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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-10-05 City Council Summary MinutesCITY COUNCIL SUMMARY MINUTES Page 1 of 19 Regular Meeting October 5, 2026 The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date in the Council Chambers and by virtual teleconference at 5:30 p.m. Present In Person: Burt, Lauing, Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl, Stone, Veenker Present Remotely: None Absent: None Call to Order Mayor Veenker called the meeting to order. The clerk called the roll and declared all Councilmembers present in chambers. Mayor Veenker noted that the previous Council meeting had been recessed due to disruptions that prevented Council from conducting City business. Mayor Veenker reminded attendees that meetings must be conducted in an orderly manner consistent with the Palo Alto Municipal Code and Council policies and procedures regarding decorum. All participants were asked to follow the rules to ensure that public commenters, staff, and Councilmembers had a fair opportunity to be heard and that Council business could proceed. Boards, Commissions, and Committees Appointments 1. Appointment of Candidates to the Human Relations Commission (HRC), Parks and Recreation (PRC), and Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC), CEQA Status - Not a Project Assistant City Clerk Christine Prior reviewed the vacancies and previously interviewed candidates for the HRC, PRC, and PTC. The vacancies included 2 full-term and 1 partial-term position on the HRC, 4 full-term positions on the PRC, and 1 partial-term position on the PTC. Each Councilmember would have 1 vote per vacancy, with 4 votes required for appointment. Additional voting rounds would be conducted as necessary to fill any remaining vacancies. Electronic ballots had been emailed to Councilmembers. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 2 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 Item 1 Public Comment: None. Mayor Veenker directed Councilmembers to complete the first round of voting and proposed proceeding to Item 2 while staff tallied the results. Henry E. approached the podium after public comment on this item had closed and requested an opportunity to speak. Mayor Veenker explained that this commenter had not responded when called and warned that continued disruptions could result in removal from the meeting. Henry E. demanded to be arrested and continued shouting. Mayor Veenker cautioned that Council would need to recess if order could not be restored to allow voting to proceed. Henry E. was advised that an opportunity to speak would be available during general public comment. Mayor Veenker checked on the status of the Item 1 voting results. City Clerk Ah Yun reported that votes were still being tabulated. Mayor Veenker proceeded to Agenda Changes, Additions, and Deletions and In-Person Public Comment pending the results. Human Relations Commission First Round Voting for Two (2) full term vacancies (seats 1, 4) on the Human Relations Commission ending on October 31, 2029 Aji Oliyide: Burt, Lauing Cynthia Wood: Ellen Bob: Haylea Hannah: Katie Causey: Burt, Lauing, Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl, Stone, Veenker Raizel Rosenberg: Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl, Stone, Veenker Sunny Dykwel: Candidate Katie Causey receiving seven votes is appointed to the full term expiring October 31, 2029 (seat 1). Candidate Raizel Rosenberg receiving five votes is appointed to the full term expiring October 31, 2029 (seat 4). First Round Voting for One (1) partial term vacancy (seat 7) on the Human Relations Commission ending on October 31, 2028 Aji Oliyide: Lythcott-Haims Cynthia Wood: Ellen Bob: Lauing, Reckdahl, Veenker Haylea Hannah: Burt, Lu, Stone Katie Causey: Raizel Rosenberg: Sunny Dykwel: SUMMARY MINUTES Page 3 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 No candidate received the four votes necessary for appointment. A second round of voting is required. Second Round Voting for One (1) partial term vacancy (seat 7) on the Human Relations Commission ending October 31, 2028 Ellen Bob: Lauing, Reckdahl, Veenker Haylea Hannah: Burt, Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Stone Candidate Haylea Hannah receiving four votes is appointed to the partial term expiring on October 31, 2028 (seat 7). Parks and Recreation Commission First Round Voting for Four (4) full term vacancies (Seats 1, 5, 6, 7) on the Parks and Recreation Commission ending October 31, 2029. Aubrey Whitcomb: Lauing, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl Virginia Ruiz Albacete: Lauing, Lu, Stone Abhijit Solanki: Burt Sterling Watson: Shani Kleinhaus: Burt, Lauing, Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl, Stone, Veenker Ben Lenail: Burt, Reckdahl, Veenker Marc Schoenen: Lauing, Lu, Stone, Veenker Leo Hochberg: Burt, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl Bing Betty Wei: Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Stone, Veenker Candidate Shani Kleinhaus receiving seven votes is appointed to the full term expiring on October 31, 2029 (seat 5). Candidate Marc Schoenen receiving four votes is appointed to the full term expiring on October 31, 2029 (seat 1). Candidate Bing Betty Wei receiving four votes is appointed to the full term expiring on October 31, 2029 (seat 6). No other candidate received the four votes necessary for appointment. A second round of voting is required. Second Round Voting for One (1) full term vacancy (seat 7) on the Parks and Recreation Commission ending October 31, 2029. Aubrey Whitcomb: Burt, Lythcott-Haims Virginia Ruiz Albacete: Lauing, Lu, Stone SUMMARY MINUTES Page 4 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 Ben Lenail: Reckdahl, Veenker Leo Hochberg: No candidate received the four votes necessary for appointment. A third round of voting is required. Third Round Voting for One (1) full term vacancy (seat 7) on the Parks and Recreation Commission ending October 31, 2029. Aubrey Whitcomb: Burt, Lythcott-Haims Virginia Ruiz Albacete: Lauing, Lu, Stone, Veenker Ben Lenail: Reckdahl Candidate Virginia Ruiz Albacete receiving four votes is appointed to the