City Council Minutes Page 1 of 13 May 11, 2026
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City of Lafayette
City Council Minutes
Lafayette Library and Learning Center – Don Tatzin Community Hall May 11, 2026 3491 Mount Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, California 6:00 p.m.
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City Council Minutes Page 2 of 13 May 11, 2026
1. CALL TO ORDER – 6:00 P.M.
Mayor Anduri called the Regular City Council meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Anduri, Vice Mayor McCormick; Councilmember Candell, Cervantes, and Wotherspoon
Absent: None
Staff Present: Niroop Srivatsa, City Manager; Tracy Robinson, Assistant City Manager; Mike Moran, Engineering and Public Works Director; Madison Church, Assistant Planner; Mala Subramanian, City Attorney; Joanne Robbins, City Clerk
3. Disclosure and/or Take Action on Remote Participation due to Just Cause or Emergency Circumstances Pursuant to AB 2449 (Gov. Code section 54953(f).)
4. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mayor Anduri requested moving Item 11.F up on the agenda.
ACTION: It was M/S/C (McCormick/Candell) to adopt the agenda, as amended. Roll Call Vote: 5-0 (Ayes: Anduri, McCormick, Candell, Cervantes, Wotherspoon; Noes: None).
5. PUBLIC COMMENTS (Closed Session Items only) – 6:00 P.M.
There were no public comments.
6. CLOSED SESSION
Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Gov. Code section 54956.9 (d)(1)
Housing Action Coalition vs. City of Lafayette
Contra Costa Superior Court, Case No. C25-0512
Conference with Real Property Negotiators (Gov. Code Section 54956.8) Property: 3425 Mt. Diablo Boulevard (APN 233-051-019)
Agency Negotiators: Niroop K. Srivatsa, City Manager and Jonathan Katayanagi, Parks and Recreation Director
Negotiating Parties: Edward Joseph Carey, Property Owner Under Negotiation: Price and terms of payment
Mayor Anduri announced there were no reportable actions taken in Closed Session.
7. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Eagle Scouts Emiko Kuniyoshi and Koen Pretzlaf led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
8. MAYOR ANDURI – LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT STATEMENT
City Council Minutes Page 3 of 13 May 11, 2026
We acknowledge that Lafayette is part of the unceded, ancestral homeland of the Bay Miwok people. The Bay Miwok and neighboring Ohlone people have lived in and moved through this place for thousands of years. They stewarded and shaped this land for hundreds of generations.
We express our appreciation and gratitude for this profound legacy, which enhances and contributes to our lives to this day. We will strive to honor this land and strengthen our ties with the Indigenous communities that continue to live and work in our East Bay region as our neighbors and community members. We acknowledge and honor them and their ancestors, elders, and next seven generations.
9. PUBLIC COMMENTS (For items not on the agenda) – 7:00 P.M. – None.
10. CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE – This item was deferred to the next City Council meeting.
11. PRESENTATIONS
F. Recognizing Eagle Scouts from Troop 200 – Noah Henry, Sean Hu, Emiko Kuniyoshi, Koen Pretzlaf, and Logan Tsung
Recommendation: Receive and file.
Mayor Anduri recognized Eagle Scouts Noah Henry, Sean Hu, Emiko Kuniyoshi, Koen Pretzlaf, and Logan Tsung from Troop 200, and presented and read the proclamations to Koen Pretzlaf and Emiko Kuniyoshi. Photos were then taken, and a round of applause followed.
A. Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center, American Legion Post 517 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8063
Memorial Day Recognition
Recommendation: Receive and file.
Mayor Anduri stated that, as the nation approaches its 250th year of independence this Memorial Day, the City honors Americans serving in the military and remembers those who gave their lives in service to the country. He said the Council also recognizes veterans, active service members, and their families, with special appreciation for Lafayette residents who have served or are currently serving.
He invited Bart Carr — a board member of Lafayette War Veterans, Inc., member of American Legion Post 517, and Chair of Lafayette’s Transportation and Circulation Commission — to lead the program and discuss support and resources available to veterans in Lafayette.
