Mitchell Park, we're proposing a community-run cafe in the cleared space off Hopkins Avenue. The concept: A community cafe operated in partnership with Covour Coffee (a local Midtown roaster) that also serves as a true gathering space, with programming like open mics, performances, and guest chef nights. The cafe could be structured to carry no financial risk to the city and to return value back into the surrounding Community Center institutions. Where we'd value your input: One of the main reasons we're requesting this meeting is to get your guidance on the right corporate and operating structure for a project like this. We've looked at several models (including the Ada's nonprofit precedent) and want to make sure we pursue the path the city would most welcome. We've presented public comments at the last two Parks and Recreation Commission meetings and have a brief proposal we could share in advance. Could we find 30 minutes in the next two to three weeks? I'm flexible on day and time, including evenings or weekends if that's easier. A Zoom works just as well as in-person. Thank you for considering this. We're grateful for the time and the chance to get your input. Dan Garblik 310-926-1700 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 87 Packet Pg. 171 of 192 121 Vidal, Eric From:Kevin Cox <kevin@calproplaygrounds.com> Sent:Tuesday, June 30, 2026 1:04 PM To:Robustelli, Sarah Cc:ParkRec Commission Subject:Playground Surfacing Support for Your School 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 your company. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Hi Sarah, I am just reaching out to introduce our San Jose based company that specializes in playground surfacing repairs, maintenance and new construction. We are fully licensed & insured with more than 25 years of experience in this industry. We started our business to support other organizations like yours with services than often get overlooked by larger companies and projects. We look forward to getting to know you and your needs and are here to help answer any questions you may have relative to safety surfacing for your playgrounds. • Safety fall testing • General playground surfacing audits • Surface repairs for artificial turf and PIP rubber • Replenishment and maintenance of loose fill playground mulch • Design assistance and installation of new surfacing • Full renovations of existing surfaces Please let us know if you’d like us to come by for an assessment. https://calproplaygrounds.com/about-cal-pro-playground-surfacing/ All the best, Kevin Cox / President Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 88 Packet Pg. 172 of 192 122 Cal Pro Playground Surfacing Inc. Calproplaygrounds.com 408-320-6909 License # 1151234 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 89 Packet Pg. 173 of 192 123 Vidal, Eric From:Social Media Attorney Mark Fiedelholtz <mark@newsocialmedialaw.com> Sent:Tuesday, June 30, 2026 9:28 AM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:New Social Media Court Rulings Increase Your Personal Liability Risk 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. Course Outline Cases Proving The Urgency 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. Government Leaders And Attorneys Agree, You Will Not Receive This Type Of Expert Training In-House, Conferences, Or Anywhere Else 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. Disclaimer: The olic develo ment and trainin ro rams are intended solely for educational and informational purposes. It does not constitute legal advice, legal services, or create an attorney-client relationship. Any decisions regarding the adoption, modification, or implementation of policies, procedures, or practices based on the information presented are the sole responsibility of the organization's leadership, management, and legal counsel. Organizations are encouraged to have all policies reviewed by their own attorneys prior to implementation. To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Email To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.Web Effective Communications Inc. | 13506 Summerport Village Pkwy, | Windermere, FL 34786 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 90 Packet Pg. 174 of 192 127 Vidal, Eric From:Layal Ajluni <lajluni@lgsrecreation.org> Sent:Monday, June 29, 2026 12:08 PM To:ParkRec Commission; O'Kane, Kristen Subject:Benchmarking Survey: Independent Contractor & Vendor Management Practices 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 your company. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Dear Parks and Recreation Colleagues, The team at LGS Recreation is currently conducting a brief benchmarking review to identify regional best practices for managing Independent Contractor agreements. As department structures evolve, we are curious to learn how neighboring agencies delegate responsibilities between frontline Recreation Coordinators and external departments (such as Human Resources, Risk Management, Analysists, Business Services or other Departments). Specifically, we want to map out who manages key pieces of the process from inception to compliance, including contract creation, insurance tracking/renewals, Live Scan fingerprinting, TB clearance, and other required personal certifications. At LGS Recreation, our process initiates with a Recreation Coordinator submitting an internal vendor proposal outlining the scope and terms. If the program services youth under 18, it immediately triggers strict compliance workflows, including mandatory Live Scan fingerprinting, etc. We would appreciate 3-5 minutes of your time to share how your agency handles these workflows. Click Here to Complete the Quick Survey We know your time is valuable. Once the data collection is finalized, we will gladly compile and share the results with all participating agencies so we can all benefit from the shared regional insights. Thank you in advance for your time. Best regards, Layal Ajluni Intern Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 91 Packet Pg. 175 of 192 128 Direct: 669.208.3624 LGS Recreation Main Office: 408.354.8700 19655 Allendale Ave, Saratoga, CA 95070 Building a Healthy Community Through Enrichment, Innovation, and Fun! Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 92 Packet Pg. 176 of 192 129 Vidal, Eric From:Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent:Monday, June 29, 2026 9:23 AM To:Robustelli, Sarah Cc:ParkRec Commission; Jill Hartnett Subject:Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal 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 Sounds great, thank you! On Mon, Jun 29, 2026 at 8:54 AM Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov> wrote: Hi Dan, Thank you for the follow up, I am checking their schedule and will get back to you. Sarah SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 93 Packet Pg. 177 of 192 130 From: Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, June 26, 2026 10:51 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov>; Jill Hartnett <jillhinchmanhartnett@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello, I'm quickly following up on this note to see if it'd be possible to connect with Commissioners Freeman and Brown for input. Could we schedule a Zoom or in-person meeting at some point this summer to discuss? Thank you, Dan On Mon, Jun 8, 2026 at 10:20 AM Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> wrote: Hello Commissioners, This note is for the full commission, but addressed specifically to Commissioners Freeman and Brown: I'd like to request a meeting to walk you through a community-led proposal for a cafe at Rinconada Park, and to get your guidance on the right path forward. I'm Daniel Garblik, a Palo Alto parent living on Harker Avenue, just steps from Rinconada. I'm joined by Jill Hartnett, a Board Member of the Friends of the Junior Museum and Zoo. I've been communicating with Sarah Robustelli (cc'd), who suggested we reach out to the commission directly. The short version: Rinconada Park is one of the city's most active gathering places, sitting at the center of the JMZ, Lucie Stern, the Children's Library, the Art Center, the Pool, and Walter Hays. The nearest food and beverage option is over a mile away at Edgewood Plaza, too far for most families. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 94 Packet Pg. 178 of 192 131 Inspired by Ada's Cafe at Mitchell Park, we're proposing a community-run cafe in the cleared space off Hopkins Avenue. The concept: A community cafe operated in partnership with Covour Coffee (a local Midtown roaster) that also serves as a true gathering space, with programming like open mics, performances, and guest chef nights. The cafe could be structured to carry no financial risk to the city and to return value back into the surrounding Community Center institutions. Where we'd value your input: One of the main reasons we're requesting this meeting is to get your guidance on the right corporate and operating structure for a project like this. We've looked at several models (including the Ada's nonprofit precedent) and want to make sure we pursue the path the city would most welcome. We've presented public comments at the last two Parks and Recreation Commission meetings and have a brief proposal we could share in advance. Could we find 30 minutes in the next two to three weeks? I'm flexible on day and time, including evenings or weekends if that's easier. A Zoom works just as well as in-person. Thank you for considering this. We're grateful for the time and the chance to get your input. Dan Garblik 310-926-1700 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 95 Packet Pg. 179 of 192 132 Vidal, Eric From:Robustelli, Sarah Sent:Monday, June 29, 2026 8:55 AM To:Daniel Garblik; ParkRec Commission Cc:Jill Hartnett Subject:RE: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal Hi Dan, Thank you for the follow up, I am checking their schedule and will get back to you. Sarah SARAH ROBUSTELLI Division Manager Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3518 | Sarah.Robustelli@PaloAlto.gov www.PaloAlto.gov From: Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, June 26, 2026 10:51 AM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov> Cc: Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov>; Jill Hartnett <jillhinchmanhartnett@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello, I'm quickly following up on this note to see if it'd be possible to connect with Commissioners Freeman and Brown for input. Could we schedule a Zoom or in-person meetin at some point this summer to discuss? Than you,Dan On Mon, Jun 8, 2026 at 10:20AM Danie Garbli <dgarblik@gmai i This message needs your attention • This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast CGBANNERINDICATOR Hello, I'm quickly following up on this note to see if it'd be