F. When the proposed conditional use is a flag lot, the commission and council shall make a specific finding on each of the following issues. Any negative findings may result in denial of the use permit or in conditions of approval which alter the minimum development standards, e.g., height, floor area, and setbacks, for the district in which the property is located.
1. That the size of the proposed flag lot is sufficient to mitigate development impacts and is compatible with the existing lots in the immediate neighborhood;
2. That the proposed flag lot will not result in unreasonable noise impacts for neighbors adjoining the access corridor;
3. That the proposed flag lot will not result in unreasonable privacy invasion or unreasonable massing as a result of building height;
4. That the proposed flag lot will not result in incompatible setbacks from neighboring properties;
5. That the allowed floor area ratio in accordance with district regulations will not result in adverse impacts on neighboring properties;
G. When the proposed conditional use is a large family day care home as defined by the California Health and Safety Code, the commission and council shall make a specific finding on each of the following issues:
1. That the day care home provides a minimum of four off-street parking spaces;
2. That the day care home provides staggered drop-off and pick-up times in order to minimize traffic impacts;
3. That the day care home provides noise mitigation measures in order to minimize the noise levels generated by outdoor play areas, and that children's outdoor play only occurs between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.;
4. That the day care home is not located within one thousand five hundred (1,500) feet of another large family day care home, as measured following the street, or within five hundred (500) feet of another large family day care home as measured from any property line;
5. That the day care home is visually incidental and secondary to the residential use of the property;
6. That the day care home is the principal residence of the child care provider;
7. That if the day care home is located on a flag lot, that lot shall be a minimum of fifteen thousand (15,000) square feet;
H.F. When the proposed conditional use is a nonconforming ground floor office use, the planning and transportation commission and city council shall make one or more of the following findings:
1. That access to the space to be occupied can only be reached through another business;
2. That there is no direct frontage to the space to be occupied from the street or parking plaza; and/or
3. That the building to be occupied is constructed in such a manner that its conversion to retail is infeasible or would cause unreasonable economic hardship due to the type of construction, the structural remodeling required to convert to retail, lack of window display, or other constraint identified with the findings;
I.G. When a conditional use permit is required for a medical or dental office, or medical, dental or animal clinic or hospital, the planning and transportation commission shall make a specific finding that there is adequate on-site parking to support the facility, including staff, patients, visitors and other ancillary support services. This determination shall be based on a parking demand analysis prepared by a 158
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qualified professional and presented to the planning and transportation commission at a public hearing;
J. When conditional expansion in the LC/SPZ District is requested as provided for in Section 14.42.040, the commission and council shall make a specific finding on each of the following issues:
1. That the proposed construction is found to meet the specific purposes of the district pursuant to Section 14.42.020 of the Los Altos Municipal Code;
2. That the proposed square footage contributes to expansion potential pursuant to Section
14.42.040 of the Los Altos Municipal Code in the following order:
i. The square footage contributes to the permitted fifteen thousand (15,000) square foot new ground-level retail until such total square footage is achieved, at which time, ii. The square footage contributes to the permitted four thousand (4,000) square foot secondlevel retail services until such total square footage is achieved, at which time, iii. The square footage contributes to the permitted four thousand (4,000) square foot secondlevel office;
3. That the use occupying the proposed square footage builds upon the existing strengths of the Loyola Corners Neighborhood Commercial Center and adds business which is appropriate in terms of use, physical scale, and size of the site.
Notwithstanding the above findings, the planning and transportation commission and city council may find that a use which meets all code criteria may not be in the best interest of the Loyola Corners Commercial Neighborhood Center;
K. When an extension of time is requested for an office use in the LC/SPZ District as provided for in Section 14.42.030 of this chapter, the commission and council may in its sole discretion make a determination as to the length of the term, provided findings on each of the following issues can be made:
1. That there is a five percent or greater vacancy rate (excluding the space in question) in the LC/SPZ zoning district;
2. That the property owner has demonstrated to the satisfaction of the commission and council that the use has been economically beneficial to the Loyola Corners Neighborhood Commercial Center;
3. That the use has proven to be of a type that receives significant on-site clientele visitations;
4. That the use has maintained a pedestrian-friendly exterior by maintaining visual access into the building interior through windows which are not permanently blocked during business hours; and
5. That continuance of the use would not further move the area from an ideal cost/benefit ratio of seventy (70) percent retail and thirty (30) percent office which is determined necessary to: (i) provide a retail center whose function it is to provide retail services to the surrounding community; (ii) provide a lively, active, and diversified shopping experience; and (iii) ensure that a reasonable portion of the commercial activities are generating taxable retail sales. (Ord. 07-312 § 12; Ord. 05-294 § 4; Ord. 05-271 § 3; prior code § 10-2.2805) (Ord. No. 2015-406 , § 6, 2-10-2015)
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14.80.070 Appeals.
A. Within fifteen fourteen (145) days of any action on a use permit by the planning commission, the decision may be appealed to the city council by any interested party.
B. Within fifteen fourteen (145) days of any action (approval or denial) on a use permit by the planning commission may be called up for review by the city council if two members of the city council submit requests to the city clerk pursuant to Section 1.12.040. (Prior code § 10-2.2806; Ord. No. 2019-457 , § 6, 1-28-2020)
14.80.080 Revocation.
A use permit may be revoked by the planning commission and/or city council, or whichever body initially approved the permit, based upon a determination by the community development services director or their designee that the holder of the permit has failed to comply with any condition thereof or has violated any applicable provision of this chapter. The revocation procedure shall be the same as prescribed in this chapter for the initial use permit.
(Prior code § 10-2.2807)
(Ord. No. 2011-368, § 3, 7-26-2011; Ord. No. 2016-423 , § 1, 9-27-2016; Ord. No. 2019-457 , § 7, 1-28-2020)
14.80.090 New applications.
Following the denial of a use permit application or the revocation of a use permit by the planning commission or council, no application for a use permit for the same or substantially the same conditional use on the same or substantially the same site shall be filed within six (6) months after the date of the denial or revocation of the use permit.
(Prior code § 10-2.2808; Ord. No. 2019-457 , § 8, 1-28-2020)
14.80.100 Expiration of use permit approval—Extensions.
A. Use permit approvals granted pursuant to this chapter shall expire twenty-four (24) months from the date on which the approval became effective, unless prior to such expiration date, a building permit is issued for the improvements constituting the subject of the use permit approval, and construction thereof is commenced and prosecuted diligently toward completion.
B. Use permit approvals may be extended for a period of time not exceeding twelve (12) months. The application for extension shall be filed prior to the expiration date and shall be accompanied by the payment of a fee in such amount as established from time to time by resolution of the city council. Extensions of use permit approval are contingent on the community development services director or their designee finding that the project complies with all current zoning ordinance regulations. (Ord. 05-279 § 1: prior code § 10-2.2809; Ord. No. 2016-423 , § 1, 9-27-2016)
14.80.110 Modification of a use permit.
For modifications to an approved use permit, the planning commission shall be the decision-making body.
The action of the planning commission shall be final unless:
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A. It is appealed in writing to the city council, and the appropriate fee is paid, within fifteen fourteen (154) days of the date of the action; .
B. Two members of the city council submit requests to the city clerk pursuant to Section 1.12.040. (Ord. No. 2016-423 , § 13, 9-27-2016; Ord. No. 2019-457 , § 8, 1-28-2020) 161
Agenda Item # 4.
1 North San Antonio Road
Los Altos, California 94022-3087
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: September 26, 2023
TO: City Council
FROM: Nick Zornes, Development Services Director
SUBJECT: AGENDA ITEM #4
SUGGESTED CHANGES TO PROPOSED ORDINANCE
Based on recent Public Comment received, staff suggests the following changes to the proposed ordinance (Agenda Item #4).
Remove the allowance of “Residential Only Development(s)” from the Permitted Uses of Section 14.40.030.