Bart Carr delivered a presentation for Memorial Day, emphasizing its purpose of honoring and remembering those who died in service to the United States. The event brought together members of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the City Council, and the Lafayette community in tribute to fallen service members and their families.
He recognized several fallen soldiers, sharing their service histories and personal stories through tributes from or about their Gold Star mothers. These included CPL Sean-Kanae-Aldrique Langevin, PFC Kevin Clark Dexter, PFC Adrian Jeffries, SPC Taylor Hannah, and Sr. Airman Jonathan “Jake” Antonio Vega Yelner. Each remembrance highlighted their military service, personal qualities, and the lasting impact of their loss on their families. Gold Star mothers present shared heartfelt reflections, while those unable to attend were also acknowledged with respect.
City Council Minutes Page 4 of 13 May 11, 2026
A collective honor salute was conducted, during which veterans and Gold Star mothers were asked to stand and pay mutual respect, underscoring the community’s shared gratitude and remembrance.
Mr. Carr also paid tribute to World War II veterans Gilbert Verdugo and George Binweski, recognizing their service during the WWII and Korean War era as part of “America’s Greatest Generation.”
The presentation concluded with Mr. Carr thanking the City Council for supporting this recognition and ended with the message—“A hero remembered never dies.” He also acknowledgment of the Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center, a facility completed in 2005 that serves as a gathering place for veterans and is also available for community events such as weddings and receptions. Terry Murphy, President of Lafayette War Veterans, Mike Gilson, Post Commander of Lafayette American Legion Post 517, and Peter Cobler, Incoming Post Commander for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8063 spoke about the center’s functions, and thanked the Council for the recognition.
Mayor Anduri opened the public comment period.
TRACI REILLY reflected on her prior service on the City Council and noted that she was previously approached by Ms. Vega to support a Memorial Day recognition. She spoke about her experiences with knowing and supporting Gold Star mothers, expressing both deep sorrow and pride— emotions she sees shared among other Gold Star families.
She also shared her personal connection to military service, noting that she has a son currently serving in the armed forces and has come to know many other military families through that experience. She emphasized the importance of honoring all who have served and sacrificed, as well as recognizing the families who support them. She concluded by acknowledging participants in the audience and thanking Mayor Anduri for the opportunity to speak.
Councilmembers expressed gratitude to veterans and their families, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who have served and sacrificed. They recognized the Gold Star mothers and the two World War II veterans in attendance, highlighting the lasting impact of military service on families and communities. Councilmembers also thanked participants for sharing personal memories and legacies of their loved ones, noting that these reflections reinforced the true meaning and purpose of Memorial Day.
Mayor Anduri recalled that three years prior, the Council had adjourned in memory of four Gold Star mothers and their sons. Traci Reilly had recently reminded him of the importance of continuing to recognize veterans and the families who have made sacrifices, particularly those who are often not formally acknowledged within the community. He expressed appreciation for their service and contributions. He also thanked Bart Carr for organizing the recognition event and commended the broader effort to honor all who serve the country.
B. Cherry Sprague, Ellen Reintjes, and Caz Cazanov, Friends of the Lafayette Library and Learning Center
Lafayette Civic Values: Lifelong Learning and the Arts
Recommendation: Receive and file.
City Council Minutes Page 5 of 13 May 11, 2026
Mayor Anduri provided introductory and background comments, stating Lafayette’s Mission Statement calls out its commitment to lifelong learning. During the next two years, these civic values will be strengthened through presentations at the beginning of the first Council meeting of each month by an arts organization or an organization that offers lifelong learning opportunities. This month’s featured organization is the Friends of the Lafayette Library. He attended the Friends’ annual meeting and said the organization is a pillar of the community. He introduced Cherry Sprague, President; Ellen Reintjes; and Caz Cazanov who will talk about activities of the Friends that promote lifelong learning and the arts.
Cherry Sprague, President of the Friends of the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, thanked the Council and summarized the organization’s mission to support library services through fundraising, book sales, and volunteer work. Since 2009, the Friends Bookshop has operated at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, relying on donated materials and about 90 volunteers, with approximately 20,000 books in circulation and open 45 hours per week.
