Agenda packet — Los Altos City Council, June 10, 2025 (part 1 of 2)

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AGENDA
7:00 PM - Tuesday, June 10, 2025
via Videoconference and In Person
PARTICIPATION: Members of the public may participate by being present at the Los Altos Council Chamber at Los Altos City Hall located at 1 N. San Antonio Rd, Los Altos, CA during the meeting.

Public comment is accepted in person at the physical meeting location, or via email to [email protected].

RULES FOR CONDUCT: Pursuant to Los Altos Municipal Code, Section 2.05.010 "Interruptions and rules for conduct": Understanding that the purpose of the city council meetings is to conduct the people's business for the benefit of all the people, in the event that any meeting of the city council is willfully interrupted by a person or group of persons so as to render the orderly conduct of the meeting impossible, the mayor, mayor pro tem, or any other member of the city council acting as the chair may order the removal of the person or persons responsible for the disruption and bar them from further attendance at the council meeting, or otherwise proceed pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.0 or any applicable penal statute or city ordinance.

REMOTE MEETING OBSERVATION: Members of the public may view the meeting via the link below, but will not be permitted to provide public comment via Zoom or telephone. Public comment will be taken in-person, and members of the public may provide written public comment by following the instructions below.
https://losaltosca-gov.zoom.us/j/88401911969?pwd=nhSpzFsJGZKZlVrDXPDiesnusdlVPe.1 Telephone: 1-669-444-9171 / Webinar ID: 884 0191 1969 / Passcode: 357486 SUBMIT WRITTEN COMMENTS: Prior to the meeting, comments on matters listed on the agenda may be emailed to [email protected]. Emailed public comments sent directly to the City Council, either as a group, or individually, will not be included in the agenda packet but may be disclosable as part of a public records request. Emails sent to [email protected] will be included in the appropriate agenda packet and are also disclosable as part of a public records request.

Please note: Personal information, such as e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, home addresses, and other contact information are not required to be included with your comments. If this information is included in your written comments, they will become part of the public record. Redactions and/or edits will not be made to public comments, and the comments will be posted as they are submitted. Please do not include any information in your communication that you do not want to be made public.

Correspondence submitted in hard copy/paper format must be received by 2:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting to ensure distribution prior to the meeting. Comments provided in hard copy/paper format after 2:00 p.m. will be distributed the following day and included with public comment in the Council packet. 1 6/10/2025 CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA Page 2 of 4
The Mayor will open public comment and will announce the length of time provided for comments during each item.

AGENDA

CALL MEETING TO ORDER

ESTABLISH QUORUM

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION

CHANGES TO THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA

PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Members of the audience may bring to the Council's attention any item that is not on the agenda. The Mayor will announce the time speakers will be granted before comments begin. Please be advised that, by law, the City Council is unable to discuss or take action on issues presented during the Public Comment Period. According to State Law (also known as “The Brown Act”) items must first be noted on the agenda before any discussion or action.
06-10-2025 Written Public Comments

CONSENT CALENDAR
These items will be considered by one motion unless any member of the Council or audience wishes to remove an item for discussion. Any item removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion will be handled at the discretion of the Mayor.

1. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Approval of the Draft Special and Regular Meeting Minutes of May 27, 2025

2. Adoption of Resolution - On-Call Sanitary Sewer Repairs Adopt a Resolution accepting completion of the On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services for FY 24/25 and authorize the Public Works Director to record a Notice of Completion as required by law

3. Adopt a Resolution - Professional Services Agreements Adopt Resolutions authorizing the City Manager to execute professional services agreements with TRB + Associates, Structech Engineering, and David Powers & Associates for third-party plan review and environmental review services for the Development Services Department

4. Adoption of Resolutions - Special Event Sponsorship and Flag Raising Policy 2 6/10/2025 CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA Page 3 of 4
Adoption of Resolution Creating Special Event Sponsorship Policy, Adoption of Resolution Repealing Resolution No. 2015-23 And Setting Special Event Sponsorship Levels Pursuant To Los Altos Municipal Code Section 9.25.100, & Adoption of Resolution Repealing Resolution No.2023-66 and Adopting New Flag Raising Policy

5. Amendments to the Commission Handbook
Approve the Recommended Amendments to the Commission Handbook

PUBLIC HEARINGS

6. Adoption of Resolution - Approving Sewer Service Charges Adopt a Resolution Approving the Report of Sewer Service Charges for the Fiscal Year 2025/26 and directing the Filing of Charges for Collection by the County Tax Collector

7. Adoption of Resolution - Safety Element
Adopt a Resolution approving a General Plan Amendment for a new Safety Element and revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element; and find the project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines

8. Adoption of Resolutions - FY 25-26 Budget
Hold a Public Hearing and Adopt Resolutions Approving the FY 2025–26 Appropriations Limit, Fee Schedule, Salary Schedule, Utility Users Tax, Transient Occupancy Tax, Operating Budget, and FY 2026 - 2030 Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program (CIMMP)

DISCUSSION ITEMS

9. Introduction of Ordinance - E-Bicycle and E-Scooter Regulation Introduce an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Los Altos Repealing Chapter 8.32 in its entirety and replacing it with a new Chapter 8.32 entitled “Bicycle and Electric Mobility Devices” to Title 8 (Vehicles and Traffic) of the Los Altos Municipal Code

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS ONLY
There will be no discussion or action on Informational Items

10. Tentative Housing Calendar and Housing Element Update Implementation Calendar

11. 2025 Community Priorities Survey

12. Emergency Preparedness and Response: A City Checklist

13. Receive an Administrative Public Records Act Policy

COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS AND DIRECTIONS ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

ADJOURNMENT
3 6/10/2025 CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA Page 4 of 4
(Council Norms: It will be the custom to have a recess at approximately 9:00 p.m. Prior to the recess, the Mayor shall announce whether any items will be carried over to the next meeting. The established hour after which no new items will be started is 11:00 p.m. Remaining items, however, may be considered by consensus of the Council.)

SPECIAL NOTICES TO THE PUBLIC
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Altos will make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk 72 hours prior to the meeting at (650) 947-2610.

All public records relating to an open session item on this agenda, which are not exempt from disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act, and that are distributed to a majority of the legislative body, will be available for public inspection at the Office of the City Clerk’s Office, City of Los Altos, located at One North San Antonio Road, Los Altos, California at the same time that the public records are distributed or made available to the legislative body.

If you wish to provide written materials, please provide the City Clerk with 10 copies of any document that you would like to submit to the City Council for the public record. 4 1
Melissa Thurman
From: Nuria Bertran <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, June 6, 2025 3:45 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT – NOT ON THE AGENDA
Re: Traffic Calming/Speed Limit Enforcement on Streets Leading to High School (Alvarado Avenue/Panchita Way/Los Ninos Way/Casita Way/Alicia Way) The current traffic situation around Los Altos High School is not conducive to elementary aged kids biking/walking to their neighborhood school. There is simply too much traffic chaos and speeding especially on the streets coming from San Antonio or El Camino Real (as listed above). Can the Town please find a solution for this? Here's a few I can think of:

1. Make sure the High School's schedule does NOT coincide with the elementary school schedule in the morning or at dismissal time.

2. Install traffic cameras on those streets and simply mail tickets to any car exceeding the speed limit.

Make the fines hefty so it sticks.

I think the elementary aged kids have a right to gain some independence by going to school on their own without it being too risky due to irresponsible driving from parents or kids going to/from the High School.

Thank you in advance for your consideration in this matter.

Best;
Nuria Bertran-Ortiz
(Arbuelo Way resident)
5 1
Melissa Thurman
From: Anne Paulson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 9, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Agendizing a fee holiday for small housing projects Attachments: Impact fee holiday.pdf
Dear Mayor Dailey and Councilmembers,
The City needs small housing projects of 2-10 units, the kind of projects that could be built by the same people who now build large single family houses. But we haven't been seeing these projects come forward. One reason could be our impact fees and (for projects of 5 to 10 units) our inclusionary fees, which are very high.

Please agendize a discussion about a short "fee holiday" to incentivize projects of 2-10 units. Attached is a discussion about this issue.

It would be great if a Los Altos resident who wanted to downsize, or a new family wanting to move to our City, could buy a townhouse or a small detached house here! --
-- Anne Paulson
6 A Fee Holiday for Small Residential Projects
Los Altos Affordable Housing Alliance
June 3, 2025
Executive Summary
The City of Los Altos recently rezoned a number of small parcels for housing, but we haven’t seen any housing built in any of the parcels. Our impact and inclusionary fees on small multifamily housing—$366,000 for one townhouse!—are one reason why developers might find it infeasible to build small multifamily projects like townhouses; three-, four-, five-, and six-plexes; and small detached houses. Our current system charges more than six times as much in fees to build one townhouse on a lot as we charge for a maxed out house. And that’s preventing us from building the housing we need. To encourage building small multifamily projects at the scale of single family homes, we propose a pilot project of an 18 month fee holiday on projects of two to ten units, to encourage small-scale builders to build small projects.

The Problem
These are uncertain economic times. But people still need a place to live. We need more homes in Los Altos, and to accomplish that we need to make it easier and cheaper to build them.

In the last few years, what we’ve seen being built and offered to the public is large and expensive single family homes
1 , and condos. We at LAAHA are always happy when someone gets their new dream home in Los Altos, but we’d like to see a greater variety in home types available in our city.

In particular, our city needs homes for young couples starting out, empty nest couples wanting to downsize, families with school-aged kids wanting to take advantage of our excellent schools, and community members who through divorce or loss of a spouse need to find a smaller home.

Right now the City offers few options for those households. That’s why we need to see some smaller, naturally more affordable projects of two to ten units: townhouses, small detached houses on small lots, and small apartment or condo buildings.

Being shorter and less dense, these little homes would fit more unobtrusively in our neighborhoods. They are the kinds of projects that could be built by builders who now build big single family houses. Our recent rezoning of parcels on Altos Oaks Drive, Loyola Corners, and small parcels around Luckys should have enabled small projects like these, but we have not seen any proposals on the newly rezoned sites or on other sites.

One reason we haven’t seen small projects is our large fees. A small-scale builder could build a large house on a lot in Los Altos, or on the same sized lot 2 they could build five townhouses or
2 Or on the same exact lot, if they used SB 1123, which comes into effect in July 1 New construction single family homes are averaging around $7 million in Los Altos. 7 five small SB 684 houses. The large house would pay about $55K in inclusionary and impact fees. The five townhouses would pay $366K each, for a total of $1.8 million. Faced with those gigantic fees for a small multifamily project, the builder is going to choose the single house instead. The City should not put its thumb on the scale to favor giant houses over more modest-sized homes for our own neighbors who want to downsize as they get older, for our neighbors whose family circumstances, like divorce, force them to find a smaller place, or for other families looking for homes. The City should not welcome people who can afford $7 million homes, while making Los Altos unaffordable to young couples wanting to start out here and young families wanting their children to enjoy our great schools and terrific community.

The City charges more in impact fees for a townhouse than for a huge single family house. But the real hit for townhouses comes from our inclusionary in-lieu fee, which applies to townhouses but not mansions. A quarter of a million dollars in inclusionary fees per unit in these small developments—plus almost another hundred thousand in impact fees— renders them almost impossible to build (see Appendix 1).

The way bigger, taller projects can pencil under our inclusionary requirements is by using the State Density Bonus to add more units, and add another story to put them in; the density bonus units partially offset the cost of building the inclusionary units. Without the bonus units, the big projects wouldn’t be feasible either.
3 But the State Density Bonus can’t grant an applicant more land to put another townhouse in.

There’s no room for density bonus townhouses on a small parcel. So the builder of the five unit project has to pay our inclusionary fee—$272K for a typically sized three bedroom townhouse—but has no offsetting revenue from density bonus units. The same is true for small SB 684 houses, and small apartment or condo buildings; the developer is forced to pay the fee or build the inclusionary units,
4 but cannot build bonus units to offset the cost.

Even for smaller projects of two to four units, our impact fees are huge. A townhouse in a project of four townhouses pays about twice as much as a giant new single family house.

Almost $100K per townhouse, for these smaller projects, is an enormous fee.

The current fees are too high, pushing builders to build large single family houses instead of the smaller homes we also need. By removing these fees we can kickstart the building of the kind of housing we are lacking. San Jose recently enacted a wildly successful fee holiday for large 4 Parking is a big problem. Even when there’s room for another unit, or two or three, there’s not room for surface parking for the units. And underground parking is so expensive builders avoid it. Even for big projects, underground parking is cripplingly expensive, which is why the developer of the new 95 First Street project is planning surface parking for his midrise. So even when it seems like more units can fit in a parcel, once surface parking is taken into account, no more units can fit. 3 Rather than use the State Density Bonus Law to get more units, a developer can instead use it to waive our ordinance that inclusionary units have to be the same size as market rate units. It amounts to the same thing; a smaller part of the project floor area is devoted to inclusionary units, whether because of density bonus units or because of tiny inclusionary units, and therefore the cost of the inclusionary units is reduced.
8 multifamily projects.
5 A small-scale developer suggested that we emulate San Jose’s fee holiday not for large multifamily projects, but for small multifamily projects instead, and we enthusiastically agree.

The Solution: A Fee Holiday
We propose Los Altos incentivize small projects of more affordable housing by offering a “fee holiday” pilot program: for the next 18 months, developers of projects of 2-10 units would not be charged impact fees or inclusionary fees/requirements. We’d evaluate this pilot program by seeing how many projects of 2 to 4 units and how many projects of 5 to 10 units were approved.

Eighteen months is long enough to see if the fee holiday makes a difference. Since we’re getting no projects of 2-10 units right now, if we saw three or more projects, that would look like a success, and look like the fees we have now are too high. If we saw no projects or just one during the fee holiday, we’d learn the useful albeit depressing fact that even a $1.8 million (for five units) to $3.6 million (for ten units) reduction in the cost of building a small project doesn’t make it feasible. If the fee holiday didn’t generate more housing, we could re-institute the fees. If we got dozens of projects, we could ratchet the fees up. If we institute a fee holiday, we can find out if our fees are too high, and potentially get some more infill housing that’s affordable to more families.
5https://www.mercurynews.com/2025/05/14/san-jose-incentive-program-spurs-multifamily-development-ec onomy-interest-rate-construction-costs/
9 Appendix 1: Impact Fees in Los Altos
Impact fees and inclusionary fees for small projects in Los Altos Total fees per
unit
Total fees per
project
Units in
project
Size of
unit (sq ft)
Impact fee
(per sq ft)
6 Arts fee per
unit
(estimated)
Total impact
fees per unit
Inclusionary
in-lieu fee
(per sq ft)
7 Inclusionary
fee per unit
Single family house $55,560 $55,560 1 4000 $13.89 $0 $55,560 $0 $0 Four townhouses $94,016 $376,064 4 1600 $51.26 $12,000 $94,016 $0 $0 FIveplex (rental) $150,534 $752,670 5 900 $51.26 $9,000 $55,134 $106 $95,400 Fiveplex (for
Housing typesale) $176,260 $881,300 5 1000 $51.26 $10,000 $61,260 $115 $115,000 Five townhouses $366,016 $1,830,080 5 1600 $51.26 $12,000 $94,016 $170 $272,000 Five little houses
(SB 684) $335,808 $1,679,038 5 1750 $13.89 $14,000 $38,308 $170 8 $297,500
8Los Altos planning staff told us small houses using SB 684 would be subject to the same inclusionary in-lieu fee as townhouses 7 Inclusionary fees from City Council Resolution 2024-04:
https://www.losaltosca.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/ordinance/86211/reso_no_2024-04_inclusionary_housing_in-lieu_fee_-_signed.pdf 6 Impact fees from City Council Resolution 2024-54:
https://www.losaltosca.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/public_works/page/39101/reso_no_2024-54_adopting_development_impact_and_li-li eu_fees_-_signed.pdf
10 1
Melissa Thurman
From: PALLA <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 9, 2025 1:46 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment June 10, 2025: Items Not On Agenda- Actions Needed for Los Altos Heritage Orchard Failure
Attachments: Actions Needed for Los Altos Heritage Orchard Failure .pdf Dear City Council,
Attached please find a Public Comment letter dated June 9, 2025, regarding Actions Needed for the Los Altos Heritage Orchard Failure.