Modify the Permitted Use of “Mixed Use Development(s)” to include language consistent with SB 167, the Housing Accountability Act. The modified Permitted Use would read as follows:
o Mixed Use Development(s) which shall consist of residential and nonresidential uses with one-third of the square footage designated for nonresidential use and the remaining two-thirds of the square footage designated for residential use.
Remove the allowance of “Residential Only Development(s) building height shall be a maximum of forty (40) feet and four (4) stories.
Modify Floor Area Ratio requirements of Section 14.40.070 to read as follows:
o a. Mixed Use Development(s) shall have no maximum floor area ratio within the Commercial Neighborhood (CN) Zoning District.
o b. Non-Residential Use Only Development(s) shall have a maximum floor area ratio of thirty-five (35) percent of the total area of the site.
Lastly, any necessary renumbering shall be incorporated as appropriate and is non substantive in nature if the above suggestions are accepted by the City Council. 162
Agenda Item # 4.
AGENDA REPORT SUMMARY
Meeting Date: October 10, 2023
Subject: Special Events Policy
Prepared by: Anthony Carnesecca, Assistant to the City Manager Reviewed by: Jon Maginot, Assistant City Manager
Approved by: Gabriel Engeland, City Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Ordinance No. 2023-XX LAMC 9.25 Special Events
2. Ordinance No. 2023-XX LAMC 9.25 Special Events Appendix A
3. Resolution No. 2023-XX Special Events Fees
Initiated by:
City staff
Previous Council Consideration:
None
Fiscal Impact:
Lower application fees may lead to lower revenues, but more events qualifying as special events may lead to a higher number of applications that could offset the lost revenue. The cost for staff time will still be invoiced to applicants in addition to the application fee.
Environmental Review:
Not applicable
Policy Question(s) for Council Consideration:
Does the City Council wish to adjust Los Altos Municipal Code 9.25 “Special Events” with the recommended changes?
Does the City Council wish to adjust special event fees to be more in line with comparable jurisdictions?
Summary:
City Council created Los Altos Municipal Code 9.25 “Special Events” in March 2007 that governs special events.
This section of the Muncipal Code must be updated in context of the current special event landscape and current special events coming into the City for review. 163
Agenda Item # 5.
Subject: Los Altos Special Events Policy
October 10, 2023 Page 2
Staff Recommendation:
Approve Ordinance No. 2023-XX and Resolution No. 2023-XX.
Purpose
Update Los Altos Municipal Code 9.25 “Special Events” by streamlining the special event process and adjust the special event fees.
Background
The City Council adopted Los Altos Municipal Code 9.25 “Special Events” in March 2007 that governs special events. This section has governed how the City has managed special events for the last fifteen years. Over the course of those fifteen years, special events have changed and this code section needs to be re-evaluated based upon the current needs of the Los Altos community.
So far in 2023, the City has received 23 special event applications. These special event applications vary from one-time concerts at Grant Park to the weekend-long Art and Wine Festival to the weekly Farmers Market in downtown. They also vary in attendance from large events such as the weekend-long Fine Art in the Park to the multi-minute (depending upon the speed of Los Altos children in any given year) Spring Egg Hunt.
Discussion/Analysis
Special Events
City staff recommends a number of changes to Los Altos Municipal Code 9.25 “Special Events” that will allow the City to simplify a confusing code section, retain control over more events on public property, and simplify the special event and block party process.
Below are the major edits for the Special Events code section:
Add new bullet points to our “special event” definition that will incorporate more events that have not historically been defined as a special event Remove unnecessary language that will make the code section more coherent Create uniform standard response times for all special event sections regardless of activity Remove subjective language regarding “expressive activity” Condense application requirements for future special events Break block parties into their own subsection of the Municipal Code so there will be two types of events in special events and block parties
Change the name of sponsored special events to be more accurate Special Event Fee
Currently, the FY23-24 Fee Schedule charges $1,728.15 for a new special event and $1,152.10 for an ongoing special event in addition to the actual cost for services for the special event operations.
City staff supports this model with an initial application fee and a charge for the actual cost of 164
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October 10, 2023 Page 3
services, but this application fee should be lowered to be in line with similar cities and to allow more special events to occur, especially ones that require minimal City services.
Based on a review of comparable jurisdictions, city staff recommends that the City of Los Altos alter its application fee structure to charge differently for-profit and not-for-profit applicants.
Below is a chart of similar jurisdictions and their fees for special events:
Jurisdiction Name Initial Application Fee
Los Altos New Event: $1,728.15
Ongoing Event: $1,152.10
Saratoga $300
Los Gatos For Profit
New Event: $910
Ongoing Event: $680
Non-Profit
New Event: $227
Ongoing Event: $170
Campbell $500
Menlo Park Minor Event $125
Major Event $250
Based on these cities' average application fees, staff recommends the following fee schedule:
Event Type Organization Type Application Fee
New Event For-Profit $500
New Event Non-Profit $400
Ongoing Event For-Profit $200
Ongoing Event Non-Profit $150
This will give organizations a lower barrier to entry and more access to hosting special events, which play an essential role in building community and creating vibrancy in Los Altos.
This would be the base application fee and then the City would charge for the actual cost of services rendered by individual departments.
Recommendation
The staff recommends adopting Ordinance No. 2023-XX and Resolution No. 2023-XX. 165
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Ordinance No. 2023-___ Page 1
ORDINANCE NO. 2023-___
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LOS ALTOS AMENDING SECTION 9.25 OF THE LOS ALTOS
MUNICIPAL CODE GOVERNING SPECIAL EVENTS AND
BLOCK PARTIES
WHEREAS, The City Council adopted Los Altos Municipal Code 9.25 “Special Events” in March 2007 that governs special events and how the City has managed special events for the last fifteen years; and
WHEREAS, These special event applications vary from one-time concerts at Grant Park to the weekend-long Art and Wine Festival to the weekly Farmers Market in downtown; and
WHEREAS, These edits will simplify a confusing code section, retain control over more events on public property, and simplify the special event and block party process; and WHEREAS, this Ordinance is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State Guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended.
NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. AMENDMENT OF CODE: Chapter 9.25 of the Los Altos Municipal Code as set forth in Appendix A to this Ordinance.
SECTION 2. CONSTITUTIONALITY. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this code.
SECTION 3. PUBLICATION. This ordinance shall be published as provided in Government Code section 36933.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall be effective upon the commencement of the thirty-first day following the adoption date.
The foregoing ordinance was duly and properly introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Los Altos held on ____________, 2023 and was thereafter, at a regular meeting held on ___________, 2023 passed and adopted by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
166
Agenda Item # 5.
Ordinance No. 2023-___ Page 2
___________________________
Sally Meadows, MAYOR
Attest:
_______________________
Melissa Thurman, CITY CLERK
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Agenda Item # 5.
9.25.010 Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
“Block party” means an outdoor neighborhood gathering coordinated by the residents of that neighborhood that includes the closure of a public right of way within an area zoned for residential use. Block parties may not include the closure of arterial streets and may not be for commercial, for-profit, or advertising purposes. "City manager" means the city manager of the city of Los Altos and his or her their designee. "Demonstration" means any formation, procession or assembly of persons for the purpose of expressive activity, who intend to or do assemble or travel in unison on any street, sidewalk or other public right-of-way owned or controlled by the city in a manner that does not comply with normal or usual traffic regulations, laws or controls.
"Departmental services charges" means the actual costs which a department of the city incurs in connection with activities for which a permit is required under this chapter, including, but not limited to, costs associated with fire safety, police-conducted traffic and/or pedestrian control, the closure of streets or intersections, the diverting of traffic, the salaries of city personnel involved in administration or coordination of city services for the event, the cost to the city to provide support personnel, equipment, materials and supplies, and related city costs such as fringe benefits or employee overtime. Departmental services charges shall not include costs incurred by the city to provide police protection to those engaged in "expressive activity" as that term is defined in this chapter. "Event" means and includes a special event or a demonstration. "Event organizer" means any person who conducts, manages, promotes, organizes, aids or solicits attendance at a special event.
