Belmont City Council
March 3, 2026

1. CALL TO ORDER

2. ROLL CALL

3. GENERAL BUSINESS

4. ADJOURNMENT
City Council
Special Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 Sports Complex
550 Island Parkway, Belmont CA 94002
General order of Business City Council
Julia Mates, Mayor
Cathy Jordan, Vice Mayor
Robin Pang-Maganaris, Councilmember
Gina Latimerlo, Councilmember
Tom McCune, Councilmember
Staff
Afshin Oskoui, City Manager
Scott Rennie, City Attorney
Kathy Kleinbaum, Assistant City Manager
Ken Stenquist, Police Chief
Grace Castaneda, Finance Director
Ann Ritzma, Interim Admin Services Director
Carlos deMelo, Community Development Director
Brigitte Shearer, Parks and Recreation Director
Edric Kwan, Public Works Director
Jozi Plut, City Clerk
MEETING ATTENDANCE:

Council meetings, unless otherwise noted, are broadcast live to Belmont residents on

1. Comcast Cable Channel 27

2. Streamed live via the City's website at www.Belmont.gov

3. ZOOM https://belmont-gov.zoom.us/ Meeting ID: 95745673035

4. Attend the meeting in the Council Chambers, Belmont City Hall 2nd floor PUBLIC COMMENT:

Public in the Council Chamber present the Clerk a request to speak slip found at the table at the rear of the chamber.

If participating virtually use the Raise Hand feature to request to speak.

For dial- in comments, call *67 1-(669) 900-6833 (your phone number will appear on the live broadcast if *67 is not dialed prior to the phone number) enter Meeting ID: 95745673035, and press *9 to request to speak All public comments are subject to a 3-minute time limit unless otherwise determined by the Chair.

Belmont City Council Meeting Agenda March 3, 2026
1 To submit a written public comment:

E-mail [email protected] before the Council discusses the item, noting the agenda topic or number in the subject line. Comments received up to three hours before the meeting will be distributed to the Council and included in the record but not read aloud during the meeting..

The Mayor has the authority to rule any speaker out of order, including speakers during the Public Comment period; If the subject raised is not within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council, during a public hearing or a general business item if the speaker is not presenting testimony or evidence relevant to the matter or if the speaker becomes disruptive to the proceedings and conduct of the meeting.

The Mayor also has the authority to order any person who willfully interrupts the meeting to be removed. All persons are expected to always conduct themselves with civility and courtesy. All persons giving comments shall speak directly to the Council and address issues, not individuals. Personal attacks, cursing and outbursts from the audience in support or opposition to a speaker are not tolerated to foster an environment where everyone feels welcome to speak.

LEVINE ACT:

The Levine Act (California Government Code Section 84308) limits campaign contributions that may be made to elected or appointed City officials (including councilmembers and the mayor) and certain candidates for elective city offices. The Act prohibits an agent of a party from contributing any amount to councilmember while a proceeding for a contract valued at $50,000 or more, permit, license, or other entitlement for use is pending that does not solely involve purely ministerial decisions. The Act also prohibits parties and participants in the above entitlement proceedings from contributing more than $500 during the proceeding and for 12 months after the proceeding and requires disclosure of the prohibited contributions. The Act prohibits certain officials, including local elected officials, from taking part in an entitlement proceeding if the official has received a contribution exceeding $500 from a party or participant in the proceeding within the preceding 12 months. An official is also prohibited from accepting, soliciting, or directing a contribution exceeding $500 from a party or participant in the proceeding for 12 months after a final decision is rendered in such a proceeding. The law is complex, and this brief description is not legal advice. If you or an agent have made any campaign contributions to a councilmember in the 12 months before a proceeding in which you have an interest or you are contemplating making a contribution within the 12 months after such a proceeding, you are urged to review the Levine Act and consider consulting an attorney. The California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) is responsible for administering the Levine Act. More information about the Act and its implementing regulations can be found on the FPPC’s website here:
https://www.fppc.ca.gov/learn/pay-to-play-limits-and-prohibitions.html

ACCESSIBILITY
If you need assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at (650) 595-7413. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.

AGENDA POSTING: I declare a copy of this agenda was posted at City Hall, One Twin Pines Lane, and the City's website www.Belmont.gov Date: Time: /s/:

Belmont City Council Meeting Agenda March 3, 2026
2 1. CALL TO ORDER

2. ROLL CALL

3. GENERAL BUSINESS
A. FY 2026-27 Strategic Planning Workshop and Council Recess Dates

4. ADJOURNMENT
City of Belmont
City Council Special Meeting Agenda
March 3, 2026
Sports Complex
550 Island Parkway, Belmont CA 94002

NOTICE REGARDING MEETING ATTENDENCE
This meeting WILL NOT be broadcast or streamed, public participation is Only in Person General Business items are considered separately, typically in the order listed. The chair will call for public comment on each item when the body considers the item.

Recommendation: Provide direction on the implementation of the Strategic Plan and other key department work plan priorities for Fiscal Year 2026-2027, identify are any new priorities that should be considered for next Fiscal Year and beyond, review the proposed City Council meeting dates for the remainder of the 2026 calendar year, and review the City Council Protocols and Code of Conduct
Attachments:

Staff Report
Powerpoint
2023 Strategic Plan Update
Strategic Plan Dashboard
Council Calendar
Council Protocols
Code of Ethics and Conduct
Belmont City Council Meeting Agenda March 3, 2026
3

Strategic Planning Workshop 2026 - Staff Report

STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: March 3, 2026
Agency: City of Belmont
Staff Contact: Kathy Kleinbaum, Assistant City Manager, Jozi Plut, City Clerk Agenda Title: FY 2026-27 Strategic Planning Workshop and Council Recess Dates Agenda Action: Discussion & Direction
Recommendation
Provide direction on the implementation of the Strategic Plan and other key department work plan priorities for Fiscal Year 2026-2027, identify are any new priorities that should be considered for next Fiscal Year and beyond, review the proposed City Council meeting dates for the remainder of the 2026 calendar year, and review the City Council Protocols and Code of Conduct.

Strategic Focus Area
Fiscal and Organizational Sustainability
Background
The City Council developed a five-year Strategic Plan in March 2020 following a full-day professionally facilitated workshop with the City Council and the City’s senior leadership team. The purpose of a strategic plan is to set strategic directions and determine priorities. The Council’s strategic focus provides a clear message to City staff as to what the Council aims to accomplish in the upcoming planning period.

Additionally, the plan provides valuable direction for development of the annual budget and capital improvements program, allocation of staff resources, and other important city functions.

The Strategic Plan identifies five focus areas:
• Infrastructure and Mobility
• Economic Development and Housing
• Fiscal and Organizational Sustainability
• Public Safety
• Quality of Life
The initiatives identified in these areas span across all City departments, with some initiatives requiring cross-departmental implementation. The identified initiatives include a mix of discrete actions, such as completing a specific project or program, and on-going commitments towards improvement of processes and collaboration between departments and outside partners.

Since the creation of the Strategic Plan, the City has held annual Strategic Planning Sessions to review progress on the plan, provide updates on staff work plans for the upcoming year, and to identify any new City Council priorities or initiatives to add to or augment the plan. In March 2023, the City amended the Strategic Plan to reflect on the accomplishment of the first 3 years of the plan and to adjust the plan for 4

Strategic Planning Workshop 2026 - Staff Report
unanticipated changes, including those brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath.

The Strategic Plan dashboard, included as Attachment C, shows the progress to date. Note that for the first time, staff has marked all on-going initiatives, which comprise roughly half of the total initiatives in the Strategic Plan, as “Complete” provided that continuous work is being done to further them. Of the 67 initiatives listed on the plan, 42 (or 63%) are complete or on-going tasks that have been incorporated into our workplans and 22 (or 33%) are on-target and are in the process of being completed. Only 3 initiatives of the 67 (4%) have not yet been initiated to date due to lack of staff or financial resources.

Some of the major accomplishments to date from the Strategic Plan include:
• Adoption and State certification of the 2023-2031 Housing Element • Adoption of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan • Completion of the updated 5-Year Pavement Plan and successful implementation of the annual Pavement Rehabilitation Projects
• Adoption of the Sewer Master Plan
• Completion of the Belmont Creek Restoration project
• Adoption of the Business License Tax update
• Creation of the staff BOLD Committee to enhance connections to the community and bridge relationships among staff
• Enhanced public outreach through updated communication tools and the creation of the Police Community Academy and the Civics Academy
The City is now entering into our sixth year of implementing the 5-year Strategic Plan. While some work plan items have taken longer to be implemented as a result of the pandemic and/or lack of resources (both staff and financial), the City has made substantial progress on much of the plan. Staff recommends that the City undertake an in-depth process next fiscal year to create a new Strategic Plan that can carry the City forward for 2027-2032. This process will likely require a longer, facilitated session with the City Council, likely starting earlier in the year in January, with follow-up reviews at subsequent City Council meetings to complete the new plan.

Analysis
Strategic Planning Workshop
The Strategic Planning Workshop will take on a slightly different format this year. The workshop will commence with a brief overview of the City’s economic outlook and budgetary forecast. Following that presentation, the workshop will transition to updates from each City Department on their key workplan initiatives for the next fiscal year, including both those that are part of the Strategic Plan and ones that have arisen since the plan was adopted.

Staff will not be highlighting our major accomplishments over the past year, since those have been recently covered in the Year in Review presentation made at the December 9, 2025 City Council meeting. In addition, instead of holding the City Council discussion on the Strategic Plan initiatives at the end of the meeting, the City Council will be given an opportunity to provide questions and comments and discuss 5

Strategic Planning Workshop 2026 - Staff Report
potential new initiatives after each Department’s presentation. This adjustment will allow for the Strategic Planning session to be more interactive and for the Departments to get more targeted feedback on their workplans.

City Council 2026 Meeting Schedule
At the Strategic Planning session, the City Council reviews the City Council meeting schedule for the remainder of the calendar year. The City Council has traditionally canceled at least one or two meetings for a summer recess in either July or August. Additionally, the City Council typically only holds a singular meeting in December on the second Tuesday of the month. Please note that November 2026 is a general election year with the Mayor and Belmont District 1 and 3 Council seats up for reelection. Candidate nomination filing period opens on July 13 and closes on August 7.

Staff recommends that the City Council consider canceling one or more of the following meeting dates:
• July 28
• August 11
• August 25
• December 22
Standing Council Meeting Schedule (2026)
• Standing meetings will be scheduled on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month in 2026. • There are no U.S. federal or California state holidays on these Tuesdays in 2026. • October 13, 2026 (2nd Tuesday) coincides with Sukkot (Jewish holiday); participants observing may be unavailable.
• December 22, 2026 (4th Tuesday) is the start of Hanukkah at sundown; • December 25 to January 1, 2027 is the proposed City Hall holiday closure. • Meetings will proceed as scheduled unless otherwise noticed; individual conflicts should be communicated to the City Clerk’s Office as early as possible.

Annual Review of City Council Protocols and Code of Conduct The City Council Protocols were originally adopted in August 2016 and most recently updated in March 2025. The Code of Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials was amended by the Council most recently in March 2024, which included augmenting the description of the role of and appointment process for advisory bodies and nature of appointments among other modifications. No revisions are being proposed by staff for Council consideration, unless otherwise directed by the City Council.

Legislative Requirements Effective January 2026 and July 1, 2026 Staff will return to the City Council with a future agenda item outlining the requirements of Senate Bill 707 (SB 707) and the associated amendments to the Brown Act, which become effective July 1, 2026.

The forthcoming report will detail the City’s proposed implementation plan, including requirements for two-way telephonic or audiovisual remote public access, translation and multilingual agenda accessibility, and adoption of a Council procedure addressing disruption of telephonic or internet services during meetings. The report will also evaluate operational, technological, staffing, and fiscal impacts to the legislative body and provide recommendations to ensure compliance while maintaining effective and 6

Strategic Planning Workshop 2026 - Staff Report
accessible public participation.

Additionally, Staff will return to the City Council with information regarding Senate Bill 827 (SB 827), which expands existing ethics training requirements for local agency officials and establishes new biennial fiscal and financial training obligations. Beginning January 1, 2026, newly appointed or elected officials must complete their initial ethics training within six months of assuming office, and all covered officials, including department heads and members of legislative bodies, will be required to complete at least two hours of fiscal and financial training every two years. Staff will outline recommended implementation procedures, tracking methods, and any administrative impacts necessary to ensure compliance.

Alternatives

1. Request additional work plan items to be added or removed from the Strategic Plan or department work plans.

Attachments
A. Power Point Presentation
B. 2023 Strategic Plan Update
C. Dashboard of Key Strategic Objectives and Supporting Initiatives Deliverables D. Council Calendar (Summer Break, December Holiday and City Events) E. City Council Protocols
F. Code of Ethics and Conduct
Fiscal Impact
☒ No Fiscal Impact
This is a strategic planning session. Any new initiatives that are added will need to be reviewed for budgetary impact and will be included in the fiscal year 2026-27 budget proposal. ☐ Funding Source Confirmed:

Source: Purpose: Public Outreach:

Staff Council Vision/Priority Posting of Agenda
7 FY 2027 Strategic Planning Workshop
March 2, 2026
8 Agenda
• Strategic Planning Workshop Structure
• Economic Overview & Budgetary Forecast
• Strategic Plan Progress to Date
• Department Presentations & Discussion
• Provide direction on Strategic Plan and Department Work Plan Priorities
• Consider proposed 2026 Council Meeting Schedule
• Legislative Requirements Update
• Provide Direction on any Updates to Council Protocols and Code of Conduct
9 Strategic Planning Workshop Structure
• Economic outlook and budget forecast outlook
• Strategic Plan progress update
• Fiscal Year 2027 work plan priorities
• 2025 Accomplishments recap – featured in the
Year in Review magazine and video
• Department major initiatives – highlights of the
Strategic Plan priorities additional key projects
• Council discussion & feedback – opportunity for
questions following each department update
10 Economic Overview & Budgetary Forecast
11 Economist’s Update
AI Investment Sustains Growth as the U.S. Economy Slows • AI infrastructure spending has surged past $405B, offsetting broader economic softening via tariffinduced inflation, policy-driven uncertainty, and a weakening labor market • GDP growth slows into early 2026, then impacts of OBBBA fiscal stimulus to kick in • High-productivity sectors (AI, aerospace, advanced manufacturing) continue to expand while construction, retail, and hospitality struggle from federal spending reductions and elevated input costs • Unemployment rate persists above 5%
• Early effects of deportation policies contribute to workforce shortages, elevated costs, and high interest rates slow residential development
Source: UCLA Anderson Forecast
California Faces a Two-Speed Economy
Labor and Housing Constraints Weigh on the Recovery
12 Governor’s Proposed FY 2026-27 Budget
• $348.9B – Investing in California’s
Values
• Legislative Analyst’s Office:

Underlying condition of state
budget is “roughly balanced”
while forecasting multiyear
budget shortfalls
 $248.3 billion from the
General Fund, $93.7
billion from special
funds, and $6.9 billion
from bond funds
13 Demographic Factors
Population: 28,206 and 
Source: State DoF
Office vacancy: 20.4% and 
Square footage asking prices (Class A)
$5.73 and 
Source: Colliers
Inflation: 3% and  for
Region
Source: BLS
Interest rates: 4.03% and
Source: LAIF State Treasurer

14 Demographic Factors
Source: California Employment Development Department
0%
2%
4%
6%
8%
2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Unemployment %
Unemployment Statistics
California San Mateo County
15 Belmont Assessed Valuation
Source: San Mateo County Assessor Combined Tax Rolls
5-Year Average = 6.3%
$8.0 $8.4
$9.1 $9.6 $10.2

6.50%

4.30%

8.82%

5.62%

6.25%

0.0%

1.0%

2.0%

3.0%

4.0%

5.0%

6.0%

7.0%

8.0%

9.0%

10.0%
$0.0
$5.0
$10.0
$15.0
$20.0
2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Billions
Assessed Valuation Growth
16 Where Does the Property Tax Go?
* General Fund Reality - The City receives just seven cents of every property tax dollar to fund public safety, parks, streets, and community services.