Please acknowledge receipt with a response to this email from both the City Clerk and the City Manager.

Please provide notice of any future agenda items related to the Los Altos Heritage Orchard.

Thank you for your consideration.
11 June 9, 2025
Los Altos City Council
1 N San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
Subject: Actions Needed for Los Altos Heritage Orchard Failure Dear City Council,
For the past year, Preservation Action League Los Altos (PALLA) has been sounding the alarm that the Los Altos Heritage Orchard is failing. We’ve independently sought the input of regional orchardists and historical landscape experts, have had continuous meetings with the director of the Los Altos History Museum and alerted the City Manager as recently as Friday, April 18, 2025.

We now write to express our grave concern and utter dismay at the ongoing deterioration of the public lands that are the Los Altos Heritage Orchard, an irreplaceable cultural landscape and historic resource and historic landmark. The orchard’s collapse is the result of the City’s failure to uphold its duties under Los Altos Municipal Code 12.44.200 and its public trust function, and the unacceptable performance of its contracted maintenance entity the volunteer-led Orchard Commons Committee under the direction of the Los Altos History Museum.

Despite the City’s public assurances, the facts are undeniable:
• Orchard trees are dying at an alarming rate: at least 147 trees since September 2024. The LAHM Blog, dated March 29, 2025, identifies 92 additional trees that have died since the Historical Alteration Permit was issued for the removal of 22 separate trees in January 2025. A near 30% tree loss within 18 months is an abject failure.
• The contractor has not fulfilled basic duties and obligations violating both the terms of the City's maintenance contract, historic preservation ordinance requirements and accepted historic preservation standards, demonstrating a lack of understanding of regional and historical agricultural principles and practices.
• Public communications by the contractor have misled the public, laying blame on climate and disease when in fact experimental irrigation practices were untested and schedules altered; soil compaction was increased with no understory, no nutrient amendments and no discing; and potentially productive trees were neither treated for optimal health with allowable spraying or pruned to standard practices. Of note, nearby Sunnyvale and Saratoga Heritage Orchards are anticipating abundant harvests this season per their orchardists.
12 • Extensive utility boring and construction related to adjacent projects was undertaken with neither environmental impact studies nor tree protection, and orchard trees were repositioned with no historic alteration permits. Mapping shows a predominance of tree loss in construction areas. • Neither a cultural landscape assessment nor an orchard management plan have been completed. A qualified historical arborist has not been engaged and no public oversight sought as is best practice for preservation under State Office of Historic Preservation (OHP) and Secretary of the Interior Standards. • Repeated PRA requests, and emails and orchard walkthroughs with OCC, LAHM and the City Manager have yielded no records: health reports, irrigation plans, monitoring plans, etc. An inclusive arborist report dated May 23, 2025, also omits a health report on remaining trees.

This is more than negligence. This is a clear breach of the public’s trust and a dereliction of the City’s duty to safeguard historic public resources for current and future generations.

Please add to the next City Council agenda, the following discussion and actions:

1. Reassessment of the current maintenance contract for failure of contractor and City staff to comply with contract terms, substandard performance and material damage to a protected resource.

2. Formation of an emergency task force composed of independent historic preservation experts, community stakeholders, and certified arborists and orchardists with historic and cultural landscape expertise.

3. Allocation of emergency funding for an independent study and full condition assessment of the remaining orchard with findings, and further funding as determined.

4. A public hearing and study session to present study results, assess project history and outline corrective actions.

5. Enforcement of all applicable local, state, and federal standards related to the preservation of public historic resources including the Los Altos Historic Preservation Ordinance, Certified Local Government responsibilities and CEQA mandates.

The Los Altos community cannot stand by as our public lands are mismanaged, misrepresented and irreparably harmed. The Heritage Orchard will not become barren land or a “memorial garden” for convenience or development. The Heritage Orchard is a living testament to our agricultural history, a recognized regional historic resource, and together with the J Gilbert Smith House, the last remaining orchard farmstead in the Valley of the Heart’s Delight. Our Heritage (Civic Center) Orchard is a cultural landscape and landmark that has been at the heart of our city and a cherished part of the Los Altos identity for nearly 125 years.

We urge City Council to act swiftly, and with the integrity and transparency the Los Altos Heritage Orchard deserves.
13 Please acknowledge receipt of this letter. Again, we request a formal and timely response to this serious and urgent matter.

Sincerely,
Maria Bautista and Catherine Nunes for PALLA,
Preservation Action League Los Altos
14 CITY OF LOS ALTOS

CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2025
6:00 p.m.
1 N. San Antonio Rd. ~ Los Altos, CA
Pete Dailey, Mayor
Neysa Fligor, Vice Mayor
Larry Lang, Councilmember
Sally Meadows, Councilmember
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember

SPECIAL MEETING
CALL MEETING TO ORDER: Pete Dailey, Mayor, called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

ESTABLISH QUORUM - All Councilmembers were present.

STUDY SESSION

1. Review and Provide Direction on the Draft Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26 and the FiveYear Capital & Major Maintenance Program for Fiscal Years 2026-30

Gabriel Engeland, City Manager and Jessie Kim, Finance Director, presented the report.

There were no public speakers regarding the item.

Discussion item only. No motions were taken.

ADJOURNMENT – The meeting adjourned at 7:07 p.m.

The meeting minutes were prepared by Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, for approval at the regular meeting of June 10, 2025.
_____________________________________ __________________________________ Pete Dailey Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
15 Agenda Item # 1.

CITY OF LOS ALTOS

CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2025
7:00 p.m.
1 N. San Antonio Rd. ~ Los Altos, CA
Pete Dailey, Mayor
Neysa Fligor, Vice Mayor
Larry Lang, Councilmember
Sally Meadows, Councilmember
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember
CALL MEETING TO ORDER – Pete Dailey, Mayor, called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m.

ESTABLISH QUORUM – All Councilmembers were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Neysa Fligor, Vice Mayor, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
There was no Closed Session meeting.

CHANGES TO THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA
There were no changes to the order of the agenda.

SPECIAL ITEMS
Present Proclamation to the 2025 Historic Preservation Award Recipient Pete Dailey, Mayor, presented a proclamation to Walter Chapman, the 2025 Historic Preservation Award Recipient.

Present Proclamation in Support of the United States Constitution Pete Dailey, Mayor, presented a proclamation in support of the United States Constitution.

PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
There were no speakers during Public Comment.

CONSENT CALENDAR
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember, requested to pull Item 7 for further discussion.

Pete Dailey, Mayor, moved Item 7 to the first Discussion Item on the agenda.

There were no public speakers for items on the Consent Calendar.

Motion by Meadows and Second by Lang to approve the Consent Calendar, excluding Item 7.

Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

1. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Approve the Special and Regular Meeting Minutes of May 13, 2025 16 Agenda Item # 1.

City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
May 27, 2025

Page 2 of 4 ends

2. Adoption of Resolution - SB1 Funding for Road Repairs Adopt a Resolution approving a list of streets that will utilize Senate Bill 1 (SB-1) funding, Road Repair and Accountability Act, for the purpose of annual road maintenance; consider finding the adoption of the resolution exempt pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities)

3. Adoption of Resolution - Re-establishment of Budget Authority Adopt a resolution re-establishing budget authority for the Emergency Operations Center project and amending the FY 2024-25 Operating and Capital Budget to appropriate $2,510,000 of funds included in the current fiscal year budget

4. Adoption of Ordinance - Fire Hazard Safety Zones
Adopt an ordinance to designate Fire Hazard Severity Zones

5. Adoption of Ordinance - Sherwood Rezoning
Adopt three (3) ordinances and considering the unanimous recommendation of the Los Altos Planning Commission April 3, 2025, decision of:
a. An Ordinance of the Los Altos City Council of the City of Los Altos Amending Chapter 14.50 of the Los Altos Municipal Code; and
b. An Ordinance of the Los Altos City Council of the City of Los Altos Repealing in its Entirety the Sherwood Gateway Specific Plan of the Los Altos Municipal Code; and c. An Ordinance of the Los Altos City Council of the City of Los Altos Amending Chapter 14.88 of the Los Altos Municipal Code and Rezoning Certain Parcels Located along San Antonio Road and El Camino Real in the City of Los Altos to Commercial Thoroughfare (CT) Zoning District; and
Find that the proposed zone change and amendments are exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15183 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines since the zone change and amendments are consistent with the adopted General Plan

6. Receive Report - City Vacancies
Receive a Report Pursuant to Government Code Section 3502.3 on City of Los Altos Vacancies, and Recruitment and Retention Efforts
17 Agenda Item # 1.

City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
May 27, 2025

Page 3 of 4 ends

DISCUSSION ITEMS

7. Adoption of Resolution - Stewardship Services in Redwood Grove Nature Preserve Adopt a Resolution authorizing the City manager to execute an amendment that extends the agreement with Grassroots Ecology an additional 3-year term for Redwood Grove Stewardship services
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember, requested to add the language “total” to the resolution.

Neysa Fligor, Vice Mayor, made a Friendly Amendment to change the language “total” to “not to exceed”. Councilmember Weinberg accepted the Friendly Amendment.

Motion by Weinberg and Second by Meadows to adopt a resolution, as amended, authorizing the City Manager to execute an amendment that extends the agreement with Grassroots Ecology an additional 3-year term for Redwood Grove Stewardship services. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

This item had been moved from the Consent Calendar.

8. Adoption of Resolution— Agreement with Epic Recruiting Adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Epic Recruiting in an amount not to exceed $300,000 for the development and implementation of recruitment marketing services, including video production, marketing materials, website development and targeted digital advertising to attract qualified candidates for Police Department vacancies
Sam Blonder, Epic Recruiting CEO, presented the report.

There were no public speakers regarding the item.

Motion by Dailey and Second by Lang to adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Epic Recruiting in an amount not to exceed $300,000 for the development and implementation of recruitment marketing services, including video production, marketing materials, website development and targeted digital advertising to attract qualified candidates for Police Department vacancies. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

9. City of Los Altos Pension Obligations
Receive information regarding the City's pension obligations Jon Maginot, Assistant City Manager, presented the report.

There were no public speakers regarding the item.
18 Agenda Item # 1.

City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
May 27, 2025

Page 4 of 4 ends

Informational item only. No motion taken.

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS ONLY
There will be no discussion or action on Informational Items

10. Tentative Housing Calendar and Housing Element Update Implementation Calendar

COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS AND DIRECTIONS ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT – The regular meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m.

The meeting minutes were prepared by Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, for approval at the regular meeting on June 10, 2025.
_________________________________ __________________________________ Pete Dailey Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
The May 27, 2025, City Council meeting recording may be viewed via the following external website: https://www.youtube.com/@CityofLosAltosCA
The City of Los Altos does not own or operate YouTube. The video referenced in these minutes was live at the time the minutes were published.
19 Agenda Item # 1.

City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: June 10, 2025
Prepared By: Public Works Department
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services FY 24/25 Project Acceptance

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
☐Public Safety
☐Business Communities
☐Circulation Safety and Efficiency
☒Environmental Sustainability
☐Housing
☒General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution accepting completion of the On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services for FY 24/25 and authorize the Public Works Director to record a Notice of Completion as required by law, and find that this action is Exempt from Environmental Review pursuant to Section 15300.2 of the State Guidelines Implementing the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970

FISCAL IMPACT
The final cost of this project is $125,818.58 for the On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services for FY 24/25; any remaining expenditure budget will be returned to the Sewer Fund for future allocation. The following table summarizes the final cost of this project.

Project Item Original Project Budget Final Cost
Construction Contract (Spot Repair
and CCTV Inspections) $125,000.00 $124,991.60
Printing/Environmental Doc/Misc. $1,000.00 $826.98
Total Cost $126,000.00 $125,818.58
20 Agenda Item # 2.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The acceptance of the work is categorically exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301(b), involving the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public sewerage involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use, and none of the circumstances stated in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 applies.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
July 9, 2024

BACKGROUND
The City’s Sewer Maintenance Division in the Public Works Department maintains a long list of sewer system deficiencies that require spot repairs. In order to make progress on those repairs and plan for emergency repairs, the City requested bids for On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services.

On August 8, 2024, the City Manager executed a contract with C2R Engineering, Inc. for On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services for the not-to-exceed amount of $125,000.

ANALYSIS
C2R Engineering, Inc. completed the repairs and CCTV inspection of On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services per the project plans and specifications. This project consisted of the repair or replacement of seven sewer laterals using the pipe bursting method or open trench method, the completion of two mainline repairs using the open trench method, televising 438 feet of 6-inch sewer mainlines, and televising 323 feet of 12-inch sewer mainlines.

ATTACHMENT

1. Resolution
21 Agenda Item # 2.

ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS

ACCEPTING COMPLETION AND DIRECTING THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO

FILE A NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF THE ON-CALL SANITARY SEWER SPOT REPAIRS AND CCTV INSPECTION SERVICES FOR FY 2024-2025
WHEREAS, the Los Altos Public Works Director has filed with the City Clerk of Los Altos an Engineer's Certificate for the completion of all work provided within and pursuant to the contract between said City and C2R Engineering, Inc., dated August 8, 2024; and WHEREAS, it appears to the satisfaction of this City Council that work under said contract has been fully installed and completed as provided in said contract and the plans and specifications therein referred to.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby authorizes the following:

1. Accept the completion of said work hereby made and ordered; and

2. Authorize the Public Works Director to execute and file for recording with the County Recorder of the County of Santa Clara, Notice of Acceptance of Completion thereof, as required by law; and

3. Approve the acceptance of the work is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) under CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (b) for reasons stated in the staff report, and none of the circumstances described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply, and

4. Authorize the remaining budget expenditures to be returned to the Sewer Fund.

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 10th day of June 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES
ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
22 Agenda Item # 2.

ATTACHMENT 1
__________________________
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
ATTEST:
______________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC, City Clerk
23 Agenda Item # 2.

City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: June 10, 2025
Prepared By: Nick Zornes
Approved By: Gabriel Engeland
Subject: Development Services Department Professional Service Agreements

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
☒Public Safety
☐Business Communities
☐Circulation Safety and Efficiency
☒Environmental Sustainability
☐Housing
☒General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolutions authorizing the City Manager to execute professional services agreements with TRB + Associates, Structech Engineering, and David Powers & Associates for third-party plan review and environmental review services for the Development Services Department.

FISCAL IMPACT
All fiscal impacts associated with the professional service agreements are offset by revenues that are equal to the expenditures. Plan review and environmental review fees are paid upon submitting a project or permit.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Not Applicable.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
City Council approves any consultant contracts over $100,000.00 per the Los Altos Purchasing Policy.

BACKGROUND
The Development Services Department engages several third-party consultants to conduct essential plan reviews and environmental assessments for permits and projects. In Fiscal Year 2021, the City entered into multiple professional services agreements to facilitate these reviews, with an initial term of three (3) years. These agreements were subsequently extended for an additional two (2) years in 2023 and are scheduled to expire on June 30, 2025. 24 Agenda Item # 3.

A Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued earlier this year in anticipation of the expiration of the current contracts. Nine (9) consultants submitted proposals in response to the RFP for plan check services. Following a thorough review, staff recommends entering into contract with two (2) consultants for plan check services and one (1) consultant for environmental review services as the most qualified responsive consultants.

DISCUSSION
Authorization of new professional service agreements will allow for the continuation and continuity of services provided by the Development Services Department, who utilize third-party consultants to provide the required plan review and environmental review in the absence of inhouse staff to complete the work. Staff propose the contracts have five (5) year terms, after which new contracts would need to be obtained or extended pursuant to the Los Altos Purchasing Policy.

The total authorized budget for each agreement is reflected in the City’s Annual Budget for the Development Services Department.