possible to connect with Commissioners Freeman and Brown for input. Could we schedule a Zoom or in-person meeting at some point this summer to discuss? Thank you, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 96 Packet Pg. 180 of 192 133 Dan On Mon, Jun 8, 2026 at 10:20 AM Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> wrote: Hello Commissioners, This note is for the full commission, but addressed specifically to Commissioners Freeman and Brown: I'd like to request a meeting to walk you through a community-led proposal for a cafe at Rinconada Park, and to get your guidance on the right path forward. I'm Daniel Garblik, a Palo Alto parent living on Harker Avenue, just steps from Rinconada. I'm joined by Jill Hartnett, a Board Member of the Friends of the Junior Museum and Zoo. I've been communicating with Sarah Robustelli (cc'd), who suggested we reach out to the commission directly. The short version: Rinconada Park is one of the city's most active gathering places, sitting at the center of the JMZ, Lucie Stern, the Children's Library, the Art Center, the Pool, and Walter Hays. The nearest food and beverage option is over a mile away at Edgewood Plaza, too far for most families. Inspired by Ada's Cafe at Mitchell Park, we're proposing a community-run cafe in the cleared space off Hopkins Avenue. The concept: A community cafe operated in partnership with Covour Coffee (a local Midtown roaster) that also serves as a true gathering space, with programming like open mics, performances, and guest chef nights. The cafe could be structured to carry no financial risk to the city and to return value back into the surrounding Community Center institutions. Where we'd value your input: One of the main reasons we're requesting this meeting is to get your guidance on the right corporate and operating structure for a project like this. We've looked at several models (including the Ada's nonprofit precedent) and want to make sure we pursue the path the city would most welcome. We've presented public comments at the last two Parks and Recreation Commission meetings and have a brief proposal we could share in advance. Could we find 30 minutes in the next two to three weeks? I'm flexible on day and time, including evenings or weekends if that's easier. A Zoom works just as well as in-person. Thank you for considering this. We're grateful for the time and the chance to get your input. Dan Garblik 310-926-1700 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 97 Packet Pg. 181 of 192 134 Vidal, Eric From:Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> Sent:Friday, June 26, 2026 10:51 AM To:ParkRec Commission Cc:Robustelli, Sarah; Jill Hartnett Subject:Re: Meeting Request: Rinconada Park Community Cafe Proposal 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 Hello, I'm quickly following up on this note to see if it'd be possible to connect with Commissioners Freeman and Brown for input. Could we schedule a Zoom or in-person meeting at some point this summer to discuss? Thank you, Dan On Mon, Jun 8, 2026 at 10:20 AM Daniel Garblik <dgarblik@gmail.com> wrote: Hello Commissioners, This note is for the full commission, but addressed specifically to Commissioners Freeman and Brown: I'd like to request a meeting to walk you through a community-led proposal for a cafe at Rinconada Park, and to get your guidance on the right path forward. I'm Daniel Garblik, a Palo Alto parent living on Harker Avenue, just steps from Rinconada. I'm joined by Jill Hartnett, a Board Member of the Friends of the Junior Museum and Zoo. I've been communicating with Sarah Robustelli (cc'd), who suggested we reach out to the commission directly. The short version: Rinconada Park is one of the city's most active gathering places, sitting at the center of the JMZ, Lucie Stern, the Children's Library, the Art Center, the Pool, and Walter Hays. The nearest food and beverage option is over a mile away at Edgewood Plaza, too far for most families. Inspired by Ada's Cafe at Mitchell Park, we're proposing a community-run cafe in the cleared space off Hopkins Avenue. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 98 Packet Pg. 182 of 192 135 The concept: A community cafe operated in partnership with Covour Coffee (a local Midtown roaster) that also serves as a true gathering space, with programming like open mics, performances, and guest chef nights. The cafe could be structured to carry no financial risk to the city and to return value back into the surrounding Community Center institutions. Where we'd value your input: One of the main reasons we're requesting this meeting is to get your guidance on the right corporate and operating structure for a project like this. We've looked at several models (including the Ada's nonprofit precedent) and want to make sure we pursue the path the city would most welcome. We've presented public comments at the last two Parks and Recreation Commission meetings and have a brief proposal we could share in advance. Could we find 30 minutes in the next two to three weeks? I'm flexible on day and time, including evenings or weekends if that's easier. A Zoom works just as well as in-person. Thank you for considering this. We're grateful for the time and the chance to get your input. Dan Garblik 310-926-1700 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 99 Packet Pg. 183 of 192 143 Vidal, Eric From:Heistein, Ben Sent:Tuesday, June 23, 2026 9:06 PM