Source: San Mateo County Assessor 2024/25 Annual Tax Increment Tables School Districts
42%
San Mateo County
13%
Belmont Fire
Protection District
16%
Educational Revenue
Augmentation
Fund
13% All
Others
9%
City’s General
Fund
7%*
17 General Fund Summary
Source: FY 2024-25 Actuals
Property Tax
40%
Sales Tax (Local
1%)
12%
TOT
13%
BLT
4%
Service Charges
13%
Franchises
5% Miscellaneous
10%
Salaries &
Wages
37%
Benefits
25%
Operating
26%
Transfer Out
12%
Resources Requirements
18 General Fund
Comparison of General Fund Balance as of June 30, 2025 (in millions) $38
$58
$120
$76
$63
$120
$34
$-
$20
$40
$60
$80
$100
$120
$140
Burlingame San Mateo Foster City Belmont** San Carlos Redwood City* Menlo Park Measure I
General Fund
*June 30, 2025 data is not currently available, the amounts shown are as of June 30, 2024. **Belmont’s General Fund balance as of June 30, 2025 was $34M; Measure I Fund balance was $3.6M. 19 $7,542
$4,214
$5,085
$3,289
$5,598
$6,755 $6,540
$-
$1,000
$2,000
$3,000
$4,000
$5,000
$6,000
$7,000
$8,000
Burlingame San Mateo Foster City Belmont Redwood City San Carlos Menlo Park Local Transaction Tax/Measure I
Miscellaneous
Service Charges
Transient Occupancy Tax
Sales & Use Taxes
Property Tax
7-city average of
$5,575
General Fund Revenues per Household Comparison
*“Miscellaneous" includes Licensing Fees, Real Estate Transfer Tax, Licenses and Permits, Intergovernmental Sources, Fines and Forfeitures, Interest and Rent Income, and other.

Belmont’s General Fund balance excludes Measure I funding. Measure I revenue is shown in the chart for comparison purpose. 20 Next Steps
Focus on operational efficiencies and value-added services Continue to engage the community to identify community service priorities Focus on diversification of locally-controlled revenues, long-term fiscal sustainability; prevent cuts to critical services
Explore new/enhanced revenue sources to ensure community resiliency 21 NEXT STEPS - Key Challenges Ahead

ECONOMIC & REVENUE UNCERTAINTY

NATIONAL POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY

REVENUE STABILITY RISKS

STATE FUNDING UNCERTAINTY

DEFERRED CAPITAL NEEDS

AGING PUBLIC FACILITIES

STORM & DRAINAGE INFRASTRUCTURE

BALANCING CAPITAL AND OPERATING COSTS

REGULATORY & HOUSING PRESSURES

RISING COMPLIANCE COSTS

STATE HOUSING LAW IMPLEMENTATION

LONG-TERM FISCAL IMPACTS
Despite these challenges, the
City continues to be fiscally
responsible and invest in our
community through essential
programs, services, and
infrastructure improvements.
22 Questions & Discussion
23 Strategic Plan Progress
24 City Policy & Planning Framework
Aligning Long-Range Vision with Annual Implementation
General Plan
20–30 Years
Long-range land
use &
community
vision
CIP & Master
Plans
5–10 Years
Capital
investment &
service planning
Strategic Plan
3–5 Years
Organizational
objectives &
performance
goals
Council Priorities
& Budget
1–2 Years
Policy focus &
resource
allocation
Operational
Plans
1–2 Years
Department
work plans &
delivery
All layers build upon one another to support
Community & Organizational Success
25 Departmental Work Programs
Essential
Services
Strategic
Initiatives
We can do anything,
but we can’t do
everything!
Work Planning Principle
Core services are delivered first.

Strategic initiatives are
advanced based on Council
priorities, capacity, and
available resources.
26 Strategic Plan Status & Accountability Framework
 Strategic Plan Framework. Adopted in 2020 and updated in 2023 to guide policy direction and organizational priorities.
 Pandemic Impacts. Certain initial implementation timelines were adjusted due to COVID-19 operational disruptions.
 Future Planning Horizon. Staff proposes development of an updated fiveyear Strategic Plan commencing in 2027.  Performance Dashboard. Tracks 66 initiatives across five Strategic Focus Areas to support transparency and oversight.
 Nature of Initiatives. Approximately half represent ongoing service commitments without discrete start or end dates.
 Reporting Methodology. Ongoing initiatives with active implementation are reflected as “completed” for tracking purposes to demonstrate sustained execution. 27
Status of Strategic Plan
• Completed Initiatives - Majority are complete or ongoing efforts actively being implemented
• On-Target Initiatives - Initiatives that are underway and progressing, including those with delayed starts
• Delayed Initiatives – Not yet initiated due to resources or capacity constraints
o Sewer Policy Updates – Planned to start in 2026
o City Facilities Assessment – Pending initiation
o Update Economic Development Strategic Plan – Pending initiation 28 29
Department Presentations & Discussion
30 Public Works
31 Strategic Plan Initiatives
• Advance Implementation of the Alameda de las Pulgas Corridor Plan to complete remaining design and move corridor improvements toward construction through a phased approach. 32 Strategic Plan Initiatives
• Develop a Comprehensive Transportation Master Plan to improve safety, connectivity, and sustainability for pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and drivers through data analysis and community engagement.
33 Strategic Plan Initiatives
• Advance the Stormwater Master Plan toward City Council consideration to guide long-term infrastructure investment, flood mitigation, and regulatory compliance. 34 Strategic Plan Initiatives
• Advance the Twin Pines Park Stormwater Detention Basin Project to complete design, secure permits and funding, and reduce downstream flooding along Belmont Creek. 35 Other Key Initiatives
Advance Sewer, Stormwater, and Climate Resilience Goals • Participate in the Five Cities Regional Shoreline
Adaptation Plan (RSAP) to support coordinated
shoreline protection and climate adaptation planning.
• Engage in Negotiation of the Municipal Regional
Stormwater Permit (MRP 4.0) through stakeholder
workshops and regulatory coordination.

Other Key Public Works Initiatives
• Formalize and Enhance Public Works Standard
Operating Procedures (SOPs) to document existing best
practices, improve consistency, update workflows, and fill identified gaps.
• Update City Standard Details to reflect current materials, construction methods, and industry best practices.

RSAP
36 Questions & Discussion
37 Community Development
38 Strategic Plan Initiatives
• Complete Harbor Industrial Area (HIA)
Specific Plan
o Confirm approach to development
standards
o Complete technical studies
o Complete fiscal impact analysis
o Public Review of Draft Plan
o Circulation of Environmental Impact
Report (EIR)
o Initiate Harbor Industrial Area (HIA)
Annexation process with LAFCO
39 Strategic Plan Initiatives
• Complete General Plan Safety Element Update
o Public Review Draft – Spring 2026
o Planning Commission and City Council Study Sessions
o Community Open House
o Approval hearings – target Summer 2026
• Continue R-C Zoning District Amendments
o Kickoff Environmental Impact Report (EIR) this month
o Continue work on Zoning Text Amendments based on
past Council feedback
o Public review of the EIR anticipated in 2027
Natural
Hazards
Climate
Change
Hazards
Public
Safety
40 Other Key Initiatives
• Process Improvements and Customer Service Focus
o Right-size permit and entitlement fees
o Improve available information and on-line resources
• Update Single Family Review Process
o Implement past Council direction to reduce number of
additions that require Planning Commission approval
o Zoning Ordinance Amendments anticipated mid 2026
o Streamline process for applicants
o Preserve neighborhood notification
• Update Multifamily Housing Review Process
o Coordinate with other cities on approach to implementing new State housing laws
o Determine appropriate community notification
o Zoning Ordinance Amendments anticipated late 2026
41 Other Key Initiatives
• State Law Implementation – Housing Projects
o Work with colleague cities and legal counsel
o Explore Planning Commission’s role in approval of streamlined housing projects o Update planning review process
o Implement Zoning Ordinance amendments
o Maintain local influence and collaboration where possible while complying with law • Housing Element Implementation
o Update Zoning Ordinance – ADUs and SB 9
o Target late 2026 start
42 Questions & Discussion
43 City Manager's Office
44 Strategic Plan Initiatives
• Housing Element Implementation
o Evaluation housing policies related to tenant
protections and unit preservation
o Inclusionary Zoning Policy Update – part of
Countywide effort
o Continued facilitation of affordable housing
pipeline projects
• Climate Action and Adaptation Plan development
• Communications Strategic Plan Implementation
• Update of Economic Development Plan – Delayed
due to staffing resources and shifting economic
conditions
45 Other Key Initiatives
• Leadership transitions at the department level
• Centennial Celebration
• Supporting community proposals
• Sponsorship management
• Major events throughout the year
• Updated public meeting requirements under SB
707
• Records management and digitization
• 2026 Election
• Mayor, Districts 1 and 3
• Potential Citizen-initiated ballot measure
46 Questions & Discussion
47 Parks, Recreation, & Culture
48 Strategic Plan Initiatives
Parks & Facilities – Stay the Course!
• Parks & Open Space
o PROS Plan implementation
project – Oak Knoll
o Trail maintenance
o Gathering space in Twin Pines
o Vegetation Management
o Hallmark Pathway
• Facilities
o EV charging installation
o Fire station gate
o Library HVAC
o Meadow stage
o Suite 105
49 Other Key Initiatives
• Regular Programming Enhancements
• Lunar New Year, Teen Wellness Retreat, Memory
Café, Spring Festival/ Open House at Barrett, free
events at the Manor
• Community Center Outreach
• Imagine Together II
• Potential Ballot measure education
• Centennial Support
• Podcasts
• Art project(s)
• Special event(s)
Recreation & Culture – Stay the Course
50 Questions & Discussion
51 Administrative Services
52 Strategic Plan Initiatives
• Modernize Personnel Policies & Regulations
o Update Personnel Rules – Complete review and secure Council adoption to ensure legal compliance and organizational alignment
• Strengthen Workforce Development & Compliance
o Enhance Employee Training & Compliance – Expand development opportunities and maintain required training and certifications
• Website Redesign and Resident Engagement Tools – Enhance digital services • IT Strategic Plan Implementation:
o Unified Communications Upgrade (UCaaS) – Modernize the City’s legacy phone system and improve reliability and mobility
o ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) Readiness – Prepare processes, data, and staff for future ERP implementation
o Website Redesign & Engagement Tools – Improve accessibility and mobile experience and launch AI chatbot for 24/7 resident support 53
Other Key Initiatives
Attract & Retain Top
Talent
Recruitment & Hiring
Improvements –
Strengthen processes to
attract and retain top
talent, update job
descriptions, and
enhance the candidate
experience
Advance Asset
Management
Systems
Asset Management
System Evaluation –
Explore modern
solutions to improve
lifecycle tracking,
maintenance planning,
and capital decisionmaking
Responsible AI
Framework
AI Governance &
Implementation –
Develop safeguards,
train staff, and ensure
ethical, secure, and
effective AI use
54 Questions & Discussion
55 Finance
56 Strategic Plan Initiatives
Update Master Fee Schedule - Ensure appropriate cost recovery for development reviews, facilities and city services.

Update Development Impact Fees - Reassess Traffic Impact and Parks Impact and In-Lieu Fees to reflect current and future development related infrastructure and service costs.

Review Sewer Service Charges. Partner with Public Works to evaluate cost of service and adjust rates as needed.

Cost Recovery & Financial Sustainability Analysis - Assess longterm funding alignment for programs, services, and events.

Belmont Community Center Funding Strategy - Explore viable funding options to support long-term operations and capital needs.
57 Questions & Discussion
58 Belmont Police Department
59 Strategic Plan Initiatives
Advance Public Safety Communication and Technology - Modernize aging infrastructure and leverage technology to strengthen communication, improve productivity, and enhance operational efficiency.

Strengthen Leadership Succession & Stability – Develop leadership capacity to ensure smooth transitions and sustained organizational and community stability.

Deepen Community Trust & Engagement - Expand innovative opportunities for public dialogue to build trust and encourage meaningful community participation.

Strengthen Community Safety & Emergency Preparedness -
Strengthen crime prevention and enforcement efforts while enhancing emergency readiness to protect residents and build community resilience.
60 Questions & Discussion
61 Other Business
62 Legislative Requirements
Key Requirements of SB 707 (Open Meetings/Brown Act):

Effective July 1, 2026, and set to expire on January 1, 2030 Hybrid Meeting Mandate: All open meetings must offer 2-way telephonic or audiovisual access for public participation
• Disruption Policy & Action - Agencies must approve a procedure to handle technical failures.

If remote access fails, the meeting must be recessed for at least one hour, with a good-faith effort to restore service before resuming
• Remote Participation for Members - Members may participate remotely for "just cause" or emergencies
• Enhanced Accessibility - Real-time subtitling is required for live-streamed meetings to aid those who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Notice and Posting - Special meeting notices must be posted on agency websites • Public Participation - The public must be able to attend, observe, and participate in person or remotely 63
Legislative Requirements
Key Requirements for Legislative Bodies under SB 827 – Expanded Mandatory Training On Both Ethics And Fiscal And Financial Training
• Mandatory Scope --Applies to local agency officials - including city, county, and special district officials, as well as designated employees—who receive compensation, salary, or stipend. • New Training Topic-- In addition to existing ethics training, this new requirement focuses on fiscal and financial training
• Deadlines-- Officials in office before January 1, 2026, must complete training by January 1, 2028; New officials starting on or after January 1, 2026, have six months to complete it • Frequency -- The training must be renewed every two years • Content -- Topics include municipal budgeting, debt management, financial reporting, and the ethical stewardship of public resources
• Recordkeeping -- Local agencies must maintain records for at least five years 64 Review of City Council Protocols & Code of Conduct
 City Council Protocols and Code of Conduct are intended to guide Council and Commission operations and interactions.
 Council is asked to review the current protocols and code.  Discussion Points:
 Are there any areas needing clarifications or updates?  Are there any new elements the Council would like to incorporate?  Council feedback will guide potential revision, if any, for future adoption or updates.
65 2026 Council Meeting Schedule
2026 Council Meeting Schedule Considerations
 Standing Meeting Schedule 2nd & 4th Tuesdays
 No federal or CA state holiday conflicts in 2026
 Holiday Closure: Dec 25, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027
 Election Year: Candidate nomination filing
period:

July 13 – August 7
 Election Date: Tue, Nov 3, 2026
Council Recess Considerations:
o Summer Recess
 July 21
 August 11
 August 25
o Winter Recess
 Dec. 22, 2026 66
Thank you!
belmont.gov
67 202 0

STRATEGIC PLAN

CITY OF
2 0 2 0 STRATEGIC PLAN
2023 UPDATE
68 2
To the Belmont Community
In the three years since Belmont’s City Council and its Executive Leadership participated in a community visioning and strategic planning workshop, we have rolled up our sleeves and met significant milestones despite the health, economic, and weather-related challenges we have faced. We’re far from done, but our unified leadership, talented workforce, and involved community has proven the vision of our strategic plans.