The following tables represent the three proposed contracts:

TRB + Associates
Services Provided: Third-party building plan review for Building Permits.

Fiscal Analysis: Revenues associated with this contract meet or exceed the expenditures and create no negative fiscal impact.

Contract Amount: $1.5 million per year
Contract Term: 5 years
Contract Total: $7.5 million
Structech Engineering
Services Provided: Third-party building plan review for Building Permits.

Fiscal Analysis: Revenues associated with this contract meet or exceed the expenditures and create no negative fiscal impact.

Contract Amount: $1.5 million per year
Contract Term: 5 years
Contract Total: $7.5 million
David Powers & Associates
Services Provided: Third-party environmental review for projects.

Fiscal Analysis: Revenues associated with this contract meet or exceed the expenditures and create no negative fiscal impact.

Contract Amount: $500,000
Contract Term: 5 years
Contract Total: $500,000

ATTACHMENTS

1. Resolution – TRB + Associates

2. Resolution – Structech Engineering

3. Resolution – David Powers & Associates
25 Agenda Item # 3.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS

AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH TRB + ASSOCIATES FOR BUILDING PERMIT

REVIEW SERVICES
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos retains the services of third-party consultants for building permit review; and
WHEREAS, TRB + Associates responded to a City issued Request for Proposals with a comprehensive proposal; and
WHEREAS, TRB + Associates was chosen as one of the most qualified responsive consultants for the requested City services; and
WHEREAS, the contract will match the budget appropriations and forthcoming anticipated professional services.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement between the City of Los Altos and TRB + Associates to provide professional third-party plan review services for five years in an amount not to exceed $7.5 million dollars.

2. Authorizes the City Manager to take such further actions as may be necessary to implement the foregoing agreement.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
__________________________
Pete Dailey
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC
City Clerk
27 Agenda Item # 3.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS

AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A PROFESSIONAL

SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH STRUCTECH ENGINEERING FOR BUILDING

PERMIT REVIEW SERVICES
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos retains the services of third-party consultants for building permit review; and
WHEREAS, Structech Engineering responded to a City issued Request for Proposals with a comprehensive proposal; and
WHEREAS, Structech Engineering was chosen as one of the most qualified responsive consultants for the requested City services; and
WHEREAS, the contract will match the budget appropriations and forthcoming anticipated professional services.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement between the City of Los Altos and Structech Engineering to provide professional third-party plan review services for five years in an amount not to exceed $7.5 million dollars.

2. Authorizes the City Manager to take such further actions as may be necessary to implement the foregoing agreement.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
__________________________
Pete Dailey
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC
City Clerk
29 Agenda Item # 3.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS

AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A PROFESSIONAL

SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH DAVID POWERS & ASSOCIATES FOR

PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW SERVICES
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos retains the services of third-party consultants for environmental review of projects; and
WHEREAS, the contract will match the budget appropriations and forthcoming anticipated professional services.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby:

1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement between the City of Los Altos and David Powers & Associates to provide professional environmental review services for five years in an amount not to exceed $500,000.

2. Authorizes the City Manager to take such further actions as may be necessary to implement the foregoing agreement.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
__________________________
Pete Dailey
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC
City Clerk
30 Agenda Item # 3.

City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: June 10, 2025
Initiated By: City Council
Prepared By: Anthony Carnesecca
Approved By: Gabriel Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution Creating Special Event Sponsorship Policy, Adoption of Resolution Repealing Resolution No. 2015-23 And Setting Special Event Sponsorship Levels Pursuant To Los Altos Municipal Code Section 9.25.100, & Adoption of Resolution Repealing Resolution No.2023-66 and Adopting New Flag Raising Policy

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
☒Business Communities
☐Circulation Safety and Efficiency
☒Environmental Sustainability
☐Housing
☒Neighborhood Safety Infrastructure
☒General Government

RECOMMENDATION
City staff recommends the following actions by City Council:
 Adopt the resolution that creates a special event sponsorship policy  Adopt the resolution repealing Resolution No. 2015-23 and setting special event sponsorship levels pursuant to Los Altos Municipal Code Section 9.25.100  Adopt the resolution repealing Resolution No. 2023-66 and adopting new flag raising policy

FISCAL IMPACT
Based on the cost estimates for this year’s Farmers’ Market at roughly $17,650, the transition of that event from half to full sponsorship will cost the City roughly $8,825 per year for in-kind services, which is the staff time for the closure of State Street.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Thisresolution are exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State Guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
June 2015, October 2023, April 2025, & May 2025
31 Agenda Item # 4.

BACKGROUND
Special Event Sponsorship Policy
The City Council adopted Los Altos Municipal Code 9.25 “Special Events” in March 2007 that governs special events. In October 2023, the City Council adopted changes to this code section that simplified a confusing code section, retained control over more events on public property, and simplified the special event and block party process.

In 2024, the City received, reviewed, and approved various special event applications. These special event applications vary from one-time events 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 Spring Egg Hunt.

Prior to a special event, City staff gathers a cost estimate for the cost of City services provided for the event, which is discussed during a pre-event meeting and provided to the event organizer in advance of the event. After the event concludes, City staff will put together the cost recap that will calculate the final cost of City services provided for the event and is sent to the event organizer for payment.

The chart above illustrates the relative City cost for special events with one dollar sign being on the lower end for most events that only require an application fee and five dollar signs being the more expensive special events that require larger street closures to operate from the City perspective. The biggest cost is shutting down the street for a special event as that has historically been completed by our Police Department on a minimum overtime or call-out basis.

Moving forward, that may be adjusted as we have a third-party operator who can shut down the street at a lower cost than our sworn Police officers, but it will still be an expense for the special event organizer.

The City Council determines what special events qualify as full-sponsored or half-sponsored events that will not be required to pay a portion or all of their cost for City services. There are two tiers for sponsorship. Full-sponsorship means the City bears the full cost of City services.

Half-sponsorship means that the City bears half the cost of City services and invoices the organization afterward for their half the cost of City services.

Historically, these events have been identified by a resolution of the City Council and was last updated on June 9, 2015 to adjust per Council direction.

Per Resolution 2015-23, the City sponsors the following events at these various levels:

Event City Sponsorship
Festival of Lights Parade 100%
Glorious Fourth Celebration* 100%
Los Altos High School Homecoming Parade 100%
Pet Parade 100%
Arts and Wine Festival 50%
Bus Barn Follies 50%
32 Agenda Item # 4.

Chanukah Menorah Lighting 50%
Corvette Spectacular 50%
Easter Egg Hunt 50%
Fall Festival^ 50%
Farmers’ Market 50%
Fine Art in the Park 50%
Halloween Spooktacular (A Boo-tiful Downtown Halloween) 50% Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony 50%
Movie Nights^ 50%
Veterans’ Day* 50%
* denotes that the event is now a City-coordinated event so it can be removed from sponsorship list if directed
^ denotes that the event has not happened in at least the last year Flag Raising Policy
At the November 29, 2022 meeting, City Council adopted a flag raising policy as a pilot policy set to be reviewed in late 2023.

This policy allowed City Council to review flag raising requests and approve them on a case-bycase basis. When a flag raising is approved, the City Council determines that the particular flag falls under government speech. Public agencies have the right to free speech on their own property, which means the City Council can convey any message or symbol as their own speech on their own property without opening it into a public forum.

At the October 24, 2023 meeting, City Council adopted the pilot flag raising policy as a permanent policy.

DISCUSSION/ANALYSIS
Special Event Sponsorship Policy
At their April 22, 2025 meeting, the City Council provided direction to City staff to bring back a new resolution that incorporates the following changes:
 Remove Bus Barn Follies
 Remove Fall Festival
 Remove Glorious Fourth Celebration
 Remove Movie Nights
 Remove Veterans’ Day
 Update A Boo-tiful Downtown Halloween Name
 Identify if there are any other special events that City staff would adjust, including the addition of the Farmers’ Market to Full Sponsorship
At their May 13, 2025 meeting, the City Council provided direction for the City Attorney to clarify the language regarding religious portion of this policy to avoid any First Amendment issues and return with the list of sponsored special events based upon this clarification. 33 Agenda Item # 4.

The City Attorney has reviewed the policy and determined that the City Council has the ability to sponsor any special event as long as they allow any institution to apply for sponsorship and the policy does not prohibit any organization from applying. City Council can make a determination at that time whether the Council would like to convey the message of the event as government speech.

Flag Raising Policy
The City Attorney updated this policy to mirror the above policy due to previous case law and for consistency with similar City sponsorship policies.

ATTACHMENT

1. Resolution

2. Resolution

3. Resolution
34 Agenda Item # 4.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-___

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS

ADOPTING THE LOS ALTOS SPECIAL EVENT SPONSORSHIP POLICY WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes that special events enhance the City’s lifestyle and provide benefits to the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the sponsorship of certain long-standing special events provides a benefit to the community; and
WHEREAS, on May 27, 2025, the City Council found that the sponsorship of particular special events would qualify as government speech and constitutes a message that the City of Los Altos desires to convey on behalf of its residents; WHEREAS, this policy is intended to create clear guidelines for the sponsorship of special events on City property.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby adopts the policy attached hereto as Exhibit 1.

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 ____, 2025 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
___________________________
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
Attest:
_____________________________
Melissa Thurman, CITY CLERK
35 Agenda Item # 4.

EXHIBIT 1

LOS ALTOS SPECIAL EVENT SPONSORSHIP POLICY
City Council has the authority to review special event sponsorship requests and approve them on a case-by-case basis. When a special event sponsorship request is approved, the City Council would be required to adopt the particular event as government speech.

Public agencies have the right to free speech on their own property, which means the City Council can convey any event, message, or symbol as their own speech on their own property without opening it into a public forum. Such authorization by the City Council shall take the form of a resolution, which shall include the following information:
(1) The date or dates on which the event will take place; (2) A finding that the special event constitutes government speech in that the particular message conveyed by the special event is a message that the City Council wishes to express on behalf of the residents of the City;
(3) A statement describing the particular message conveyed by the special event and expressing the reason or reasons the City Council wishes to express that message on behalf of the residents of the City; and
(4) A statement that the resolution is adopted pursuant to this policy and a statement of reasons why the adoption of the resolution is consistent with this policy.

Under no circumstances shall the City Council authorize the sponsorship of a special event that:
(1) Represents a group, organization, or movement that advocates the unlawful overthrow of the state or federal government;
(2) Commemorates a rebellion against the federal government by the government of any state;
(3) Advocates discrimination or intolerance against individuals on the basis of any classification specified in Civil Code Section 51;
(4) Advocates for or against a candidate for public office, a political party, or a ballot measure or proposition; or
(5) Poses a real and substantial threat to public safety based on objective circumstances or criteria.

The City Council may consider authorizing the sponsorship of a special event pursuant to this policy referral of the entire Council on motion of any Councilmember made during the time reserved at regular City Council meetings for discussion of future agenda items, or at the recommendation of a commission of the City. The City Council may also consider authorizing the sponsorship of a special event on application of a resident or community group, as long as they shall complete a Special Event Sponsorship Application Packet, on a form to be created by the City Manager or designee.

City staff shall provide a recommendation to City Council for every application on whether the proposed special event meets the above criteria listed 1 through 5 for a special event 36 Agenda Item # 4.
sponsorship, which will allow City Council to make the final determination on the application.

This policy is intended for the City’s sole benefit, and nothing herein is intended to confer any legal right or privilege on any member of the public.

City of Los Altos requires all non-profit organizations or Los Altos residents interested in having the City of Los Altos sponsor a special event to meet all the below guidelines and submit a completed application packet.

1. Applicant Guidelines
a. Only special events that are consistent with the City’s vision, mission, and ongoing strategic priorities, incorporating themes of diversity, equity, social justice and inclusion.
b. All special events will be sponsored in accordance with all applicable laws.

2. Application Procedure
a. Applicant will complete the Special Event Sponsorship Application Form and required documentation.

3. Review and Approval Process
a. Applications will be reviewed by City staff for completeness. b. Approval of the special event sponsorship is at the discretion of the City Council.

4. Fee Guidelines
a. Applicants may be required to pay any additional costs that were incurred beyond the authorized special event costs by City Council. 37 Agenda Item # 4.

Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-___

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 2015-23 AND SETTING SPECIAL EVENT

SPONSORSHIP LEVELS PURSUANT TO LOS ALTOS MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 9.25.100
WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes that special events enhance the City’s lifestyle and provide benefits to the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the sponsorship of certain long-standing special events provides a benefit to the community; and
WHEREAS, the Los Altos Municipal Code Section 9.25.100 specifies that special event sponsorship shall be set by Resolution of the City Council; and WHEREAS, on June 10, 2025, the City Council found that the sponsorship of the following special events qualifies as government speech and constitutes a message that the City of Los Altos desires to convey on behalf of its residents; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby:

1. Repeal Resolution No. 2015-23, adopted June 23, 2015, in its entirety

2. Authorizes sponsoring the following special events at the following levels Event Organizer Sponsorship
Level
Festival of Lights Parade Festival Of Lights Parade Association Full Los Altos High School Homecoming Parade Los Altos High School Full Pet Parade Kiwanis Full
Farmers’ Market Los Altos Village Association Full
A Boo-tiful Downtown Halloween Los Altos Village Association Half Arts and Wine Festival Los Altos Village Association Half Chanukah Menorah Lighting Los Altos Village Association Half Corvette Spectacular Los Altos Village Association Half Easter Egg Hunt Los Altos Village Association Half
Fine Art in the Park Los Altos Rotary Half
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony Los Altos Village Association Half 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 2025 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:
38 Agenda Item # 4.

Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 2
ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

ATTEST:
_________________________ ________________________
Pete Dailey Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
39 Agenda Item # 4.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-___

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 2023-66 AND ADOPTING THE NEW CITY OF

LOS ALTOS FLAG RAISING POLICY
WHEREAS, The City of Los Altos displays the flags of the United States, California, and the City on poles located at certain City facilities City flag poles; and WHEREAS, from time to time, members of the City Council, City commissions, or of the public propose raising other flags on public property, including to commemorate an event or occasion; and
WHEREAS, this policy is intended to create clear guidelines for the display of flags on City property; and
WHEREAS, this policy was adopted by the City Council on November 29, 2022 as a pilot program for one year; and
WHEREAS, this policy was adopted by a City Council on October 24, 2023 as a permanent program; and
WHEREAS, this policy was amended to remain complaint with relevant case law and other sponsorship activities by the City of Los Altos.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby:

1. Repeal Resolution No. 2023-66, adopted October 24, 2023, in its entirety

2. Adopts the policy attached hereto as Exhibit 1.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
___________________________
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
Attest:
40 Agenda Item # 4.
_____________________________
Melissa Thurman, CITY CLERK
41 Agenda Item # 4.

EXHIBIT 1

LOS ALTOS FLAG POLICY
The flags of the United States, California, and the City may be flown on City property.

The United States flag shall always be given precedence, and the flag of California shall be given precedence over the City’s flag. The display of these flags shall comply with 4 U.S.C. § 1, et seq., and Government Code Section 430, et seq.

In addition to these flags, or in lieu of the display of the City’s own flag, the City Council may authorize the display of other flags on City property, including to commemorate an event or occasion. Such authorization by the City Council shall take the form of a resolution, which shall include the following information:
(1) The date or dates on which the flag shall be displayed and any locations in addition to City Hall where the flag shall be displayed;
(2) A finding that the display of the flag constitutes government speech in that the particular message conveyed by the flag is a message that the City Council wishes to express on behalf of the residents of the City;
(3) A statement describing the particular message conveyed by the flag and expressing the reason or reasons the City Council wishes to express that message on behalf of the residents of the City; and
(4) A statement that the resolution is adopted pursuant to this policy and a statement of reasons why the adoption of the resolution is consistent with this policy.