Immediate Past President Caz Cazanov reported annual library support of about $100,000, with over $135,000 in 2025 book sales plus additional revenue from puzzles, games, and DVDs. She noted the group has modernized operations with digital inventory systems and expanded payment options.
Ellen Reintjes then highlighted the “Wonders of the World (WOW)” lecture series, which runs October through May and draws 75–175 attendees per event. Funded entirely by the Friends (about $3,500 annually), the series features speakers from major cultural institutions.
President Sprague also described the monthly “Sweet Thursday Author Series,” coordinated by volunteers and featuring author talks, hospitality support, and on-site book sales through Orinda Books.
Ms. Cazanov then summarized the annual Bookmark Design Contest, which engages about 500 TK–8 students, with winners recognized through awards, certificates, and community recognition, helping sustain ongoing youth participation in library programs.
The presentation concluded with distribution of student-designed bookmarks to Councilmembers.
Mayor Anduri opened public comment, and there were no speakers.
Mayor Anduri and Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the Friends’ contributions to the library and community programs.
C. Lt. James Williams
Recognizing the Police Academy Graduates
Recommendation: Receive and file.
City Council Minutes Page 6 of 13 May 11, 2026
Police Chief Lt. James Williams gave a PowerPoint presentation and an overview of the programs and activities involved in the Police Academy and introduced and thanked the Crime Prevention Commissioner and members present, Judy Peterson and Denise Brown, for their work. He also thanked all instructors and the Office of the Sheriff personnel who contributed their time and expertise to make the program successful. He voiced appreciation of the Council’s support and commitment to the community.
He then recognized and Commissioners presented certificates to Police Academy graduates from 2024 as: Larry Blodgett, Michael Low, Michael Melewicz, Miguel San Mateo, Laurie Ware. Also recognized were graduates from 2026 as: Bob Baldwin, Stephanie Bontemps, Maire Farrington, Sandra Harris, Douglas Hill, Salahuddin Kamran, Leah Kao, Kevin Li, John McCormick, Rob Pulkownik and Haley Tice.
Lt. Williams said those participants that could not attend will get their certificates mailed to them.
He recognized and he thanked Sgt. Scott Piler who trained some classes, including use of force and range operations, which he described. Photographs were taken of the graduating group and applause followed.
Mayor Anduri opened the public comment period.
DAVID CLARK said he previously attended the Police Academy and described it as a valuable experience. He shared lessons learned, including practical advice about interactions with law enforcement, and thanked the graduates. He noted the program helps citizens better understand police work, operations, and challenges, and strongly recommended participation.
Chief Williams stated the Fall 2026 Academy will soon be announced, and Councilmembers thanked Chief Williams, his staff, as well as the Crime Prevention Commission.
D. Kiara Donato, Community Development Manager, MCE
Update from MCE – Clean Energy
Recommendation: Receive and file.
Sebastian Conn, on behalf of Kiara Donato, presented an update on MCE covering programs, governance, and regional impact.
He explained California’s Community Choice Aggregation model was created after the early 2000s energy crisis and enabled by AB 117, allowing local agencies to procure electricity for residents while utilities like PG&E continue delivery and transmission. MCE now serves over 200 communities and 15 million customers statewide, is governed by a board of local elected officials (including Vice Mayor McCormick), and is largely self-funded.
He described MCE’s two service tiers: Light Green (60% renewable) and Deep Green (100% renewable), with annual board-approved rates. In 2026, generation rates were reduced by 14%, with additional bill credits offsetting PG&E exit fees (PCIA). He noted expanded customer assistance programs, including monthly bill credits for eligible households and small businesses.
City Council Minutes Page 7 of 13 May 11, 2026
Mr. Conn reported about 90% participation in Lafayette, with roughly 8% enrolled in Deep Green.
He highlighted EV and energy programs, including rebates up to $4,000 for new electric vehicles and $2,000 for used vehicles, as well as charging infrastructure incentives. He estimated Lafayette’s participation has reduced emissions by about 8,000 metric tons of CO₂, equivalent to over 900,000 gallons of gasoline.