When we initially started our strategic planning on March 11, 2020, we could not anticipate that a global health crisis was forming a storm cloud and our continued vigilance over our financial stability was vital.

We knew we would have to be intentional and thoughtful about how we continued to provide our quality services which the community is accustomed to, while allocating resources to align with our vision and goals to continue with the effective use of your tax dollars.

Our planning efforts to address Belmont’s critical issues in 2020 generated five Strategic Focus Areas that allowed us to build on our continued momentum and success. Those focus areas gave us a roadmap for action over the last three years, as highlighted below, and continue to guide us as we look ahead to the next two years of our five-year plan.

In three years, we have moved the needle of our housing element with the development of transitoriented housing and the approval of more in the next few years. We have increased mobility on our roads by improving our Pavement Condition Index, pedestrian and bicycle safety, installing real-time signal technology to unclog our regular commutes, and built important partnerships with our neighboring cities on shared multi-modal corridor projects that affect neighbors in and outside our city boundaries.

We have been focused on pursuing climate change adaptation and resilient infrastructure programs and services. We’ve prioritized our community’s enjoyment of Belmont’s outdoors and invested in the maintenance of our parks, open spaces, and community facilities. We’ve earned recognition for our award-winning budget and shown decisive caretaking of our assets and earned the citizenry’s approval of tax ballot measures. We’ve designed roles and added staff to our team who are dedicated to community engagement and external communication, and we’ve continued to build community goodwill with our efforts toward public safety, neighborhood connections and outdoor activities open to all.

Economic Public Safety
Development
& Housing
Fiscal &
Organizational
Sustainability
Infrastructure Quality of Life
& Mobility
2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 269
We have continued to provide regular updates to the Council and community on each focus area and initiatives through each fiscal year. We look ahead now to the continued advancement of the plans set in 2020, but with an eye toward the years that follow and the renewed goals we will set. Our City Council, our Executive Leadership, and every member of staff take great pride in their stewardship of Belmont, and it is my pleasure to witness these achievements come to life every day.

Belmont remains a thriving and sustainable community for all. As we lean into the future our goal is to keep Belmont as a hallmark of where life is lived: thriving and sustainable community for all; a place where people can safely live, work and play. We look forward to your continued support and participation.

Respectfully Yours,
Afshin Oskoui, P.E., PWLF
City Manager
2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 370
3 Definitions

MISSION
VISION
VALUES

STRATEGIC

FOCUS AREAS
GOALS

OBJECTIVES
Purpose or reason for being
4 Fundamental beliefs or guiding principles that drive
our behaviors
Specific and measurable actions to achieve the goal
Desired result or endpoint needed to support each
Strategic Focus Area
Broad, most critical areas of focus for the continuing
success and sustainability of the city
Aspirations; picture of our desired future
2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 471
4 MISSION
VISION
VALUES
To enrich the quality of life with
our community with the services
provided for a safe, fulfilling and
vibrant life
We are celebrated for enhancing:
• Distinctive community character
• Easy mobility
• Natural beauty
• Thriving culture
• Thriving economy
• Our community — our top priority
• Our employees — our most important resource
• Honesty, integrity, respect, equity, and ethics
• Community engagement
• Open and transparent government
• Fiscal responsibility
• Quality services
• Continuous improvement
• Teamwork and partnerships

STRATEGIC
FOCUS AREAS • Infrastructure & mobility
• Economic development & housing
• Fiscal & organizational sustainability
• Public safety
• Quality of life
5 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 572
GOALS

OBJECTIVES
5 A transportation, facilities, and infrastructure system that maintains and improves our community to meet current
and future demand, and climate action goals
Enhance multi-modal transportation

1. Complete Ralston Corridor Plan Phase 3

2. Complete Design Ralston Corridor Plan Phase 4

3. Implement Alameda de las Pulgas Corridor Plan

4. Continue to identify and address trends to inform traffic management approach and solutions through PTSC process (3Es) and Mobility/Capital Plans

5. Develop a Transportation Master Plan that addresses how significant new development, mobility, traffic congestion, and infrastructure can be managed for all modes of transportation

6. Develop a residential Traffic Calming Policy, update Speed Cushion Policy, and update the Sidewalk Installation Policy Advance pavement and street improvements

1. Continue maintaining and repairing the City’s 140 lane miles of roads through the rolling 5-year community-wide street pavement maintenance program through the judicious use of funds while seeking additional funding opportunities

2. Update the 2024 Citywide Pavement Condition Assessment (PCI report) Start

3. Five-year Pavement Preservation Plan

4. Complete construction on the 2023 Pavement Reconstruction Project

5. Complete construction on the 2024 Slurry Seal Project

6. Complete construction on the 2025 Pavement Rehabilitation Project

7. Complete construction on the 2026 Pavement Rehabilitation Project

INFRASTRUCTURE
& MOBILITY

STRATEGIC

FOCUS AREA
6 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 673

OBJECTIVES
7 Advance sewer and storm system improvements

1. Complete updates to Sewer and Stormwater Master Plans

2. North Road Pump Station & Force Main Rehabilitation Project, Reconstruct Hiller Pump Station

3. El Camino Capacity Improvement Project

4. Develop point of sale sewer lateral inspection ordinance and other related sewer system policy updates

5. Advance priority stormwater repair, climate resiliency priority projects, and repairs (Measure I)

6. Belmont Creek Restoration & Detention Basin Projects Advance improvements at parks, athletic fields, and buildings

1. Continue progress with the Belmont Community Center facility replacement project

2. Examine the City’s long-term facilities and infrastructure condition and needs

3. Continue progress in addressing Fire Station #15 funding and replacement needs
Advance climate action and adaptation goals

1. Complete evaluation of the progress with 2017 Climate Action Plan and prepare an update to the plan

2. Continue with urban forestry, fire, and hazard mitigation projects

3. Complete the City’s Safety Element Update

4. Continue to address the City’s fleet renewal plan to meet climate action goals
2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 774
GOALS

OBJECTIVES
6 Local business and land use policies that promote economic development, vibrant mixed-use centers, and diversity of housing choices
Support local economic development strategies

1. Reevaluate the City’s economic development plan which includes strategies and policies that increase the quality of life for residents

2. Collaborate with community partners, including Chamber San Mateo County, SAMCEDA, government and educational
institutions, and business community leaders to support economic development

3. Revisit the scope and approach to commercial cannabis implementation
Implement a balanced land use vision incorporating economic opportunities, housing goals, and programs

1. Ensure land use policies and practices support a diversity of housing choices, leverage existing affordable housing assets, and increase options for affordable housing

2. Review the General Plan and zoning and ensure alignment with our housing & economic development plans/vision and evaluate Economic Activity Hubs

3. Engage in long range/advanced planning projects to facilitate TOD related housing and economic development and establish a specific Plan Area for the Unincorporated Harbor Industrial Association (HIA)

4. Study and recommend changes related to Island Park
Development and Regional Commercial Zoning Amendments

5. Prepare and implement the 2023-2031 Housing Element in compliance with new housing laws

6. Coordinate multi-department/stakeholder team to address timely major development applications (e.g. CD, PW, CA, ED&H)

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
& HOUSING

STRATEGIC

FOCUS AREA
8 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 875
GOALS

OBJECTIVES
7 Ensure financial stability, quality city services delivered through our employees, and investment in our organizational development Ensure fiscal and revenue sustainability

1. Maximize and update existing sources of revenue and efficiencies, identify new revenue sources to maintain financial stability, conduct routine evaluation of city fees and update as needed

2. Prioritize implementation of economic opportunities initiatives such as new development related community benefits

3. Invest in systems and process to promote innovation, effectiveness, and financial stewardship

4. Secure ongoing funding for sewer, storm, streets, facilities, and parks to address deferred maintenance and future capital needs along with a plan to support critical public services

5. Use Measure I/SB1 and leverage outside funding opportunities to advance infrastructure projects

6. Study the benefits and opportunity to update the City’s business license tax for voter consideration

7. Secure funding to address future annexation of the Harbor Industrial Area (HIA)
Strengthen organizational development

1. Develop recommendations and implementation work plan to address talent management, succession planning, workforce planning, and employee/career development

2. Review and update as needed the City’s personnel policies to ensure they reflect best practices in diversity and inclusion

3. Lead on DEI efforts within City government and in the community

4. Provide equipment, technology and resources to employees to ensure high level of service delivery to our community through IT Strategic Plan

FISCAL &

ORGANIZATIONAL

SUSTAINABILITY

STRATEGIC

FOCUS AREA
9 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 976

OBJECTIVES
10 5. Create a culture that assures employees are valued, that leadership promotes innovation, creative problem solving, outstanding customer service, and encourages employee
engagement

6. Develop and capture institutional knowledge documenting processes and procedures in anticipation of retirements and turnover to ensure continuity of services to the community, and opportunity to improve those processes and procedures
2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 1077
GOALS

OBJECTIVES
8 Forward-thinking public safety services aligned with community needs through civic engagement, partnerships, and
public education
Ensure seamless public safety services – Police and Fire

1. Maintain strong community outreach and align public safety services that are reflective of community culture and priorities

2. Focus on improved Public Safety by delivering quality programs and services

3. Strengthen and align problem-oriented policing services to focus on youth, mental health, and unhoused with focus on compassionate care
Strengthen emergency preparedness

1. Strengthen emergency response through continued coordination with the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department

2. Fully implement community risk reduction software platforms and leverage technology to enhance communication through webbased software and communication devices

3. Collaborate with the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department to reduce risk in areas susceptible to wildland fires and establish abatement standards and enforcement tools along with
educational outreach

PUBLIC SAFETY STRATEGIC

FOCUS AREA
11 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 1178
GOALS

OBJECTIVES
9 Engage the community in maintaining and enhancing Belmont’s character and quality of life
Improve Parks & Recreation facilities and programs

1. Refresh Belmont Community Center Master Plan

2. Complete Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan

3. Deliver accessible, inclusive services, programs, and facilities for all ages in our community
Create diverse and unique community spaces

1. Promote an environment that encourages arts; consider art in public places and within new development

2. Explore funding and creative solutions for place-making within public spaces for all ages

3. Design and implement a city branding effort, inclusive of community signage/wayfinding and gateway features in line with GP/BVSP objectives

4. Develop public streetscape design standards to enhance placemaking in Belmont Village Specific Plan Foster meaningful community dialogue

1. Continue progress with the City’s comprehensive public information and engagement strategy

2. Provide timely, accurate information that is easy to access and understand, and facilitate public participation in open meetings

3. Provide opportunity for resident leadership and participation, such as through commissions and advisory/ad hoc groups

4. Maximize use of available tools to reach our community and foster goodwill on digital platforms through printed messaging and meeting our community where it is receiving its news

5. Conduct outreach and community education about city services, areas of cost, and financial resources

QUALITY OF LIFE STRATEGIC

FOCUS AREA
12 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 1279
10 VISION STATEMENT
Distinctive community character
• Belmont prides itself on being unique.
• Its small-town ambiance sets it apart as a
tranquil, inclusive, safe, and desirable place to
live, work and play.
• We get involved in town matters because we
care about living here.
• We connect with each other in all kinds of
gathering places.
• We value and celebrate a strong commitment
to diversity, inclusion, safety, equality and
dignity for all individuals in Belmont.
• Our strong sense of community and enjoyment
of the town’s assets and activities deepen as
we become better informed and connected.

Easy mobility
• We put a priority on getting out of, into, and
through town efficiently.
• Bicyclists, walkers, and other non-drivers get
where they’re going easily and safely.
• We require safe residential streets and
smooth-flowing thoroughfares.

Natural beauty
• We choose to make our home among these
beautiful hills, trees, parks, views, and open
spaces.
• Our natural surroundings inspire us to play,
create, and contemplate.
• Our actions today preserve and enhance
Belmont’s beauty to make it even lovelier for
future generations.
• Our wooded residential areas are diverse,
peaceful, and well-maintained.

Thriving culture
• Belmont is a wonderfully safe, culturally
diverse and supportive place to raise a family.
• We facilitate lifelong learning in our academic,
artistic, athletic, and social dimensions and we
thrive on interconnection with the rest of the
world.
• Our schools and library are the pride of the
community.
• Our university is intrinsic to Belmont’s social,
artistic and economic life.
• Our playgrounds and athletic fields are of high
quality and in high gear.
• The arts thrive in this creative, appreciative
town — the arts hub of the Peninsula.
• Our history makes Belmont what it is, and we
preserve that heritage for our children.

Thriving economy
• A charming, vibrant town center is the heart
of our civic and economic life.
• Our economy prospers with a mix of
attractive, successful businesses that fit with
our community character.
• We look first into our town shops and
restaurants for what we need.
• Education, arts, and the economy flourish in
concert.
13 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 1380
11 Plan Adoption (2020)
Mayor and City Council
Warren Lieberman, Mayor
Charles Stone, Vice Mayor
Davina Hurt, Councilmember
Julia Mates, Councilmember
Tom McCune, Councilmember
Executive Leadership
Afshin Oskoui, City Manager
Scott Rennie, City Attorney
Thomas Fil, Finance Director
Cora Dino, Human Resources Director
John Jones, Information Technology Director
Carlos de Melo, Community Development
Director
Brigitte Shearer, Parks & Recreation Director
Peter Brown, Public Works Director
Tony Psaila, Police Chief
Ray Iverson, Fire Chief, San Mateo
Consolidated Fire
Staff
Terri Cook, City Clerk
Jennifer Rose, Economic Development &
Housing Manager
Nawel Voelker, Finance Department
Jozi Plut, City Clerk & Communications, CMO
Facilitator
Michele Tamayo, Tamayo Group, Inc.

Graphic Design
JPW Communications
Mayor and City Council
Julia Mates, Mayor
Davina Hurt, Vice Mayor
Tom McCune, Councilmember
Gina Latimerlo, Councilmember
Robin Pang-Maganaris, Councilmember
Executive Leadership
Afshin Oskoui, City Manager
Scott Rennie, City Attorney
Grace Castaneda, Finance Director
Carlos de Melo, Community Development
Director
Brigitte Shearer, Parks & Recreation Director,
DEI Officer
Peter Brown, Public Works Director
Kenneth Stenquist, Police Chief
Kent Thrasher, Fire Chief, San Mateo
Consolidated Fire
Staff
Jozi Plut, City Clerk & Communications, CMO
Jennifer Rose, Economic Development &
Housing Manager
Kellie Benz, Communications & Community
Engagement, CMO
Facilitator
Andy Pendoley, The Centre for Organizational
Effectiveness
Plan Updates (2023)
14 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN 2023 UPDATE 1481
City Hall
One Twin Pines Lane
Belmont, CA 94002
650-595-7408
[email protected]
belmont.gov
Americans with Disabilities Act Statement
In compliance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, this document
may be provided in other accessible formats.

Contact Information
Julia Mates, Mayor
[email protected]
Davina Hurt, Vice Mayor
[email protected]
Tom McCune, Councilmember
[email protected]
Gina Latimerlo, Councilmember
[email protected]
Robin Pang-Maganaris, Councilmember
[email protected]
Afshin Oskoui, City Manager
[email protected]
1582
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREAS GOALS OBJECTIVES Initiative Projects Project Start Project End Status Date Last Updated
Lead
Department Notes
Construct Ralston Corridor Plan Phase 3
7/1/2020 9/29/2023 Completed 2/26/2024 Public Works
Ralston Phase 3 pedestrian improvements were completed in the 2022 and pavement/striping improvements in 2023.