Under no circumstances shall the City Council authorize the display of a flag that:
(1) Represents a group, organization, or movement that advocates the unlawful overthrow of the state or federal government;
(2) Commemorates a rebellion against the federal government by the government of any state;
(3) Advocates discrimination or intolerance against individuals on the basis of any classification specified in Civil Code Section 51;
(4) Advocates for or against a candidate for public office, a political party, or a ballot measure or proposition; or
(5) Poses a real and substantial threat to public safety based on objective circumstances or criteria.

The City Council may consider authorizing the display of a flag pursuant to this policy referral of the entire Council on motion of any Councilmember made during the time reserved at regular City Council meetings for discussion of future agenda items, or at the recommendation of a commission of the City. The City Council may also consider authorizing the display of a flag on application of a resident or community group, as follows:
(1) The applicant shall complete a Commemorative Flag Flying/Raising Application, on a form to be created by the City Manager or designee; and 42 Agenda Item # 4.
(2) A full color picture of the flag (front and back) must be included with the completed application, and the dimensions of the flag must be specified.

City staff shall provide a recommendation to City Council for every application on whether the proposed flag or organization meets the above criteria listed 1 through 5 for a flag raising, which will allow City Council to make the final determination on the application.

The City Council shall not authorize the display of the same flag more than once per year, and if it approves an application from an individual or group within a particular calendar year, it shall not consider another application from that individual or group until the following calendar year. The City Council may condition its authorization to display a particular flag on the applicant’s agreement to donate the use of a flag for that purpose.

The flag must be a clean and serviceable flag with dimensions no larger than 4’ x 6’ that is sturdy enough to be flown on an outdoor flagpole for at least one week, and the City shall not be responsible for any loss or damage to the flag while in its possession. The flag must be collected by the applicant within two business days of removal or it may be discarded or destroyed by City staff.

At the time it authorizes the display of any flag, the City Council may also authorize a flag raising ceremony. Any such ceremony shall be open to the general public, subject to reasonable rules of decorum intended to avoid disruption and reasonable efforts by law enforcement to maintain public order in case of a lawful or unlawful protest occurring at or near the site of the ceremony. If the display of the flag has been authorized by the City Council on the application of a private individual or organization, then the City Council may condition authorizing a flag raising ceremony on the applicant’s agreement to pay the costs of the ceremony and to coordinate or assist in the coordination of the ceremony; provided, however, that:
(1) One or more representatives of the City shall be present at the ceremony, and at least one representative of the City shall speak at the ceremony on behalf of the City; and
(2) City staff shall oversee the coordination of the ceremony and shall supervise and maintain ultimate control over the conduct of the ceremony.

Except as provided in this policy, no flags will be displayed on City property other than the flags of the United States, California, or the City. This policy is intended for the City’s sole benefit, and nothing herein is intended to confer any legal right or privilege on any member of the public.

City of Los Altos requires all non-profit organizations or Los Altos residents interested in flying or raising a flag on a City of Los Altos flag pole to meet all the below guidelines and submit a completed application.

1. Applicant Guidelines
a. A third-party organization or individual may apply to have the City raise a particular flag on one City flagpole located at specified City flagpoles. 43 Agenda Item # 4.
b. A commemorative flag under this policy means a flag that identifies with a specific date, historical event cause, nation or group of people, whereby the city honors or commemorates the date, event, cause, nation or people by flying the flags.
c. Only commemorative flags that are consistent with the City’s vision, mission, and ongoing strategic priorities, incorporating themes of diversity, equity, social justice and inclusion.
d. If a flag raising ceremony is requested and approved, all flag raising ceremonies must be open to all members of the public. Guests must adhere to the City of Los Altos policy not to discriminate on the basis of gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other class protected by law. e. Organizations or individuals may request one flag flying/raising per calendar year. If the same or similar flag was previous flown by a different organization within the one-year period, the application will be denied. f. Approved Commemorative flags will be flown for no longer than seven calendar days and will be raised or removed on the first workday of the week.
g. All flags on City flagpoles will be raised in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code and all applicable laws.

2. Application Procedure
a. Applicant will complete the Commemorative Flag Flying/Raising Application Form.
b. A full color picture of the flag (front and back) must be included with the completed application
c. The flag must be a clean and serviceable flag with dimensions no larger than 4’ x 6’ that is sturdy enough to be flown on an outdoor flagpole for at least one week.

3. Review and Approval Process
a. Applications will be reviewed by City staff for completeness. b. Approval of the commemorative flag is at the discretion of the City Council.
c. If approved, the applicants must deliver the flag to the City Clerk’s office at least three weeks in advance of the requested raising date.

4. Fee Guidelines
a. Applicants may be required to pay cleaning/custodial or other costs, as well as police detail fees or special permit fees, depending on the scale of any flag raising event.

5. Pick Up Process
a. After removal, flags can be picked up at the Municipal Services Center (707 Fremont Ave.).
b. The City of Los Altos is not responsible for any harm that comes to the flag while it is flying or if not picked up within 48 hours of being removed. 44 Agenda Item # 4.
45 Agenda Item # 4.

City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: June 10, 2025
Prepared By: Melissa Thurman
Approved By: Gabriel Engeland
Subject: Approve the Recommended Amendments to the Commission Handbook

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
☐Public Safety
☐Business Communities
☐Circulation Safety and Efficiency
☐Environmental Sustainability
☐Housing
☒General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Approve the recommended amendments to the Commission Handbook.

FISCAL IMPACT
Not Applicable.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Not Applicable.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
The City Council made prior amendments to the Commission Handbook on July 11, 2023, August 22, 2023 and September 12, 2023.

BACKGROUND
The Los Altos Commission Handbook serves as a formal guide for all appointed Commissioners and Committee members for the city. The handbook is reviewed and managed by staff, who ensure the content aligns with Council direction and state law.

DISCUSSION
The Handbook was last amended in September 2023, and since then, staff have identified several areas for suggested edits and changes.
46 Agenda Item # 5.

The Commission Handbook recommended amendments are as follows:
 Meeting Days and Times
This section has been amended to add clarifying language that the City Council must approve a change in a Commission or Committee’s regular meeting schedule.  Commission Workplans
This section has been amended to specify when Commission workplans should be developed and presented to the City Council each calendar year.  Appointment
This section has been amended to specify the Council will conduct at least one meeting for Commission interviews.
 Adding Items to a Future Agenda
This section has been amended to remove the language: “…or by emailing a request to the staff liaison”.
 Ad Hoc Subcommittee
This section has been amended to clarify the number of Commissioners who may be included on an Ad Hoc Subcommittee to work on specific tasks, as well as the duration for which an Ad Hoc Subcommittee may exist.
 Consideration of Agenda Items
This section has been amended to clarify the number of Commission members required to take official action on agenda items.
 Public Comment
This section has been amended to include language clarifying that public comments on special meeting agendas may be offered only for items listed on the agenda.  Training
This section has been amended to update the name of the city’s travel policy.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Commission Handbook with redline amendments
47 Agenda Item # 5.

COMMISSION HANDBOOK
June 2025
City of Los Altos
48 Agenda Item # 5.

INTRODUCTION
This manual functions as an introduction to service as a Commission or Committee member in Los Altos. For the purposes of this manual, the terms Commission member and Committee member are interchangeable. For those instances not covered in this manual, refer to the City Council Norms and Procedures and the Los Altos Municipal Code for additional guidance.

If there is any conflict between the rules set forth in this handbook and the Los Altos Municipal Code or the City Council Norms and Procedures, the Code and then the Norms and Procedures shall govern.

THE BASICS

GOVERNMENT IN THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
The City of Los Altos operates under the Council-Manager form of government. The City Council sets policy for the City which is then carried out by the City Manager and staff.

Commissions are integral to the City’s commitment to developing policies which reflect the needs and values of the community. Commissions work closely with staff and the Council to carry out the duties and responsibilities assigned by the Council.

CITY COUNCIL
The City Council is elected by registered voters of the City of Los Altos and serves as the ‘Board of Directors’ for the City. The Council is the legislative body of the City. It sets policy and establishes the City’s overall priorities, direction and financial plan. The Council appoints the City Manager, who is responsible for the administration of City business, and the City Attorney.

COUNCIL LIAISON
The City Council relies upon the expertise and recommendations of the Commissions and Committees in advising the Council as it sets City policy. The Council liaison function serves to facilitate and enhance this work. Their principal function is to provide a wide range of information to the advisory body, such as information about Council discussions, policies and actions. This helps provide an historical perspective and thereby place their work in context. However, the Commissions and Committees should act independently in formulating recommendations for the City Council to consider. Therefore, it is inconsistent for Council liaisons to direct, guide or unduly influence the policy making work of the City's advisory bodies. Council liaisons are not required to attend their Commission or Committee meetings. Council liaisons will meet, at a minimum, with the Commission Chair and Staff 49 Agenda Item # 5.
liaison once per year individually and once per year at the joint meetings of the City Council and the Commission. These meetings can be more frequent and will be based on the specific Commission.

COMMISSIONS/COMMITTEES
Members are appointed by a majority vote of the City Council to serve on Commissions and Committees to advise and make recommendations to the Council and staff. Commissions focus on specific policy issues and provide additional opportunity for community participation in decision making.

From time to time, there may be instances when staff’s recommendations on an issue may differ from those of the Commission. If this occurs, staff will inform the Commission of this in advance of the Council meeting and both recommendations will be presented to the Council for consideration.

As appointees of the City Council, members of Commissions are public officials and are appointed to represent all residents of the City, not individual organizations or special interest groups. Care should be taken to ensure that viewpoints expressed as public officials are consistent with City Council policy and the position of the majority of the Commission.

Minority opinions are allowed but Commissioners acting in the role of a commissioner should support actions taken by a majority of the Commission.

Unless speaking as the official spokesperson for the commission at a City Council or other public forum, commissioners should begin all written or verbal comments with “I am a commissioner for the [insert commission name here], but I am speaking on behalf of myself and my own personal beliefs.”
Each Commission is established by Chapter 2.08 of the Los Altos Municipal Code, which includes the powers and duties of each Commission. Committees, both standing and ad hoc, are created by Council action and typically are assigned to focus on a specific topic for a short duration. Ad hoc Committees (sometimes referred to as Task Forces) may include Commissioners.

STAFF
The City Manager serves as the ‘Chief Executive Officer’ for the City and implements policy set by the City Council, manages the day-to-day affairs of the City, appoints and removes employees, prepares the budget, enforces laws and ordinances, and makes recommendations to the Council on the general welfare of the City. He/she hires professionally trained staff to assist in carrying out his/her responsibilities. 50 Agenda Item # 5.

The City Manager assigns staff members to assist the various Commissions in carrying out their responsibilities. These staff liaisons, by virtue of their technical training and experience, are competent to provide such assistance.

Commissions shall work closely with the staff liaisons; however, they do not have the authority to supervise or direct the work of staff.

Requests by a commission or commissioner for assistance in completing research or analysis for the benefit of a commission may be directed towards the Department Head, which oversees the assigned Staff Liaison.

ROLE OF STAFF LIAISON
• Attend all meetings of the Commission
• Prepare agendas in collaboration with the Chair
• Work with the Commission in the development of a work plan for the coming year and a summary of accomplishments for the previous year
• Research and prepare reports for the Commission, as is consistent with the work plan and/or Council direction
• Ensure agendas and reports are posted in compliance with State law and City protocols
• Prepare action minutes for approval by the Commission • Prepare reports from the Commission to the Council, ensuring that reports represent the majority view and recommendation of the Commission
• Serve as the liaison between the Commission and City staff • Submit all budget requests from Commissions to cover costs associated with accomplishing their mission as well as to attend training sessions related to accomplishing the work of the Commission
• Communicate directions from the City Council to the Commission • Stay apprised of new laws and City protocols related to their assigned Commission or Commissions generally

MEETING DAYS AND TIMES
Regularly scheduled commission meeting days and times are established by the City Council. To facilitate and encourage public participation, no commission meeting can be held during the same meeting time as a City Council meeting and commissions should strive to not have any overlapping commission meeting with another commission’s regular meeting. Additionally, commission meeting times are typically scheduled for later in the day 51 Agenda Item # 5.
to not impede normal city business hours effectively ensuring services are available until the close of business each day.

Commission special meetings shall be held in accordance with the provisions of regularly scheduled meetings to not impede city services and operations.

With majority support of the commission members, any commission can request a change in the approved day and time for a commission regularly occurring meeting for approval by the City Council. A request for a change in meeting day and time shall be respective of city business hours to ensure that staff and services are provided throughout the day. Such a request shall be included in an agenda report prepared by the staff liaison and placed on the Commission’s agenda as a Discussion Item before being brought to the City Council as an item on the consent calendar.

A complete calendar of all regular commission meetings can be found on the City website.

COMMISSION WORKPLANS
When a commission workplan is necessary each commission shall discuss and prepare its annual work plan based upon the City Council annual priorities and budget, which shall be submitted and approved by the City Council. The work plan is a list of the anticipated topics, assignments and goals that the Commission will focus on over a 12-month period. From time to time the City Council may amend the approved commission work plan in order to achieve the goals of the city. Any requested modifications should be in line with the goals and objectives of the commission and the city.

Each commission/committee is expected to develop each of their workplans at the end of each Calendar Year. A final workplan will be presented to the City Council at a Study Session at the beginning of each Calendar Year with specific dates determined by the Mayor.

MEMBERSHIP ON CITY COMMISSIONS
Unless otherwise directed, Commission members must be residents of the City of Los Altos.

If, at any time during their term, a member moves to a principal residence outside the City, they shall become ineligible to continue as a member of that body and shall notify the Commission’s assigned staff liaison as soon as possible. It is expected that when a commissioner moves to a principal residence outside the City, they will submit a letter of resignation to the assigned staff liaison and the City Clerk.

Members are appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the City Council. Except for Senior and Youth Commissioners, members serve for a term of four years and may serve a total of two, four- year terms, plus any portion of an unexpired term for which they have been 52 Agenda Item # 5.
appointed. Senior Commissioners may serve four, two-year terms. Youth Commissioner may serve two-year terms through the conclusion of their final year in high school.

No Commissioner shall serve simultaneously on two separate Commissions. When a Commissioner ends their service on one Commission, the individual can then be appointed to a different Commission.

Ad hoc Committee members are appointed and shall serve until the task of the ad hoc committee has been completed at which time the Committee shall be disbanded. Council members and Commissioners may serve on ad hoc committees.

Two members of an immediate family, or people residing in the same household, are not allowed to serve simultaneously on the same Commission or Committee, including ad hoc Committees. Immediate family members of City Council members are not eligible for appointments to any Commission or Committee during the term of the elected Councilmember.

APPOINTMENT
The City Council accepts applications for Commission positions during the formal recruitment period. Once per year in September, formal recruitment is conducted for those positions which are or will become vacant (including those for which an incumbent is eligible for reappointment). The City may conduct recruitment for specific vacancies between formal recruitments if there is a vacancy that causes a commission to fall below quorum or at the direction of City Council after a request from a commission chair or commission liaison.

Except for the Youth Commission, all other commission recruitments will follow the same process. Youth Commission applicants are interviewed by the City Council Youth Commission Interview Committee which then makes appointment recommendations to the full City Council at a regular Council meeting.

The City Clerk announces that formal recruitment for commissioners is currently open so interested individuals should submit their application to the City for review. The City Clerk works with other City staff, City Council, and community groups to conduct as much public outreach as possible. This public outreach will include but is not limited to posting on the City website, City social media, local newspapers, and email notifications to previous commissioners or applicants.

City Council may only review applications for appointments once the application period ends.
53 Agenda Item # 5.

Interested applicants submit their complete application to City staff, where they will indicate their desired commission(s). City staff verify that the individual lives within the City of Los Altos and may serve on the desired commission(s).

City Council holds at least one (1) special meeting that will include interviews and voting on commissioners. All applicants are allotted the same amount of time to ensure that all candidates are given equal treatment.

After all interviews are completed, the City Council submits a ballot with their appointees.

Incumbent applicants will have their attendance record included as part of their application packet for review by the City Council.