full term expiring on October 31, 2029 (seat 7). Planning and Transportation Commission First Round Voting for One (1) partial term vacancy (seat 4) on the Planning and Transportation Commission ending on March 31, 2030. Christopher Kao: Lythcott-Haims Jeff Watt: Tom Siegel: Burt, Lauing, Lu, Reckdahl, Stone, Veenker Candidate Tom Siegel receiving six votes is appointed to the partial term expiring March 31, 2030 (seat 4). Special Orders of the Day 2. Proclamation Recognizing Fire Prevention Week- October 4-10 Councilmember Reckdahl read the proclamation recognizing Fire Prevention Week. Fire Chief Stephen Lindsey highlighted the Fire Prevention Bureau's year-round work conducting thousands of inspections of businesses, multifamily residential facilities, schools, new construction, and properties in the wildland-urban interface to reduce community fire risks. Chief Lindsey announced a Fire Prevention Week open house at Fire Station 2 on October 10 at 10:00 a.m. Acting Fire Marshal Dave Villareal recognized Fire Department personnel and noted that Fire Prevention Week has been observed nationally since 1922 to promote fire prevention awareness. This year's theme, “Charge Into Safety,” focuses on lithium-ion battery safety, including the fire risks associated with damaged, overheated, or improperly charged batteries. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 5 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 The Fire Department is providing grade-level educational lessons to PAUSD students from kindergarten through middle school and sharing daily safety tips through City and Fire Department social media channels. Mayor Veenker thanked Fire Department personnel for their service and emphasized the importance of staying informed about emerging battery safety issues. NO ACTION Agenda Changes, Additions and Deletions City Manager Ed Shikada announced that the closed session previously added to the agenda was no longer necessary and would be removed. In-Person Public Comment 1. Neva Y. reported repeated malfunctions at the Churchill Avenue train crossing, including lowered crossing gates, flashing warning lights, and persistent warning sounds during early morning hours on Thursday and Sunday. The incidents caused traffic backups at Alma Street and Churchill Avenue and raised safety concerns. Neva Y. noted a hit-and- run accident at the intersection earlier that day and requested City assistance in addressing the crossing malfunctions and related traffic safety issues. 2. Avram F. thanked the Fire Department for previously providing lifesaving assistance, read a passage from Ta-Nehisi Coates' book The Message, and criticized Councilmember Lauing's comments regarding proposed RV parking restrictions. 3. Henry E. described a Palo Alto school crossing guard who had been laid off and emphasized the need to recognize working-class residents. The commenter explained his earlier disruption of the meeting and advocated for a Council representative who would protect residents' access to light, air, and space and oppose development interests. 4. Matt S., representing Safety Over Surveillance Palo Alto, clarified Henry E.'s position on surveillance, noting his support for court-authorized surveillance but opposition to warrantless mass surveillance. Matt S. summarized City Council candidates' positions on Flock and other surveillance technologies, expressed support for candidate Raymond Goins, and urged Council to prohibit mass surveillance tools in Palo Alto. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 6 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 Council Member Questions, Comments and Announcements Councilmember Lythcott-Haims reviewed the City's vision for revitalizing Cubberley Community Center through public-private partnerships and community investment. Councilmember Lythcott-Haims highlighted recently approved agreements with Maker Nexus for a makerspace and Friends of Palo Alto Recreation and Wellness for a proposed $40 million gym facility. Regarding Consent Calendar Item 5, Councilmember Lythcott-Haims discussed proposed Letters of Intent with existing Cubberley tenants Avenidas and HeartFit for Life to expand services supporting older adults. The partnerships contemplate fundraising and other external funding sources to supplement City investment in facility development. Councilmember Lythcott-Haims emphasized the importance of these financial contributions to the overall Cubberley revitalization effort. Mayor Veenker clarified that Henry Etzkowitz had been permitted to speak during in-person public comment at the previous meeting but was not given a second opportunity during virtual public comment. Mayor Veenker proposed allocating $15,000 from the Council Contingency Fund to the Know Your Neighbor grant program, which had exhausted its funding, to support neighborhood community-building activities, including the Midtown Ice Cream Social. With no Council objections, the allocation was approved. Mayor Veenker then read a joint statement from the City and PAUSD announcing a conditional agreement for the City to purchase the District's 7-acre portion of the Cubberley Community Center for $65.5 million in 2027. Consolidating ownership of the building-occupied property under the City would facilitate long-term renovations and preserve public use of the site. The City would continue leasing the remaining 20 acres of playing fields and parking areas from PAUSD. Study Session 3. Best Practices in Managing Consultant Services City Manager Ed Shikada introduced Management Fellow Kathryn Fortenberry, who assisted the consultant management review over the past year. The initiative began in early 2025 in response to Council interest in improving the quality and value of consulting services. Staff evaluated existing practices, identified strengths and challenges, and developed approaches to strengthen oversight and accountability. City Manager Shikada emphasized the City's reliance on consultants for specialized expertise and expressed confidence that the resulting practices could serve as a model for other agencies. Management Fellow Kathryn Fortenberry outlined the project's progress, beginning with an assessment