Complete Design Ralston Corridor Plan Phase 4
9/29/2025 12/1/2028 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works
The Ralston Corridor Segment 4 project (from Alameda de las Pulgas to State Route 92) continues to advance through planning and coordination. In 2026, the City will begin a feasibility study, with community outreach starting in summer 2026 to support future project decisions.

Implement Alameda de las Pulgas Corridor Plan
7/1/2020 6/30/2029 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works
The ADLP project between Ralston Avenue and Cranfield Avenue is approximately 65% complete. Following several years of staff transitions and budget constraints, the City is moving forward with a phased approach and refined scope, with efforts underway to issue an RFP to complete the remaining design work.

Continue to identify and address trends to inform traffic management approach and solutions through PTSC process (3Es) and Mobility/Capital Plans.
7/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 2/26/2024 Public Works
This initiative involves a coordinated effort between Public Works and PD to address community related requests, mobility, and safetyrelated operational improvements, enforcement, and educational efforts. Staff provides annual mobility updates to the City Council.

Develop a Transportation Master Plan that addresses how significant new development, mobility, traffic congestion, and infrastructure can be managed for all modes of transportation.
9/29/2025 6/30/2028 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works
In 2026, the City initiated the Transportation Master Plan to improve safety, connectivity, and sustainability for all users. Supported by a Caltrans grant, the effort includes data analysis and community outreach beginning in summer 2026 to guide future transportation investments.

Develop a residential Traffic Calming Policy, update Speed Cushion Policy, and update the Sidewalk Installation Policy 7/1/2023 7/9/2024 Completed 8/26/2024 Public Works The residential traffic calming policy was developed with input from BPAC and PTSC and revised based on community feedback. The Speed Cushion Policy was reviewed in fall 2023, and the Traffic Calming Policy was adopted by City Council on July 9, 2024. An update to the Sidewalk Installation Policy is no longer needed.

Continue maintaining and repairing the City’s 140 lane miles of roads through the rolling 5-year community-wide street pavement maintenance program through the judicious use of funds while seeking additional funding opportunities.
7/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 2/4/2026 Public Works
The City continues to implement its Five-Year Pavement Plan to improve roadway conditions citywide. Public Works has completed the 2023 Pavement Project and 2024 Slurry Seal Project, is delivering the 2025 Pavement Rehabilitation Project, and is developing the 2026 program.

Update the 2024 Citywide Pavement Condition Assessment (PCI report) 2/1/2024 11/30/2024 Completed 8/7/2025 Public Works
The PCI Report was completed in early 2025. The survey showed that the City's overall PCI had risen to 71, up nearly 15 points from a decade before.

Five-year Pavement Preservation Plan
7/1/2023 2/27/2024 Completed 8/26/2024 Public Works
Pavement Engineering Incorporated (PEI) has updated the 5-year Plan. A comprehensive list of streets to be improved between 2024- 2028 was included and presented to the City Council on February 27, 2024.

Complete construction on the 2023 Pavement Reconstruction Project 7/1/2022 10/1/2024 Completed 8/7/2025 Public Works
The project constructed over two centerline miles of roadway throughout Belmont. The project was substantially completed in late 2024.

Complete construction of the 2024 Slurry Seal Project
7/1/2023 9/30/2024 Completed 8/7/2025 Public Works
The project involved the surface seal of several centerline miles of roadway to extend useful life. It was completed in August 2024 for an amount less than the engineer's estimate and original contract value.

Complete construction of the 2025 Pavement Rehabilitation Project 7/1/2023 9/1/2025 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works
The project was bid in spring 2025 and awarded to O’Grady Paving Inc. at a cost below the engineer’s estimate. Construction is nearing substantial completion, with remaining work on Middle Road and the new bioswale on Alameda de las Pulgas near Forest Drive.

Complete construction of the 2026 Pavement Rehabilitation Project 7/1/2024 9/1/2026 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works
Design work is underway for the project, which includes major roadway rehabilitation and related concrete improvements over more than one mile. The project is expected to be ready for bid in spring and constructed in summer 2026.

Complete updates to Sewer and Stormwater Master Plans
6/30/2021 8/30/2026 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works
The Sanitary Sewer Master Plan was adopted in 2025 and guides long-term system upgrades. The Stormwater Master Plan is nearing completion and is expected to be considered by City Council in 2026. Community engagement on storm drainage funding and priorities is planned.

North Road Pump Station & Force Main Rehabilitation Project, Reconstruct Hiller Pump Station 7/1/2020 5/31/2026 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works North Road Pump Station and Force Main construction was completed in 2021. Hiller Pump Station upgrades were completed in October 2025, pending delivery of the portable generator that is expected to arrive in March 2026.

El Camino Capacity Improvement Project
10/1/2020 3/31/2021 Completed 8/26/2024 Public Works
Project included design and construction. The project has been completed.

Develop point of sale sewer lateral inspection ordinance and other related sewer system policy updates 4/1/2026 3/31/2027 Delayed 2/4/2026 Public Works Evaluation of point of sale ordinance and update of sewer policies is planned to start in 2026.

Advance priority stormwater repair and climate resiliency priority projects and repairs (Partially Measure I funded). 7/1/2024 12/31/2026 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works Stormwater Master Plan is nearly complete. A potential funding mechanism is needed to fund CIP and maintenance repairs. City is waiting on comments from San Carlos and County on the HIA element of the Plan. City is considering adding Island Park to Redwood City's Sea-Level Rise project.

Belmont Creek Restoration & Detention Basin Projects 1/1/2020 6/1/2026 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works Creek Restoration work was completed in 2025. The Detention Basin design is nearing completion, and staff is working on securing additional funding.

Citywide Strategic Plan (2020-2027)
ENHANCE MULTIMODAL

TRANSPORTATION

ADVANCE SEWER &

STORM SYSTEM

IMPROVEMENTS

ADVANCE

PAVEMENT &
STREET

IMPROVEMENTS
A transportation,
facilities, and
infrastructure system
that maintains and
improves our
community to meet
current and future
demand and climate
action goals.

EV
Q1 = Jul 1 - Sep 30
Q2 = Oct 1 - Dec 31
Q3 = Jan 1 - Mar 31
Q4 = Apr 1 - Jun 30
Report Generated 83
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREAS GOALS OBJECTIVES Initiative Projects Project Start Project End Status Date Last Updated
Lead
Department Notes
Citywide Strategic Plan (2020-2027)
ENHANCE MULTIMODAL

TRANSPORTATION
A transportation,
facilities, and
infrastructure system
that maintains and
improves our
community to meet
current and future
demand and climate
action goals.

EV
Q1 = Jul 1 - Sep 30
Q2 = Oct 1 - Dec 31
Q3 = Jan 1 - Mar 31
Q4 = Apr 1 - Jun 30
Continue progress with the Belmont Community Center facility replacement project 7/1/2020 11/1/2026 On Target 1/27/2026 Parks &
Recreation
Completed your Voice, Your Belmont survey and outreach; Completed polling on city services and community center support level; Held community event at Barrett with Belmont Community Foundation; Consultant completed conceptual design refresh project and presented to council on October 14
Examine the City’s long-term facilities and infrastructure condition and needs 3/1/2023 7/1/2025 Delayed 1/27/2026 Parks &
Recreation
Begin broader facilities assessments.- delayed due to resource constraints Continue progress in addressing Fire Station #15 funding and replacement needs. 7/1/2022 6/30/2027 On Target 1/28/2026
Com
Dev/Fire/Finan
ce
Capital funding is being put aside through the annual budget development process and site selection is dependent on a proposed development project or potentially evaluating the existing site for reconstruction Complete evaluation of the progress with 2017 Climate Action Plan and prepare an update to the plan 1/1/2025 10/30/2026 On Target 1/27/2026 City Manager Climate Action Plan Update started in May 2025, updated GHG inventory and doing community outreach to develop new GHG mitigation measures. City received grant from PCE to fund EV charging at City facilities. Contract awarded, construction to start in Spring 2026.

Continue with urban forestry, fire, and hazard mitigation projects 7/1/2022 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 Parks &
Recreation
Completed grant-funded fuel reduction on emergency access roads in Waterdog Lake and San Juan Canyon; Completed extensive chipping program; Built wildfire safety webpage for education; Additional grant funded work is planned for 2026 Complete the City's Safety Element Update
8/1/2023 6/30/2026 On Target 1/27/2026 ComDev
The Safety Element is being refreshed to address City's strong sustainability focus and provide local policies to address public safety, hazard assessments, and climate resiliency objectives. The document is being drafted and will undergo public hearings for adoption in Spring 2026.

Continue to address the City's fleet renewal plan to meet climate action goals 7/1/2020 6/30/2027 On Target 2/4/2026 Public Works
Fleet Services is actively working with Guidehouse Consulting through a grant from MTC on an action plan to electrify city fleet. These services include an evaluation of both vehicles and facilities to help reach climate goals set forth by the state. Once the plan is finalized in April 2026, Fleet Services will have a roadmap for vehicle replacement for years to come.

Reevaluate the City's economic development plan which includes strategies and policies that increase the quality of life for residents 2/1/2024 12/31/2025 Delayed 1/27/2026 City Manager Economic Development strategy to be reviewed as part of analysis of shifting market conditions for commercial development throughout Bay Area. This project has yet to be initiated due to competing priorities.

Collaborate with community partners, including Chamber San Mateo County, SAMCEDA, government and educational institutions, and business community leaders to support economic development
8/1/2023 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 City Manager
Work is ongoing as led by the Assistant City Manager and Housing and Economic Development Manager.

Revisit the scope and approach to commercial cannabis
implementation 7/1/2023 4/4/2025 Completed 1/27/2026 ComDev/City Manager
Two cannabis retail businesses are now open and operating within the City.

Ensure land use policies and practices support a diversity of housing choices, leverage existing affordable housing assets, and increase options for affordable housing
1/1/2024 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 ComDev
2023-2031 Housing Element (HE) adopted in September 2024 and certified by State in October 2024, Zoning Text Amendments adopted in January 2024. Work underway to implement Housing Element programs.

Review the General Plan and zoning and ensure alignment with our housing & economic development plans/vision and evaluate Economic Activity Hubs 3/1/2023 12/30/2026 On Target 1/27/2026 ComDev Commercial Mixed Use Corridor zoning update completed. CEQA analysis for proposed Regional Commercial zoning updates to commence in Spring 2026 . Several zoning updates are planned for 2026 to comply with State laws as related to ADUs and Density Bonus law.

Engage in long range/advanced planning projects to facilitate TOD related housing, economic development, and establish a specific Plan Area for the Unincorporated Harbor Industrial Association (HIA)
10/1/2022 Ongoing On Target 1/27/2026 ComDev
HIA Specific Plan is underway and is targeting completion in late 2026.

Study and recommend changes related to Island Park Development and Regional Commercial Zoning Amendments 1/1/2023 12/30/2026 On Target 1/27/2026 ComDev City Council reviewed draft framework for zoning in Spring 2025. Work underway to complete CEQA analysis of proposed zoning; adoption anticipated in 2027 following completion of CEQA analysis.

Prepare and implement the 2023-2031 Housing Element in compliance with new housing laws. 1/1/2021 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 ComDev/City Manager
HCD deemed Housing Element substantially compliant on July 26, 2024. Housing Element readopted on September 10, 2024. HCD certified HE on October 10, 2024. Implementation underway.

Coordinate multi-department/stakeholder team to address timely major development applications (e.g. CD, PW, CA, ED&H) 6/1/2023 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 ComDev/Publi
c Works/City
Manager
Continual enhancements underway to improve Development Review process. Weekly PW/CD meeting created to enhance timely coordination on major projects.

ADVANCE CLIMATE

ACTION AND

ADAPTATION GOALS

ADVANCE

IMPROVEMENTS AT

PARKS, ATHLETIC

FIELDS, AND

BUILDINGS
A transportation,
facilities, and
infrastructure system
that maintains and
improves our
community to meet
current and future
demand and climate
action goals.

Economic Development &
Housing

SUPPORT LOCAL

ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT

STRATEGIES
Local business and
land use policies that
promote economic
development, vibrant
mixed-use centers,
and diversity of
housing choices.

IMPLEMENT A

BALANCED LAND

USE VISION

INCORPORATING

ECONOMIC

OPPORTUNITIES,

HOUSING GOALS,

AND PROGRAMS
Report Generated 84
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREAS GOALS OBJECTIVES Initiative Projects Project Start Project End Status Date Last Updated
Lead
Department Notes
Citywide Strategic Plan (2020-2027)
ENHANCE MULTIMODAL

TRANSPORTATION
A transportation,
facilities, and
infrastructure system
that maintains and
improves our
community to meet
current and future
demand and climate
action goals.

EV
Q1 = Jul 1 - Sep 30
Q2 = Oct 1 - Dec 31
Q3 = Jan 1 - Mar 31
Q4 = Apr 1 - Jun 30
Maximize and update existing sources of revenue and efficiencies, identify new revenue sources to maintain financial stability, conduct routine evaluation of city fees, and update as needed
7/1/2023 Ongoing On Target 1/28/2026 Finance
Contract executed in October 2025 to conduct review of comprehensive fee schedule to evaluate City-wide fees including ComDev and P&R fees to achieve appropriate cost recovery level. Meetings are underway since December 2025 with targeted completion by June 2026.

Prioritize implementation of economic opportunities initiatives, such as new development related community benefits 2/1/2022 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 ComDev/City Manager
Study Session on Community Benefit Program Implementation held on Feb. 2025. Negotiations completed for 1301 Shoreway community benefit contribution using approved framework.

Invest in systems and process to promote innovation, effectiveness, and financial stewardship 7/1/2024 Ongoing Completed 2/9/2026 Admin
Services
(HR/IT)
Information Business System Analysts are working with each department to assess, improve and enhance the use of software and effectively utilize organization-wide systems as outlined in the IT Strategic Plan.

Secure ongoing funding for sewer, storm, streets, facilities, and parks to address deferred maintenance and future capital needs along with a plan to support critical public services
7/1/2023 6/30/2027 On Target 2/6/2026
All
departments
as needed
Efforts are underway in the Sewer Master Plan to ensure sufficient funding for sewer and stormwater improvements. Conduct review of the sewer treatment facility charge that is a flat charge to ensure sufficient funding for sewer treatment improvements.

Use Measure I/SB1 and leverage outside funding opportunities to advance infrastructure projects 7/1/2023 Ongoing Completed 1/28/2026 Finance/Public Works
Enhanced funding for streets and storm water infrastructure improvements gets incorporated in the annual budget development process.

Study the benefits and opportunity to update the City's business license tax for voter consideration 7/1/2023 7/1/2024 Completed 1/27/2026 Finance/City Manager
An updated tax structure for the business license tax was passed on the Nov 2024 ballot that simplified the rate categories and moved from a flat tax structure to rates based on gross receipts. Staff working with the tax administrator to manage the transition process and annual renewals.

Secure funding to address future annexation of the Harbor Industrial Area (HIA) 7/1/2023 12/31/2026 On Target 1/27/2026 Finance/ComD ev
Continue discussions and collaborate with the County to explore future annexation of the HIA. Identify infrastructure needs and evaluate potential financing mechanisms. Evaluate the fiscal impact to the City.