REAPPOINTMENT
Upon completion of the first four-year term, or an unexpired term, Commissioners shall notify the City Clerk that they have an interest in continuing on the commission and complete a new application for reappointment to the Commission for another four-year term. To qualify for reappointment a Commissioner shall have met the minimum attendance requirements during the duration of their previous term. Commissioners requesting reappointment will be interviewed by the City Council. Reappointments will occur at the same time as new appointments to the Commission.

Upon completion of their service, Commissioners are encouraged to meet, either in person or via telephone, with the Council Liaison assigned to their respective Commission or another Councilmember. The purpose of this meeting is to provide Commissioners with a chance to offer feedback to the Council regarding their time on the Commission.

RESIGNATION/REMOVAL
In the event a member is unable to continue serving because of change of residence, health, business requirements or other personal reasons, a letter of resignation must be submitted to the City Clerk.

Members of Commissions serve at the pleasure of the City Council. The City Council shall review members’ performance and fulfillment of Commission member obligations and may remove a member from a Commission based upon that review. The City Council may discipline or remove a commissioner at any time solely at the discretion of the Council. Any proposed removal can be with or without cause. A Councilmember who wishes to discipline or remove a Commissioner shall indicate their desire to place the discipline or removal on a future agenda at the end of a regular Council meeting. If three or more Councilmembers wish to agendize the discipline or removal of a certain Commissioner, the item will be placed on a future Council agenda.
54 Agenda Item # 5.

ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION
A majority of members are necessary to conduct business. As such, Commission members are expected to attend no less than 75% of the regularly scheduled meetings annually during their term of office. At the end of each year, the City Council reviews an annual attendance report for each Commission. A Commissioner may be removed for failing to attend the required minimum number of meetings or after a third consecutive absence. If a Commissioner must miss a meeting, they shall inform the staff liaison a minimum of two weeks’ notice prior to the regularly-scheduled commission meeting whenever possible. If a Commission meeting is cancelled due to a lack of quorum, that meeting will still be considered a regularly scheduled meeting for purposes of calculating attendance, and those members whose absence caused the cancellation shall be charged with an absence for that meeting.

Commissions benefit from the informed input of each member of the body. Each Commission member is expected to exercise judgment by formulating recommendations for the City Council. Members are expected to be prepared for meetings and to participate and vote on every issue before the Commission, unless they are legally prohibited from participating. Lack of preparation and participation can be grounds for removal from a Commission. Each commission is to keep a rotation schedule for representation at City Council meetings by one of its members. Attendance is required when a commission has an item of interest on the Council agenda, to be available to answer Council questions.

COMMISSION MEMBER RESPONSIBULITIES
• Prepare for and participate in Commission meetings
• Attend at least 75% of scheduled meetings annually
• File Form 700 on time, if required
• Complete Brown Act Training within sixty (60) days of beginning service • Complete two hours of Ethics Training within thirty (30) days of assuming office and every two years thereafter
• Attend Annual Commission Training upon appointment and every two years while seated as a Commissioner

STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTEREST
The Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) is a form on which designated employees and officials disclose certain financial interests. State law dictates that members of the Planning Commission must file Form 700s. In addition, the City identifies those positions which are subject to the City’s Biennial Conflict of Interest Code. Those individuals appointed to positions identified in the Conflict-of-Interest Code are required to file Form 55 Agenda Item # 5.
700s. Commission members not identified in the Conflict-of-Interest Code are not subject to these regulations.

Commissioners are responsible for ensuring that statements are filed properly and on time.

For assistance in completing the forms, contact the City Clerk’s Office or the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC). Non-compliant Commissioners shall receive a letter from the City Clerk notifying them of their non-compliance and are subject to monetary fines.

Continued non-compliance shall be grounds for removal from the Commission.

All statements filed are maintained in the City Clerk’s Office and are available for public review. The following Table depicts Deadlines for filing Form 700:

TYPE OF FILING OCCURRENCE
Assuming Office Within (3) days of assuming office
Annual Each year on or before April 1st
Leaving Office Within (30) days of leaving office

ETHICS TRAINING
All those appointed by the Los Altos City Council to serve on Commissions shall complete at least two hours of public service ethics training every two years. New members must receive this training within 30 days of assuming office. Ethics training courses must have been reviewed and approved by the FPPC and the California Secretary of State. Members shall attend training sessions that are offered locally or by completing online training. Noncompliance shall be grounds for removal from the Commission.

It is the responsibility of a commissioner to provide proof of completion of the ethics training program to the City Clerk. These documents are public records and are subject to public review.

The City Clerk provides periodic reports of Form 700 and Ethics Training compliance to the City Council. The Council may remove any non-compliant Commissioner.

THE BROWN ACT
The Ralph M. Brown Act (Brown Act) is the State of California’s open government law. Its purpose is to ensure that deliberations and actions of local agency bodies are open to the public and that there is meaningful public access to a local agency’s decision-making process. All City Commissions are subject to the Brown Act. Staff liaisons to Commissions are versed in the elements of the Brown Act and will help Commissioners understand their obligations related to the Brown Act. In addition, certain Ad Hoc subcommittees may be subject to the provisions of the Brown Act. Commissioners should consult with their staff 56 Agenda Item # 5.
liaison regarding questions about the Brown Act. Ultimately, it is up to the individual Commissioner to ensure that they are complying with the Brown Act.

A major element of the Brown Act relates to meetings of legislative bodies. A meeting is defined as the coming together of a majority or more of a particular body (also known as a quorum) where the business of that body is discussed. Meetings must be properly noticed and held in facilities that are open and accessible to all. All meetings must be held within the City of Los Altos. A discussion which occurs outside of a properly noticed meeting, and which involves a majority or more of a body, is a violation of the Brown Act. This includes serial discussions which involve only a portion of the Commission but eventually involve a majority. The two most common serial discussions are daisy chain and hub and spoke.

DAISY CHAIN
A daisy chain is when Member A contacts Member B who then contacts Member C who then contacts Member D and so forth, until a majority of members have discussed an item within the Commission’s subject matter jurisdiction.

HUB AND SPOKE
A hub and spoke meeting are when one individual (the hub) contacts members individually (the spokes) until a majority has been achieved. The hub could be a commissioner, staff member or member of the public.

To attempt to avoid serial meetings, emails from Commissioners that are intended for fellow Commissioners should be sent through the staff liaison. Commissioners should take care to not ‘reply all’ on emails.

VIOLATIONS
Penalties for Brown Act violations can range from invalidation of an action taken to prosecution as a misdemeanor offense. In addition, there may be fines and/or attorney’s fees associated with a violation of the Brown Act. Commissioners who violate the Brown Act may be subject to removal.

Whenever a questionable area arises, it should be brought to the attention of the City Attorney or City Clerk so that corrective actions or “cures” may be taken. Advice from the City Attorney or City Clerk should be followed completely to ensure all actions of the City comply with the Brown Act.

TYPE OF MEETINGS
There are two types of meetings which Commissions hold. The first, and most common, are regular meetings. These meetings are where a Commission accomplishes the vast majority 57 Agenda Item # 5.
of its work. Regular meeting days, times and locations are established by formal action of the Commission.

The second type is special meetings. A special meeting is any meeting held outside of the normal meeting day, time or location. Action may be taken at special meetings and agendas for those meetings should indicate the action recommended to be taken.

Special meetings may include study sessions. Study sessions are held to provide Commission members with the opportunity to discuss and better understand a particular subject/item. Generally, no action is taken at study sessions.

AGENDAS
The staff liaison, in collaboration with the Chair, is responsible for preparing all agendas of a Commission. All items of business that will be considered or discussed at a meeting shall be briefly described on the agenda. The description should define the proposed action to be considered so that members of the public will know the nature of the action under review and consideration. No discussion or action may be taken by a Commission on any item not on the agenda.

The Chair, or a majority of the Commission, may decide to take matters listed on the agenda out of the prescribed order.

All agendas and meeting materials are posted to the City’s website as set forth in the Brown Act and the City’s Open Government Policy. All Commissioners should sign up to receive meeting notices and associated agenda materials for their specific Commission through the City’s website.

MEETING MINUTES
Written minutes of all regular and special meetings are kept as the official record of business transacted and are taken by the staff liaison. Minutes are modeled after the City Council form of minutes known as “action minutes” and include a record of the legislative actions from the meeting. They do not include summaries of comments or discussion made by Commissioners or members of the public. The staff liaison will endeavor to distribute draft minutes within 10 days of the meeting. Action minutes will state the text of a motion voted on by the Commission, the result of the vote, identify which Commissioners voted “aye”, “no”, abstained, recused, or were absent. Action minutes will also identify whether motion passed or failed.

Any document submitted at a meeting, whether by a member of the public or a commissioner, becomes part of the public record. The staff liaison should make a notation on the document of the date it was submitted and file it with the meeting packet. The staff 58 Agenda Item # 5.
liaison is responsible for posting the materials received within 48 hours of the meeting to the City’s website and forwarding the material to the members of the commission.

ADDING ITEMS TO FUTURE AGENDA
Commissioners may request that items be placed on a future agenda. This is done by requesting an item during the “Potential Future Agenda Items” portion of the meeting or by emailing a request to the staff liaison. Requests must be for items that are under purview of the Commission. One less than a majority of members is required to place an item on an agenda. The staff liaison will work with the Chair to determine the best meeting to place an item on an agenda. Any background materials or information should be provided to the staff liaison for inclusion in the agenda packet. Future agenda items must be consistent with the Commission’s Approved Work Plan.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Commission members are subject to all aspects of the Political Reform Act. Commission members must not make, participate in making, or attempt to influence in any manner a governmental decision which he/she knows, or should know, may have a material effect on financial interest.

It is ultimately the responsibility of the Commission member to identify whether they may be engaging in incompatible activities or have a perceived conflict of interest. The City Attorney should be consulted as early as possible on any matters regarding incompatible activities or perceived conflicts of interest.

A Commission member should disclose any perceived conflicts of interest prior to any discussion of the Commission. A Commission member should recuse themselves for a conflict of interest.

INCOMPATIBLE ACTIVITIES
Per state law, a public official, including commissioners, may not engage in any activity for compensation that is inconsistent, incompatible, or in conflict with their official duties with the City.

PERCEIVED CONFLICT OF INTEREST
A perceived conflict of interest for a commissioner may arise from personal relationships, financial interests, serving on bodies or boards that have shared or overlapping subject matter jurisdiction as those under the jurisdiction of the Commission, or when it appears that the Commissioner’s private interests impact on the official duties of the Commissioner, or influence his/her decision-making.
59 Agenda Item # 5.

If a Commission member is appointed to an agency or body that has shared or overlapping subject matter, after their service on a City Commission has started, the Commission member will notify the Council liaison and staff liaison.

A Commission member who has a conflict of interest shall, immediately prior to the consideration of the matter, do all of the following: 1) publicly identify the financial interest that gives rise to the conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest in detail sufficient to be understood by the public, except that disclosure of the exact street address is not required; 2) recuse himself or herself from discussing and voting on the matter; and 3) leave the room until after the discussion, vote, and any other disposition of the matter is concluded. Notwithstanding this, a Commission member, not in the member’s capacity as a commissioner, may speak on the issue during the time that the public speaks on the issue.

If a Commission member has obtained a letter or other documentation from the FPPC to discuss and vote on an item, then the member shall provide the letter to the staff liaison and the City Clerk upon receipt of the letter and disclose at the next Commission meeting the existence of the letter or other authorization, briefly describe the circumstances of why the member sought clarification, the basis for the FPPC’s conclusion, and the file number or other unique identifier so that members of the public can request a copy from the FPPC. In addition, the member shall provide the staff liaison with a copy of the letter or other authorization no later than 24 hours after the meeting at which the letter or other authorization is disclosed, so that a copy may be forwarded to any member of the public who requests a copy.

COMMISSION ORGANIZATION
Each Commission consists of between five and seven members, except the Youth Commission which consists of eleven members. Each member has an equal voice and votes on the Commission.

CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
To facilitate meetings and the work of the Commission, each Commission appoints a Chair and Vice Chair from the members of the Commission. The positions of Chair and Vice Chair shall rotate annually. Selection of Chair and Vice Chair occurs at the first meeting in October.

In the event of either resignation or removal, the Commission shall elect another member to fill the remainder of the year. No member of a commission may serve consecutive terms as the chair, meaning that the chair must change annually.

The role of the Chair is to preside at Commission meetings and to run a timely and orderly meeting. The Vice Chair is to preside in the absence of the Chair. If both the Chair and Vice Chair are absent, the Commission may elect a Chair Pro-Tem to conduct the meeting. It is 60 Agenda Item # 5.
incumbent upon the Chair to limit discussion and recommendations on those items on the agenda.

AD HOC SUBCOMMITTEE
A Commission may appoint Ad Hoc subcommittees, consisting of less than a majority of the body, but never 50% or greater of Commissioners seated to work on specific tasks. Each Ad Hoc subcommittees should be focused on one (1) specific topic and shall not last more than one (1) year. These Ad Hoc subcommittees are working bodies and may be responsible for the generation of reports and analyses, which are reviewed by staff prior to distribution to the full Commission. Commissions shall not create standing committees.

To establish an Ad Hoc Subcommittee, the topic of the formation of the Ad Hoc Subcommittee must be posted and noticed on the regular agenda.

Commission members currently serving on an Ad Hoc Subcommittee are not eligible to serve on another Ad Hoc Subcommittee simultaneously.

The motion of establishment must include that the Ad Hoc Subcommittee:
• It is comprised solely of members of the Commission establishing the Ad Hoc Subcommittee,
• Consists of less than a quorum of the Commission,
• Includes a defined purpose and the timeframe to accomplish that purpose and is less than one year in duration,
• Will automatically terminate when a final report is given to the Commission, or when the timeframe established by the Commission is met, unless extended by the Commission at a public meeting,
• Will not be re-established or renewed in multiple years, and • It is advisory in nature and is not established to work on an item where continuing jurisdiction exists.

In accordance with the Brown Act, Ad Hoc Subcommittees do not need to post notice of their meetings or hold meetings in public, unless directed to do so by the City Council.

COMMISSION LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS
Commissions may assign individual Commissioners to act, by a majority vote, as a liaison to other boards, commissions, or agencies, without establishing an Ad Hoc Subcommittee.

The work, findings, conclusions, and any updates of the liaison should be brought back to the Commission at a regularly scheduled meeting for a report or discussion and, if applicable, action. The positions supported by the liaison are to be in alignment with the 61 Agenda Item # 5.
positions that the Commission or the City Council have taken if they have considered the topic.

If a Commission is not able to select a Commission member as a liaison to another board, commission, or agency and a staff member cannot serve in that capacity, the Commission may recommend an individual resident to represent the Commission upon approval by the Commission and City Council.

MEETING PROCEDURES
All Commission meetings are open to the public and should be approached in a dignified, respectful manner. It is the responsibility of all Commissioners to take their duties and obligations seriously and to ensure that all meetings are productive and further the mission of the City.

RULES OF ORDER
Rosenberg’s Rules of Order, with addendums adopted by the City Council, govern the conduct of Commission meetings. Information regarding the Rules of Order can be obtained from the City Clerk’s Office.

CONSIDERATION OF AGENDA ITEMS
The standard procedure for considering individual agenda items shall be as outlined in Figure 5. From time to time, the prescribed order may be changed.

Official action requires a majority vote of the entire Commission/Committee of current members seated, not just those present. In the event that a Commission/Committee has a vacancy a majority vote shall be determined by the number of actively appointed members of the body. Example: the Planning Commission is a body of seven (7) commissioners, but has two (2) vacancies, with five (5) actively appointed Planning Commissioners. A majority vote of at least three (3) commissioners is required to take action on an item.