of consultant management practices across City departments to identify efficiencies, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Staff partnered with the Office of Management and Budget to incorporate systematic reviews of consultant needs and SUMMARY MINUTES Page 7 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 expenditures into the FY 2026 budget development process, with the practice continuing in future budget cycles. Research into other agencies' practices and a review by the City Auditor's Office, included as Attachment B, informed the development of resources and recommendations. An interdepartmental working group established in 2025 collaborated on the Best Practices Guide, included as Attachment A, to provide staff with consistent guidance throughout the consultant engagement process. City Manager Shikada reviewed the consultant engagement lifecycle outlined in the Best Practices Guide, including outsourcing decisions, consultant selection, contract administration, performance oversight, risk management, and project evaluation. The importance of clearly defined responsibilities, communication, quality control, and timely resolution of issues was emphasized. Lead departments and the City Manager's Office maintain primary oversight responsibilities, with other departments and Council involved at various stages. High-visibility or controversial projects may require additional scrutiny. City Manager Shikada presented a slide highlighting recent projects as examples of consultant management practices. Next steps include developing staff training, highlighting consultant- related decisions during annual budgeting and priority setting, obtaining consultant feedback, and continually refining practices. City Manager Shikada emphasized the importance of collaboration between consultants' specialized expertise and staff's local knowledge. Vice Mayor Stone expressed support for the consultant management review, particularly the emphasis on community engagement and evaluating in-house expertise before outsourcing. Vice Mayor Stone suggested considering residents with specialized expertise as an additional resource that could reduce costs. City Manager Shikada acknowledged that the guide did not specifically identify resident expertise as an alternative to outsourcing but indicated that such opportunities could be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, with the City Manager's Office taking primary responsibility. Vice Mayor Stone emphasized the importance of meaningful community engagement and ensuring public feedback influences project outcomes. City Manager Shikada described a stakeholder engagement planning template and worksheet that could be shared with Council for more complex projects. Additional tools include tracking public comments and responses, although more extensive engagement may increase project costs. Vice Mayor Stone requested that staff ensure these tracking practices are implemented. Councilmember Reckdahl acknowledged the value of the Best Practices Guide but expressed concern that it did not sufficiently address Council and community priorities, including the value of consultant services, consultants' local knowledge, and the potential impact of outsourcing on developing in-house expertise. Councilmember Reckdahl recommended greater emphasis on these issues and noted that consultant expenditures can obscure departmental staffing trends because consultants are not reflected in employee headcounts. Councilmember Reckdahl suggested revisiting how consultant and other outsourced services are accounted for in departmental budgets to provide a clearer picture of workforce trends. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 8 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 Councilmember Lu echoed Councilmember Reckdahl's concerns and requested examples demonstrating how the Best Practices Guide could improve outcomes compared with previous consultant engagements. City Manager Shikada cited the synthetic turf study, which involved extensive tracking and responses to public comments, and the pedestrian/cycling connectivity project, which incorporated advance stakeholder engagement planning. City Manager Shikada noted that the railroad quiet zone project requires staff to provide local knowledge and that increased Transportation Office staffing has reduced reliance on consultants. City Manager Shikada emphasized that practices must be tailored to individual projects. Councilmember Lu acknowledged the examples but expressed continued uncertainty about how the new practices would produce measurable improvements over previous approaches. Councilmember Burt supported incorporating community expertise into consultant selection and suggested a checklist to ensure departments consider available resources. City Manager Shikada confirmed that the guide includes evaluation criteria but does not currently address identifying local experts. Councilmember Burt emphasized that Councilmembers could help identify qualified residents whose expertise has been underutilized. Councilmember Burt requested examples demonstrating cost savings from improved consultant management, including comparisons of previous practices with the use of in-house resources, artificial intelligence, and other alternatives. Although precise savings may be difficult to quantify, such information would assist Council in evaluating budget efficiency. Councilmember Burt further reflected on whether staff had reviewed past consultant projects to identify lessons learned, citing retail and economic development initiatives and traffic- calming projects in Crescent Park. Councilmember Burt questioned whether relatively modest projects warranted lengthy, expensive consulting contracts. Councilmember Lauing questioned how the Best Practices Guide was developed and why the process had taken nearly 2 years. City Manager Shikada explained that an interdepartmental committee reviewed existing practices, identified gaps, and developed recommendations, with City Manager Shikada serving as final editor. The work was completed as staff workloads permitted. Previous consultant management practices varied among departments, and the guide was intended to establish greater consistency. Councilmember Lauing emphasized the need for procedures to address underperforming consultants, including terminating contracts and avoiding unnecessary payments. City Manager Shikada confirmed that the guide addresses performance concerns and provides departments with tools for timely escalation. Item 3 Public Comment: 1. Henry E. expressed concern that residents' interests were not adequately considered in consultant decisions. The commenter suggested greater use of local expertise, including resources available at Stanford University, to reduce consultant expenditures. The SUMMARY MINUTES Page 9 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 commenter criticized Council decisions that, in his view, disregarded residents' concerns. 