"Expressive activity" means conduct, the sole or principal object of which is the expression, dissemination or communication by verbal, visual, literary or auditory means of opinion, views or ideas. Expressive activity includes, but is not limited to, public oratory and the distribution of literature. "Person," as used in this chapter, means any natural person, firm, association, joint venture, joint stock company, partnership, organization, club, company, corporation, business trust or manager, lessee, agent, servant, officer or employee or any of them, except where the context clearly requires a different meaning. "Sidewalk" means that portion of a highway, other than the roadway, set apart by curbs, barriers, markings, or other delineation for pedestrian travel.
"Special event" means:
1. Any organized formation, parade, procession, demonstration or assembly which may include persons, animals, vehicles, or any combination thereof, which is to assemble or travel in unison on any street, sidewalk or other public right-of-way owned or controlled by the city which does not comply with applicable traffic regulations, laws or controls; or
2. Any organized assemblage of one hundred fifty (150) or more persons at any public place or property which is to gather for a common purpose under the direction or control of a person; or
3. Any other organized activity involving one hundred fifty (150) or more persons conducted by a person for a common or collective use, purpose or benefit which involves the use of, or has an impact on, public property and which may require the provision of city public services in response thereto; or
4. Any organized activity conducted in public areas, such as a City street, sidewalk, alley or other right-ofway, or private property which generates a crowd of spectators sufficient in size to obstruct, delay or interfere with the normal flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic or to restrict access to parks, recreation areas or other public areas; or
5. Any event that requires a special event permit through Santa Clara County Fire. 168
Agenda Item # 5.
4. Examples of special events include, but are not limited to, concerts, parades, circuses, fairs, festivals, block parties, street fairs, community events, mass participation sports (such as marathons and other running events), athletic or sporting events, and community celebrations and observances conducted on public property or public rights-of-way.
"Special event permit" means a permit issued pursuant to this chapter. "Special event venue" means that area for which a special event permit has been issued. "Street" means a way or place of whatever nature, publicly maintained and open to use of the public for purposes of vehicular travel. Street includes highways or alleys.
9.25.020 Permit required.
A. Except as provided by this code or pursuant to the terms of a permit, lease or contract which has been specifically authorized by the city council for the use of city facilities which do not require street closure or traffic diversion, no person shall conduct or cause to be conducted, participate or engage in, hold, manage, permit or allow another to conduct a special event, in, on or upon any city street, sidewalk, alley, park, way, public place, public property or public right-of-way which is owned or controlled by the city without first having obtained a written permit from the city manager.
B. The city manager may also approve and permit the sale or use of alcoholic beverages in public areas in connection with a special event where it is not expressly prohibited by this code provided that such sale or use shall, at all times, comply with all other applicable provisions of law. Any denial by the city manager of approval for a permit to sell or use alcoholic beverages under this subsection may be appealed as provided in Section 9.25.1340.
C. The city manager is authorized to issue permits for special events and block parties pursuant to the procedures established in this chapter.
D. The city manager may condition any permit issued pursuant to this chapter with reasonable requirements concerning the time, place or manner of holding such event as is necessary to coordinate multiple uses of public property, assure preservation of public property and public places, prevent dangerous, unlawful or impermissible uses, protect the safety of persons and property and to control vehicular and pedestrian traffic in and around the venue, provided that such requirements shall not be imposed in a manner that will unreasonably restrict expressive or other activity protected by the California or United States Constitutions.
Conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. The establishment of an assembly or disbanding area for a parade or like event;
2. The accommodation of an event's pedestrian and vehicular traffic, including restricting events to city sidewalks, portions of a city street, or other public right-of-way;
3. Conditions designed to avoid or lessen interference with public safety functions and/or emergency service access;
4. The number and type of vehicles, animals, or structures to be displayed or used in the event;
5. The inspection and approval by city personnel of stages, booths, floats, structures, vehicles or equipment to be used or operated in the event to ensure that such structures or vehicles are safely constructed and can be safely operated, and conform to the requirements of all applicable codes;
6. A cleaning deposit if the event includes using structures, displaying or using horses or other large animals, operation of water stations, food distribution or sales, beverage distribution or sales, and/or sale of other goods or services;
7. The provision and use of traffic cones or barricades;
8. The provision or operation of first aid stations or sanitary facilities, including handicap-accessible sanitary facilities;
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9. The provision of a waste management plan, and the cleanup and restoration of the site of the event;
10. The use of sound amplification equipment, and restrictions on the amount of noise generated by motors and other equipment used in the course of the event;
11. The manner of providing notice of permit conditions to permit participants and those businesses or residents who may be directly affected by the conduct of the event;
12. The provision or use of emergency services;
13. The reasonable designation of alternate sites, times, dates, or modes for exercising expressive activity;
14. The obtaining of any and all business licenses or other necessary permits required by this code for the sale of food, beverage or other goods or services at the event; and
15. The manner by which alcohol sales and service, if any, shall be conducted at the event.
E. Issuance of a special events permit pursuant to this chapter does not obligate or require the city to provide city services, equipment or personnel in support of an event although the city manager may provide such services, equipment or personnel if such are reasonably available and the event organizer makes provisions to reimburse the city for the cost thereof.
9.25.030 Exceptions to the special event permit requirement.
A. The following activities are exempt from the special event permit requirement:
1. Funeral processions by a licensed mortuary or funeral home;
2. Activities conducted by a governmental agency acting within the scope of its authority;
3. With the exception of organized fund raisers, events which take place on streets, sidewalks, or other public rights-of-way owned or controlled by the city including, but not limited to, lawful picketing wherein all applicable traffic regulations, laws or controls are complied with and no traffic diversion or street closures are required;
4. Spontaneous parades, assemblies or demonstrations involving expressive activity and which are occasioned by news or affairs coming into public knowledge within five calendar days of such parade, assembly or demonstration, provided that the organizers thereof give written notice to the city manager at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to such parade or assembly. Such written notice shall contain all of the following information:
a. The name, address and telephone number of the person or persons seeking to conduct the parade or assembly, headquarters of such organization, and the person who will chair the parade or assembly. This person or these persons shall be considered a permittee for the purposes of this section,
b. The name, address and telephone number of the headquarters of the organization, if any, and of the organizer or responsible head of such organization by whom or on whose behalf the parade or assembly is proposed to be conducted,
c. The name, address and telephone number of the person who will chair the parade or assembly and who will be responsible for its conduct,
d. b. The location, and date, time, duration, and estimated attendance of the proposed parade or assembly, including the assembly area, disbanding area, and the route to be traveled, e. An estimate of the approximate number of persons who will be participating in the parade or assembly and an estimate of the approximate number of persons who will be observing the parade or assembly,
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f. The time at which the parade or assembly will start and conclude, g. c. The type of security or other arrangements that will be provided to assure that participants are properly directed.
B. The city manager may impose reasonable time, place and manner restrictions on spontaneous parades, assemblies or demonstrations governed by this section whether or not said activities are governed by the permit requirements set forth in this chapter.
C. The city manager may deny permission to conduct a spontaneous parade, assembly or demonstration if the city manager makes a finding requiring denial pursuant to Section 9.25.0780. Such finding by the city manager shall be made no later than six hours before the scheduled start time for the event. If the city manager makes a finding pursuant to Section 9.25.0780, the city manager shall immediately provide notice of the denial, including the reason or reasons for the denial, by telephone to the permittee and shall also provide written notice of the denial including the reason for the denial. If the permittee provides a fax number for the purpose of receiving notices, the city manager shall provide written notice of the denial by fax immediately upon making the denial decision. In lieu of denial, the city manager may propose to the applicant an alternative time, route, venue or manner of conducting the activity which alternative would be acceptable to the city and which would obviate any finding made pursuant to Section 9.25.070.
9.25.040 Special event pPermit application.
A. The application for a permit under this chapter to conduct or engage in any special event as defined in this section of the Municipal Code shall be filed with the City Manager, which involves the use of city streets, alleys, sidewalks, parks, ways, public property or public right-of-way owned or controlled by the city shall be filed with the city manager.