He also referenced partnerships with local sustainability groups and recognition programs such as Deep Green Champions and youth climate awards.
Finally, he introduced MCE’s Virtual Power Plant initiative, which connects distributed energy resources (solar, batteries, heat pumps, and smart systems) to support grid reliability. A pilot program is underway in Richmond, California, including energy-efficient housing redevelopment for first-time homebuyers. He added that MCE has reduced roughly 550,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions overall while supporting renewable energy growth and local jobs.
Councilmember Cervantes asked if the $16.29 PG&E charge covers stranded infrastructure costs like Diablo Canyon. Mr. Conn said it mostly reflects contract obligations that will decline as agreements expire. He also asked how MCE manages energy price volatility. Mr. Conn said he would follow up offline.
On greenhouse gas reductions, Mr. Conn confirmed the 550,000 metric ton figure is a comparison between MCE and PG&E, reflecting increased renewable energy use since 2010.
Councilmember Wotherspoon asked whether large hydro is considered renewable. Mr. Conn said California classifies it as GHG-free but not renewable. He noted PG&E’s mix is about 12% large hydro, while MCE’s is in the high 30% range.
She also asked about the remaining portion of MCE’s Light Green mix, which Mr. Conn said is mainly large hydro, solar, wind, with smaller amounts of geothermal and biomass.
Mayor Anduri noted Lafayette has about 8% participation in MCE’s Deep Green program and asked how that compares regionally. Mr. Conn said it is typical for Contra Costa communities, with Fairfax, California being among the highest at about 15%.
Mayor Anduri opened the public comment period.
ROB LAVOIE questioned MCE’s ownership of solar (about 68 MW), noting most energy is marketpurchased and asking whether PG&E could buy similar sources. He also argued that if large hydro and nuclear were included, PG&E’s “clean energy” percentage would be higher than MCE’s.
Mr. Conn responded that the 68 MW figure refers to MCE’s local solar investments and feed-in tariff projects across its service area. He confirmed MCE also buys most power from the market, as do other utilities, and said MCE’s value lies in contracting and incentivizing new renewable projects rather than relying solely on existing sources. He also reiterated that California counts large hydro as GHG-free but not renewable, and nuclear is not classified as renewable under state rules.
City Council Minutes Page 8 of 13 May 11, 2026
Vice Mayor McCormick, as MCE’s representative board member, said MCE actively manages a mix of long- and short-term contracts and that its governance is more transparent than PG&E’s. He argued MCE helps drive new renewable development by guaranteeing purchase agreements for projects that might not otherwise be built, citing wind turbine replacement investments and market-driven renewable expansion.
Councilmember Cervantes asked whether MCE is investing in battery storage to address excess daytime solar production and evening demand. Mr. Conn confirmed it is, citing battery storage contracts (including long-duration storage in the Central Valley) and the Virtual Power Plant initiative to aggregate distributed home energy resources for grid support.
Mr. Conn concluded by announcing a Power Procurement Workshop on June 5, an open public meeting on energy purchasing and strategy.
Mayor Anduri and Councilmembers thanked Mr. Conn for his presentation.
E. Capital Project Assessment Committee (CPAC)
Annual Update and Proposed Capital Improvement Program for FY 2026/2027 - 5 Year CIP
Recommendation: Receive and file.
Engineering and Public Works Director Mike Moran said this program has been vetted through the City’s Capital Project Assessment Committee (CPAC) and their newest member, Karly Faulconier-Bank and most tenured member Lee Thompson are present.
Mr. Moran presented the annual update and proposed FY 2026/2027 Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
Key projects include:
• Roadwork: paving of two major arterials, repaving of 22 streets starting in June (raising PCI to 100 for those repaved streets), downtown striping, and other future PTR projects. • Paths & mobility: completion of pathways near Springhill Elementary School and an East Bay Regional Park District parking lot, plus a BART-related bike station and downtown connection.
• Facilities: police station roof and HVAC replacement, Don Tatzin Community Hall lighting upgrades, Campana building coordination for shared parking and Plaza District improvements, and Seaborg Garden reconstruction with drainage, decking, and art elements.