To:Doug Peterson Cc:Robustelli, Sarah; ParkRec Commission Subject:Re: Broken PAFB Sluice Gate Hi Doug, Thank you for sending your essay and sharing your perspective. It was nice speaking to you at tonight's PRC meeting. I'll go through your work and give you a call to discuss. Ben Heistein Assistant Director - Open Space, Parks, and Golf Community Services Department (650) 617-3516 |Ben.Heistein@paloalto.gov www.paloalto.gov From: Doug Peterson <dougpeterson789@yahoo.com> Sent: Monday, June 22, 2026 12:44 PM To: ParkRec Commission <parkrec.commission@PaloAlto.gov>; Board@valleywater.org <board@valleywater.org> Cc: Heistein, Ben <Benjamin.Heistein@paloalto.gov>; Robustelli, Sarah <Sarah.Robustelli@paloalto.gov>; byerrapotu@valleywater.org <byerrapotu@valleywater.org>; kstruve@valleywater.org <kstruve@valleywater.org>; John Bourgeois <jbourgeois@valleywater.org> Subject: Broken PAFB Sluice Gate 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. Mark Safe Report Powered b Mimecast Dear Commissioners and Directors, June 22nd, 2026 I am writing to the Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Commission and Valley Water's Board of Directors to ask that you address the ongoing environmental harm that the inoperable sluice gate is causing to the wetland ecosystem within the Palo Alto Flood Basin. Estuaries isolated behind tide gates suffer when they are denied the regular flushing associated with tidal exchange, and the sluice gate was deliberately added to the flood basin’s tide gate structure in 1978 to partially mitigate this well-understood harm. Palo Alto owns and operates the specialized gate and has a standing obligation to Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 100 Packet Pg. 184 of 192 144 maintain it. The Addendum that was employed to authorize the Tide Gate Retrofit Project under CEQA stated that the sluice gate is “regularly inspected and maintained” by the City Of Palo Alto. In fact, it has fallen into disrepair over the course of many years and was known to be completely immobile in its current closed position when the Addendum was approved by Valley Water and the Parks and Recreation Commission. In this instance, the CEQA process has failed to deliver its customary level of protection, and there is now an urgent need for cooperative efforts that honor the fundamental rights of the vulnerable wildlife residing within the 600-acre flood basin. During formal public discussions related to the sluice gate that occurred in conjunction with the authorization of the Retrofit Project, repeated assurances were given by Palo Alto officials that efforts were underway to repair the sluice gate. The first of these were voiced back on 8/27/24, and the assurances have continued to this day. At a recent PRC Meeting held on 5/26/26, Palo Alto’s Assistant Director of Open Space, Parks, and Golf, Ben Heistein, provided an update claiming once again that Palo Alto intends to repair the sluice gate but is also continuing to investigate the necessity of the repair. I have been following developments regarding the sluice gate closely for some time, and it is difficult to view this latest assurance as anything other than a continuation of the stalling that has been going on for nearly two years now. I have expressed my concerns to the PRC on three occasions, and I was extremely disappointed when not a single Commissioner brought up the numerous unfulfilled assurances during Mr. Heistein’s recent update. It appears that the lack of visible progress is caused, at least in part, by disagreement over how the repair might be funded. There also may be some uncertainty about the future of the Palo Alto Flood Basin and the long-term sustainability of the existing flood control strategy. The current thinking, however, is that the tide gate structure's flood control function remains extremely valuable. It was rehabilitated at great expense to extend its service life another twenty years or so, and this would seem to necessitate the immediate rehabilitation of the sluice gate as well. In hopes of resolving the impasse, I have prepared my own exhaustive report that explores the thorny fairness issues related to the sluice gate, trying to articulate the perspectives of Palo Alto and Valley Water as best I can as an outside observer. It is a long report, I know, but brevity can be difficult when one is trying to be fair-minded and thorough. I have worked very hard on it in my capacity as an independent environmental advocate, and I will continue to pursue every possible remedy that might expedite relief for the flood basin's wildlife. It is my hope that at least some of you will read my report in its entirety. It is not my intent to question anybody's commitment to environmental stewardship. Both Valley Water and the City of Palo Alto remain engaged with multifaceted environmental initiatives, and it is difficult for me to understand why the repair of the sluice gate has been excluded from these efforts. I also suspect that there are elements of the sluice gate issue that I am unable to grasp. Know that I have made every effort to maintain my objectivity, give others the benefit of the doubt, and check my facts. I welcome any opportunity to discuss my concerns further, exploring any and all feasible solutions in a spirit of goodwill. Sincerely, Doug Peterson Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 101 Packet Pg. 185 of 192 145 Vidal, Eric From:George Maxe <george@ftsv.org> Sent:Tuesday, June 23, 2026 3:29 PM To:ParkRec Commission Cc:"Victor Arrañaga, Jr" Subject:FTSV - Palo Alto Parks & Rec Commission Mtg - Tue 6/23 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. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast This is a public comment regarding PAPRC Meeting 2026-06-23 Agenda Item #3 — Staff Report #2606- 6459 — Study Session to Review Financial Feasibility Study Update for Driving Range Expansion at Baylands Golf Links First Tee - Silicon Valley (FTSV) is pleased at the prospect of higher range nets and more range bays at Baylands Golf Links. We continue to be interested in partnering with the City of Palo Alto to develop the "Youth Area” between Embarcadero Road and the driving range. That will require the area to be safe (i.e., with higher range nets), the City’s strong commitment to affordable access for youth, and a negotiated agreement that includes FTSV’s long-term use. Best, George Maxe President & CEO First Tee - Silicon Valley george@ftsv.org 408-288-2937 Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 102 Packet Pg. 186 of 192 146 Vidal, Eric From:herb <herb_borock@hotmail.com> Sent:Tuesday, June 23, 2026 2:47 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:June 23 2026 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting, Agenda Item 2: Measure E Site Park Dedication CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ! This message could be suspicious • Similar name as someone in your company. • This is a personal email address. • You've never replied to this person. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast JUNE 23, 2026 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA ITEM #2: MEASURE E SITE PARK DEDICATION I urge you to recommend that the City Council dedicate as parkland the entire Measure E site. If the City Council wants to construct a Biosolids Treatment Facility somewhere, they would need to approve an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for a specific project on a specific site. The start of the EIR review process requires the disclosure of the proposed project and site, after which there is a Scoping period where (1) the public generally, (2) interested local, county, regional, and state government agencies, and (3) relevant City of Palo Alto Boards and Commissions have an opportunity to request information they believe should be included in the Draft EIR, including alternate sites. After the Draft EIR is published, anyone can take part in the public hearing process to make suggestions about the adequacy and completeness of the EIR to give the City Council the opportunity to adopt a Final EIR that addresses the comments received about the Draft EIR, and select a project definition and project site, all of which could be subject to challenge in court. Leaving any part of the Measure E site removed from dedicated parkland so that it might be approved as the project site for a Biosolids Treatment Facility at some time in the future just continues the bad idea included Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 103 Packet Pg. 187 of 192 147 in the Measure E ballot language that something might be built on that site sometime in the future. After the City Council adopts a recommendation from the Parks and Recreation Commission to rededicate as parkland the entire Measure E site, and then the Council subsequently decides to use part of that site for a Biosolids Treatment Facility, the Council can convince the voters to remove that location from parkland dedication, just as it has successfully done in the past for removal of portions of Byxbee Park from parkland dedication for expansions of the Regional Water Quality Plant and Palo Alto Airport. Thank you for your consideration of these comments. Herb Borock Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 104 Packet Pg. 188 of 192 148 Vidal, Eric From:Bruce Hodge <hodge@tenaya.com> Sent:Tuesday, June 23, 2026 12:39 PM To:ParkRec Commission Subject:Ordinance to Dedicate a Portion of the Measure E site as Parkland 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 Honorable Commissioners, I’m writing to support the staff recommendations contained in the report ""Recommend Adoption of a Park Dedication Ordinance to Dedicate a Portion of the Measure E site as Parkland” to be discussed at tonight’s meeting. These recommendations are based on careful and extensive analysis that arrives at a sensible solution - which is to add the sloped portions of the Measure E site to Bixby Park and retain a small flat portion for the potential future use by the RWQCP. These two quotes from the report summarize nicely the situation: The analysis found that while enhancing hydraulic connectivity across the site is technically feasible, ecological benefits to special-status species are limited. The constrained width of the site, adjacent industrial and recreational uses, and existing disturbances reduce the effectiveness of the corridor for meaningful wildlife movement. In some cases, the proposed corridor could introduce potential adverse effects, such as increased predation or loss of existing habitat conditions. Based on the recommendations from the Biosolids Facility Plan (BFP) Update and the wildlife corridor feasibility analysis, preserving flexibility for future RWQCP facility use remains an important consideration. Staff recommends reserving the approximately 2.4-acre portion of the Measure E site adjacent to the RWQCP to accommodate potential future RWQCP biosolids facilities, particularly considering evolving regulatory requirements and uncertainties related to long-term biosolids management. My hope is that the adoption of this recommendation will end a long-running dispute and clear the way for more meaningful actions by the City in other more pressing areas. Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 105 Packet Pg. 189 of 192 149 Sincerely, Bruce Hodge Chair, Carbon Free Palo Alto Chair, Carbon Free Silicon Valley Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 106 Packet Pg. 190 of 192 150 Vidal, Eric From:Doug Peterson <dougpeterson789@yahoo.com> Sent:Monday, June 22, 2026 12:45 PM To:ParkRec Commission; Board@valleywater.org Cc:Heistein, Ben; Robustelli, Sarah; byerrapotu@valleywater.org; kstruve@valleywater.org; John Bourgeois Subject:Broken PAFB Sluice Gate Attachments:Sluice Gate Essay.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 Commissioners and Directors, June 22nd, 2026 I am writing to the Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Commission and Valley Water's Board of Directors to ask that you address the ongoing environmental harm that the inoperable sluice gate is causing to the wetland ecosystem within the Palo Alto Flood Basin. Estuaries isolated behind tide gates suffer when they are denied the regular flushing associated with tidal exchange, and the sluice gate was deliberately added to the flood basin’s tide gate structure in 1978 to partially mitigate this well-understood harm. Palo Alto owns and operates the specialized gate and has a standing obligation to maintain it. The Addendum that was employed to authorize the Tide Gate Retrofit Project under CEQA stated that the sluice gate is “regularly inspected and maintained” by the City Of Palo Alto. In fact, it has fallen into disrepair over the course of many years and was known to be completely immobile in its current closed position when the Addendum was approved by Valley Water and the Parks and Recreation Commission. In this instance, the CEQA process has failed to deliver its customary level of protection, and there is now an urgent need for cooperative efforts that honor the fundamental rights of the vulnerable wildlife residing within the 600-acre flood basin. During formal public discussions related to the sluice gate that occurred in conjunction with the authorization of the Retrofit Project, repeated assurances were given by Palo Alto officials that efforts were underway to repair the sluice gate. The first of these were voiced back on 8/27/24, and the assurances have continued to this day. At a recent PRC Meeting held on 5/26/26, Palo Alto’s Assistant Director of Open Space, Parks, and Golf, Ben Heistein, provided an update claiming once again that Palo Alto intends to repair the sluice gate but is also continuing to investigate the necessity of the repair. I have been following developments regarding the sluice gate closely for some time, and it is difficult to view this latest assurance as anything other than a continuation of the stalling that has been going on for nearly two years now. I have expressed my concerns to the PRC on three occasions, and I was extremely disappointed when not a single Commissioner brought up the numerous unfulfilled assurances during Mr. Heistein’s recent update. It appears that the lack of visible progress is caused, at least in part, by disagreement over how the repair might be funded. There also may be some uncertainty about the future of the Palo Alto Flood Basin and the long-term sustainability of the existing flood control strategy. The current thinking, however, is that the tide gate structure's flood control function remains extremely valuable. It was rehabilitated at great expense to extend its service life another twenty years or so, and this would seem to necessitate the immediate rehabilitation of the sluice gate as well. In hopes of resolving the impasse, I have prepared my own exhaustive report that explores the thorny fairness issues related to the sluice gate, trying to articulate the perspectives of Palo Alto and Valley Water as best I can as an outside observer. It is a long report, I know, Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 107 Packet Pg. 191 of 192 151 but brevity can be difficult when one is trying to be fair-minded and thorough. I have worked very hard on it in my capacity as an independent environmental advocate, and I will continue to pursue every possible remedy that might expedite relief for the flood basin's wildlife. It is my hope that at least some of you will read my report in its entirety. It is not my intent to question anybody's commitment to environmental stewardship. Both Valley Water and the City of Palo Alto remain engaged with multifaceted environmental initiatives, and it is difficult for me to understand why the repair of the sluice gate has been excluded from these efforts. I also suspect that there are elements of the sluice gate issue that I am unable to grasp. Know that I have made every effort to maintain my objectivity, give others the benefit of the doubt, and check my facts. I welcome any opportunity to discuss my concerns further, exploring any and all feasible solutions in a spirit of goodwill. Sincerely, Doug Peterson Item A Public Comments 06.22.2026 - 07.21.2026 Item A: Staff Report Pg. 108 Packet Pg. 192 of 192