PROCEDURES FOR CONSIDERING AGENDA ITEMS

1. Presentation by Staff, Commissioner or Ad Hoc subcommittee; then

2. Commissioners ask clarifying questions; then

3. Members of the public are given an opportunity to speak on the item; then

4. Commissioners discuss the item; then

5. If needed, a motion is made upon which the Commission votes on. 62 Agenda Item # 5.

PUBLIC COMMENT
People present at Commission meetings may comment on any item on the agenda. To facilitate an orderly meeting, each speaker is requested, but not required, to complete a Request to Speak card for each item they wish to speak on before discussion on that item begins. To ensure that all are heard, speakers are typically given three minutes to speak on each item. If there are more than 10 requests to speak on an agenda item, the Chair may limit each speaker’s time to two minutes.

The Chair has the right to ask a member of the public to stop from speaking if over the allotted time or if comments are not related to the topic at hand.

During regular meetings, comments may be offered on items not on the agenda under that portion of the agenda identified for Public Comment. For special meetings, comments may be offered on items only for topics listed on the agenda. The Commission may not discuss or act on any item raised during the Public Comments on Items not on the agenda portion of the meeting.

TELECONFERENCING
Commission members may participate in meetings via teleconference in accordance with State law (Gov. Code sec. 54953 and AB 2449). Members participating via teleconferencing under AB 2449 (Just Cause or Emergency Circumstances) must participate via audio and visual methods. In all other circumstances, members participating via teleconferencing shall participate via audio and visual methods, when practical. Members may participate via teleconference in no more than 20% of meetings in a calendar year (January to December), whether utilizing provisions of the traditional Brown Act or Just Cause or Emergency Circumstances. All meetings of the Commission must have a majority of members present in the physical meeting location within the City.

At the beginning of a meeting in which a member is participating via teleconference, the Chair, or the Vice Chair if the Chair is participating remotely, will ask the member(s) participating via teleconference to confirm the teleconference location was properly noticed according to State Law, the teleconference location is accessible to members of the public and whether anyone is present in the teleconference location besides the member.

DECORUM
Commissioners shall render the utmost courtesy to each other, the City Council, staff and members of the public. Commissioners may be subject to dismissal for failure to observe these standards.
63 Agenda Item # 5.

Members of the public attending Commission meetings shall observe the same rules of order and decorum applicable to Commission members. Los Altos Municipal Code Chapter

2.05 – Public Meetings Rules for Conduct shall apply to all meetings. To provide an environment in which all viewpoints may be expressed, noise emanating from the audience, whether in opposition or support, shall not be permitted. Continual disruption of meetings by members of the public may be grounds for the removal from the meeting.

TRAINING
Commissioners are expected to stay current on issues related to their service as public officials. Members are provided with brief training following their appointment regarding their duties as a Commissioner and the Brown Act. Annual training courses are organized by the City Clerk and conducted by City staff to review roles and responsibilities and to provide information on any changes in laws or policies that may be relevant to conducting the work of the Commissions. Attendance at this training course is required for all Commission members and staff liaisons. Individuals who are unable to attend the training session will be required to watch the video of the training and certify that they have completed the training.

Members of Commissions are encouraged, within budget limitations, to attend training related to their area of responsibility. It is intended that such attendance will broaden a member’s knowledge and increase awareness of current developments relating to relevant areas of responsibility. The City may cover costs of registration and certain travel expenses in accordance with the City’s Legislative Body Travel and Expense Policy. Requests for use of City funds must be approved in accordance with the aforementioned City Policy.

CONCLUSION
The City Council and staff appreciate your service as a Los Altos Commission member. The time and energy you expend help to make Los Altos the wonderful community it is. If at any time during your service, you have questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact your staff liaison who can help to address any issue which may arise. 64 Agenda Item # 5.

TIPS FOR CHAIR (AND VICE CHAIR)
(and anyone who may have to run a meeting)
The role of the Chair of the Commission is to preside at meetings and to help move the work of the Commission forward. The Chair (and Vice Chair) does not have any extra authority or power beyond that of his/her fellow Commissioners.

As Chair, you are responsible for conducting meetings of the Commission. It is important to limit discussion of those items on the agenda. For each agenda item, it is suggested that you follow this procedure:

1. Announce what the item being considered is

2. Ask if there is a report for the item – generally, this is provided by the staff liaison but occasionally may be provided by another Commissioner

3. Ask Commissioners if there are any clarifying questions

4. Take public comment – instructions for how to take public comment are included in the “Meeting Procedures” section of the Commission Handbook

5. Facilitate discussion among the Commission – it is important that each Commissioner is given equal chance to speak and express his/her opinion

6. After discussion of the item, ensure that a conclusion is reached – this can be in the form of a motion, direction provided to staff or an Ad Hoc subcommittee, decision to continue the item to a date certain or not certain, or to take no further action.

APPLICATIONS
On occasion, a Commission may receive an application from a resident or community group which the Commission is to consider. In these instances, applicants are given a total of up to ten minutes to present their position/input prior to hearing other public comments. This is done after the staff has presented its report. After the applicant(s) has been presented, public comment is taken from the audience. Following public comment, the applicant is given five minutes to provide a rebuttal to any issue raised during public comments.

ANNOUCING VOTES
The Brown Act requires that all votes be clearly noted, both at the meeting and in the record.

It is the Chair’s responsibility to ensure that the vote is noted during the meeting. This is done by announcing how each member voted on a particular issue. If the voting is unanimous, it is sufficient to state “passes unanimously.” The staff liaison will ensure that the minutes accurately reflect how each member voted on each issue. 65 Agenda Item # 5.

RECESS
It is customary to have a short recess two hours after the beginning of a meeting. The established hour after which no new items will be started is four hours after the beginning of the meeting. Remaining items, however, may be considered by consensus of the Commission/Committee.
66 Agenda Item # 5.

City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: June 10, 2025
Prepared By: Public Works Department
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Sewer Service Charge for FY2025/26

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
☐Public Safety
☐Business Communities
☐Circulation Safety and Efficiency
☒Environmental Sustainability
☐Housing
☒General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution Approving the Report of Sewer Service Charges for the Fiscal Year 2025/26 and directing the Filing of Charges for Collection by the County Tax Collector

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact on the City’s General Fund. The annual sewer service charge of $11,250,724.94 will be included in the FY2025/26 Sewer Fund revenue budget.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The adoption of the proposed resolution is statutorily exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15273 (Rates, Fares, Tolls, and Charges), in that the proposed action involves setting and collecting sewer rates that will be used in the ongoing operation and maintenance of existing sewer infrastructure or to fund capital projects within an existing service area.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
February 28, 2023, June 13, 2023, and June 11, 2024.

BACKGROUND
Los Altos Municipal Code Chapter 10.12 authorizes the City to impose sewer service charges to fund costs associated with the City’s sanitary sewer system. The City Council passed Ordinance No. 2023-494 in June 2023, establishing sewer rates to be applied for the five-year period beginning FY 2023/24 and ending in FY 2027/28.
67 Agenda Item # 6.

ANALYSIS
In accordance with Municipal Code sections 10.12.135 and 10.12.140 and Ordinance No. 2023- 494, the rate structure for the sewer service charges is comprised of two components: (1) a fixed annual per parcel base charge that is determined based on the number of equivalent dwelling units (“EDU”) assigned to a property: and (2) a variable quantity charge. One EDU equates to the quantity of wastewater an average single-family residential customer discharges to the sewer system. One EDU is assigned to each single-family residential home. The number of EDUs assigned to other customers is based on their expected wastewater flows relative to an average single-family residential customer. The quantity charge is imposed on a per-unit basis, with one unit equal to one hundred cubic feet, or 745 gallons, of metered water use. The total amount of the quantity charge is based on a customer’s average winter water use from the prior year (using the three wettest months of the prior year) multiplied by 12 and is designed to reflect a customer’s estimated wastewater flow. Estimated average winter water usage best reflects actual flows into the sewer system because outdoor water use is least likely to occur.

The City’s Sewer Service Charges are imposed pursuant to California Health and Safety Code section 5471 et. Seq. Section 5471 previously required that charges adopted in accordance therewith be adopted by an ordinance approved by two-thirds of the members of the City Council.

Ordinance 2018-445 amended the Municipal Code Section 10.12.130 to allow future Sewer Service Charges to be adopted by a resolution in accordance with the provisions of the amended Health and Safety Code section 5471.

DISCUSSION
In order to levy sewer service charges on property bills for FY 2025/26, the Council must hold a hearing on the report of charges to be submitted to the County for collection for the fiscal year.

That report, prepared by NBS, is on file with the City Clerk, and the body of the report (excluding the parcel list) is included here as Attachment 2. Following the hearing, the Council may adopt a resolution and direct the Filing of Charges for Collection by the County Tax Collector.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Resolution

2. NBS Sewer Service Charge Report dated June 2025 without Listing of Sewer Service Charges
68 Agenda Item # 6.

ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS

APPROVING THE REPORT OF SEWER SERVICE CHARGE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026 AND DIRECTING THE FILING OF CHARGES FOR COLLECTION BY

THE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR
WHEREAS, PURSUANT TO Chapter 10.12 of Los Altos Municipal Code, the City of Los Altos imposes Sewer Service Charges upon parcels connected to the sewer system; and WHEREAS, pursuant to section 5473 of the California Health and Safety Code, the City Council has elected to annually collect the Sewer Service Charges on the property tax roll; and WHEREAS, the Public Works Director has caused to be prepared a report (the “Report”) containing a description of each parcel of real property subject to the Sewer Service Charges and the amount of the Sewer Service Charges to be imposed on each such parcel for Fiscal Year 2025/26, computed in conformity with the rates prescribed by Ordinance of this City Council, which report is filed with the City Clerk, available for public inspection, and incorporated herein by reference; and
WHEREAS, on June 10, 2025, following publication of notice as required by law, the City Council held a full and fair public hearing with respect to the Report, and at such hearing the City Council heard and considered all protest and objections to the Report; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to approve the Report and to submit the Sewer Service Charges described therein to the Santa Clara County Tax Collector for collection on the Fiscal Year 2025/26 tax roll.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby authorizes that:

1. The City Council hereby overrules all protests and objections to the Report on the Sewer Service Charges and confirms and approves the Report and the Sewer Service Charges to be imposed on each parcel within the City subject to such charges as submitted; and

2. The City Clerk is instructed and authorized to transmit the Report to the Santa Clara County Tax Collector and to file the necessary documents with the Tax Collector that the Sewer Service Charges set forth in the Report will be included on the Santa Clara County Tax Roll for Fiscal Year 2025/26.

ATTACHMENT 1
AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
__________________________
Pete Dailey, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Melissa Thurman MMC, City Clerk
70 Agenda Item # 6.

Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Report For:

Sewer Service Charge
June 2025
71 Agenda Item # 6.

CITY OF LOS ALTOS

SEWER SERVICE CHARGE
Los Altos City Hall
1 North San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
Phone - (650) 947-2700

CITY COUNCIL
Pete Dailey, Mayor
Neysa Fligor, Vice Mayor
Larry Lang, Councilmember
Sally Meadows, Councilmember
Jonathan Weinberg, Councilmember

CITY STAFF
Gabriel Engeland, City Manager
Aida Fairman, Public Works Director
Harun Musaefendic, Associate Civil Engineer
NBS
Tim Seufert, Client Services Director
Adina McCargo, Project Manager
Kristin Harvey, Administrator
72 Agenda Item # 6.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................................1

2. SEWER SERVICE CHARGE CALCULATION ..........................................................................2

2.1 Base Charge (Per EDU) ..................................................................................................2

2.2 Usage Charge (Per Unit of Estimated Sewer Use).........................................................2

3. SEWER SERVICE CHARGE RATES ......................................................................................3

4. WET SEASON MONTHS ...................................................................................................4

5. SUMMARY OF LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS.....................................................................5

6. TOTAL ANNUAL CHARGES ...............................................................................................6

7. LISTING OF SEWER SERVICE CHARGES .............................................................................7

8. RESOLUTION...................................................................................................................8 73 Agenda Item # 6.

City of Los Altos
Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Report – Sewer Service Charge 1

1. INTRODUCTION
The City of Los Altos (the “City”) imposes a Sewer Service Charge to fund costs associated with the City’s sanitary sewer system in accordance with its Municipal Code Chapter 10.12. The City restructured the Sewer Service Charge in July 2013 to ensure a flow-of-funds for the on-going operation and maintenance, and to fund the upgrading and refurbishing of the City’s sanitary sewer system. The main objectives for updating the rate structure were to ensure a fair and equitable charge to all sewer users and to stabilize the charges to provide needed revenue.

A study was completed in February 2018 to support increased rates beginning July 1, 2018 and ending June 30, 2023. The City Council adopted an Ordinance in July 2018 establishing the Sewer Service Charge to be applied to each of the succeeding five fiscal years.

A study was completed in January 2023 to support increased rates beginning July 1, 2023 and ending June 30, 2028. The City Council will review the current Ordinance that was adopted in June 2023 to establish the Sewer Service Charge to be applied to each of the succeeding five fiscal years, which is comprised of a base charge per equivalent dwelling unit, plus a usage charge per estimated sewer unit. The adopted rate structure is designed to reduce volatility in the City’s sewer revenue stream and equitably allocate costs to each customer class of sewer use.

The Sewer Service Charge is levied pursuant to the California Health and Safety Code, Sections 5471 et seq. and the City’s Municipal Code Chapter 10.12. Payment of the Sewer Service Charge for each parcel will be made in the same manner and at the same time as payments are made for property taxes. This report contains the necessary data required to establish the Sewer Service Charge and is submitted for filing in the office of the City Clerk, where it shall remain open for public inspection. 74 Agenda Item # 6.

City of Los Altos
Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Report – Sewer Service Charge 2

2. SEWER SERVICE CHARGE CALCULATION
The total annual Sewer Service Charge for a parcel will be the sum of the base charge plus the usage charge. The calculation for each charge is described in this section and detailed in the City’s Municipal Code Chapter 10.12.

2.1 Base Charge (Per EDU)
The base charge is determined by multiplying the per equivalent dwelling unit (EDU) rate by the number of EDUs on each parcel. For residential parcels, 1.0 EDU is assigned for each dwelling unit (multi-family residential parcels included).

Parcels with non-residential structures or improvements shall also be assigned 1.0 EDU for the first 110 water units (or fraction thereof) of estimated sewer use for non-residential improvements on the parcel plus a number of additional EDUs (or fractions thereof) equal to the remaining estimated sewer use for non-residential improvements on the parcel divided by 110. A minimum of 1.0 EDU is assigned to each non-residential parcel or group of parcels associated with a shared meter.

Where multiple non-residential parcels share a common water meter, the equivalent dwelling units calculated based on water use measured by that meter shall be divided equally amongst the parcels sharing the meter.

2.2 Usage Charge (Per Unit of Estimated Sewer Use)
The usage charge is based on water consumption data provided by the California Water Service Company for the previous year. The three monthly billing periods which indicate the lowest total water consumption are selected as the wet seasons in that they represent a reasonable approximation of the amount of sewer usage. Water usage from the wet season months is averaged and multiplied by 12 to calculate estimated annual sewer usage. One unit is equal to 100 cubic feet of sewer use.

Where actual monthly water consumption data is not available for a water account on a parcel (as when a structure(s) on the parcel is recently connected to a water system), sewer use is estimated as the average estimated sewer use for the prior year of all parcels in the same land use. For purposes of this section, land uses are classified as follows:
• Single-Family Home
• Condominium Unit
• Multi-Family Residence (two dwelling units)
• Multi-Family Residence (three to four dwelling units) • Multi-Family Residence (five or more dwelling units)
• Church
• Commercial/Industrial
• Institutional
• Park
• School
• Government
75 Agenda Item # 6.

City of Los Altos
Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Report – Sewer Service Charge 3

3. SEWER SERVICE CHARGE RATES
To provide the revenue to keep up with the increase in projected revenue needs, the City is in the process of adopting an updated five-year rate structure based on a rate study completed in January 2023. Both the base charge and the usage charge per sewer unit will be increased annually each year. One unit is equal to 100 cubic feet of sewer use. The following table shows the proposed rates through Fiscal Year 2027/28 based on the rate study.