• Safety & infrastructure: bridge maintenance inspections (per Caltrans requirements), Smart Signals project going to bid, St. Mary’s Road slide repair, flashing beacon crossings, storm drain upgrades, and utility pole relocation on School Street/Topper Lane. • Transit & circulation: BART downtown access improvements currently under construction, and potential signal at Deer Hill Road and Oakhill due to commuter traffic. • Parks & projects on hold/under review: aqueduct pathway design pause, West Reach Creeks project, Community Center parking lot review, and St. Mary’s Road drop-off improvements behind Stanley Middle School.
Vice Mayor McCormick asked about the BART downtown bike station/art/connection project timeline. Mr. Moran said the contractor is significantly behind (about 15% of work completed with limited remaining working days) and completion is likely at least another year.
City Council Minutes Page 9 of 13 May 11, 2026
Councilmember Candell asked about paving vs. surface sealing. Mr. Moran explained paving involves new asphalt layers, while slurry sealing is a thinner surface treatment; paving will be used across the 22-street program but sealcoating is planned for future year street maintenance projects.
Councilmember Cervantes discussed the $4M annual pavement program, noting prior underfunding and a ~$1M gap now partly addressed through Measure H. He said the pavement condition index (PCI) dropped slightly (76 to 75) but is expected to improve after this year’s work, with Lafayette performing near top tier in the county.
Councilmember Wotherspoon asked about the Stanley Boulevard traffic calming replacement.
Mr. Moran said options range from leaving, repairing, modifying, or removing existing medians, or replacing them with alternatives like speed humps. Community input and coordination with fire services will be part of the process. He also confirmed the roadway will need inlay work and noted existing deterioration and exposed rebar.
She suggested consulting a prior community advocate for the original Stanley Blvd. traffic calming project about a new design and asked about the aqueduct trail. Mr. Moran said the segment from Dolores to the BART area is on hold due to concerns from East Bay Municipal Utility District about work within its right-of-way. A separate segment from Brown Avenue to Pleasant Hill Road is still in-house design and considered more feasible due to greater City control.
Mayor Anduri opened the public comment period, and there are no speakers.
Mayor Anduri and Councilmembers thanked CPAC and Mr. Moran for their work.
12. CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Anduri asked if the Council wished to remove any items, and there were no requests or public comments.
A. April 27, 2026 Minutes
Recommendation: Approve.
B. Resolution 2026-37 Adopting Title VI Statement of Policy, Complaint Form and Procedures in Compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Recommendation: Adopt Resolution 2026-37.
ACTION: It was M/S/C (McCormick/Candell) to approve Consent Calendar Items A and B. Roll Call Vote: 5-0 (Ayes: Anduri, McCormick, Candell, Cervantes, Wotherspoon; Noes: None).
13. OLD BUSINESS – None.
14. STAFF REPORTS
A. Mike Moran, Engineering and Public Works Director
1. Proposed Capital Improvement Program for FY 2026/2027 – 5 Year CIP City Council Minutes Page 10 of 13 May 11, 2026
Recommendation 1) Adopt the proposed 2026/2027 Capital Improvement Program and updated 5-Year Program (2027-2031) and allocate funding per staff’s proposed funding sources as part of the Council’s budget adoption in June of 2026. 2) Authorize staff to file a Notice of Exemption (NOE) for all proposed projects that meet NOE criteria and that do not already have an NOE on file with the County.
Engineering and Public Works Director Mike Moran gave the staff report and presentation of the proposed CIP for FY 2026/2027 – 5 year CIP, and was available for questions, noting staff is looking for adoption of the program, funding sources, as well as adoption of the Resolution noting the pavement maintenance project which is covered in Item 2 as the SB 1-funded project for next year.
Councilmember Wotherspoon referenced the Aqueduct Path and noted a footnote indicating design work is anticipated for completion by July, including public meetings. She confirmed with Mr.
Moran that the Dolores-to-BART segment is expected to be partially designed by July, but not fully completed.
Mayor Anduri opened the public comment period, and there were no speakers.