B. Applications shall be filed not less than sixty (60) calendar days, nor more than one year before the time it is proposed to conduct the special event. except that applications for block party permits shall be filed at least ten (10) business days prior to the event, and except that applications for expressive activities shall be filed in accordance with subsection D of this section.
C. Except as otherwise applicable, the city manager shall, within ten (10) business days, determine whether such application is or is not complete. In the case of an event involving expressive activity, the city manager shall determine whether or not such application is complete within two business days of said application being submitted to the city manager. Notwithstanding the city manager's acceptance of a completed application, no event date shall be considered confirmed until a special event permit is issued.
D. Unless otherwise specified in this chapter, an application for a special event by a person engaging in expressive activity for which a permit is required pursuant to this chapter shall be filed as follows:
Permitted Activity
Involves Use of
Must Be Filed Within
Specified Number of
Business Days of
Prior to the Event
Streets, highways and thoroughfares 10
Alleys and other rights-of-way other than sidewalks 5
Sidewalks 3
Parks 3
Other 3
E. Applications for special events involving expressive activity or block parties, for which a permit is required pursuant to this chapter, may be filed in advance of the time periods set forth above but in no event more 171
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than one year prior to the event date. If an applicant for an event involving an expressive activity or block party desires to ensure the opportunity for an appeal to the city council in accordance with Section
9.25.130(A), the application shall be filed with the city manager not less than thirty (30) calendar days, nor more than one year before the time when it is proposed to conduct the event. Failure to file the application at least thirty (30) calendar days prior to the proposed activity shall be deemed to be a waiver of an appeal to the city council and in that event the decision of the city manager shall be final and the event organizer or other aggrieved person may file or cause to be filed a petition for writ of mandate in state court regarding the validity of the city manager's decision to grant or deny the application.
F. D. Each application shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable permit application fee in an amount established from time to time by resolution of the city council. The city manager shall have the authority, if good cause is shown and the nature of the application reasonably and feasibly lends itself to expedited processing, to consider, grant or deny any application for a permit which is filed later than the time prescribed in this section.
G. E. Completed applications for a permit authorizing a special event shall be denied, approved, or conditionally approved by the city manager within thirty (30) calendar days after the city manager determines that the application is complete. Completed applications for a permit involving "expressive activity" as defined in this chapter shall be denied, approved, or conditionally approved by the city manager within two business days after the city manager determines that the application is complete. In the case of expressive activity, the city manager shall promptly attempt to notify the applicant orally, and provide written notification to the applicant as soon as it is reasonably practical to do so. Such notice shall provide detailed facts and reasons for any denial or conditional approval. The city manager shall consult with the city attorney before denying or conditionally approving a permit involving "expressive activity" (including all activities wherein the applicant claims or contends that the proposed event involves expressive activity) as that term is defined in this chapter.
H. Applications shall be upon a form which is furnished by or acceptable to the city manager. Each application shall contain full, complete and detailed information including, but not limited to, the following:
1. The name, address and telephone number of the event organizer;
2. A certification that the event organizer shall be financially responsible for any city fees, departmental services charges or costs that may lawfully be imposed for the event;
3. The name, address and telephone number of the event organizer, if any, and the chief officer of the event organizer;
4. If the special event is designed to be held by, on behalf of, or for any organization other than the event organizer, the event organizer for the special event permit shall file a written communication from such organization:
a. Authorizing the event organizer to apply for the special event permit on its behalf, b. Certifying that the event organizer and its principal shall be financially responsible for any city fees, departmental services charges or costs that may lawfully be imposed for the event;
5. A copy of the tax exemption letter issued for any applicant claiming to be a tax-exempt nonprofit organization;
6. 3.A statement of the purpose of the special event, including any fees to be charged to participants or spectators in connection with the special event;
7. A statement of any fees to be charged to participants or spectators in connection with the special event;
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8. 4.The proposed location of the special event including a plot plan depicting the placement of temporary structures or facilities on public property or public rights-of-way and any assembly or production area;
9. 5.The date and times when the special event is to be conducted, including the assembly and disbanding of the special event;
10. The approximate times when assembly for, and disbanding of, the special event is to take place;
11. The proposed locations of the assembly or production area;
12. 6.In the case of a parade, marathon or other similar event, the specific proposed site or route, including a map and written narrative of the route, including disbanding areas and alternate routes, sites, or times where applicable;
13. The proposed site for any disbanding area;
14. Proposed alternate routes, sites or times, where applicable;
15. 7. The approximate number of persons, animals (including types of animals) or vehicles (including types of vehicles) that will participate in the special event;
16. The kinds of animals anticipated to be part of the special event;
17. A description of the types of vehicles to be used in the special event;
18. 8.The number of bands or other musical units and the nature of any equipment to be used to produce sounds or noise;
19. 9.Other equipment or services necessary to conduct the special event with due regard for participant and public health and safety;
20. 10.The number and locations of persons proposed or required to monitor or facilitate the special event and provide spectator or participant control and direction for events using city streets, sidewalks, or facilities;
21. 11.Provisions for first aid or emergency medical services, or both, based upon event risk factors;
22. 12.Insurance information, if applicable;
23. Any special or unusual requirements that may be imposed or created by virtue of the proposed event activity;
24. 13.Any other information reasonably required by the city manager.
I. The city manager may refer the application to such appropriate city departments as he or she deems necessary from the nature of the application for review, evaluation, investigation and recommendations by the departments regarding approval or disapproval of the application.
J. The city manager shall issue a permit under this chapter if the city manager finds that the following criteria have been met:
1. The proposed use of the property is not governed by or subject to any other permit procedures provided elsewhere in this code or other applicable laws, rules or regulations;
2. The event will not substantially interrupt public transportation or other vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the area of its location;
3. The event will not conflict with construction or development in the public right-of-way or at a public facility;
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4. The event will not require the diversion of public safety or other city employees from their normal duties so as to unreasonably reduce adequate levels of service to any other portion of the city;
5. The concentration of persons, animals or vehicles will not unreasonably interfere with the movement of police, fire, ambulance, and other public safety or emergency vehicles on the streets;
6. The event will not unreasonably interfere with any other special event for which a permit has already been granted or with the provision of city services in support of other scheduled events or scheduled government functions;
7. The event will not have an unmitigatible adverse impact upon residential or business access and traffic circulation in the same general venue area;
8. If the event is a marathon, it will not occur within one hundred eighty (180) calendar days of another marathon unless such event receives prior approval by the city council;
9. The event will not adversely affect the city's ability to reasonably perform municipal functions or furnish city services;
10. 8.The proposed use, event or activity will not have a significant adverse environmental impact;
11. 9.That in the case of a block party or other similar neighborhood event over one hundred fifty (150) or more persons, the applicants have submitted a neighborhood letter or petition in favor of the event.
For block parties or other similar events less than one hundred fifty (150) or more persons, will be required to provide the Los Altos police department notification and barricade requirements and be subject to a service charge fee;
12. 10.That the provisions of Sections 9.25.0890 (insurance) and 9.25.09100 (departmental service charges), if applicable, have been or will be satisfied.
K. In determining whether to approve a permit application for an event involving expressive activity, no consideration may be given to the message of the event, the content of the speech, the identity or associational relationships of the event organizer or its members or affiliates, or to any assumptions or predictions as to the amount of hostility which may be aroused in the public by the content of the speech or the message conveyed during the event.
9.25.050 Special event pPermit application fee.
A. Except as otherwise provided by this chapter, or when funded or waived by council resolution or ordinance, or other applicable law, rule or regulation, or by the terms of a permit, license, lease or contract which has been specifically authorized by the city council, any permit fee, application fee, daily fee, and other additional fee (other than departmental services charges) for the use of city streets or other city-owned or controlled property pursuant to this chapter shall be established by the city council by resolution.
B. Any indigent natural person who intends to engage in "expressive activity" as defined in this chapter who cannot apply for a permit because of an inability arising from such indigence to pay the application fee shall not be required to pay the fee. Application for indigent status shall be made at the time of permit application and shall be accompanied by such relevant information and documentation as may, in the opinion of the city manager or his or her designee, be reasonably necessary to verify such status. For purposes of this section, "indigent natural person" includes, but is not limited to, a person eligible for county relief and support as an indigent person under Section 17000 et seq., of the California Welfare and Institutions Code or as said section(s) is/are amended from time to time.