Adopted Rates FY 2023/24 FY 2024/25 FY 2025/26 FY 2026/27 FY 2027/28 Per EDU (Base Charge) $340.49 $391.56 $450.29 $517.83 $595.50 Per Unit of Estimated Sewer
Use (Usage Charge) $3.30 $3.80 $4.37 $5.03 $5.78
Percentage Increase over
Prior Fiscal Year 15.0% 15.0% 15.0% 15.0% 15.0%
76 Agenda Item # 6.

City of Los Altos
Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Report – Sewer Service Charge 4

4. WET SEASON MONTHS
The “wet season months” are the three monthly billing periods for which the records of the California Water Service Company indicate the lowest total water consumption during that calendar year by parcels connected to the City’s sewer system that are serviced by the California Water Service Company.

In 2024, the City’s three lowest months for water use were February, March, and April. Therefore, these are the months used to calculate each individual parcel’s estimated annual sewer usage for Fiscal Year 2025/26.

The following table provides the total annual sewer usage for calendar year 2024, as provided by the California Water Service Company.

Calendar Year 2024 Total Water Consumption
for the City of Los Atos (1,2)

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
119,303 96,613 95,959 118,169 190,681 263,685 332,762 288,213 315,355 273,445 232,204 159,090 (1) Data provided by the California Water Service Company for the City of Los Altos and certain parcels located within the Town of Los Altos Hills and unincorporated areas of the Santa Clara County that are connected to the City’s sewer system. (2) One unit = 100 cubic feet of sewer use.
77 Agenda Item # 6.

City of Los Altos
Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Report – Sewer Service Charge 5

5. SUMMARY OF LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS
The following summarizes the estimated annual sewer usage for properties that are connected to the City’s sewer system for Fiscal Year 2025/26.

Land Use Classification
Number of
Parcels (1)
Total Estimated
Yearly Sewer Use
(in Units) (1)
Average Sewer
Use Per Parcel (2)
Single-Family Home 10,386 938,253 90
Condominium Unit 1,063 54,317 51
Multi-Family Residence (two units) 65 8,564 132
Multi-Family Residence (three to four dwelling units) 11 1,748 159 Multi-Family Residence (five or more dwelling units) 70 20,974 300 Church 22 10,676 485
Commercial/Industrial 456 87,311 191
Institutional 3 20,056 6,685
Park 4 3,612 903
School 10 9,756 976
Government 11 5,464 497
Vacant 1 0 0
(1) Usage data includes all parcels in the City of Los Altos and in unincorporated Santa Clara County served by the City of Los Altos’s sewer program. The City’s program uses capacity and facilities provided to the program by the City of Mountain View to serve some parcels in the City of Los Altos. These parcels are charged a Sewer Service Charge by the City of Los Altos, and data for these parcels is included in the above table. The City of Los Altos compensates the City of Mountain View for access to the Mountain View sewer system by providing the Mountain View’s sewer program with access to a similar volume of service from the Los Altos system. Parcels located in Mountain View, but connected to the City’s sewer system, are receiving service from the Mountain View sewer program and are not included in the above table or subject to City’s Sewer Service Charge.

Additionally, the City of Los Altos sells sewer services, in bulk, to the Town of Los Altos Hills, and the Town uses these services to serve parcels located in Los Altos Hills. Usage by parcels in Los Altos Hills is not shown in the above table because these parcels are not subject to the Sewer Service Charge. Instead, the full cost of the services indirectly provided by the Town of Los Altos Hills parcels is covered by the direct payment to the City from the Town of Los Altos Hills. Costs of these services are not spread to parcels directly served by the City of Los Altos sewer program. (2) Average consumption based upon parcels where actual usage data was available. Developed properties that are connected to the City’s sewer system, which water consumption information is not available, are charged at the average sewer use per parcel identified above.
78 Agenda Item # 6.

City of Los Altos
Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Report – Sewer Service Charge 6

6. TOTAL ANNUAL CHARGES
The following summarizes the total Sewer Service Charges to be leived in Fiscal Year 2025/26, as compared to the total charges in the prior two years.

Description Fiscal Year 2025/26 Fiscal Year 2024/25 Fiscal Year 2023/24 Total Sewer Service
Charges $11,250,724.94 $9,600,873.73 $9,662,442.16
Number of parcels 12,102 12,058 12,056
79 Agenda Item # 6.

City of Los Altos
Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Report – Sewer Service Charge 7

7. LISTING OF SEWER SERVICE CHARGES
Santa Clara County Assessor’s (tne “Assessor”) parcel identification, for each lot or parcel subject to the Sewer Service Charge, shall be based on the Assessor’s secured roll data for the applicable year in which this report is prepared and is incorporated herein by reference.

A listing of Assessor’s parcels subject to the Sewer Service Charge for Fiscal Year 2025/26, along with the charge amounts, is on file in the office of the City Clerk and incorporated herein by reference. Based on Assessor’s secured roll data, current assessor’s parcels, including corrected and/or new Assessor’s parcels, will be submitted and/or resubmitted to the Santa Clara County Auditor/Controller. The annual charge amount to be levied and collected for the resubmitted parcel(s) shall be determined in accordance with the City’s Municipal Code Chapter 10.12 and charge rate approved in this report. Therefore, if a single Assessor’s parcel has a status change in development, other land use change, or subdivides into multiple Assessor’s parcels, the charge amounts applied to each of the new Assessor’s parcels shall be recalculated and applied according to the approved method outlined in the City’s Municipal Code Chapter 10.12 and charge rate rather than a proportionate share of the original charge amount. 80 Agenda Item # 6.

City of Los Altos
Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Report – Sewer Service Charge 8

8. RESOLUTION
The following page presents the Resolution approving the report of Sewer Service Charges for Fiscal Year 2025/26 and directing the filing of charges for collection by the Santa Clara County Tax Collector. 81 Agenda Item # 6.

City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: June 10, 2025
Prepared By: Sean Gallegos
Approved By: Nick Zornes
Subject: General Plan Amendment for New Safety Element and Revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
☒Public Safety
☐Business Communities
☐Circulation Safety and Efficiency
☒Environmental Sustainability
☐Housing
☒General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution approving a General Plan Amendment for a new Safety Element and revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element; and find the project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, per the recommended findings in the attached Resolution - Attachment 1 to the report.

FISCAL IMPACT
Not Applicable.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Adoption of the General Plan Amendment for a new Safety Element and revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element is exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This action qualifies for the commonsense exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15061(b)(3), which applies when it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility the activity may have a significant effect on the environment. These General Plan policy updates do not authorize new development or physical improvements but instead provide guidance for future hazard mitigation and planning efforts. They strengthen existing policy direction and ensure compliance with State law, without relaxing any environmental protection standards or enabling new impacts. As such, no further CEQA review is required. This determination is consistent with CEQA provisions governing the adoption of policy documents that do not result in direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect environmental effects. 82 Agenda Item # 7.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND
The City’s Natural Environment and Hazards Element, adopted as part of the General Plan, has functioned as a combined element covering safety, noise, and air quality. At that time, Los Altos did not maintain a standalone Safety Element although that is best practice. Instead, the required safety topics such as seismic hazards, flooding, wildfire risk, and emergency preparedness were included within the broader Natural Environment and Hazards Element, along with policies addressing noise and air quality.

As part of this General Plan Amendment, the City proposes two (2) actions:

1. Adopt a new, standalone Safety Element to replace the safety-related content previously located in the Natural Environment & Hazards Element to meet the City’s Statutory Obligations.

2. Adopt a revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element, which will retain only the existing noise and air quality sections. The text, policies, implementation actions, and overall format of the remaining Natural Environment & Hazards Element are unchanged, except for the removal of safety-related content now covered in the new Safety Element. The remaining contents of this Element will allow for the City to pursue the comprehensive General Plan Update later this year.

These actions ensure that all required General Plan topics are addressed in full compliance with State law, while also improving clarity and usability by providing a dedicated element for public safety. The Safety Element reflects current State mandates under Government Code §65302(g), including the integration of climate adaptation strategies (SB 379), evacuation route planning (AB 747 and SB 99), and hazard mitigation coordination (AB 2140). It incorporates findings from the Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) and aligns with the City’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) to support a coordinated, forward-looking framework for hazard resilience and emergency preparedness.

State Law Requirements
State Government Code §65302(g) requires every city and county in California to adopt a Safety Element as part of its General Plan. The Safety Element includes goals, policies, and actions aimed at protecting the community from unreasonable risks associated with natural and human-made hazards, including (but not limited to) earthquakes, landslides, flooding, wildfires, and climate change. Over the past decade, new laws have expanded these requirements to address emerging threats and improve resiliency.

The last update to the Los Altos General Plan occurred in 2002, and since that time, significant legislative mandates have occurred, including:
 SB 379 (2015): Requires cities to address climate adaptation and resiliency in the Safety Element by including a climate change vulnerability assessment and related policies (or by incorporating a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan that addresses climate risks). 83 Agenda Item # 7.
 SB 1035 (2018): Requires safety elements to be reviewed and updated with each Housing Element revision to ensure new information on fire, flood, and climate hazards is integrated.  AB 747 (2019): Requires an analysis of evacuation routes in the Safety Element, evaluating their capacity, safety, and viability under a range of emergency scenarios.  SB 99 (2019): Requires identification of any residential developments in hazard areas that have only one emergency evacuation route (for wildfire or flood) and policies to address evacuation constraints.
 AB 2140 (2006): Allows and encourages the City to adopt its Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) into the Safety Element by reference, which can improve eligibility for post-disaster funding. Per Government Code §65302(g)(4), integrating the LHMP satisfies many hazard identification and climate adaptation requirements.

Housing Element Coordination
The City’s Housing Element was adopted in January 2023. Per State law (SB 1035) and guidance from the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI), the Safety Element should be updated concurrently or shortly after the Housing Element to reflect current data and policies on safety as they relate to housing within the community. This amendment ensures compliance with State law as it relates to the timing of the required update in relation to the recently adopted Housing Element. The new Safety Element will be integrated into the future comprehensive General Plan update along with the Housing Element.

Process
The City initiated the Safety Element in 2024 to comply with the above mandates and to enhance safety planning. Key steps completed to date:
 Engaged a planning consultant and convened an inter-departmental team (including Development Services Department, Public Works Department, Los Altos Police Department, and the Santa Clara County Fire Department) to develop the draft element.  Provided community engagement through citywide public workshops, surveys, dedicated website, and public review process for the draft documents. The City of Los Altos prioritized inclusive engagement to ensure the updated policies and actions reflected the needs and concerns of residents, stakeholders, and partner agencies.  Reviewed existing conditions and hazards using the best available science and mapping (e.g. seismic zones, FEMA flood maps, wildfire risk areas, climate projections).  Incorporated findings from recent plans: the Climate Action & Adaptation Plan (2022) and the Emergency Operations Plan (2021), which provide relevant strategies for climate resilience and emergency response.
84 Agenda Item # 7.
 Coordinated with Santa Clara County and participated in the regional update to the Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP). On August 27, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2024-68, formally accepting Volume I and the City of Los Altos Annex within Volume II of the 2023 MJHMP. The MJHMP’s data, vulnerability assessments, and strategies have been incorporated by reference into the Safety Element in accordance with the requirements of Assembly Bill 2140 (AB 2140).

Planning Commission Review
The Planning Commission held a public hearing on May 15, 2025, to review the draft Safety Element and revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element. No one from the public spoke on the item and no written public comments were received. The Commission unanimously recommended approval of the item to the City Council.

ANALYSIS
The proposed General Plan Amendment updates the City’s General Plan in accordance with State law. It creates a new standalone Safety Element with updated policies addressing hazard mitigation, climate adaptation, and emergency preparedness. It also revises the Natural Environment and Hazards Element to reflect the relocation of safety-related content. Together, these actions improve organizational clarity, ensure compliance with State law, and support the City’s long-term resilience and environmental planning efforts. Overall, the proposed Amendment ensures internal consistency within the General Plan, reinforces established City policy priorities, and provides a clear, comprehensive basis for guiding future decision-making related to hazard mitigation, resilience, and community safety.

Safety Element
The Safety Element is a component of a City's General Plan that identifies and addresses potential risks and hazards that could affect the community. Its purpose is to incorporate safety considerations into planning and decision-making to protect residents, businesses, and visitors from natural and human-caused hazards. It provides policy direction but does not directly initiate, fund, or implement development projects or environmental changes. Instead, it outlines strategies to reduce risks from natural and human-caused hazards and guides updates to key City plans, regulations, and processes.

The Draft Safety Element (Attachment 2) has been organized to meet applicable State law requirements and to provide a clear, actionable framework for enhancing public safety and hazard mitigation in Los Altos. The document is structured into three (3) primary sections: (1) an Introduction, which outlines the purpose of the Safety Element, applicable legal mandates, and its relationship to other City planning efforts; (2) a Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment, which evaluates natural and human-caused hazards that could affect the community, including seismic risks, flooding, wildfire, climate change, and hazardous materials; and (3) Goals, Policies, and Implementation Programs, which establish the City's strategic approach to risk reduction, climate adaptation, evacuation planning, and regional hazard mitigation coordination.

The Safety Element is structured around seven (7) core goals, each corresponding to a hazard identified in the Hazard Assessment and aligned with applicable State and regional requirements.

Each goal is supported by policies and implementation actions that provide a clear framework for 85 Agenda Item # 7.
enhancing public safety and community resilience. Policies are labeled numerically (e.g., SE-4.1), and implementation actions alphabetically (e.g., SE-1.a, SE-1.b), allowing City staff, decisionmakers, and regional partners to easily reference and apply them.

The Draft Safety Element (Attachment 2) fulfills all requirements under California Government Code Section 65302(g), along with recent mandates designed to strengthen local preparedness and climate resilience. It includes a comprehensive climate vulnerability assessment in compliance with SB 379, evaluates evacuation routes and single-access areas per AB 747 and SB 99, and formalizes integration of the MJHMP in accordance with AB 2140. Additionally, it includes a commitment to regular review and revision per SB 1035 to ensure consistency with other planning efforts.

The following is a summary of the key components and how they address state mandates and local needs:
 Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment: The Safety Element provides a comprehensive evaluation of natural and human-caused hazards affecting Los Altos, as required by Government Code §65302(g). It addresses risks including earthquakes, liquefaction, landslides, wildfire, flooding, hazardous materials, and climate-related impacts such as extreme heat, drought, and sea-level rise. The assessment incorporates current data sources and integrates the 2023–2028 MJHMP, formally adopted by the City on August 27, 2024. In accordance with AB 2140, the MJHMP’s vulnerability assessment and mitigation strategies are adopted by reference, ensuring regional consistency and eligibility for future hazard mitigation funding
 Evacuation Routes and Emergency Response: In compliance with SB 99 and AB 747, the Safety Element evaluates the City's evacuation network, focusing on areas with constrained access or single ingress/egress. It identifies neighborhoods with limited evacuation options and emphasizes coordination with neighboring jurisdictions and Santa Clara County to improve route capacity and safety. Policies and actions support enhanced evacuation planning through interagency collaboration, public outreach, and integration of evacuation considerations into development review, as well as maintenance of the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), mutual aid agreements, and emergency communication systems like AlertSCC and Genasys Protect.  Climate Adaptation and Resilience: The Safety Element incorporates climate change adaptation throughout, as required by SB 379, supported by a Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment identifying local impacts such as extreme heat, drought, and wildfire. It aligns with the City’s CAAP and includes strategies such as heat emergency response protocols, identification of cooling centers, and regional coordination to enhance infrastructure resilience, particularly in areas vulnerable to sea-level rise.
 Wildfire Risk and Evacuation Planning: Although Los Altos is not subject to SB 1241 due to its location outside Cal Fire–designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, the Safety Element addresses wildfire risk consistent with the intent of the law. It includes policies for fire-safe development, defensible space, fire-resistant construction, vegetation management, and emergency access, as well as coordination with the Santa Clara County Fire Department 86 Agenda Item # 7.
and mapping for areas with limited evacuation access. Additionally, should changes to made in State law in the coming year due to the recent Wildfires in Los Angeles, those will be integrated during the Comprehensive General Plan Update which will begin in Fall 2025.