ACTION: It was M/S/C (McCormick/Candell) to adopt the proposed 2026/2027 Capital Improvement Program and updated 5-Year Program (2027-2031) and allocated funding per staff’s proposed funding sources as part of the Council’s budget adoption in June of 2026. 2) Authorized staff to file a Notice of Exemption (NOE) for all proposed projects that meet NOE criteria and that do not already have an NOE on file with the County. Roll Call Vote: 5-0 (Ayes: Anduri, McCormick, Candell, Cervantes, Wotherspoon; Noes: None).
2. Adoption of Resolution 2026-32 Authorizing Use of SB-1 Funds for Lafayette’s 2026 Pavement Maintenance Project
Recommendation: Authorize using SB-1 funds for Lafayette’s 2027 Pavement Maintenance Project and adopt Resolution 2026-32.
Mayor Anduri opened the public comment period, and there were no speakers.
ACTION: It was M/S/C (Cervantes/Wotherspoon) to authorize using SB-1 funds for Lafayette’s 2027 Pavement Maintenance Project and adopt Resolution 2026-32. Roll Call Vote: 5-0 (Ayes: Anduri, McCormick, Candell, Cervantes, Wotherspoon; Noes: None).
15. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Madison Church, Assistant Planner
Introduce Ordinance 701, readopting Chapter 6-6, Section 6-604 (e) regarding charging station requirements for certain project types of the Lafayette Municipal Code (LMC) and updating references. Exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) §15061(b)(3)
Recommendation: Introduce Ordinance 701 readopting Chapter 6-6, Section 6-604 (e) of the Lafayette Municipal Code (LMC), waive first reading, take public comments, and continue to May 26, 2026 for second reading and adoption.
City Council Minutes Page 11 of 13 May 11, 2026
Assistant Planner Madison Church gave the staff report and said Ordinance 701 would readopt the City’s Electric Vehicle Code with one minor administrative update for consistency with State law. Changes would be limited to updating the 2022 Building Code reference to the 2025 Building Code. Staff recommends the Council introduce Ordinance 701 readopting Chapter 6-6, Section 6-604 (e) of the Lafayette Municipal Code (LMC), waive first reading, take public comments, and continue to May 26, 2026 for second reading and adoption.
Mayor Anduri opened the public comment, and there were no speakers.
ACTION: It was M/S/C (Candell/Wotherspoon) to introduce Ordinance 701 readopting Chapter 6- 6, Section 6-604 (e) of the Lafayette Municipal Code (LMC), waive first reading, take public comments, and continue to May 26, 2026 for second reading and adoption. Roll Call Vote: 5-0 (Ayes: Anduri, McCormick, Candell, Cervantes, Wotherspoon; Noes: None).
16. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT – None.
17. COUNCIL / COMMISSION REPORTS
A. Councilmembers report on activities and consideration of matters a Councilmember wishes to initiate for placement on a future agenda.
Councilmember Cervantes reported the following:
• He and Vice Mayor McCormick attended the Crime Prevention Commission meeting and interviewed a candidate for a Commissioner vacancy. He expects to bring forward a recommendation at the next meeting.
• On April 29, he and Councilmember Candell met with Rebecca Bauer-Kahan to discuss legislation, particularly related to e-bikes. He said the meeting was productive and part of broader efforts to strengthen relationships in Sacramento through Legislative Day. • On April 30, he and Mayor Anduri met with residents at Merrill Gardens to discuss community concerns, including questions about a recently approved nearby project. • He and Vice Mayor McCormick attended the Emergency Preparedness Commission meeting, noting Lafayette now has 33 Firewise communities with seven more in progress.
He credited Stephanie Bontemps for her leadership in advancing the program. • He highlighted the formation of the Acalanes Ridge Fire Protection Alliance, a coalition of Lafayette and Walnut Creek residents working to reduce wildfire risk along the Acalanes Ridge open space area.
• He attended Senator Tim Grayson’s East Bay Wildfire Working Group meeting and legislative update. He noted optimism around increased State budget projections, which could improve funding opportunities for wildfire-related initiatives. • He also attended the 80th anniversary celebration for the Rotary Club of Lafayette and thanked the Mayor for participating in the event.