2. Raymond G. criticized the City Manager's responses to Council's questions regarding consultant spending and budget oversight, expressing concern about accountability and management of public funds. The commenter urged greater use of local expertise, including talent from nearby educational institutions, and a review of City contracts. The commenter questioned the City Manager's effectiveness and called for eliminating police tasers. Vice Mayor Stone emphasized that consultants should follow Council direction rather than continue advocating for their own recommendations after Council has rejected them. Vice Mayor Stone requested that this expectation be clearly communicated to consultants. City Manager Shikada agreed to work with staff to determine how best to incorporate that expectation into consultant guidance. Councilmember Lauing recommended incorporating cost-benefit considerations into the Best Practices Guide and commended the emphasis on consultants understanding Palo Alto's local context. Councilmember Lauing suggested explicitly including Council in the management of high-visibility or controversial projects and establishing contract value thresholds for Council review of consultant scopes of services. Although the guide was more introductory than expected, Councilmember Lauing acknowledged its value in standardizing practices across departments and expressed interest in the next phase, including options for existing contracts. Councilmember Burt recommended establishing effective and cost-effective consultant engagement as the overarching goal of the Best Practices Guide. Councilmember Burt supported the guide's ongoing refinement, including incorporating Council feedback and evaluating its effectiveness over time. Councilmember Burt expressed optimism that the approach could improve performance, reduce costs, and increase utilization of City staff. Councilmember Lu requested that future iterations of the Best Practices Guide place greater emphasis on measurable outcomes and how improved processes affect consultant performance. Councilmember Lu suggested establishing clearer procedures for addressing poor performance of consultants, including formal notices, contract termination options, and consideration of past performance in future consultant selections. Councilmember Lu noted that AI could provide cost savings in certain circumstances but that its usefulness would depend on the project. Mayor Veenker expressed support for the Best Practices Guide and its ongoing refinement. Drawing on past experiences with consultants, Mayor Veenker emphasized the importance of establishing clear expectations that consultants respond directly to Council's questions and provide information needed for decision-making. Mayor Veenker cited previous examples of frustration with obtaining responsive answers from noise experts and consultants involved in the synthetic turf study. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 10 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 NO ACTION Consent Calendar 4. Approval of Business Retention, Expansion, and Attraction (BRE/A) Strategy as Recommended by the Economic Development Committee: CEQA – Not a Project 5. Approval of Letters of Intent with Avenidas and HeartFit for Life for collaboration on a long-term public-private partnership for expanded services for aging adults at the Cubberley site; CEQA status – Mitigated Negative Declaration Approved on May 19, 2026. 6. Approval of Surveillance Use Policy for Security Cameras at the Palo Alto Animal Shelter; CEQA Status - Not a Project. 7. Approval of Surveillance Use Policy for Security Cameras at the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo; CEQA Status - Not a Project. 8. Approval of FY 2026 Reappropriation Requests to FY 2027 Operating and Capital Improvement Budgets and Additional Technical Clean-Up Actions and Corresponding Amendments to the FY 2027 Budget Appropriation for Various Funds. CEQA Status: Not a Project 9. Approval of Professional Services Contract Number C27196802 with BKF Engineers for the Design of Four Quadrant Gate Systems Improvements required for Quiet Zone Railroad Crossings at Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive, and Charleston Road in an Amount Not to Exceed $1,294,522 for a term ending December 31, 2029; CEQA status: Categorically Exempt, CEQA Guidelines Section 15301. Consent Calendar Public Comment: 1. Charlie W., speaking on Item 4 on behalf of the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce, expressed support for the BRE/A Strategy, emphasizing its focus on retaining existing businesses, supporting business expansion, and attracting new businesses to strengthen Palo Alto's economy. The Chamber looked forward to collaborating with City staff on implementation. 2. Henry E. criticized the City's handling of a local automobile repair business, stating that the business had been denied the ability to continue operating. The commenter questioned the decision-making process involving the City Council and City Manager, criticized closed-session discussions, and called for the removal of Councilmembers who had not opposed Builder's Remedy projects. Mayor Veenker repeatedly asked the commenter to identify the Consent Calendar item he was addressing. After his SUMMARY MINUTES Page 11 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 microphone was muted, Mayor Veenker issued a formal warning that comments must remain relevant to the Consent Calendar and not disrupt the meeting. The commenter did not identify a specific item and continued criticizing the City's consultation process. After his speaking time was terminated, the commenter continued speaking despite being directed to yield the podium. Mayor Veenker issued an additional warning that continued disruption could result in removal from the meeting and directed the commenter to return to his seat so other residents could speak. 