Evaluate General Fund reserve policy
2/1/2024 7/1/2024 Completed 1/28/2026 Finance
Council adopted updated policy effective fiscal year 2024-25 to eliminate the static $5 million target in the General Fund and keep the 33% reserve target, as a percentage policy will keep pace and grow as the City's General Fund grows, while the $5 million minimum does not.

Develop recommendations and implementation work plan to address talent management, succession planning, workforce planning, and employee/career development
9/1/2023 Ongoing Completed 2/9/2026
Admin
Services
(HR/IT)
HR offers career support and training. Internal trainings sessions on core competencies in technology, project management and leadership are complimented with County wide trainings. Hosted a summer youth intern program, newsletter and new employee support program.

Review and update as needed the City's personnel policies to ensure they reflect best practices in diversity and inclusion 9/20/2023 12/1/2026 On Target 2/9/2026 Admin
Services
(HR/IT)
The HR staff are reviewing personnel policies to encompass changes in 2025 laws and policies that support a vibrant and diverse workforce. Recommendations will be reviewed for legal compliance prior to the meet and confer process. Anticipate City Council adoption in 2026.

Lead on DEI efforts within City government and in the community 7/1/2021 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 HR/Parks &
Recreation
Engaged consultant for organizational culture training curriculum and delivery; Hosted regular 'Know & Grow' events to encourage interdepartmental training and interaction; Continue to host citywide cultural events; Convened BOLD Committee 4.0 in November.

Provide equipment, technology, and resources to employees to ensure high level of service delivery to our community through IT Strategic Plan 7/1/2021 Ongoing Completed 2/9/2026 Admin
Services
(HR/IT)
The ITSP was presented to CC in Apr'22 and are a part of the 2026 IT work plan. The IT staff are now focused on the 5-year ITSP and effectively managing the day to day IT functions. Key projects include website refresh, new phone(VoIP) system and document management.

Create a culture that assures employees are valued, that leadership promotes innovation, creative problem solving, outstanding customer service, and encourages employee engagement
6/1/2023 Ongoing Completed 2/9/2026
Admin
Services
(HR/IT)
Programs and events are being offered that focus on training, team building, communication, and employee recognition. Human Resources will continue to support a culture of excellence, belonging and commitment to public service.

Develop and capture institutional knowledge documenting processes and procedures in anticipation of retirements and turnover to ensure continuity of services to the community, and opportunity to improve those processes and procedures
6/1/2023 Ongoing Completed 2/9/2026
Admin
Services
(HR/IT)
The "Know and Grow" program is focused on sharing information about City programs and projects across departments to all employees and provides background and institutional knowledge for participants. Departments are utilizing cross training and restructuring as a tool for succession planning.

Maintain strong community outreach and align public safety services that are reflective of community culture and priorities 7/1/2023 Ongoing Completed 3/5/2024 PD Developed a Community Police Academy. Host ongoing Coffee with a Cop sessions. Staff City Council's Public Safety Committee for provide a direct community engagement opportunity.

Focus on improved Public Safety by delivering quality programs and services 7/1/2023 Ongoing Completed 3/5/2024 PD/SMC Fire
Coordinate with SMC Fire on disaster-related exercises to evaluate the City’s response capabilities to a disaster including emergency preparedness.

Strengthen and align problem-oriented policing services to focus on youth, mental health, and unhoused with focus on compassionate care 7/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 3/5/2024 PD Implemented C.A.R.E program related to mental health response calls for service. Initiated and continue to provide an annual mental health symposium.

Strengthen emergency response through continued coordination with the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department 7/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 3/5/2024 PD/SMC Fire Deployment of Zonehaven completed, Departments remain active, and forward thinking on emergency messaging tools that would benefit the community.

Fully implement community risk reduction software platforms. Leverage technology to enhance communication through web based software and communication devices
7/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 3/5/2024 PD/SMC Fire
Implemented Zonehaven, rolled out the new SMC Alert platforms, and continue with the community education and outreach. PD communication infrastructure aligned with DOJ set for 2024 compliance, with upgrades to radios and internal PD communication tools near completion.

Collaborate with the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department to reduce risk in areas susceptible to wildland fires, establish abatement standards, and implement enforcement tools along with educational outreach 7/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 3/21/2024 PR/PD/SMC
Fire
Wildland Mitigation Plan underway. Pilot wood chipping completed. Executed a Mutual Threat Zone (MTZ) Agreement with Cal Fire in 5/23. MTZ augments dispatch by Cal Fire to any fires SMC Fire responds in the zone (all areas west of the Alameda).

ENSURE FISCAL AND

REVENUE

SUSTAINABILITY

STRENGTHEN

ORGANIZATIONAL

DEVELOPMENT
Ensure financial
stability, quality city
services delivered
through our
employees, and
investment in our
organizational
development.

Fiscal & Organizational Stability
Forward-thinking
public safety services
aligned with
community needs
through civic
engagement,
partnerships, and
public education.

Public Safety

STRENGTHEN

EMERGENCY

PREPAREDNESS

ENSURE SEAMLESS

PUBLIC SAFETY

SERVICES - POLICE

AND FIRE
Report Generated 85
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREAS GOALS OBJECTIVES Initiative Projects Project Start Project End Status Date Last Updated
Lead
Department Notes
Citywide Strategic Plan (2020-2027)
ENHANCE MULTIMODAL

TRANSPORTATION
A transportation,
facilities, and
infrastructure system
that maintains and
improves our
community to meet
current and future
demand and climate
action goals.

EV
Q1 = Jul 1 - Sep 30
Q2 = Oct 1 - Dec 31
Q3 = Jan 1 - Mar 31
Q4 = Apr 1 - Jun 30
Refresh Belmont Community Center Master Plan
5/1/2025 12/31/2025 Completed 1/27/2026 Parks &
Recreation
Completed conceptual design refresh, survey and polling; Held community event at Barrett with Belmont Community Foundation (BCF); Received $500,000 from Stanford University; Will continue to pursue various funding opportunities.

Complete Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan
1/1/2021 6/30/2024 Completed 1/27/2026 Parks &
Recreation
PROS plan adopted in March 2024. Will begin to implement PROS plan improvements as funding permits.

Deliver accessible, inclusive, services, programs, and facilities for all ages in our community 5/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 Parks & Recreation
Providing community centric services and programs. Evolving to meet community's needs. Implemented scholarship programs, adaptive special events, and expanded cultural celebrations. Continue planning for 2026 centennial celebration and events.

Promote an environment that encourages arts; consider art in public places and within new development 7/1/2021 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 Parks & Recreation/CD
Ongoing work: public art opportunities will be explored as part of new development and in-lieu fees will be allocated towards art in public spaces.

Explore funding and creative solutions for place-making within public spaces for all ages 7/1/2021 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 Parks & Recreation
Ongoing work: planning public art projects in conjunction with City Centennial celebrations. Commenced Happy Hydrant and Utility Box Centennial Art Projects.

Design and implement a city branding effort, inclusive of community signage/wayfinding, and gateway features in line with GP/BVSP objectives 7/1/2023 12/1/2026 On Target 1/29/2026 CD/PW/P&R Adopted Program (December 2024) for vehicular, banner, and monument signage with new Belmont logo & colors. Project added to City's Adopted FY26 Budget/CIP. First phase of signage installation (vehicular & banner signs) to occur in Summer 2026 to coincide with City Centennial events.

Develop public streetscape design standards to enhance place-making in Belmont Village Specific Plan 7/1/2020 7/1/2023 Completed 1/29/2026 ComDev BVSP Streetscape Design Standards adopted November 2022. Implementation occurring with development project review.

Continue progress with the City's comprehensive public information and engagement strategy 7/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 2/9/2026 CMO/OCS

Provide timely, accurate information that is easy to access and understand, and facilitate public participation in open meetings 5/1/2022 Ongoing Completed 2/9/2026 CMO/OCS Continue to improve content in weekly emailed newsletter, auditing website to improve content. Updated internal Critical Communications Plan.

Provide opportunity for resident leadership and participation, such as through commissions and advisory/ad hoc groups 7/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 2/9/2026 CMO/OCS Completed multiple Police Community Academies launched the Civics Academy, and using Commission and Youth Advisory as community leadership opportunities.

Maximize use of available tools to reach our community and foster goodwill on digital platforms, through printed messaging and meeting our community where it is receiving its news
5/1/2022 Ongoing Completed 2/9/2026 CMO/OCS
Revamped City communication tools by use of social media to tell our story across digital and printed platforms. Increased engagement through video storytelling. Implemented translation services and social media management platform Conduct outreach and community education about city services, areas of cost, and financial resources 7/1/2020 Ongoing Completed 1/27/2026 CMO/OCS DEI committee identified underrepresented communities that would benefit from additional outreach about City services and contracted for on-call translation services. Increased communications for city services and projects across all platforms. Held first Civics Day Academy in November 2025.

Quality of Life
Engage the
community in
maintaining and
enhancing Belmont’s
character and quality
of life.

FOSTER

MEANINGFUL

COMMUNITY

DIALOGUE

CREATE DIVERSE

AND UNIQUE

COMMUNITY SPACES

IMPROVE PARKS &

RECREATION

FACILITIES AND

PROGRAMS
Report Generated 86
Completed On Target Delayed
F
u
t
u
r
e
P
r
o
j
e
c
t
ENHANCE MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION 50% 50% 0%
ADVANCE PAVEMENT & STREET IMPROVEMENTS 71% 29% 0%
ADVANCE SEWER & STORM SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS 17% 67% 17%
ADVANCE IMPROVEMENTS AT PARKS, ATHLETIC FIELDS, AND BUILDINGS 0% 67% 33% ADVANCE CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION GOALS 25% 75% 0%
SUPPORT LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES 67% 0% 33%

IMPLEMENT A BALANCED LAND USE VISION INCORPORATING ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES, HOUSING GOALS, AND PROGRAMS 50% 50% 0%
ENSURE FISCAL AND REVENUE SUSTAINABILITY 71% 29% 0%
STRENGTHEN ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT 83% 17% 0%
ENSURE SEAMLESS PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES - POLICE AND FIRE 100% 0% 0% STRENGTHEN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS 100% 0% 0%
IMPROVE PARKS & RECREATION FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS 100% 0% 0% CREATE DIVERSE AND UNIQUE COMMUNITY SPACES 75% 25% 0%
FOSTER MEANINGFUL COMMUNITY DIALOGUE 100% 0% 0%
Last Update
Report Generated
Initiative Projects
Status Overview
Citywide Strategic Plan (2020-2027)
=
87 January MLK Poetry and Essay contest
February Black History Month
February Lunar New Year
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu Fri Sat February (Friday b4 VD) Superstar and Sweetheart Dance 1 2 3 March Women's History Month
4 5 6 PR 8 9 10 1 SMT/
PLN PLN PR 5 6 7 1 SMT/ PLN PLN PR 5 6 7 March 31, 2026 Cesar Chavez Day 11 MLK CC SMT 15 16 17 8 9 CC SMT 12 13 14 8 9 CC SMT 12 13 14 April National Poetry Month 18 19 SMT/
PLN 21 22 23 24 15 Pres PLN 18 19 20 21 15 SMT PLN 18 19 20 21 April 3 and 4 Adaptive Eggventure/Egg Hunt 25 26 CC SMT 29 30 31 22 23 CC 25 26 27 28 22 23 CC SMT 26 27 28 April Autism Awareness Month 29 SMT 31 April 12, 2026 Wedding Fair in the Park
April Dispatcher Appreciation Week
April 22, 2026 Earth Day
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat April 26, 2026 Celebrate the Music PR 2 3 4 1 2 SMT/
SINC PLN PR 4 5 6 May AANHPI Month
5 SMT/
SINC PLN 8 9 10 11 3 SMT/ SINC PLN PR 7 8 9 7 8 CC SMT 11 12 13 May Shred/E-Waste 12 13 CC SMT 16 17 18 10 11 12 SMT 14 15 16 14 SMT PLN 17 18 19 20 May National Jewish Heritage Month 19 SMT PLN 22 23 24 25 17 SMT PLN 20 21 22 23 21 22 CC SMT 25 26 27 May Mental Health Awareness Month 26 27 CC SMT 30 24 MD CC SMT 28 29 30 28 SMT 30 May 30, 2026 Mental Health PD Event 31 May 1st week City Clerk Week
May 10-16, 2026 Public Safety Week
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat May 17-23, 2026 Nat'l Public Works Week PR 2 3 4 1 PLN PR 3 4 5 May, PW Open House
6 SMT/
SINC PLN SMT 9 10 11 2 SMT/ SINC PLN PR 6 7 8 6 LD CC SMT 10 11 12 June Pride Month 12 SMT CC 15 16 17 18 9 10 CC SMT 13 14 15 13 SMT PLN 16 17 18 19 June 19, 2026 Juneteenth 19 20 PLN SMT 23 24 25 16 SMT PLN 19 20 21 22 20 21 CC SMT 24 25 26 June - July Summer Consert Series 26 SMT CC 29 30 31 23 24 CC SMT 27 28 29 27 SMT 29 30 July Parks Make Life Beter Month 30 SMT July 13-Aug 14 Election Candidate Nomination
August 4, 2026 National Night Out
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat September Suicide Prevention Month 1 2 3 PLN PR 3 4 5 Sept 18/25 and Oct 2 Movies in the Park 4 CLB PLN PR 8 9 10 1 SMT/
SINC PLN PR 5 6 7 6 SMT/ SINC CC SMT 10 11 12 Sept. 19, 2026 CA Cosastal Cleanup Day 11 SMT CC SMT 15 16 17 8 9 CC 11 12 13 14 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 National Hospanic Month 18 19 PLN 21 22 23 24 15 SMT PLN 18 19 20 21 20 SMT CC SMT 24 25 26 Sept. 26 Water Dog Run 25 SMT CC SMT 29 30 31 22 23 CC SMT THG 27 28 27 28 29 30 31 October Domestic Violence Awareness Month 29 30 Oct. 26, 2026 Belmont WaterDog Run
Oct. 12, 2026 Indigenous Peoples' Day
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Oct. 24, 2026 Centennial Celebration 1 2 Oct. 28, 2026 City Halloween Bash
3 SMT/
SinC PLN PR 7 8 9 Nov. 3, 2026 Election
10 11 CC SMT 14 15 16 Nov. 11, 2026 Veterans Day Celebrtion 7 MLK 19 20 21 22 23 Nov. 21, 2026 Craft Faire
24 SMT CC SMT 28 29 30 Dec. 5, 2026 Winter Wonderland
31 Dec. 10, 2026 Santa at the Firehouse
Jan-27
January February March
April May June
July August September
October November December
2026 Council, SMT Calendar,
Holiday & Major Events
Council
Meeting SMT/
SinC
SMT
Meeting
Holiday
PR
Comm
Meeting
Pay
Day
Weekend
Holiday
Annual Events
PLN
Comm
Meeting
88 Amended by Council Resolution 2024-
www.belmont.gov

City Council Protocols
Adopted February 2024
I. PURPOSE
These protocols are designed to assist the City Council and staff by memorializing existing policies, procedures and the general ways of conducting business. Their purpose is also to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Council and staff. Administration of city business is greatly enhanced by the agreement of the City Council and staff to follow these practices. The protocols are not intended to be overly restrictive and should be considered as guidelines. They should be viewed as an instructive source of guidance so that accepted practices are documented, and expectations are clarified. Practices and policies will change as circumstances arise. With that in mind, the City Council will review and revise these protocols from time to time.