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9.25.060 Block party permit application
A. The application for a permit under this chapter to conduct or engage in any block party as defined in this section of the Municipal Code shall be filed with the City Manager.
B. Applications shall be filed not less than ten (10) calendar days, nor more than one year before the time proposed to conduct the block party.
C. Except as otherwise applicable, the city manager shall, within five (5) business days, determine whether such application is or is not complete. Notwithstanding the city manager's acceptance of a completed application, no event date shall be considered confirmed until a special event permit is issued.
D. Completed applications for a permit authorizing a special event shall be denied, approved, or conditionally approved by the city manager within five (5) calendar days after the city manager determines that the application is complete.
E. Applications shall be upon a form which is furnished by or acceptable to the city manager. Each application shall contain full, complete and detailed information including, but not limited to, the following:
1. The name, address and telephone number of the event organizer;
2. A certification that the event organizer shall be financially responsible for any city fees, departmental services charges or costs that may lawfully be imposed for the event;
3. The proposed location of the block party including a plot plan depicting the placement of temporary structures or facilities on public property or public rights-of-way and any assembly or production areas;
4. The date and times when the block party is to be conducted, including the assembly and disbanding of the block party.
9.25.0670 Permit term.
Any permit issued under this chapter shall not be for a period of more than two consecutive days except as otherwise provided in this code; however, the city manager, upon timely application by a permittee, may extend the duration of any permit, except as otherwise provided in this code, for one additional period of not more than three consecutive days if the city manager finds that all criteria set forth in Section 9.25.040(J) are being met and will continue to be met during the period of term extension.
9.25.0780 Permit denial or revocation.
A. The city manager may deny any application for a permit or revoke any permit if he or she finds any of the following:
1. The permitted event or activity will unreasonably disrupt traffic within the city; or
2. The permitted event or activity will unreasonably interfere with access to police or fire stations, or other public safety facilities; or
3. The location of the event or activity will cause undue hardship to adjacent businesses or residents; or
4. The permitted event or activity will require the diversion of so many public employees that allowing the event would unreasonably deny service to the remainder of the city; or
5. The application contains incomplete, false or misleading information; or
6. The city manager is unable to make all of the relevant findings pursuant to Section 9.25.040(J); or 175
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7. The applicant fails to comply with all terms of this chapter including failure to remit all fees and deposits, or fails to provide proof of insurance and/or an indemnification agreement as required by this chapter; or
8. The event is proposed for a time and place for which another event permit has been or will be issued to a prior applicant; or
9. The proposed area for the assembly or for the set up or dispersal of a parade or demonstration could not physically accommodate the number of participants expected to participate in the assembly, parade or demonstration; or
10. The parade, assembly or demonstration is proposed to take place on the roadway portion of any street in a commercial or retail zone between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. or between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, unless the parade, assembly or demonstration will occur on a national holiday; or
11. The parade, assembly or demonstration will violate any federal, state or local law or regulation; or
12. The applicant is legally incompetent to contract or to sue and be sued; or
13. The applicant or the person or entity on whose behalf the application for permit was made has on prior occasions damaged city property and has not paid in full for such damage, or has other outstanding and unpaid debts to the city; or
14. The proposed event would present an unreasonable danger to the health or safety of the applicant, spectators, city employees, or members of the public; or
15. The applicant has not complied or cannot comply with applicable licensure requirements, ordinances or regulations of the city concerning the sale, offering for sale, or distribution of any goods or services.
B. The city manager may deny any application for a permit or revoke any permit if the city manager determines that the event sponsor or any agent, employee or associate of any such event organizer has wilfully made any false or misleading statement in an application or has not fully complied with the requirements of this chapter or has violated any of the provisions of this chapter or the provisions of any other applicable law, rule or regulation.
C. An event organizer whose permit application is denied, or whose permit is revoked, pursuant to this section shall be immediately notified of the action of denial or revocation, which notification shall contain a statement setting forth the reasons for said denial or revocation as well as a reference to the appeal provisions set forth in Section 9.25.130. Notification, pursuant to this subsection, shall be deemed satisfied when the notice is placed, postage prepaid, in the United States mail, certified mail, return receipt requested, and addressed to the applicant at the address shown on the permit application. If available, notification pursuant to this subsection, shall be deemed satisfied when the notice is emailed to the applicant at the email address shown on the permit application.
9.25.0890 Insurance.
A. Each permit shall expressly provide that the permittee agrees to defend, protect, indemnify and hold the city, its officers, employees and agents free and harmless from and against any and all claims, damages, expenses, loss or liability of any kind or nature whatsoever arising out of, or resulting from, the alleged acts or omissions of permittee, its officers, agents or employees in connection with the permitted event or activity; and the permit shall expressly provide that the permittee shall, at permittee's own cost, risk and expense, defend any and all claims or legal actions that may be commenced or filed against the city, its officers, agents or employees, and that permittee shall pay any settlement entered into and shall satisfy any judgment that may be rendered against the city, its officers, agents or employees as a result of the alleged 176
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acts or omissions of permittee or permittee's officers, agents or employees in connection with the uses, events or activities under the permit.
B. Concurrent with the issuance of a permit under this chapter and as a condition precedent to the effectiveness of the permit, the permittee shall procure and maintain in full force and effect during the term of the permit insurance as prescribed by the city manager.
C. If the city manager determines, after consultation with the city's risk manager and the city attorney, that a particular use, event or activity does not present a substantial or significant public liability or property damage exposure for the city or its officers, agents and employees, the city manager may give a written waiver of the insurance requirements of this section.
D. The insurance requirement set forth in this section shall not be construed to apply to parades or special events permitted under this chapter involving expressive activity which enjoy protection under the United States or California Constitutions except that such parades or special events shall be required to: (1) agree to indemnify, protect, defend and hold harmless the city, its officers and employees against all claims, damages, expenses, loss or liability of any kind or nature whatsoever arising out of, or resulting from, the alleged acts or omissions of permittee, its officers, agents or employees in connection with the permitted parade, event or activity; or (2) agree to redesign or reschedule the permitted event to respond to specific risks, hazards and dangers to the public health and safety identified by the city manager as being reasonably foreseeable consequences of the permitted parade or special event; or (3) provide insurance coverage as required by subsection B.
E. A claim for exclusion and alternative treatment under subsection D shall be filed with and at the same time as an application for a permit, and an agreement or proof of insurance, as applicable, shall be provided prior to permit issuance. The city manager or his or her designee may require such proof and documentation as he or she may deem reasonably necessary to verify the constitutionally protected status of the parade or event and the applicability of subsection D.
9.25.09100 Departmental services charge.
A. In addition to the payment of the nonrefundable permit application fee or daily fee, a permittee shall pay the city for all city departmental services charges incurred in connection with or due to the permittee's activities under the permit unless said departmental services charges are funded, partially funded or waived by action of the city council. Additionally, if city property is destroyed or damaged by reason of permittee's use, event or activity, the permittee shall reimburse the city for the actual replacement or repair cost of the destroyed or damaged property.
B. City departments shall submit the final invoices and billings for departmental services charges to the city manager or no later than twenty (20) business days after the event giving rise to the issuance of a permit.
C. The city manager shall determine the type of permitted parade, event or activity and calculate the final departmental services charge based on the following formulas, depending upon whether or not the event is privately funded or is funded in whole or in part by the city, and provide that Type B and Type C shall be determined by the city council.