3. Brian S., President of the HeartFit for Life Board of Directors, expressed support for the Cubberley ballot initiative and the proposed Letter of Intent with the City. HeartFit has provided medically supervised exercise, education, and support services to aging residents recovering from serious cardiac events for over 55 years. Brian S. emphasized Cubberley's importance to the organization and urged Council to approve the Letter of Intent. 4. Kristina L., CEO of Avenidas, expressed support for the proposed Letter of Intent and the opportunity to partner with the City and HeartFit for Life. Citing the growing population in South Palo Alto, Kristina L. emphasized the goal of providing older adults with coordinated access to quality programs, social connections, and services that support healthy aging. Mayor Veenker asked whether feedback from an upcoming major employers event could be incorporated into the BRE/A Strategy to ensure consideration of larger businesses. City Manager Shikada confirmed that the feedback could inform future iterations of the strategy. Mayor Veenker indicated that Item 4 did not need to be pulled from the Consent Calendar. MOTION: Councilmember Reckdahl moved, seconded by Councilmember Lythcott-Haims, to approve Agenda Item Numbers 4-9. MOTION PASSED: 7-0 City Manager Comments City Manager Shikada reported that the National Weather Service had issued a heat advisory and reminded residents that the City's 5 libraries serve as cooling centers. Additional safety resources are available at http://www.PaloAlto.gov/hotweather. In recognition of Fire Prevention Week, Fire Station 2 will host an open house on October 10, featuring fire prevention information and activities, including rechargeable battery safety. With winter storm season approaching, the City will issue a community update outlining preparedness activities, including the resumption of seasonal street sweeping, an October 26 Council study session, an October 29 community open house at Fire Station 3, sandbag availability beginning November 1, and the December 10 annual Emergency Alert System test. Additional information is available at https://www.paloalto.gov/STORM-UPDATE. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 12 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 City Manager Shikada announced the October 10 Palo Alto Rocks event at Heritage Park, launching a series of Palo Alto History Museum events through April 2027. The Human Relations Commission will host a Community Impact Fair on October 11, featuring more than 30 nonprofit organizations serving vulnerable community members. Upcoming Council agenda items include multifamily residential zoning on October 19; stream corridor protection and a storm preparedness study session on October 26; and the greenhouse gas inventory and progress reports, 2027 Council calendar, SB 9 permanent ordinance, and ADU ordinance amendments on November 2. [Council took a 17-minute break] Action Items 10. Approval of FY 2027 Architectural Review Board, Historic Resources Board, Planning and Transportation Commission, and Utilities Advisory Commission Work Plans; CEQA Status – Not a Project City Clerk Mahealani Ah Yun outlined the process for reviewing the Commission work plans in agenda order. Each Commission Chair would provide a 5-minute introduction highlighting priorities and areas for Council feedback, followed by 15 minutes of Council questions and discussion. The full work plans were included in the agenda packet, and staff would be available to assist throughout the discussions. Architectural Review Board Vice Chair Kendra Rosenberg reported via Zoom that the ARB reviewed approximately 17 projects over the past year, including multifamily developments, Stanford Shopping Center improvements, and larger projects along El Camino Real and the San Antonio Road corridor. The ARB provided feedback on the San Antonio Road Plan, Cubberley Master Plan, and California Avenue preapproved parklet designs. Upcoming work includes reviewing cell tower proposals and developing a consistent review process for that. Vice Chair Rosenberg requested opportunities for projects referred to Council to return to the ARB for follow-up discussion. Assistant Planning and Development Services Director Jennifer Armer had no additional comments and was available for Council questions and discussion. Councilmember Reckdahl asked about the purpose of providing follow-up information to the ARB after Council reviews projects. Vice Chair Rosenberg explained that the ARB does not consistently receive updates on project outcomes and suggested a routine, informal process for staff to report Council decisions during ARB meetings. Councilmember Reckdahl supported the suggestion, noting that Council objections or modifications could provide valuable feedback to the ARB. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 13 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 Councilmember Lauing asked how ARB members viewed their influence on projects subject to regulatory constraints, including Builder's Remedy developments. Vice Chair Rosenberg acknowledged frustration with the ARB's limited authority but emphasized its continued efforts to provide constructive guidance and improve project outcomes. Councilmember Lauing encouraged those efforts, noting positive feedback from some developers regarding the ARB's recommendations. Councilmember Burt expressed concern that the recently adopted California Avenue parklet design standards could significantly reduce outdoor dining opportunities for approximately half the year. Councilmember Burt asked whether Council direction was needed for the ARB to evaluate the standards' effectiveness. Vice Chair Rosenberg welcomed feedback on potential impacts to businesses and supported revisiting the standards if adjustments were warranted. Councilmember Burt suggested that ARB members engage directly with affected businesses to better understand their concerns. Historic Resources Board Vice Chair Caroline Willis thanked Council for filling the Board's vacancies and emphasized the importance of historic preservation. Vice Chair Willis requested expedited publication of the City's historic resources inventory online, much of which dates to the late 1970s. Staff secured a $10,500 grant, and a summer intern prepared the inventory for online updating, although data entry was not expected until early spring. Vice Chair Willis emphasized that making the inventory accessible online would increase public awareness of the City's historic resources. Vice Chair Willis reported that the HRB established a historic preservation awards program, with plans to repeat it every 5 years beginning in 2030, and reviewed 5 historic resource category upgrade requests during the past year. Vice Chair Willis recognized Thoits for its preservation efforts and urged Council to consider establishing a Mills Act pilot program to provide incentives for historic property preservation and rehabilitation, noting that the program had been on hold since at least 1997. Councilmember Burt suggested recognizing Palo Alto's history of technological innovation, including the original locations of prominent technology companies, as part of the City's historic preservation and economic development efforts. Vice Chair Willis expressed interest in the idea, noting that the HRB had not previously discussed it and suggesting a potential collaboration with the Palo Alto History Museum. Councilmember Lu asked whether the HRB sought Council direction on historic preservation incentives. Vice Chair Willis welcomed Council input and requested authorization for a 3-property Mills Act pilot program. Vice Chair Willis cited 1997 Council guidance emphasizing historic significance, development pressure, rehabilitation needs, and public benefits while limiting impacts on school funding. Other potential incentives included grants for storefront improvements, seismic upgrades, and accessibility. Assistant Director Armer clarified that some HRB work plan proposals lack dedicated staff or funding, although Board subgroups have conducted preliminary research. Councilmember Lu expressed interest in exploring additional SUMMARY MINUTES Page 14 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 preservation incentives, including expanding transferable development rights (TDRs) beyond Downtown. Councilmember Lu supported formal recognition, such as plaques, commemorating Palo Alto's cultural and historical figures and events beyond historic building preservation. Councilmember Lythcott-Haims supported recognizing Palo Alto's historical contributions across technology, arts, sports, and other fields, citing the loss of the Juana Briones House as an example of inadequate preservation. Vice Chair Willis agreed, emphasizing the need for stronger demolition protections for historic properties. Mayor Veenker asked how the HRB envisioned collaborating with the Palo Alto Museum on recognizing the City's cultural history beyond historic buildings and properties. Vice Chair Willis acknowledged limited collaboration to date but expressed optimism about developing a partnership. Planning and Transportation Commission Chair Bryna Chang reported that the FY 2027 work plan includes 9 goals, with the completed Retail Ordinance update and Bicycle/Pedestrian Transportation Plan replaced by 2 new initiatives: beginning the Comprehensive Plan update process ahead of its 2030 horizon and improving PTC procedures and scope. Proposed improvements include reducing duplicative PTC and Council reviews, exploring greater PTC decision-making authority, and potentially placing unanimously supported recommendations on the Council Consent Calendar. Chair Chang requested a designated Council liaison to facilitate communication and identified opportunities to improve the timeliness of public comments and use technology to increase efficiency. Continuing priorities include Housing Element implementation, state law compliance, Comprehensive Plan implementation, and parking programs. Chair Chang noted that streamlined review procedures have reduced the number of development projects reaching the PTC. Recent reviews included tentative maps, site and design reviews, and Planned Home Zoning (PHZ) projects at 70 Encina Avenue, 3606 El Camino Real, and 2100 Geng Road, collectively representing several hundred housing units. Mayor Veenker expressed surprise that public comments must be forwarded to the PTC by staff rather than received directly. Chair Chang noted that the process is labor-intensive and makes responding to the public difficult. Councilmember Burt emphasized the importance of integrating land use and transportation planning and questioned whether additional Council direction was needed to ensure Transportation Department participation in major PTC project reviews. Assistant Director Armer stated that staff generally coordinates across departments but acknowledged instances where transportation involvement had been insufficient, noting that lessons had been learned. City Manager Shikada indicated that an upcoming discussion of the respective roles of the PABAC and PTC would provide an opportunity to examine transportation oversight more broadly. Councilmember Burt reiterated the need for greater integration given the City's planned 20 percent housing growth. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 15 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 Councilmember Reckdahl asked whether Project Goal 9 aimed to reduce processing time, staff costs, or delays in advancing projects to Council. Chair Chang suggested using technology to provide Commissioners with timely public comments and AI-generated summaries of prior discussions, particularly where summary minutes lack important context. Assistant Director Armer stated that staff had not evaluated potential time or cost savings but continued to seek efficiencies. Chair Chang clarified that the proposals were preliminary at this point. Councilmember Lu suggested making bicycle and pedestrian safety, accessibility, and Vision Zero progress more explicit in the PTC work plan. Chair Chang noted that implementing priorities from the Safe Streets for All and Bicycle/Pedestrian Transportation Plans would require Council funding and direction. Potential process improvements included incorporating traffic safety reviews into development project checklists. Assistant Director Armer noted the PTC's continued review of transportation safety projects, including Bryant Street and South Palo Alto improvements. Councilmember Lu asked about incorporating funded initiatives, including quick-build improvements and daylighting, into the work plan. Chair Chang supported greater integration of transportation priorities into the PTC's work. Councilmember Lu asked how delays between PTC recommendations and Council consideration could be reduced, citing the Crescent Park traffic-calming project and ADU condoization. Chair Chang attributed delays primarily to staff workload and scheduling rather than disagreements between the PTC and Council, noting some communication challenges. Councilmember Lu suggested further discussion of potential improvements. Councilmember Lauing expressed support for placing unanimous PTC recommendations on the Council Consent Calendar to reduce Council workload while maintaining appropriate oversight. Chair Chang noted the PTC's interest in avoiding duplicative reviews of unanimously supported recommendations. Councilmember Lauing supported designating a Council liaison to facilitate communication with the PTC. Chair Chang noted that communication currently relies on informal relationships between Commissioners and Councilmembers and that a designated liaison would improve accessibility and consistency. Councilmember Reckdahl asked whether procedures for placing unanimous Commission recommendations on the Consent Calendar varied by Commission, citing past PRC practices. City Manager Shikada was unfamiliar with the protocol but expressed support for the concept. Utilities Advisory Commission Chair Meagan Mauter reported via Zoom and outlined the FY 2027 work plan, emphasizing the technical complexity of utility issues and requesting Council guidance on priorities. Annual responsibilities include FY 2028 rate recommendations, with an emphasis on affordability; water cost-of-service studies; reserve policies informed by the Baker Tilly assessment; and the FY 2028 and 5-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Additional priorities include S/CAP funding strategies, revisions to carbon neutrality and cap-and-invest spending resolutions, utility reliability and emergency preparedness, legislative SUMMARY MINUTES Page 16 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 recommendations, and review of consumer survey results and new engagement efforts. Major utility-specific initiatives include electric grid modernization and projected load growth, including data centers; evaluation of the fiber-to-the-premises pilot and its financial model; gas system transition and decommissioning issues; and water policy. Chair Mauter emphasized that mandatory annual responsibilities would take priority and welcomed Council direction on allocating the UAC's remaining capacity. Mayor Veenker asked whether the UAC receives sufficient community feedback to inform its recommendations and how Council could improve that process. Chair Mauter cited customer surveys, Commissioners' community interactions, and public comments as valuable sources of input. Chair Mauter encouraged greater public participation and suggested that Council share community concerns that may not reach the UAC directly to help prioritize its work. Mayor Veenker asked about the timeline for evaluating the fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) pilot and recommending next steps. Chair Mauter anticipated completing the Phase 1 evaluation during FY 2027 but noted ongoing UAC discussions about the pilot's scope and value. Chair Mauter emphasized the need for clearer Council direction on the purpose of the FTTP utility to establish appropriate performance indicators and evaluate whether the pilot meets its objectives. Item 10 Public Comment: 1. Henry E. criticized separating public comments from the initial discussion of agenda items and suggested recognizing the people behind Palo Alto's technological innovations, not just historic buildings. The commenter described his involvement in solar photovoltaic technology during the 1970s and more recent entrepreneurial activities. 2. Martin B. described conducting historic walking tours highlighting the homes of prominent technology founders and executives. The commenter encouraged teaching historic preservation in schools to foster its value among future property owners and supported a Mills Act incentive program with reduced tax benefits to address concerns about impacts on school funding. 3. Raymond G. expressed concern about inefficiencies in the PTC's processes and questioned whether acknowledged coordination problems between planning and transportation were being adequately addressed before developing policies and recommendations. 4. Aram J. criticized the timing of PTC Chair Chang's work plan presentation during her City Council campaign, alleging favorable treatment by Councilmembers who had endorsed her candidacy. The commenter questioned whether other candidates should receive equal opportunities to address Council and suggested consulting the City Attorney. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 17 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 Councilmember Burt reiterated concerns about insufficient Transportation Department involvement in PTC reviews and emphasized staff's responsibility for ensuring appropriate support. City Manager Shikada suggested addressing the issue separately through a referral, which Councilmember Burt accepted. MOTION: Councilmember Lauing moved, seconded by Councilmember Reckdahl, to approve the Architectural Review Board, Historic Resources Board, Planning and Transportation Commission, and Utilities Advisory Commission respective Fiscal Year 2027 Work Plans. MOTION PASSED: 7-0 11. Consideration of City Council Positions on State and Local Measures Presented to Palo Alto Voters on the November 3, 2026 Ballot; CEQA status – not a project Assistant City Clerk Christine Prior noted that Townsend Public Affairs representative Carly Shelby was available via Zoom. The annual election-year review provides information to voters and allows Council to consider positions on ballot measures based on its 2026 Legislative Guidelines and previous actions. Of the 14 statewide propositions, staff recommended supporting Propositions 1 and 37 and opposing Proposition 43. The Human Relations Commission had recommended supporting Proposition 1. Assistant City Clerk Prior noted that Proposition 37 could have limited applicability in Palo Alto due to local home prices. Staff recommended supporting Measure J and noted Council's previous endorsement of the Regional Transit Measure. Mayor Veenker supported staff's recommendations on Propositions 1, 37, and 43 and proposed supporting Proposition 4, which would allow local governments to establish public campaign financing programs, and opposing Proposition 45, which would modify environmental review requirements for certain projects. Councilmember Burt supported Proposition 4 and opposed Proposition 45. Councilmember Burt proposed supporting Proposition 2, citing the impacts of state budget shortfalls on local governments, and supported Proposition 37, noting that although its direct impact in Palo Alto may be limited, it could benefit local workers and address barriers to homeownership and socioeconomic diversity. Councilmember Burt suggested opposing Proposition 39. Mayor Veenker agreed with opposing Proposition 39. Item 11 Public Comment: 1. Henry E. criticized the complexity of the ballot measures and expressed frustration with government decision-making. The commenter supported public financing of elections and eliminating private campaign contributions. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 18 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 2. Raymond G. supported Proposition 4, expressing concern that campaign fundraising disparities disadvantage candidates with limited financial resources. The commenter advocated for equal opportunities to campaign based on qualifications rather than fundraising ability. The commenter supported Proposition 40, suggesting that taxing billionaires could help fund community projects such as Cubberley. 3. Ken H. supported Measure J, emphasizing the importance of the Cubberley site for recreation, education, and the arts. The commenter expressed appreciation for the City's transparency regarding the proposed land purchase from PAUSD and encouraged residents to support the measure. 4. Remi T. supported Proposition 4, citing concerns about large campaign contributions and advocating for publicly matched small donations to increase opportunities for candidates with limited financial resources. The commenter emphasized local control over public campaign financing programs. The commenter urged City support for Proposition 40 and opposed Propositions 41 and 42, which he believed would undermine Proposition 40. 5. Nancy N. opposed Proposition 37, citing the League of Women Voters' concerns that down payment assistance would not address ongoing homeownership costs. Uncertainty regarding interest rates and monthly payments could leave buyers unable to afford their homes. 6. Aram J. (Zoom) supported Propositions 4, 37, and 40, citing campaign financing equity, homeownership assistance, and taxation of billionaires. The commenter opposed Measure J, characterizing the sales tax as regressive and expressing concern about the allocation of revenues to the General Fund and the absence of an expiration date. The commenter requested legislation banning police Tasers and canines in Palo Alto. Councilmember Lauing supported the proposed positions and offered to make the motion, with Mayor Veenker agreeing to second. Council reviewed the proposed positions, and City Attorney Christopher Jensen noted that Measure RTM should be included. Deputy City Manager Chantal Gaines confirmed Council's previous support for the measure. Mayor Veenker raised concerns about the League of Women Voters' opposition to Proposition 37. Councilmember Reckdahl noted that buyers would know their interest rates and payments before purchasing a home. Councilmember Lu acknowledged the measure's affordability benefits but expressed concerns about increased housing prices, limited applicability to new construction, and potential environmental impacts. Councilmember Lu emphasized prioritizing Measures J and RTM. Vice Mayor Stone supported Proposition 37 as an opportunity to expand homeownership and address missing middle housing. Councilmember Burt reaffirmed support for Proposition 37, noting that partial solutions could still provide benefits. Councilmember Lythcott-Haims requested reaffirming Council's previous support for Measure RTM in the motion. Mayor Veenker and Councilmember Lauing agreed. SUMMARY MINUTES Page 19 of 19 City Council Meeting Summary Minutes: 10/05/2026 MOTION: Councilmember Lauing moved, seconded by Mayor Veenker, to take the following positions based on the Legislative Guidelines and previous City Council action: • Proposition 1 – Support • Proposition 2 – Support • Proposition 4 – Support • Proposition 37 – Support • Proposition 39 – Oppose • Proposition 43 – Oppose • Proposition 45 – Oppose • Public Transit Revenue Measure District (Measure RTM) – City Council already supported • City of Palo Alto Measure J – Support MOTION PASSED: 7-0 Closed Session AA1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS Authority: Government Code Section 54956.8 Property: 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto (Informally known as the Cubberley Site) Negotiating Party: Palo Alto Unified School District City Negotiators: Ed Shikada, Kristen O'Kane, Sunny Tong Subject of Negotiations: Purchase, Exchange, and/or Lease Price and Terms of Payment Agenda Item Number AA1 was not heard. Virtual Public Comment None Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 p.m.