II. COUNCIL MEETINGS
Regular Meetings – The City Council’s regular meeting schedule is set forth in Belmont City Code (BCC) Section 2-1. Regular meetings are currently held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Regular meetings commence at 6 p.m., however if there are no study sessions, special presentations, closed sessions, or other need to begin before 7 p.m., the agenda should reflect that there are no business items scheduled between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. and that the meeting will be recessed until 7 p.m.

Meetings are held in the City Council Chambers at Belmont City Hall, One Twin Pines Lane, Belmont, California. The time and location of the Council’s regular meetings may be changed by council resolution.

1. Other Locations - The Council may, from time to time, elect to meet at other locations within the city. Notice of a change of location or time will be posted at the front entrance of city hall and entrance to the council chambers and will be shown on the council agenda if known when initially posted.

2. Location During Local Emergency - If, by reason of fire, flood or other emergency, it is unsafe to meet in the council chambers, the meetings may be held for the duration of the emergency at such other place as may be designated by the mayor or, if the mayor does not so designate, by the vice mayor or the city manager.

3. Canceled Meetings – When the date for any regular meeting falls on a legal holiday, the regular meeting for that day shall be deemed canceled unless it is rescheduled to an alternate date.
89 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
2 B. Special Meeting & Emergency Meetings - Special meetings and emergency meetings of the Council may be called from time to time in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Ralph M. Brown Act. (Government Code Section 54950, et. seq.) C. Adjourned Meetings – The Council may adjourn any regular, adjourned regular, special or adjourned special meeting to a time and place specified in the order of adjournment in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Ralph M. Brown Act. (Government Code Section 54950, et. seq.)
D. Closed Sessions – The Council may hold closed sessions during any regular or special meeting, or any time otherwise authorized by law, to consider or hear any matter that is authorized by state law to be heard or considered in closed session.

1. Attendance at a closed session is limited to those persons actually necessary to advise or take direction from the Council or otherwise have an essential role to play given the specifically permitted purpose of the session.

2. The matter under consideration will be shown on the Council’s agenda in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act.

3. Councilmembers may not reveal the nature of discussion or the decision from a closed session unless required by law or unless a majority of the Council agrees in closed session to disclose confidential closed session information, except that the Council must unanimously agree to divulge any confidential closed session information that is attorney/client privileged communications.

E. Cancellation of Regular Meetings – Any meeting of the Council may be canceled in advance by a majority vote of the Councilmembers.

F. Quorum - A majority of the councilmembers is sufficient to do business, and motions may be passed 2–1 if only three attend. There are some actions such as ordinances, resolutions, granting franchises and payment of money that may require at least three affirmative votes. When there is no quorum, the mayor, vice mayor or any councilmember will adjourn the meeting, or if no councilmember is present, the city clerk will adjourn the meeting.

G. Teleconferencing by Council Members – Teleconferencing by councilmembers is permitted, subject to the applicable requirements of the Brown Act. When posting of the agenda is required at the teleconference location, the agenda and information describing the particular location where the teleconference will take place should be posted at or near the main entrance of the facility containing the teleconferenced location as soon as feasible but not less than six hours before commencement of the meeting.

H. Chairperson - The mayor presides at meetings and has authority to enforce the Council’s protocols as provided herein and to determine the order of business under the Council’s rules.
90 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
3 1. Absence of Mayor - The ice mayor shall act as mayor in the absence or disability of the Mayor.

2. Mayor and Vice Mayor Absence – When the mayor and the vice mayor are absent from any meeting of the Council, the members present may choose another member to act as mayor pro tem, and that person shall, for the time being, have the powers of the mayor.

I. Attendance by the Public - Except as specifically provided by law for closed sessions, all meetings of the Council are open to the public in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act. (Government Code Section 54950, et. seq.)
J. Minutes - Minutes of Council meetings will be brief summary minutes. Summary minutes will include final motions with votes. The minutes will also reflect the names of public speakers (if provided) and a brief summary of comment from the public, staff and Council. The city clerk has exclusive responsibility for preparation of the minutes and directions for corrections to the minutes and adoption of minutes will be made only by majority action of the Council.

1. Timing of Council Approval of Minutes – Minutes of meetings are generally submitted to the Council within two meetings for approval. Any councilmember who was absent from the prior meeting may participate and vote on the approval of the minutes and need not abstain on the approval of the minutes for that meeting.

2. Recordings of Meetings – Meetings held in the council chambers should be digitally recorded and the recordings maintained by the city clerk for the period set forth on the city’s retention schedule.

K. Council Agenda - The following rules for the preparation of the meeting agenda are based on the premise that it is in the interest of good government that the Council be fully informed on all matters upon which it is called upon to act. The Council relies upon city staff to perform research, conduct investigations, furnish technical information and recommend solutions to various problems of city government, and recognizes that proper and thorough research and investigation requires time.

The following persons may place matters on the agenda:

1. The city manager, and in the city manager’s absence the person designated as acting city manager,

2. The city attorney and in the city attorney’s absence, the deputy city attorney.

3. Agenda requests by Councilmembers (Including Mayor) - Any councilmember may place on the agenda under “Matters of Council Interest” a request to have any city policy or program reviewed or a new issue examined. The agenda item should state the topic to be reviewed or analyzed and the name of the councilmember(s) submitting the request. The councilmember submitting the request should submit a memo or report summarizing his/her position on the matter (included as Appendix 91 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
4 A to this document) at least one week prior to the meeting. No staff work is be done for these items before discussion by the entire Council except that Council may briefly discuss the matter with staff prior to placing the item on the agenda.

Councilmembers may vote on the item at the meeting if there is no need for additional staff analysis required on the item for the Council to make an informed decision or the Council may direct staff to bring back a report addressing the request at a future meeting.

L. Secretary – The city clerk serves as the secretary the Council. As secretary, the clerk posts agendas, and notices for meetings, attends meetings and assists the chair with the operation of the meeting, and maintains and secures the records of Council meetings.

III. ORDER OF BUSINESS
A. General Order - Business at regular meetings will generally be conducted in accordance with the order of business as outlined on the current agenda template as amended by the city manager from time to time.

B. Action Agenda Items - In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, the body may not take action on any item that did not appear on the posted regular meeting agenda 72 hours before the meeting unless an exception is permitted under Government Code §54950 et. seq.

C. Special Presentations/Proclamations –

1. All special presentations will be calendared and coordinated through the city manager.

2. Honorary Proclamations and Resolutions - All requests should be given to the mayor, through the City Clerk’s Office, for consideration. The subject should be Belmont-related, and it is up to the mayor's discretion whether to prepare such a document or place it on the agenda. Proclamations may also be issued by the mayor “off-line” (i.e., without being placed on the agenda), when deemed by the mayor to be appropriate.

D. Member Announcements – Member announcements will be brief and limited to notification of community events, functions or comments on city operations or projects.

Concerns or matters of current, pending or future deliberation by the body are not considered announcements. Individual member announcements should be limited to 3 minutes.

E. Consent Calendar - Agenda items considered routine and non-controversial in nature are calendared on the agenda as “Consent Business.”

1. These items are considered as one item and approved, adopted, accepted, etc. by one motion.
92 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
5 2. Members may comment on consent business items or ask for minor clarifications without removing the item for separate consideration.

3. A member may vote “no” or “abstain” on any consent item without removing it from the consent business.

4. Items requiring deliberation may be removed by a member for separate consideration after consideration of the remaining consent business.

5. The public may comment on the remaining consent business and on removed items before consideration by the body.

F. General Public Comments – A portion of each regular meeting agenda will set aside a period for the public to address the body on items within the body’s subject matter jurisdiction that are not listed on the agenda. This public comment period is limited to 15 minutes. Speakers who requested but did not receive an opportunity to speak during this initial comment period will be given an opportunity to address the body later on the agenda.

G. Standard Adjournment - The general hour of adjournment is 10:30 p.m. If items remain on the agenda after the 10:30 p.m. adjournment time, a majority vote of the body can extend the meeting, or a special meeting may be scheduled, or the items deferred to the next meeting. Meeting extension shall be in increments of 30 minutes.

IV. RULES OF DISCUSSION
A. General Procedure - The Council follows Rosenberg’s Rules of Order. Consistent with any applicable city ordinance, statute or other legal requirement, any issue of procedure relating to conduct of a meeting or hearing not otherwise provided for herein may be determined by the chair. A ruling of the chair may be appealed by a member upon a seconded motion and is reversed if the motion passes by a majority vote.

B. Role of the Chair – The role of the chair is to preside at the meeting, facilitate discussion, maintain order, and ensure the body’s business is conducted efficiently and effectively..

In the role as facilitator, the chair will assist the members to focus on their agenda, discussion and deliberations. The chair has authority to prevent the misuse of motions, or the abuse of any privilege, or obstruction of the business of the body by ruling any such matter out of order. In so ruling, the chair should be courteous and fair and should presume that the moving party is acting in good faith.

C. Member Deliberation & Order of Speakers - The chair is responsible to control the debate and the order of speakers. Speakers will generally be called in the order the requests to speak were received by the Secretary.

D. Questions Addressed to Another Member - With the concurrence of the chair, a member holding the floor may address a question to another member; that member may respond while the floor is still held by the member asking the question. A member may opt not to answer a question while another member has the floor.
93 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
6 E. Limit Deliberations to Item at Hand - Members will limit their comments to the subject matter, item or motion currently being considered by the body.

F. Length of Members Comments - Members will govern themselves as to the length of their comments or presentation. The chair will assist members by signaling when the member has been speaking for over five minutes.

G. Obtaining the Floor - Any member wishing to speak must first obtain the floor by being recognized by the chair. The chair must recognize any member who seeks the floor when appropriately entitled to do so.

H. Motions - Motions may be made by any member, including the chair, providing that before a motion is offered by the chair, the opportunity for making a motion should be offered to other members. Any member, other than the person offering the motion, may second a motion.

I. Ordinances - Motions introducing ordinances are deemed to include waiver of full reading of the ordinance after reading of the title in accordance with Government Code Section 36934 unless otherwise specifically stated.

J. Voting - Any member present at a meeting when a question comes up for a vote should vote for or against the measure unless he/she is disqualified (recused) from voting and abstains because of such disqualification. If a member is recused, he or she should state the reason for the recusal for the record, and should leave the room. A vote, including a roll call vote, may be registered by the members by answering “yes” or “aye” for an affirmative vote or “no” or “nay” for a negative vote. Regardless of the manner of voting, the results reflecting all "ayes" and "noes" must be clearly set forth for the record by the secretary.

K. Abstention - An abstention does not count as a vote for or against a matter. If a member abstains, he/she is counted as present for quorum purposes but is not deemed to be “voting” for purposes of determining whether there has been a “majority vote of those members present and voting.”
L. Tie Votes - A tie vote results in a lost motion. In such an instance, any member may offer a motion for further action. If there is no action by an affirmative vote, the result is no action. If the matter involves an appeal, and an affirmative vote does not occur, the result is that the decision appealed stands as decided by the decision-making person or body from which the appeal was taken.

M. Non-Observance of Rule - Rules adopted to expedite and facilitate the transaction of the business of the body in an orderly fashion shall be deemed to be procedural only, and the failure to strictly observe any such rules shall not affect the jurisdiction of, or invalidate any action taken by the body.

N. Code of Ethics and Conduct – The Council has adopted the Code of Ethics and Conduct for Elected Appointed Officials which expresses standards of ethical conduct expected 94 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
7 for members of the Council, boards and commissions and requires acknowledgment by the members that they have read and understand the Code of Ethics and Conduct.

V. ADDRESSING THE BODY
A. Public Comments.

1. Opportunity to Comment - Any person wishing to address the body on an item that is scheduled on the agenda will be given the opportunity to make those comments when that item is being considered.

2. Time Limits – Public comments are limited to three minutes each. The chair may adjust the time limit per speaker as he or she determines is reasonably necessary for the orderly and efficient conduct of the body’s business. Time limits are for each individual speaker submitting a card, and time cannot be “donated” to other speakers.

3. Group Comments – In order to expedite matters and to avoid repetitious presentations, the designation of a spokesperson is encouraged. Whenever any group of persons wishes to address the body on the same subject matter, those persons are encouraged to designate a spokesperson to address the body. The chair may extend the time allocation for a designated spokesperson.

4. Use of AV Technology by the Public – Members of the public may not use any technology to play amplify sound or project or display still or moving images during public comment or other portions of the meeting. These restrictions do not apply to presentations by project applicants and appellants relevant to an application or appeal.

5. Repetitious or Dilatory Comments – Speakers may not present the same or substantially same items or arguments to the body repeatedly or be repetitious or dilatory in presenting their oral comments. If a matter has been presented orally before the body, whether the body has taken action, or determined to take no action, the same or substantially same matter may not be presented orally by the same person any further. Nothing in the foregoing precludes submission of comments to the body in writing for such action or non-action as the body, in its discretion, may deem appropriate.

6. Comments in Writing Encouraged - Members of the public may submit, and are encouraged to submit, comments in writing to the body relating to any items of the bodies business, whether on the agenda or otherwise. Such written comments will be distributed to the members and considered and acted upon, or not acted upon, as the body in its judgment may deem appropriate.

7. Rules for Public Comment
a. Speakers are requested to be succinct and not repeat themselves. When recognized to speak on an agenda item, focus your remarks to that item. 95 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
8 • Speakers who have become repetitious may be interrupted by the chair and asked to offer any additional points on the matter not previously made and if none to conclude their remarks.
• If a speaker continues to repeat themselves, the chair may rule the speaker out of order and not allow the speaker to offer further comment on that agenda item.
b. A speaker’s comments must be relevant to the agenda item on which they have requested to speak.
• Speakers whose comments are not relevant to the agenda item may be interrupted by the chair and asked to limit their comments to that agenda item.
• If a speaker continues to address topics not relevant to the agenda item, the chair rule may rule the speaker out of order and not allow the speaker to offer further comment on that agenda item.
c. Speakers who are interrupted by the chair must cease speaking. • Speakers who continue speaking or speak over the chair may be ruled out of order and not allowed to speaker further at the meeting.

B. Audience Decorum

1. Rules for Participation
a. Audience members may attend, observe and record meetings in a matter that respects the rights of others and the orderly conduct of the body’s business. b. Audience members may not engage in behavior that disrupts a meeting. “Disrupting a meeting” means behavior that substantially impairs the ability of the body to orderly and efficiently conduct the meeting, or substantially interferes with the rights of other audience members. Disruptive behavior includes the following. This list is not all inclusive:
• Shouting from the audience.
• Interrupting or speaking over a person at the podium who has been recognized to speak by the chair.
• Clapping, booing, or other expressions of support or opposition to a speaker or to the body’s discussion or decision.
• Verbally harassing or physically confronting audience members. • Interrupting staff while engaged with the body.
96 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
9 • Interrupting the body while it is considering a matter. • Continuing to speak at the podium once the chair has announced the person’s time is up.

C. Enforcement Protocol. The goal of enforcement is restoring order, not punishment for failure to follow the rules and should be guided as follows.

1. The chair is bound to enforce the rules of audience decorum and public comment fairly and without regard to viewpoint of the speaker; that is, without regard to whether the person is for or against a particular matter coming before the body, and without regard to whether the chair agrees or disagrees with the speaker or likes or dislikes the speaker’s message.

2. When enforcing the rules, the chair should provide education before warnings, and warnings before curtailing a person’s participation rights, unless the circumstances clearly justify otherwise. The chair should consider calling a recess whenever doing so may help de-escalate a situation.