1. Type A Non-sponsored special event is an event which is privately funded and the permittee will pay one hundred (100) percent of the applicable fees or departmental services charges;
2. Type BHalf-sponsored special event is an event which is cosponsored by the city and the noncity permittee will pay fifty (50) percent (or a negotiated portion) of the applicable fees or departmental services charges;
3. Type CFull-sponsored special event is an event funded by the city and the city will absorb one hundred (100) percent of the applicable fees or departmental services charges incurred by the city. 177
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D. Unless otherwise authorized by the city manager in writing, at least three business days prior to a parade, event or activity permitted under this chapter, the applicant shall pay to the city a deposit in an amount sufficient to cover the total estimated city departmental services charges which the city manager estimates will be incurred in connection with the permit. Said deposit shall be paid in cash or other adequate security as determined by the city manager. If the deposit is less than the final charges calculated pursuant to this section, the permittee shall pay the difference to the city within ten (10) business days of being invoiced for such charges from the city. If the deposit is more than such final charges, the city shall refund the difference to the permittee within the sixty (60) calendar days after the event.
E. Any indigent natural person who intends to engage in "expressive activity" as defined in this chapter who cannot obtain a permit because of an inability arising from such indigence to pay the departmental services charge may request the city manager to recommend an alternative parade, event or activity on a scale and at a time that would result in less costs assessed in accordance with this section. Application for indigent status shall be made at the time of permit application and shall be accompanied by such relevant information and documentation as may, in the opinion of the city manager, be reasonably necessary to verify such status. For purposes of this subsection, "indigent natural person" includes, but is not limited to, a person eligible for county relief and support as an indigent person under Section 17000 et seq., of the California Welfare and Institutions Code or as said code section(s) may be amended from time to time.
F. In the event of any conflicts or inconsistencies between the provisions of this article and Ordinance No. 03- 250 (Fees and Service Charges), or with the provisions of any other chapter(s) of the city code, the provisions of this article shall control, unless to do so would be inconsistent with the purpose of this chapter.
9.25.1010 Refunds.
If a permittee is unable to hold or conduct a use, event or activity because of inclement weather or due to some other cause not within the permittee's control, and the permittee submits a written request for the refund of such fees to the city manager's office within ten (10) business days after the date that the use, event or activity was to have been held or conducted, the city manager may authorize the refund of the fees or a pro rata portion thereof, except for actual costs incurred by the city at the time of cancellation and the nonrefundable application fees, which have been paid by the permittee to the city in connection with a permit issued under this chapter.
9.25.1120 Interfering with activity prohibited.
It is unlawful for any person to obstruct, impede or interfere with any authorized assembly, person, vehicle or animal participating in a special event for which a special event permit has been issued.
9.25.1230 Penalty for violation.
Any person who intentionally violates any of the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
9.25.1340 Appeals.
A. Except as provided in this chapter, any person aggrieved by the issuance, denial or revocation of a permit pursuant to this chapter may appeal such decision to the city council by filing a written notice of such appeal with the city clerk within ten (10) calendar days of the decision of the city manager giving rise to said appeal.
Such appeal shall set forth, with particularity, the facts upon which the appeal is being made. The city council shall, within sixty (60) calendar days of receiving such notice of appeal, hold a hearing. At such hearing, the aggrieved party is entitled to be heard and present evidence on his or her behalf. The city council shall determine the merits of the appeal, and the city council's determination to grant or deny the appeal shall be final. When the necessity for a timely response so requires, the city council may refer to the matter to a hearing officer in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 1.30. 178
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B. Alternatively to the provisions of Section 9.25.040(E), any applicant for a special event permit who is engaging in or intends to engage in a "spontaneous parade, assembly, or demonstration expressive activity" as defined in this chapter and who is aggrieved by the denial or revocation of a permit pursuant to this chapter may, at his or her election, appeal to the city council in accordance with this section. However, any appeal taken pursuant to this section may, by necessity, involve the postponement or delay of the activity for which a permit is sought.
9.25.1450 Rules and regulations.
The city manager is authorized to promulgate additional policies, rules and regulations that are consistent with and that further the provisions set forth within this chapter and the provisions of law that pertain to the conduct and operation of a special event.
9.25.1560 Unlawful to use city name without authorization.
It is unlawful for any event organizer to use in the title of the event the words "The City of Los Altos" or "City of Los Altos," or facsimile of the seal or logo of the city of Los Altos without city's written authorization. 179
Agenda Item # 5.
Resolution No. 2023-XX Page 1
ATTACHMENT 2
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-___
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
AMENDING SPECIAL EVENT FEES AND ESTABLISHING
DIFFERENTIATED FEE STRUCTURE BASED ON TYPE OF ORGANIZATION WHEREAS, the city of Los Altos FY23-24 Fee Schedule currently charges $1,728.15 for new special events and $1,152.10 for ongoing special events in addition to the actual cost for service; and
WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes that other cities have successfully implemented a lower special events fee price and fee structures that consider the type of organization; and
WHEREAS, the Los Altos Municipal Code Section 9.25.XXX specifies that the existing special events fee framework in Los Altos is designed to account for whether events are new or ongoing; and
WHEREAS, the City Council acknowledges that an application fee structure that considers the for-profit or not-for-profit status ensures that a wider spectrum of organizations can partake in hosting events; and
WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes that the city Los Altos’ current fee structure has potential inefficiencies that could be addressed through restructuring, leading to a more streamlined process for event organizers and city administration alike; and NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby adopts the following policy:
1. Amend the current special event fee structure in addition to the actual charges for City services:
Event Type Organization Type Application Fee
New Event For-Profit $500
New Event Non-Profit $400
Ongoing Event For-Profit $200
Ongoing Event Non-Profit $150
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of a Resolution passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Los Altos at a meeting thereof on the ___ day of ____, 2023 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
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Agenda Item # 5.
Resolution No. 2023-XX Page 2
ATTACHMENT 2
___________________________
Sally Meadows, MAYOR
Attest:
_____________________________
Melissa Thurman, CITY CLERK
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AGENDA REPORT SUMMARY
Meeting Date: October 10, 2023
Subject Discussion and Appointments to the Joint Community Volunteer Service Awards Committee and the Parks, Arts, Recreation and Cultural Commission Prepared by: Melissa Thurman, City Clerk
Approved by: Gabriel Engeland, City Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Joint Community Volunteer Service Awards Committee Application and Written Answers from Applicant Lindsay Carpenter
Background:
From early July to September 2023, the City of Los Altos held a recruitment for vacancies on various city commissions and committees. The recruitment was very successful, with the City Clerk’s office receiving 63 qualified applications for consideration.
On September 19, 2023, the City Council held a Special Meeting to conduct interview sessions with the applicants. At the conclusion of the interview sessions, the City Council each voted on provided ballots their choice of appointments to the Commissions and Committee. However, since the completion of the interview sessions, an applicant has provided written answers to the questions Council issued to the interviewed applicants for the Joint Community Volunteer Service Awards Committee. Due to technical issues this applicant was unable to submit an online application by the original deadline provided of September 1, 2023.
Additionally, there was a recent merger of the Public Arts Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission, creating the Parks, Arts, Recreation and Cultural Commission (PARCC). There are seven (7) allowable members on PARCC, with one vacancy with a four-year term. The full list of eligible applicants that were interviewed on September 19th for PARCC is as follows:
Parks, Arts, Recreation & Cultural Commission
1 vacancy for four-year term
Dana Tasic – Incumbent Andrea Ramirez
Shradha Balakrishnan Yong Yeh – Incumbent (written answers provided) Daniel Morris Jim Allen (written answers provided)
Michelle Morris Appointed to Library Commission Ibrahim Bashir (written answers provided) Scott Ottoes Appointed to Financial Commission Lou Wolner (written answers provided) Kris Olson Appointed to Senior Commission Victoria Wong (written answers provided) Cyndel Podich
The City Council may appoint one (1) member from the list of eligible applicants to the vacant four-year term seat on the PARCC.
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Agenda Item # 6.
Subject: Discussion and Appointments to the Joint Community Volunteer Service Awards Committee and the Parks, Arts, Recreation and Cultural Commission ___________________
October 10, 2023 Page 2
Fiscal Impact:
None
Environmental Review:
Not applicable
Staff Recommendation:
Approve the confirmation of the City Council appointments to City Commissions and Committee 183
Agenda Item # 6.