Vice Mayor McCormick reported that several downtown burglaries recently occurred, including break-ins at Cresco Rents and Wear Design Jewelry. He emphasized the importance of security cameras and said the Crime Prevention Commission is partnering with the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, City staff, and board members to conduct a downtown business walk-through on Wednesday morning. He added that the Police Department is offering security assessments for businesses, and Chief Williams will host another Zoom presentation on crime prevention soon.
City Council Minutes Page 12 of 13 May 11, 2026
Councilmember Candell reported that she and Councilmember Wotherspoon received a presentation from Kristin Reicher regarding the Street Smarts Program “Walk and Roll” initiative.
The program encourages students to use carpooling, transit, walking, biking, and other forms of active transportation by rewarding participation. She said the program has already increased participation rates at schools across the County and will expand to Lamorinda next fall, beginning with Springhill Elementary School, Del Rey Elementary School, and one school in Moraga. She also noted that the “Students Ride Free” transit program will return this summer after a successful prior year.
She added that she will serve as the delegate for the June 18 General Assembly meeting.
Councilmember Wotherspoon reported that she and Councilmember Candell attended “The Future of BART” Information Session, hosted by the Lafayette Homeowners Council. She said BART Director Matt Rinn gave a strong presentation and responded to public questions about the current state and future direction of Bay Area Rapid Transit.
She also announced she will be unable to attend the June 22 and July 13 Council meetings.
Councilmember Candell also attended the BART session and noted discussion about an upcoming tax measure. She said Lafayette residents provided significant and constructive feedback, and Director Rinn indicated he would take those comments back to the Board. She added that BART will also present at the Tri-Cities meeting.
Councilmember Cervantes asked if the session was recorded, and he agreed to check with the Lafayette Homeowners Council.
Mayor Anduri reported the following:
• On April 29, he represented the City at the Cancer Support Community topping-out ceremony, which he described as inspirational.
• On May 4, the City hosted its Mayor for a Day program. Barrett Graham, a 5th grader at Happy Valley Elementary School, participated after his grandmother submitted the winning bid at the LPI auction. Mayor Anduri praised City staff for organizing an engaging session that included visits to City departments and a budget exercise. • He said the Community Liaison meetings are very useful and confirmed summaries are shared with all Councilmembers.
• He reminded everyone that June 29 will include a special meeting for the State of the City and Volunteer Appreciation event.
• He announced plans for the City’s 250th celebration on July 2, with more details to come. • He noted the second Hello Lafayette Welcome event, organized by the Lafayette Juniors in partnership with the City and the Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation, will take place on July 30.
18. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
A. E-mail from Larry Blodgett, Lafayette Rotary Club 80th Anniversary Committee, requesting a E-mail from Steven Poling, Lafayette DEIB Committee, requesting a proclamation recognizing the Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, TwoSpirit Individuals and their relatives.
City Council Minutes Page 13 of 13 May 11, 2026
Recommendation: Approve the proclamation recognizing the Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Two-Spirit Individuals and their relatives.
Mayor Anduri opened the public comment period, and there were no speakers.
Councilmember Cervantes said California has a difficult history regarding the treatment of Native peoples, including acknowledged genocide under Governor Newsom. He referenced Ishi: Last of His Tribe as an example of that history and noted Ishi’s later connection to University of California, Berkeley.
He said recognizing a Miwok elder through this resolution is meaningful because it acknowledges the Native people who lived on the land before European settlement and expresses appreciation for their contributions. He thanked Steven Poling for bringing the matter to the Council’s attention.
ACTION: It was M/S/C (Cervantes/Candell) to approve the proclamation recognizing the Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Two-Spirit Individuals and their relatives. Roll Call Vote:
5-0 (Ayes: Anduri, McCormick, Candell, Cervantes, Wotherspoon; Noes: None).
19. ADJOURNMENT – 9:27 p.m. in honor and memory of those who gave their lives defending our country during the past 250 years and with thanks to those who serve today and their families.
APPROVED:
_________________________________
Carl Anduri, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Joanne Robbins, City Clerk