3. Removal from the meeting.
a. The chair may eject a person from a meeting only if the person willfully disrupts the meeting and only as necessary to restore order.
b. A warning must be given before ejecting a person unless the person is engaging in behavior that constitutes use of force or a true threat of force. c. The warning must inform the person that their behavior is disrupting the meeting and that the failure of the person to cease their behavior may result in their removal. A person who does not promptly cease their disruptive behavior may then be removed.
d. “Willfully disrupting a meeting” means conduct that actually disrupts a meeting when: (1) the person has knowledge of these rules or (2) engages in conduct with the purpose of disrupting the meeting or (3) has been warned by the chair not to engage in disruptive behavior.
e. “True threat of force” means a threat that has sufficient indicia of intent and seriousness that a reasonable observer would perceive it to be an actual threat to use force by the person making the threat.
f. An ejection may be for part or all of the meeting and should be for only as long as necessary to restore order.
g. If order cannot be stored by ejecting disruptive individuals, the Chair may order the room cleared with the exception of news media who have not participated in the disturbance. Other persons who did not participate in the disturbance may be allowed to re-enter the room.
97 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
10 D. Criticism not Prohibited. These rules do not prohibit public criticism of policies programs or services, or of the body, city employees, or the city.

E. Presentation of Agenda Items. The procedure for considering agenda items other than quasi-adjudicative items is as follows:

1. Staff – The staff presents its report. Members may ask questions of staff if they so desire but should refrain from discussing the substance of the matter at this point.

2. Public Comments – Before acting on the merits of the issue being heard, the chair will inquire if any persons are present who desire to provide public comment regarding the matter.

3. Consideration – The opportunity for public comment is closed and member discussion and consideration occurs. In this connection, there may be further questions of or comments by staff or consultants, or questions by the members of others as deemed necessary or appropriate without reopening the public input portion.

4. Decision occurs via motion.

F. Presentation of Quasi-Adjudicative Agenda Items. The procedure for considering agenda items for discretionary permits, entitlements, and other decisions requiring quasi-judicial decision making is as follows:

1. Staff – The staff presents its report. Members may ask questions of staff if they so desire but should refrain from discussing the substance of the matter at this point.

2. Project Applicants and Appellants (if applicable) – A project applicant, followed by a project appellant if any and different from the applicant, or other person or entity with a substantial, direct property interest in an agenda item, or any duly designated representative of such a person or entity, will have the opportunity to present their comments, testimony, or argument. Applicants and appellants are encouraged to be succinct in their presentations.

3. Public Comments – Before acting on the merits of the issue being heard, the chair will inquire if any persons are present who desire to speak or to present evidence regarding the matter.

4. Rebuttal – Following public comment, project applicant and project appellant (if any, and if different from the project applicant) will each be given an opportunity to provide rebuttal or clarification of any issues raised. The chair may determine the appropriate time limit for rebuttal. Applicants and appellants are encouraged to be succinct in their presentations.

5. Consideration – Member discussion and consideration occurs after public comment and any rebuttal. In this connection, there may be further questions of or comments 98 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
11 by staff, or questions by the members of others (including Applicant or Appellant) as deemed necessary or appropriate without reopening the public comment portion.

6. Decision occurs via motion.

7. The chair or secretary announces the final decision.

G. Presentations Submitted in Writing – All persons interested in an agenda item may submit written evidence or remarks, as well as other graphic evidence (including paper copies of electronic presentations). Persons (including project applicants or appellants) who anticipate lengthy presentations are encouraged to submit comments in writing, in advance, to the secretary, for prior distribution to the members and other interested parties, whenever possible, by the Thursday morning preceding the Tuesday meeting at which the item will be considered, and if that is not possible, at the earliest feasible time before the meeting. In addition, submission of comments in writing is encouraged in lieu of possible lengthy oral presentations that may not be permitted. All such written material is a public record.

H. Due Process – The chair will conduct the meeting in such a manner as to afford due process.

I. Germane Comments – No person will be permitted during the hearing to speak about matters or present evidence that is not germane to the matter being considered. The chair determines whether a comment is relevant unless a member requests that the Council determine relevance.

J. Continuance of Hearings – Any hearing may be continued or re-continued to any subsequent meeting by order or a notice of continuance.

K. Communications and Petitions – Written communications and petitions concerning the subject matter of the hearing will be noted, read aloud, or summarized by the chair.

Written communications will be read in full if requested by a member.

L. Admissible Evidence – Hearings need not be conducted according to technical rules relating to evidence and witnesses. Any relevant evidence may be considered if it is the sort of evidence upon which responsible persons are accustomed to rely in the conduct of serious affairs.

M. Waiver of Rules – Any of the foregoing rules may be waived by majority vote of the members present when it is deemed that there is good cause to do so based upon the particular facts and circumstances involved.

N. Non Exclusive Rules – These rules are not exclusive and do not limit the inherent power and general legal authority of the body, or the chair, to govern the conduct of its meetings as it considers appropriate from for the orderly and effective conduct of business. 99 City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
12 VI. VICE MAYOR
A. Selection –

1. The member holding the office of vice mayor rotates annually.

2. The Council will choose a vice mayor by a majority vote at the first regular meeting in December in non-election years, and at the meeting certifying the election of new councilmembers in election years.

3. In order to provide the maximum opportunity for each member to serve as vice mayor the Council should nominate the member with the longest contiguous tenure of more than one year on the Council without serving as vice mayor. If a tie, the tie-breaker is as follows:
a. Nominate the member who has served fewest times as vice mayor. b. If there is a tie, nominate the member based on the alphabetical order of their last name; if there is still a tie, the tie-breaker should be based on the alphabetical order of their first name.

B. Mayoral Duties –
In addition to facilitating Council meetings, the mayor determines the seating order on the City Council dais, and is the primary spokesperson for community events, meetings, and ceremonial events (such as ground-breakings or ribbon cuttings). The mayor may delegate this authority to the vice mayor, other member, or a staff member.

VII. COUNCIL MEMBER ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT
A. Incoming Correspondence.

1. Correspondence addressed to the Council, and correspondence addressed to the Mayor requiring a response from staff, are copied to all councilmembers.

2. Correspondence addressed to an individual councilmember will not be copied to the other councilmembers.

3. The group Council email address shall also include the city clerk to ensure that the communication is retained for the record and so the city clerk may coordinate a response if one is deemed necessary.

4. All correspondence, including email, addressed to the City Council will be retained by the City in accordance with its retention schedule.

B. Outgoing Correspondence.
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City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
13 1. All Councilmember correspondence using city resources (letterhead, typing, staff support, postage, etc.) will reflect the position of the full Council not an individual councilmember position.

2. Staff responses to correspondence addressed to Council will be copied to the full Council and city clerk along with the original community correspondence.

C. Personal Correspondence - Councilmembers should use only personal stationery for communications reflecting their personal positions. These communications will be prepared and sent at the expense of individual Councilmembers.

D. Master Calendar - A master calendar of City Council events, functions or meetings will be provided to the full City Council. Functions, events or meetings to be attended by individual councilmembers will not be included on the master calendar.

E. Requests for Research or Information - Councilmembers may request information or research from the city manager or department heads on a given topic directly when it is anticipated that the request can be completed by staff in less than an hour.

Councilmember requests for research or information that is anticipated to take staff more than one hour to complete should be directed to the city manager. Requests for new information or policy direction can be brought to the full Council at a regular meeting for consideration under “Matters of Council Interest”. All written products will be copied to the full City Council.

F. Council Notification of Significant Incidents - In conjunction with the City Manager's Office, the Police Department and the Fire Department will coordinate the notification to City Council of major crime, fire or other incidents.

G. Reimbursements - Consistent with AB 1234, reimbursement of councilmember expenses shall conform to City Council Resolution No. 9749 and any authorized amendments thereto.

H. Compensation - The City Council will be compensated in accordance with Ordinance 896 or any future updates.

VIII. INTERGOVERNMENTAL ASSIGNMENTS
A. The Council will review intergovernmental assignments at least annually.

B. The mayor may make temporary intergovernmental assignments with the consent of the person assigned whenever there is a vacancy in both the primary and any alternate seat.

IX. CITY ADVISORY BODY APPOINTMENTS
Appointment and re-appointment to a city advisory body should be based on such criteria as expertise, ability to work well with staff and the public, commitment to fulfilling official duties, effectiveness as a representative of the City Council and city government, and commitment, fidelity and adherence to city values, policies, priorities and expectations as expressed by the City 101
City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
14 Council, including the Code of Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials. To facilitate the appointment and approval process for city advisory bodies, the following procedures will be used:

A. Whenever a membership vacancy occurs or will soon occur, the city clerk will post a notice of the vacancy notifying the public of the vacancy.

B. All persons interested in being considered for service on the body must file with the city clerk an application indicating an interest in serving.

C. In order to expedite the process should a vacancy occur within one year of interviews, staff is authorized to contact applicants who were not selected to see if she/he is still interested in serving.

D. The names of those applicants interested in being appointed will be brought directly to Council at a meeting for consideration to be interviewed or for alternative direction.

E. The whole Council will interview the selected applicants.

F. The Council will consider whether or not to appoint one or more or none of the applicants to an available seat. The Council will discuss the candidates and deliberate on potential appointments as the body determines.

1. Discussion and deliberation may be predicated on a nomination process in which the mayor calls for nominations for a seat or seats and each member may offer nominations for each seat. A nomination requires a second. Discussion and deliberation regarding the nominees then follows.

2. Discussion and deliberation may include members informally ranking their preference for some, all, or none of the applicants (or nominees if a nomination process is used) for a particular seat with appointment predicated on collective consensus. A consensus to appoint is memorialized by motion approving the appointment(s).

3. Appointments will be presumed made to align to the appointment periods in BCC Section 2-166 for the particular city advisory body and appointment cycle in BCC Section 2-162(d), unless the Council determines otherwise.

G. After the Council concludes consideration of the applicants, if fewer than the minimum number of seats for a body as expressed in BCC Section 2-166 are filled, the city clerk will repost a notice of vacancy or take such other action as the Council directs. The Council may also direct the clerk to repost if fewer than the maximum number of seats are filled.

H. City advisory body appointees are at will and serve at the pleasure of the City Council.

The Council may remove an appointee from office by declaring the appointed office vacant at any time without cause during an open session of a meeting held in accordance with the requirements of the Brown Act.
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City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
15 I. Any councilmember including the mayor may place on an agenda the question whether to declare vacant an appointed city advisory body seat, and thereby remove the current holder of the seat, by following the protocol for “Matters of Council Interest”. A copy of the published agenda and any report should be provided to the holder of the seat at the earliest opportunity in a reasonable manner intended to provide notice of the agenda item and meeting information.

X. COUNCIL VACANCY
Whenever a vacancy occurs in the office of a councilmember or the mayor, the Council will fill the vacancy by appointment or special election in accordance with the procedures set forth in Government Code section 36512 and 34902.

XI. FAILURE TO OBSERVE PROTOCOLS
These protocols are adopted to expedite the transaction of the business of city legislative bodies in an orderly fashion and are procedural only and the failure to strictly observe such rules does not affect the jurisdiction of the City Council or a city advisory body or invalidate action taken at a meeting that is otherwise held in conformity with law. 103
City of Belmont PROTOCOLS (continued)
16 Appendix A
Meeting Date:

Councilmember(s):

Item Title:

Description of Issue/Request:
(Briefly describe what the issue is about and what you are asking from the City Council, providing as much background information as possible so that the rest of Council has a general idea what the request is about. This will assist staff in ascertaining its future involvement as well.)
Ex: I am requesting the Council consider a resolution supporting legislation regarding (fill in the blank), or, I would like the Council to consider an ordinance (fill in the blank).

Approximately how much staff involvement will this item take? (Describe types of tasks you think staff will need to undertake to report back to Council with more information, or to implement whatever process/procedure you are proposing. Be realistic!)

Financial Implications?
(You may need to take a guess at this, or it may be “not applicable” or “negligible”.)

How time sensitive is this issue?
(How does this idea match the goals of the General Plan or Vision Statement?)

General Plan/Vision Statement.

Attachments
A.

Council Agenda Item 12
Matter of Council
Interest/Clarification
104
City of Belmont
Code of Ethics and Conduct
For
Elected and Appointed Officials
"Always do right. This will gratify some people and
astonish the rest."
-- Mark Twain
Adopted June 10, 2014, by Resolution No. 2014-095
Amended February 11, 2016, by Resolution No. 2016-019
Amended February 2, 2017, by Resolution No. 2017-008
Amended December 13, 2022, by Resolution No. 2022-124
Amended February 27, 2024, by Resolution No. 2024-12
www.belmont.gov
105
1 For ease of reference the term “member” refers to any member of the Belmont City Council or member of a city advisory body (ex. planning commission) established by city ordinance or Council policy.

Policy Purpose
The Belmont City Council adopts this Code of Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials to assure that all councilmembers and city advisory body members, while exercising their office, conduct themselves in a manner that will instill public confidence and trust in the fair operation and integrity of Belmont’s city government. City advisory body members include Planning Commissioners, Parks and Recreation Commissioners, Measure I Committee members, and the members of any other commission, committee, or board created by the City Council under Belmont City Code Section 2-161.

A. ETHICS
The people who live, work and visit in Belmont are entitled to have fair, ethical and accountable local government. To this end, the public should have full confidence that their elected and appointed officials:
 Comply with both the letter and spirit of the laws and policies affecting the operations of government;
 Are independent, impartial and fair in their judgment and actions related to licenses, permits, and other adjudicative government entitlements;  Use their public office for the public good, not for personal gain; and  Conduct public deliberations and processes openly, unless authorized by law to be confidential, in an atmosphere of respect and civility.

Therefore, members of the City Council and of all city advisory bodies must conduct themselves in accordance with the following ethical standards:

1. Governance. The City Council governs the whole city. Councilmembers including the mayor can only act as the council through the body and only the body, not individual members, can act as the council. All councilmembers, whether elected at-large, by-district or appointed to fill a vacancy, represent and serve the whole city.
(a) Represent the Entire Community. Although a councilmember may be elected only by residents within a certain district, or otherwise have an affinity for a certain portion of the community, good governance requires all members be guided by a citywide prospective and exercise their office in the best interest of the entire community. (b) Equal Responsiveness. Councilmembers should be equally available and responsive to all persons in the city community regardless of where in the city the person resides, is employed, conducts business or visits, and should assure fair and equal treatment of all persons, claims and transactions coming before them.

2. Act in the Public Interest. Recognizing that stewardship of the public interest must be their primary concern, members will work for the common good of the people of Belmont and not for any private or personal interest.

3. Comply with Both the Spirit and the Letter of the Law and City Policy. Members will comply with the laws of the nation, the State of California and the city of Belmont in the performance of their public duties.
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2 For ease of reference the term “member” refers to any member of the Belmont City Council or member of a city advisory body (ex. planning commission) established by city ordinance or Council policy.

4. Conduct of Members. The professional and personal conduct of members while exercising their office must be above reproach and avoid even the appearance of impropriety. Members will refrain from abusive conduct, personal charges or verbal attacks upon the character or motives of other members of council, city advisory bodies, the staff or public.

5. Respect for Process. Members will perform their duties in accordance with the processes and rules of order established by the City Council.

6. Conduct at Public Meetings. Members will prepare themselves for public issues; listen courteously and attentively to all public discussions before the body; and focus on the business at hand.

7. Decisions Based on Merit. Members will base their decisions on the merits and substance of the matter at hand, rather than on unrelated considerations. When making adjudicative decisions (those decisions where the member is called upon to determine and apply facts peculiar to an individual case), members will maintain an open mind until the conclusion of the hearing on the matter and will base their decisions on the facts presented at the hearing and the law.