Los Altos Commission Application
Lindsay Carpenter
, Los Altos, 94022
Applying to Joint Volunteer Service Awards Commission
Employment History:
Seventh grade English teacher, 1967 in Indiana, Office Manager Lytton Industries, Sunnyvale 1968-69. Girls Athletic Director, St. Nicholas School, 1980-85, Retired Director of Education and Employee Recognition Nordstrom for 7 western states, 1985-2010.
Educational Background:
BS in Sociology, minors in English and Psychology, SJSU 1966. Graduate courses in variety of subjects at Foothills, Stanford and UCSC. Recipient of a Kellogg Foundation Grant in 1982 to attend a Santa Clara University class in Adult Education. Licensed Facilitator 1992 UCSC.
Piedmont High School, Piedmont CA, graduating in 1962
Community Activities, Volunteer Organizations:
President Los Altos Junior Women’s Club, President Los Altos History Museum Auxiliary, Trainer for Museum Volunteers, and presently on Education Committee as docent for 3rd and 4th graders. United Way Allocations and Review Committee for Women and Children 1975-1980. Jr. League of Palo Alto Mid Peninsula, Provisional Director, Corresponding Secretary, First Vice President Community, Child Advocacy licensed trainer, elected to Area 6 Council governing the 42 western Jr. Leagues with specialty in Training. Garden Club of Palo Alto, Corresponding Secretary, First Vice President Programs, Co-Chair member Garden Tour, Co-Chair Field Trips, Membership Committee, Field Trip Committee, Holiday Marketplace Steering Committee, currently on Nominating Committee. Leadershape, a non-profit that teaches college students how to be effective leaders, on Board of Trustees 9 years, Lead Trainer for 33 sessions all over the US. Los Altos Rotary Club, Social Chairman, Membership Director 3 years, elected to Los Altos Rotary Endowment Fund 4 years, Membership Committee, Steering Committee Fine Art in the Park in charge of Community liaisons and Hospitality booth, Veterans Committee, Co-Chair Scholarships, recipient of the Guy Shoup award as most outstanding Rotarian 2018-19. Creekside Oaks of Los Altos, 8 years as Landscape Director on the Board, currently appointed to Board as Landscape Director until April 2024. MTC mentor for 8 years, for two LAHS women, currently in 5th year of mentoring a LAMV Community Scholar Recipient. Recipient Joint Community Volunteer Service Award 2019. Received the California Outstanding Adult Educator Award 1994.
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Agenda Item # 6.
Area of Commission that is of interest:
Having been a recipient of the Joint Community Volunteer Award in 2019, I know first hand what an honor it is to receive this award and would like to participate in the selection and awarding of this special recognition.
Particular Skills I bring:
I have worked with and been in leadership positions with a wide variety of organizations, mostly non-profits. My background in training equips me to help a group reach consensus, clarify goals, and recognize the contributions of all members.
Having taught soft skills such as Team Building, Conflict Resolution, and Communication Skills to tens of thousands of Nordstrom employees all over the country, I bring unique skills to any group or committee.
Role of Commission Member:
A member of a team trying to reach the best conclusions possible for the greater good of our community in honoring those community volunteers who stand out from the rest.
To award volunteers for all their hard work making our community better.
I have never submitted a commission application.
Signature:
Lindsay H. Carpenter
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Agenda Item # 6.
From: Lindsay Carpenter
Subject: Application to Joint Community Volunteer Award Commission Date: September 26, 2023 at 3:01:38 PM PDT
Cc: Sally Meadows <[email protected]>, Neysa Fligor <[email protected]> Dear Melissa,
I'm sorry, but I don't trust the on-line application process since the two applications I've filled out have never made it to you! So here is a PDF of the application that I hope you will accept as it duplicates the real one exactly.
Here are the answers to the 3 questions you sent to me.
1. I would like to serve on the Joint Community Volunteer Service Award Commission for several reasons. Volunteers do so much to enhance and contribute to any community, but so often go unrecognized for all their time and effort. I would be happy to be involved in recognizing some of our own local volunteers. Having received this wonderful award in 2019, I know first hand how thrilling and humbling it is to be publicly recognized for giving back to a community. We've lived in Los Altos for 54 years, raised our kids- we love our city and giving back to it. is a part of our life. Recognizing those who go above and beyond encourages others to do the same, in my opinion, and I'd like to be involved in making that happen.
2. Over the past 54 years as a Los Altos Resident, I have volunteered in many, many ways with a variety of organizations and nonprofits. I genuinely enjoy people! Working together to achieve a goal that will improve something is one of the most worthwhile ways to spend my time and I keep finding new ways to do this. I bring a wealth of experience as a volunteer, a leader and an educator. My 11 years with the Junior League of Palo Alto Mid Peninsula started me on my Leadership journey as a trainer. My 27 years with Leadershape (a non-profit out of U. of Illinois that teaches leadership skills to college students) as a Board of Trustees member and a Lead Trainer for 33 sessions provides me with a teaching and learning experience like no other. Working with the volunteers at the Los Altos History Museum, in a variety of roles, allowed me to give back to my home town. As a member of Los Altos Rotary, I've enjoyed numerous opportunities to give back to Los Altos and surrounding cities. As a mentor for the last 15 years, to various high school students, I feel I've helped 3 women to achieve their potential and to live their dream. I am immersed in giving good Customer Service after my 25 years as one of the top 100 executives at Nordstrom and practice the skills I used to teach at Nordstrom in every situation I encounter. I have met and worked with some of the most outstanding individuals and have learned from each of them. Our community is enhanced daily because of the volunteer work that takes place. Without our volunteers, a lot of what we treasure most in Los Altos would not be present. Honoring those who give unselfishly of their time and energy to make our communities even better seems like the most natural thing to do and I would like to be a part of this process.
3. Currently I am involved with: Los Altos Rotary Club as Co-Chair of The Rotary Foundation, on the Veterans Committee, on the Membership Committee, on the Scholarship Committee, as a member of the steering committee for Fine Art in the Park, and as a mentor to 3 new members. I'm active in the Garden Club of Palo Alto as a member of the Nominating committee, the membership Committee and the Field Trip committee. I was a Lead Trainer for Leadershape, teaching leadership skills to college students 1 - 2 times annually but currently have an advisor to the President role. I am on the Board of Directors at Creekside Oaks Community in charge of Landscape and trees for our 22 acres. At the Los 186
Agenda Item # 6.
Altos History Museum, I'm a member of the Education Committee and a docent for 3rd and 4th graders each year. I mentor a College student through the LAMV Community Foundation Scholar program.
Thank you.
Lindsay Carpenter
187
Agenda Item # 6.
City of Los Altos 2023 Tentative Council Agenda Calendar All items and dates are tentative and subject to change unless a specific date has been noticed for a legally required Public Hearing.
Items may be added or removed from the shown date at any time and for any reason prior to the publication of the agenda.
October 24, 2023
Closed Session: TBD
Study Session: TBD
AGENDA TITLE: DEPARTMENT:
SPECIAL ITEMS:
Recognition of Outgoing Commissioners Clerk
Swearing-In of Incoming Commissioners Clerk
CONSENT:
Treasury Report Finance
Award a Contractor Service Agreement for Annual Street Sweeping PW Consider authorization for purchase of Root Foaming product; consider finding the Council’s action exempt from review under CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, and finding that none of the circumstances in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 applies
PW
Waive Second Reading and Adopt Special Events Ordinance CM PUBLIC HEARING:
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
Introduce Mobile Food Ordinance CM
Discuss the Storm Water Master Plan PW
188
Agenda Item # 7.
City of Los Altos 2023 Tentative Council Agenda Calendar All items and dates are tentative and subject to change unless a specific date has been noticed for a legally required Public Hearing.
Items may be added or removed from the shown date at any time and for any reason prior to the publication of the agenda.
November 14, 2023
Closed Session: TBD
Study Session: TBD
AGENDA TITLE: DEPARTMENT:
SPECIAL ITEMS:
CONSENT:
Contract for Investment Advisor Finance
Joint Intercepting Sewer Rehabilitation Project PW
Accept the 2022 Annual Street Resurfacing and City Alley Resurfacing Project PW Acceptance of the Council Chamber AV Project PW
Budget Appropriation for Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacon (RRFB) Project PW PCI Report PW
PUBLIC HEARING:
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
Review of Teleconferencing Policy CM
Flag Policy Pilot Update CM
Waive First Reading and Introduce Dark Skies Ordinance Dev. Svcs.
Remaining 2023 City Council agenda calendar items are pending and will be published at a later date. 189
Agenda Item # 7.
PROGRAM SUB PROJECT INITIATION DATE HEU COMPLETION DATE STATUS Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
Budget & Hire Planning
Technician December 31, 2022 COMPLETED
Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
Amend ADU Ordinance
based upon HCD's letter 6 months or less
Program 3.H: Amend design review process and
requirements.
Eliminate 3rd Party
Architectural Review February 28, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 3.H: Amend design review process and
requirements.
Dismiss Design Review
Commission February 28, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 3.L: Eliminate the requirement of story poles. March 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 2.E: Conduct annual ADU rental income surveys.
Budget & Hire Housing
Manager March 31, 2023 IN-PROGRESS
Program 4.J: Facilitate alternate modes of transportation for Adopt VMT Policy & June 30, 2023 COMPLETED Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
RFP-Permit Ready ADU
Plans July 31, 2023
PLANS IN
DEVELOPMENT
Program 1.H: Facilitate housing on City-owned sites. Financial Analysis July 1, 2023 December 31, 2023 DEVELOPING RFP Program 3.D: Evaluate and adjust impact fees. August 1, 2023 December 31, 2024 IN-PROGRESS Program 1.H: Facilitate housing on City-owned sites. Release RFP December 31, 2023 Program 6.C: Target housing development in highest
resource areas. Initial Outreach September 31, 2023
Program 6.D: Promote Housing Choice (Section 8) rental
assistance program. September 31, 2023
Program 2.A: Continue to implement and enhance
inclusionary housing requirements. December 31, 2023 IN-PROGRESS Program 2.B: Establish an affordable housing in-lieu fee and commercial linkage fee. Housing in-lieu fee. December 31, 2023 IN-PROGRESS Program 2.F: Water and Sewer Service Providers. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 3.B: Modify building height in mixed-use zoning districts. Downtown Districts December 31, 2023 IN-PROGRESS Program 3.E: Ensure that the density bonus ordinance
remains consistent with State law. December 31, 2023 ONGOING Program 3.H: Amend design review process and
requirements. Code Amendments December 31, 2023 COMPLETED 190
Agenda Item # 7.
Program 3.K: Standardize multimodal transportation
requirements.
Bicycle Storage and
Charging Regulations December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 3.K: Standardize multimodal transportation
requirements.
Remove CSC Review of
Housing Developments December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 4.C: Allow Low Barrier Navigation Centers
consistent with AB 101. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 4.D: Allow transitional and supportive housing
consistent with State law. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 4.E: Allow employee/farmworker housing
consistent with State law. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 4.F: Reasonably accommodate disabled persons’
housing needs. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 6.B: Maintain and expand an inventory of
affordable housing funding sources. Prepare Inventory. December 31, 2023 Program 6.E: Prepare and distribute anti-displacement
information. December 31, 2023
Program 1.A: Rezone for RHNA shortfall. January 31, 2024
TO BE COMPLETED
BY 1/31/2024
Program 1.G: Rezone housing sites from previous Housing Elements. January 31, 2024
TO BE COMPLETED
BY 1/31/2024
Program 3.G: Amend Conditional Use Permits findings
applicable to housing developments. March 31, 2024 IN-PROGRESS Program 3.I: Allow residential care facilities consistent with State law. March 31, 2024
TO BE COMPLETED
BY 1/31/2024
Program 3.J: Explicitly allow manufactured homes consistent with State law. March 31, 2024
TO BE COMPLETED
BY 1/31/2024
Program 3.F: Reduce Conditional Use Permit requirement for residential mixed-use and
multi-family. September 31, 2024 IN-PROGRESS
Program 1.B: Facilitate higher density housing in the
Commercial Thoroughfare (CT) District. December 31, 2024
TO BE COMPLETED
BY 1/31/2024
Program 1.C: Allow housing in the Office Administrative (OA) District. December 31, 2024
TO BE COMPLETED
BY 1/31/2024
191
Agenda Item # 7.
Program 1.E: Update the Loyola Corners Specific Plan. December 31, 2024
TO BE COMPLETED
BY 1/31/2024
Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
Adopt-Permit Ready ADU
Plans December 31, 2024
Program 3.A: Prepare a Downtown parking plan and update citywide parking requirements. December 31, 2024 CONTRACT SIGNED Program 3.B: Modify building height in mixed-use zoning districts.
Commercial
Neighborhood (CN)
District December 31, 2024 IN-PROGRESS
Program 3.C: Remove floor-to-area ratio (FAR) restriction at Rancho Shopping Center and
Woodland Plaza. December 31, 2024 IN-PROGRESS
Program 3.M: Modify parking requirements for emergency
shelters consistent with State
law. December 31, 2024
Program 2.B: Establish an affordable housing in-lieu fee and commercial linkage fee. Commercial linkage fee. December 31, 2025 Program 1.D: Allow housing on certain Public and
Community Facilities District sites and
facilitate housing on religious institution properties. December 31, 2025 Program 1.F: Rezone Village Court parcel. December 31, 2025
TO BE COMPLETED
BY 1/31/2024
Program 4.H: Provide additional density bonuses and
incentives for housing that accommodates special needs
groups. December 31, 2025
Program 4.I: Allow senior housing with extended care
facilities in multi-family and mixed-use zoning districts. December 31, 2025 Program 1.I: Incentivize Downtown lot consolidation. July 31, 2026 Program 4.G: Assist seniors to maintain and rehabilitate their homes. July 31, 2026
Program 6.C: Target housing development in highest
resource areas. Follow-up Outreach September 31, 2026
Program 1.H: Facilitate housing on City-owned sites. Entitlement Review December 31, 2026 192
Agenda Item # 7.
Program 3.N: Modify standards in the R3 zoning districts. December 31, 2026 IN-PROGRESS Program 4.J: Facilitate alternate modes of transportation for residents.
Capital Improvement
Project for above head
pedestrian crossing
signals on San Antonio
Road near Downtown Los
Altos December 31, 2027
Program 5.F: Incentivize the creation of play areas for multifamily housing projects. December 31, 2027 Program 1.K: Participate in regional housing needs planning efforts. Ongoing
Program 1.L: General Plan amendments. Ongoing
Program 1.M: SB 9 implementation. Ongoing
Program 1.N: Facilitate and monitor pipeline housing
projects. Ongoing
Program 2.C: Assist in securing funding for affordable
housing projects. Ongoing
Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Ongoing
Program 2.E: Conduct annual ADU rental income surveys. Annual Survey Annually Program 4.A: Support efforts to fund homeless services. Ongoing Program 4.B: Continue to participate in local and regional forums for homelessness,
supportive, and transitional housing. Ongoing
Program 5.A: Monitor condominium conversions. Ongoing
Program 5.B: Continue to administer the City’s affordable housing programs. Ongoing
Program 5.C: Restrict commercial uses from displacing
residential neighborhoods. Ongoing
Program 5.D: Implement voluntary code inspection program. Ongoing 193
Agenda Item # 7.
Program 5.E: Help secure funding for housing rehabilitation and assistance programs. Ongoing
Program 6.A: Assist residents with housing discrimination and landlord-tenant
complaints. Ongoing
Program 6.B: Maintain and expand an inventory of
affordable housing funding sources.
Inform, Evaluate
Apply/Submit Ongoing
Program 6.F: Affirmatively market physically accessible units. Ongoing Program 7.A: Promote energy and water conservation and
greenhouse gas reduction
through education and awareness campaigns. Ongoing
Program 7.B: Monitor and implement thresholds and
statutory requirements of climate change legislation. Ongoing 194
Agenda Item # 7.