8. Communication. For adjudicative matters pending before the body, members will refrain from receiving information outside of an open public meeting or the agenda materials, except on advice of the city attorney. Members will publicly disclose substantive information that is relevant to a matter under consideration by the body which they may have received from sources outside of the public decision-making process.

9. Conflict of Interest. In order to assure their independence and impartiality on behalf of the common good and compliance with conflict-of-interest laws, members will use their best efforts to refrain from creating an appearance of impropriety in their actions and decisions. Members will not use their official positions to influence government decisions in which they have (a) a material financial interest, (b) an organizational responsibility or personal relationship which may give the appearance of a conflict of interest, or (c) a strong personal bias.

A member who has a potential conflict of interest regarding a particular decision will disclose the matter to the city attorney and reasonably cooperate with the city attorney to analyze the potential conflict. If advised by the city attorney to seek advice from the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) or other appropriate state agency, a member should not participate in a decision unless and until he or she has requested and received advice allowing the member to participate. A member will diligently pursue obtaining such advice. The member will provide the mayor and the city attorney a copy of any written request or advice, and conform his or her participation to the advice given. In providing assistance to members, the city attorney represents the city and not individual members.

In accordance with the law, members will disclose investments, interests in real property, sources of income, and gifts; and if they have a conflict of interest regarding a particular decision, will not, once the conflict is ascertained, participate in the decision and will not discuss or comment on the matter in any way to any person including other members unless otherwise permitted by law.

10. Gifts and Favors. Members will not take any special advantage of services or opportunities for 107
3 For ease of reference the term “member” refers to any member of the Belmont City Council or member of a city advisory body (ex. planning commission) established by city ordinance or Council policy. personal gain, by virtue of their public office that is not available to the public in general. They will refrain from accepting any gifts, favors or promises of future benefits which might compromise their independence of judgment or action or give the appearance of being compromised.

10. Confidential Information. Members must maintain the confidentiality of all written materials and verbal information provided to members which is confidential or privileged. Members will neither disclose confidential information without proper legal authorization, nor use such information to advance their personal, financial or other private interests.

11. Use of Public Resources. Members will not use public resources which are not available to the public in general (e.g., city staff time, equipment, supplies or facilities) for private gain or for personal purposes not otherwise authorized by law.

12. Representation of Private Interests. In keeping with their role as stewards of the public interest, members of Council will not appear on behalf of the private interests of third parties before the Council or any city advisor body or proceeding of the city, nor will members of city advisory bodies appear before their own bodies or before the Council on behalf of the private interests of third parties on matters related to the areas of service of their bodies.

13. Advocacy. Members will represent the official policies or positions of the City Council, city advisory body to the best of their ability when designated as delegates for this purpose. When presenting their individual opinions and positions, members will explicitly state they do not represent their body or the city of Belmont, nor will they allow the inference that they do.

Councilmembers and city advisory bodies members have the right to endorse candidates for all Council seats or other elected offices. It is inappropriate to mention or display endorsements during Council meetings, or city advisory bodies meetings, or other official city meetings.

14. Policy Role of Members. Members will respect and adhere to the council-manager structure of Belmont city government as outlined in the Belmont city Code. In this structure, the city Council determines the policies of the city with the advice, information and analysis provided by city staff, city advisory bodies, and the public. Except as provided by the city Code, members will not interfere with the administrative functions of the city or the professional duties of city staff; nor will they impair the ability of staff to implement Council policy decisions.

15. Independence of City Advisory Bodies. Because of the value of the independent advice of city advisory bodies to the public decision-making process, members of Council will refrain from using their position to unduly influence the deliberations or outcomes of city advisory bodies proceedings.

16. Positive Workplace Environment. Members will support the maintenance of a positive and constructive workplace environment for city employees and for community members and businesses dealing with the city. Members will recognize their special role in dealings with city employees to in no way create the perception of inappropriate direction to staff.

B. CONDUCT GUIDELINES
The Conduct Guidelines are designed to describe the manner in which elected and appointed officials 108
4 For ease of reference the term “member” refers to any member of the Belmont City Council or member of a city advisory body (ex. planning commission) established by city ordinance or Council policy. should treat one another, city staff, constituents, and others they come into contact with while representing the city of Belmont.

1. Elected and Appointed Officials’ Conduct with Each Other in Public Meetings Elected and appointed officials are individuals with a wide variety of backgrounds, personalities, values, opinions, and goals. Despite this diversity, all have chosen to serve in public office in order to preserve and protect the present and the future of the community. In all cases, this common goal should be acknowledged even though individuals may not agree on every issue. (a) Honor the role of the chair in maintaining order
It is the responsibility of the chair to keep the comments of members on track during public meetings. Members should honor efforts by the chair to focus discussion on current agenda items. If there is disagreement about the agenda or the chair’s actions, those objections should be voiced politely and with reason, following procedures outlined in parliamentary procedure. (b) Practice civility and decorum in discussions and debate Difficult questions, tough challenges to a particular point of view, and criticism of ideas and information are legitimate elements of debate by a free democracy in action. Free debate does not require nor justify, however, public officials to make belligerent, personal, impertinent, slanderous, threatening, abusive, or disparaging comments. (c) Avoid personal comments that could offend other members If a member is personally offended by the remarks of another member, the offended member should make notes of the actual words used and call for a "point of personal privilege" that challenges the other member to justify or apologize for the language used. The chair will maintain control of this discussion.
(d) Demonstrate effective problem-solving approaches
Members have a public stage and have the responsibility to show how individuals with disparate points of view can find common ground and seek a compromise that benefits the community as a whole.

2. Elected and Appointed Officials’ Conduct with the Public in Public Meetings Making the public feel welcome is an important part of the democratic process. No signs of partiality, prejudice or disrespect should be evident on the part of individual members toward an individual participating in a public forum. Every effort should be made to be fair and impartial in listening to public testimony.
(a) Be welcoming to speakers and treat them with care and gentleness.

While questions of clarification may be asked, the official’s primary role during public testimony is to listen.
(b) Be fair and equitable in allocating public hearing time to individual speakers.

The chair will determine and announce limits on speakers at the start of the public hearing process.
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5 For ease of reference the term “member” refers to any member of the Belmont City Council or member of a city advisory body (ex. planning commission) established by city ordinance or Council policy. (c) Practice active listening
It is disconcerting to speakers to have members not look at them when they are speaking. It is fine to look down at documents or to make notes, but reading for a long period of time or gazing around the room gives the appearance of disinterest. Members will try to be conscious of facial expressions, and avoid those that could be interpreted as "smirking," disbelief, anger or boredom. (d) Maintain an open mind
Members of the public deserve an opportunity to influence the thinking of elected and appointed officials.
(e) Ask for clarification, but avoid debate and argument with the public Only the chair – not individual members – can interrupt a speaker during a presentation.

However, a member can ask the chair for a point of order if the speaker is off the topic or exhibiting behavior or language the member finds disturbing.

3. Elected and Appointed Officials’ Conduct with City Staff Governance of a city relies on the cooperative efforts of elected officials, who set policy, appointed officials who advise the elected, and city staff who implement and administer the Council’s policies.

Therefore, every effort should be made to be cooperative and show mutual respect for the contributions made by each individual for the good of the community. (a) Treat all staff as professionals
Clear, honest communication that respects the abilities, experience, and dignity of each individual is expected. Poor behavior towards staff is not acceptable. (b) Do not disrupt city staff from their jobs
Elected and appointed officials should not disrupt city staff while they are in meetings, on the phone, or engrossed in performing their job functions in order to have their individual needs met. Do not attend city staff meetings unless requested by staff – even if the elected or appointed official does not say anything, his or her presence implies support, shows partiality, may intimidate staff, and hampers staff’s ability to do their job objectively. (c) Never publicly criticize an individual employee
Elected and appointed officials should never express concerns about the performance of a city employee in public, to the employee directly, or to the employee’s manager. Comments about staff performance should only be made to the city manager through private correspondence or conversation. Appointed officials should make their comments regarding staff to the city manager or the mayor.
(d) Do not get involved in administrative functions
Elected and appointed officials acting in their individual capacity must not attempt to influence city staff on the making of appointments, awarding of contracts, selecting of consultants, processing of development applications, or granting of city licenses and permits. (e) Do not solicit political support from staff
Elected and appointed officials should not solicit any type of political support (financial contributions, display of posters or lawn signs, name on support list, etc.) from city staff. city 110
6 For ease of reference the term “member” refers to any member of the Belmont City Council or member of a city advisory body (ex. planning commission) established by city ordinance or Council policy. staff may, as private citizens with constitutional rights, support political candidates but all such activities must be done away from the workplace.
(f) No attorney-client relationship
Members may not seek to establish an attorney-client relationship with the city attorney, including his or her staff and attorneys contracted to work on behalf of the city. The city attorney represents the city and not individual members. Members who consult with the city attorney cannot enjoy or establish an attorney-client relationship with the attorney.

4. Council Conduct with city Advisory Bodies
The city has established several city Advisory Bodies as a means of gathering more community input.

Individuals who serve on city advisory bodies become more involved in government and serve as advisors to the city Council. They are a valuable resource to the city’s leadership and should be treated with appreciation and respect.
(a) If attending a city advisory body meeting, be careful to only express personal opinions Councilmembers may attend any city advisory body meeting, which are always open to any member of the public. However, they should be sensitive to the way their participation – especially if it is on behalf of an individual, business or developer – could be viewed as unfairly affecting the process. Any public comments by a Councilmember at a city advisory body meeting should be clearly made as individual opinion and not a representation of the feelings of the entire City Council.
(b) Limit contact with city advisory body members to questions of clarification It is inappropriate for a councilmember to contact a city advisory body member to lobby on behalf of an individual, business, or developer, and vice versa. It is acceptable for councilmembers to contact city advisory body members in order to clarify a position taken by the city advisory body.
(c) Respect that city advisory bodies serve the at the pleasure of the Council as whole, not individual councilmembers including the mayor
The City Council appoints individuals to serve on city advisory bodies, and it is the responsibility of city advisory bodies to follow policy established by the Council. But city advisory body members do not report to individual councilmembers including the mayor, nor should individual councilmembers feel they have authority to direct city advisory body members to recommend or decide an issue in a particular way.
(d) Be respectful of diverse opinions
A primary role of city advisory bodies is to represent many points of view in the community and to provide the Council with advice based on a full spectrum of concerns and perspectives.

Individual councilmembers may have a closer working relationship with some individuals serving on city advisory bodies, but must be fair and respectful of all individuals serving on city advisory bodies.
(e) Keep electoral politics away from public forums
City advisory body members may offer election support to a councilmember, but not in a public forum while conducting official duties. Conversely, councilmembers may support city 111
7 For ease of reference the term “member” refers to any member of the Belmont City Council or member of a city advisory body (ex. planning commission) established by city ordinance or Council policy. advisory body members who are running for office, but not in an official forum in their capacity as a councilmember.

C. SANCTIONS
(a) Acknowledgement of Code of Ethics and Conduct
Councilmembers who do not sign an acknowledgement that they have read and understand the Code of Ethics and Conduct are not eligible for intergovernmental assignments or Council subcommittees. City advisory body members who do not sign an acknowledgement that they have read and understand the Code of Ethics and Conduct are not eligible to hold office. (b) Ethics training for local officials
Councilmembers and city advisory body members who are out of compliance with state or city mandated requirements for ethics training may not represent the city on intergovernmental assignments or Council subcommittees, and may be subject to sanctions. (c) Behavior and conduct
The Belmont Code of Ethics and Conduct expresses standards of ethical conduct expected for members of the Belmont City Council and city advisory bodies. Members themselves have the primary responsibility to assure that ethical standards are understood and met, and that the public can continue to have full confidence in the integrity of government. The chairs of city advisory bodies and the mayor and Council have the additional responsibility to intervene when actions of members that appear to be in violation of the Code of Ethics and Conduct are brought to their attention.

Councilmembers:

Councilmembers who intentionally and repeatedly do not follow proper conduct may be reprimanded or formally censured by the Council, lose seniority or committee assignments (both within the City of Belmont and with intergovernmental agencies) or other privileges afforded by the Council. Serious infractions of the Code of Ethics or Code of Conduct could lead to other sanctions as deemed appropriate by the Council.

Individual councilmembers should point out to the offending councilmember perceived infractions of the Code of Ethics and Conduct. If the offenses continue, then the matter should be referred to the mayor in private. If the mayor is the individual whose actions are being questioned, then the matter should be referred to the vice mayor. It is the responsibility of the mayor (or vice mayor) to initiate action if a councilmember’s behavior may warrant sanction. If no action is taken by the mayor (or vice mayor), then the alleged violation(s) can be brought up with the full Council.

City advisory body members:

City advisory bodies serve at will at the pleasure of the Council and may be removed by the Council without cause. The procedures and sanctions provided for herein are an alternative means for the Council address conduct by a city advisory body member and do not limit or prescribe the method, means or authority of the Council to remove a city advisory body member without cause.
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8 For ease of reference the term “member” refers to any member of the Belmont City Council or member of a city advisory body (ex. planning commission) established by city ordinance or Council policy.

Counseling, verbal reprimands and written warnings may be administered by the mayor to city advisory body members failing to comply with city policy. These lower levels of sanctions will be kept private to the degree allowed by law. Copies of all written reprimands administered by the mayor will be distributed in memo format to the chair of the respective city advisory body, the city clerk, the city attorney, the city manager, and the City Council.

The mayor or majority of Council may, but is not required to, call for an investigation of city advisory body member conduct. Also, should the city manager or city attorney believe an investigation is warranted, they are to confer with the mayor or Council. The mayor or Council may ask the city manager or the city attorney to investigate the allegation and report the findings.

The City Council may choose to impose sanctions on city advisory body members whose conduct does not comply with the city’s policies or the Council’s expectations. Sanctions imposed by Council will be determined by a majority vote of the total membership of the Council at a noticed public meeting and such action will be preceded by a report to Council with supporting information. A copy of the published agenda and any report should be provide to the advisory body member at the earliest opportunity in a reasonable manner intended to provide notice of the agenda item and meeting information.

These sanctions are alternatives to any other remedy that might otherwise be available to remedy conduct that violates this code or state or federal law. In order to protect and preserve good government, any individual including the city manager, and the city attorney after complying with Rules 1.6 and 1.13 of the State Bar Rules of Professional Conduct, who knows or reasonably believes a member acts or intends or refuses to act in a manner that is or may be a violation of law reasonably imputable to the organization, or in a manner which is likely to result in substantial injury to the organization, may report the violation to the appropriate governmental authorities.

D. IMPLEMENTATION
The Code of Ethics and Conduct is intended to be self-enforcing and is an expression of the standards of conduct for members expected by the City Council. It therefore becomes most effective when members are thoroughly familiar with it and embrace its provisions.

For this reason, this document is to be included in the regular orientations for candidates for City Council, applicants to city advisory bodies, and newly elected and appointed officials. Members entering office must sign a statement (example below) acknowledging they have read and understand the Code of Ethics and Conduct. In addition, the Code of Ethics and Conduct should be periodically reviewed by the City Council, city advisory bodies, and updated it as necessary. 113
9 For ease of reference the term “member” refers to any member of the Belmont City Council or member of a city advisory body (ex. planning commission) established by city ordinance or Council policy.

Example:

I affirm that I have read and understand the City of Belmont Code of Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials.

Signature Date
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