Natural Environment & Hazards Element
The proposed revisions to the Natural Environment and Hazards Element (Attachment 3) remove the safety-related content while retaining the existing noise and air quality sections with no substantive changes and remains consistent with the overall General Plan. The revisions preserve the City’s environmental quality goals and ensure internal consistency across all elements of the General Plan.

The Natural Environment and Hazards Element continue to address key environmental quality topics, specifically noise and air quality. The noise section fulfills the City’s statutory obligation under Government Code Section 65302(f) by identifying major community noise sources, such as traffic from major roadways, and establishing policies to promote noise-compatible land uses and effective mitigation. The Air Quality section, while not required by State law, is retained to support regional air quality goals and local strategies for reducing pollution exposure. Policies in both sections remain unchanged from the previous version but will be evaluated during the upcoming Comprehensive General Plan Update.

The revised Natural Environment and Hazards Element remains consistent with the broader General Plan. The noise section supports land use compatibility and community health, consistent with Land Use Element Goal 2 (Promote a High Quality of Life) and Housing Element Policy H2.6 (Ensure Housing Quality and Neighborhood Compatibility). The air quality section advances environmental protection goals outlined in the Open Space, Conservation & Community Facilities Element Goal 4 (Preserve and Protect Natural Resources) and complements the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) by promoting strategies to reduce vehicle emissions and encourage sustainable transportation alternatives.

Overall, the Natural Environment and Hazards Element retains its original structure and focus, ensuring Los Altos remains aligned with State planning requirements and its long-term vision for sustainability, health, and resilience. The Element will be reevaluated in its entirety during the comprehensive General Plan update which is scheduled to commence in Fall 2025.

Community Engagement
Community participation played a vital role in the development of the Safety Element. The City prioritized inclusive engagement to ensure the updated policies and actions reflected the needs and concerns of residents, stakeholders, and partner agencies, consistent with California Government Code Section 65302(g). Key outreach activities included:
 Community Workshops: The City hosted two (2) community meetings during the drafting stage:
o August 7, 2024: Introduced the Safety Element process, reviewed the City’s hazard profile, and gathered input on residents’ concerns, such as earthquake preparedness, wildfire evacuation, and flood-prone intersections.
87 Agenda Item # 7.
o November 13, 2024: Presented the draft goals, policies, and actions. Public feedback supported stronger emergency communications and fire fuel management, many of which were incorporated into the revised draft.
 Online Community Survey: An online survey (Summer 2024) collected over 82 responses, identifying priorities like improved disaster notifications, emergency training, and climate resilience measures. Survey input informed new action items, such as expanded neighborhood CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) programs.
 Agency Consultation: The City coordinated with internal departments, including Development Services Department, Public Works Department, Police Department, and the Santa Clara County Fire Department, to ensure the Safety Element addresses wildfire risk, evacuation, and emergency response. Their input helped align the Safety Element with local and regional safety goals. As Los Altos is not located in a State Responsibility Area or a Cal Fire Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, consultation with Cal OES was not required under Government Code Section 65302(g).
 Public Review Draft: The Draft Safety Element was released for a formal 10-day public review period from April 10 to April 20, 2025. The document was posted on the City website and noticed via e-mail to interested parties. During this period, stakeholders were invited to comment. This step was voluntary and not mandated by any State law. No public comments have been received to date.
 Public Notification: Public notification for all community engagement activities, including the community workshops, online survey, release of the Public Review Draft, and Planning Commission hearing — were published in the Palo Alto Daily Post and posted on the City’s Safety Element webpage.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Resolution

2. Draft Safety Element

3. Draft Revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element
88 Agenda Item # 7.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XX

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS ADOPTING

A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT FOR A NEW SAFETY ELEMENT AND REVISED

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT & HAZARDS ELEMENT
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos has undertaken a General Plan Amendment to ensure consistency with state law and to provide a clear, actionable framework for enhancing public safety and hazard mitigation in Los Altos; and
WHEREAS, the Safety-related sections previously contained within the Natural Environment & Hazards Element have been removed and updated through the adoption of a new, standalone Safety Element, in accordance with California Government Code Section 65302(g); and
WHEREAS, the revised Natural Environment and Hazards Element now includes only the Noise and Air Quality sections. The format, language, and content of these sections remain unchanged, aside from the removal of safety-related content, which is now addressed in a standalone Safety Element; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element is in the public interest and aligns with the goals and policies of the City's General Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos last updated its Safety Element in 2002, and subsequent State legislation—including SB 379, SB 99, AB 747, SB 1241, SB 1035, and AB 2140— necessitated an update to address new requirements for climate adaptation, wildfire risk reduction, evacuation planning, and hazard mitigation plan integration; and WHEREAS, the Safety Element has been prepared in accordance with Government Code Section 65302(g), ensuring coverage of hazards such as seismic activity, flooding, wildfire, hazardous materials, climate change, and emergency preparedness; and WHEREAS, the Safety Element incorporates the City’s adopted Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) and references the Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP), formally adopted by the City on August 27, 2024 (Resolution No. 2024-68); and
WHEREAS, although Los Altos is not located within a Cal Fire–designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) and therefore not subject to consultation with the Board of Forestry or Cal OES, the City consulted with the Santa Clara County Fire Department to ensure the Safety Element aligns with regional wildfire and emergency response protocols; and WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos conducted public engagement to inform the Safety Element Update, including the establishment of a Safety Element webpage on the City’s website; the publication of public notices in the Palo Alto Daily Post; distribution of informational flyers at 89 Agenda Item # 7.

City Hall, the Library, the Community Center, the Senior Center, and the Grant Park Community Center; hosting two public workshops; conducting an online community survey; releasing the public review draft for community comment; and ongoing consultation with public safety stakeholders such as the Santa Clara County Fire Department and Los Altos Police Department; and
WHEREAS, adoption of the General Plan Amendment for a new Safety Element and revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element is exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This action qualifies for the commonsense exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15061(b)(3), which applies when it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility the activity may have a significant effect on the environment, as the update is a policy document that does not directly authorize development or other physical changes, and any future projects will be subject to separate environmental review as required; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on May 15, 2025, to consider the General Plan Amendment for the Safety Element and the revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element, received public testimony, and made a formal recommendation to the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered all evidence presented during its review of the Safety Element and the revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element, including:
(a) written and graphical materials for the public review draft and staff presentations; (b) public comments from meetings, surveys, and the review period; (c) oral testimony from staff, stakeholders, and the public; (d) the May 15, 2025 staff report and its attachments; and (e) additional information received during the public hearing and deliberations; and WHEREAS, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on June 10, 2025, received public testimony and materials, and carefully considered the Planning Commission's recommendation, staff reports, and community input; and WHEREAS, the finding and conclusions made by the City Council in the Resolution are based upon the oral and written evidence presented as well as the entirety of the administrative record for the proposed project, which is incorporated herein by this reference. The findings are not based on the information provided in this resolution.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby approve a General Plan Amendment for a new Safety Element and revised Natural Environment & Hazards Element.

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 10th day of June 2025 by the following vote:
90 Agenda Item # 7.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Pete Dailey
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC
City Clerk
91 Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos, April 2025
92 Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos i
Table of Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION................................................................................ 1

1.1. Related Laws, Plans, and Programs ....................................................... 1

1.1.1. California Environmental Quality Act............................................. 1

1.1.2. Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act................................... 1

1.1.3. Seismic Hazards Mapping Act........................................................ 1

1.1.4. Landslide Hazard Identification Program....................................... 1

1.1.5. Colbey-Alquist Floodplain Management Act ................................. 1

1.1.6. Santa Clara County General Plan Safety Element.......................... 1

1.1.7. Los Altos Flood Hazard Area Regulations Ordinance..................... 2

1.1.8. Hazardous Waste Management Plan............................................. 2

1.1.9. Emergency Operations Plan........................................................... 2

1.1.10. County’s Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.................... 2

1.1.11. Climate Action & Adaptation Plan ................................................. 2

2.0 NATURAL & HUMAN-MADE HAZARDS ANALYSIS............................ 5

2.1. Planning Area ......................................................................................... 5

2.2. Geologic Hazards.................................................................................... 5

2.2.1. Seismic Hazards.............................................................................. 8

2.2.2. Subsidence...................................................................................13

2.2.3. Expansive Soils ............................................................................16

2.2.4. Landslides.....................................................................................18

2.2.5. Tsunamis and Seiches..................................................................20

2.3. Fire Hazards..........................................................................................22

2.3.1. Wildland Fires ..............................................................................22

2.3.2. Fire Hazard Severity Zones...........................................................24

2.4. Flooding................................................................................................26

2.4.1. Major Sources of Flooding ...........................................................26

2.4.2. Natural Flooding...........................................................................29

2.4.3. Dam Inundation ...........................................................................29

2.4.4. Mud and Debris Flows .................................................................31

2.4.5. Drainage System ..........................................................................31

2.5. Climate Change and Resilience ............................................................33

2.5.1. Climate Change ............................................................................33

2.5.2. Extreme Heat ...............................................................................34

2.5.3. Sea Level Rise...............................................................................34

2.5.4. Resilience .....................................................................................34

2.5.5. Vulnerability Assessment Summary.............................................37

2.6. Drought................................................................................................38

2.6.1. Drought Severity ..........................................................................39

2.6.2. California Drought History ...........................................................40

2.6.3. Water Supply................................................................................41

2.7. Hazardous Materials............................................................................43 93 Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos ii

2.7.1. Hazardous Materials Incidents......................................................44

2.7.2. Hazardous Materials Sites.............................................................44

2.7.3. Transportation of Hazardous Materials.........................................45

2.7.4. Household Hazardous Waste Program........................................47

2.8. Emergency Planning/Response............................................................47

2.8.1. Emergency Preparedness Website ..............................................47

2.8.2. Emergency Operations Plan.........................................................47

2.8.3. Emergency Operations Center.....................................................48

2.8.4. Law Enforcement and Fire Protection .........................................49

2.9. Evacuation Routes................................................................................50

3.0 GOALS, POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMS................ 55 94 Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos iii
95 Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 1
A community's safety and well-being can be
influenced by many natural and man-made
hazards. The Safety Element is a mandatory
chapter of a jurisdiction's General Plan, as
required by State law, and addresses the need
to protect citizens from risks associated with
natural and man-made hazards. The Safety
Element contains goals, policies, and actions to
reduce the risk associated with these hazards.

1.1. Related Laws, Plans, and
Programs
There are several existing plans and programs
that directly relate to the goals of the Safety
Element. Enacted through state and local
action, these plans and programs are
administered by agencies with responsibility for
their enforcement.

1.1.1. California Environmental
Quality Act
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
was adopted by the state legislature in
response to a public mandate for a thorough
environmental analysis of projects that might
adversely affect the environment. The
provisions of the law, review procedures, and
any subsequent analysis are described in the
CEQA Statutes and Guidelines as amended in
1998. Safety hazards, as well as noise and air
quality impacts, are recognized as
environmental impacts under CEQA.

1.1.2. Alquist-Priolo Earthquake
Fault Zoning Act
The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act
requires the State Geologist to identify
earthquake fault zones along traces of both
recently and potentially active major faults.

Cities and counties that contain such zones
must inform the public regarding zone location.

1.1.3. Seismic Hazards Mapping Act
Pursuant to the Seismic Hazards Mapping Act,
the State Geologist compiles maps identifying
seismic hazard zones. Development in seismic
hazard areas is subject to policies and criteria
established by the State Mining and Geology
Board. Additionally, approval of development
on a site within a seismic hazard area mandates
the preparation of a geotechnical report and
local agency consideration of compliance with
applicable state requirements.

1.1.4. Landslide Hazard Identification
Program
The Landslide Hazard Identification Program
requires the State Geologist to prepare maps of
landslide hazards within urbanizing areas.

1.1.5. Colbey-Alquist Floodplain
Management Act
The Colbey-Alquist Floodplain Management Act
encourages local governments to plan, adopt,
and enforce land use regulations for floodplain
management in order to protect people and
property from flooding hazards. This act also
identifies requirements that jurisdictions must
meet to receive state financial assistance for
flood control.

1.1.6. Santa Clara County General
Plan Safety Element
The Santa Clara County General Plan Safety
Element identifies geologic and other natural
hazards. A key strategy of the element for
reducing the potential risks to life and property
from natural hazards is to minimize the number
96 Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 2
of people who permanently reside in high
hazard areas.

1.1.7. Los Altos Flood Hazard Area
Regulations Ordinance
The City’s Flood Hazard Area Regulations
(adopted as part of the Municipal Code)
establish regulations of use, structures, grading
and streambed alteration within designated
flood, flood-related erosion, and mudslide
hazard areas. These provisions apply to
property identified in the Flood Insurance Study
for the City of Los Altos (dated July 16, 1980)
and the Flood Insurance Rate Map generated by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA).

1.1.8. Hazardous Waste
Management Plan
The Santa Clara County Hazardous Waste
Management Plan provides basic policy
direction to address current and future
hazardous waste management issues. All
facilities and personnel of the County and
affected cities are organized in the plan to
effectively respond to hazardous materials
emergencies.

1.1.9. Emergency Operations Plan
The City of Los Altos Emergency Operations
Plan outlines authorities, organizational
structures, and procedures used to coordinate
activities related to local and regional
emergencies or disasters. Taken with the Safety
Element, the Emergency Operations Plan is a
critical planning document that ensures the City
is adequately prepared to respond to extreme
hazard events.

The plan was developed in 2015 as part of the
North Santa Clara County common-format
Emergency Operations Plan for the Cities of Los
Altos, Palo Alto, Mountain View, and Sunnyvale.

The plan was reviewed and revised by the City
of Los Altos in January 2021.

1.1.10.County’s Multi-Jurisdictional
Hazard Mitigation Plan
The City of Los Altos is a jurisdictional partner in
the Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional
Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP). The MJHMP
for Santa Clara County was developed in
accordance with the Disaster Mitigation Act of
2000 and followed FEMA’s 2023 Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan guidance. The MJHMP was
locally adopted by the City on August 27, 2024.

The MJHMP incorporates a process where
hazards are identified and profiled, the people
and facilities at risk are analyzed, and mitigation
actions are developed to reduce or eliminate
hazard risk. The implementation of these
mitigation actions, which include both shortterm and long-term strategies, involve planning, policy changes, programs, projects, and other
activities.

Assembly Bill (AB) 2140 authorizes local
governments to adopt the Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan (LHMP) with the General Plan
Safety Element, through integration or
incorporation by reference. The MJHMP is fully
integrated into the Safety Element in
accordance with AB 2140, Government Code
65302 (g)(4)(D)(ii), and is located at
https://emergencymanagement.sccgov.org/par
tners/hazard-mitigation-program.

The vulnerability assessment conducted as part
of the MJHMP satisfies the requirement to
address climate resiliency and adaptation in the
Safety Element (per Senate Bill [SB] 379).

1.1.11. Climate Action & Adaptation
Plan
The 2022 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan
(CAAP) assesses the impacts of Los Altos on the
climate, how Los Altos can reduce its impact on
97 Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 3
the climate, and how Los Altos can adapt to the
changing climate.1 The CAAP includes a
qualitative and quantitative assessment of the
impacts of City of Los Altos on climate change.

An updated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
inventory was conducted as part of this update.

The CAAP also includes an assessment of
climate impacts on the City as well as mitigation
strategies, priority actions, and implementation
measures to address climate change. The CAAP
Climate Hazards Ranking is fully integrated into
the Safety Element.
1 City of Los Altos, Los Altos Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, 2022,
98 Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 4
99 Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 5
As in all communities, natural conditions and
human activities occur in Los Altos that have an
effect on the quality of life of its residents.

Reducing the risks associated with such hazards
and being prepared for emergency situations is
essential for creating an attractive and healthy
environment for all residents and businesses
within the City. This section of the Safety
Element identifies the City’s approach for
reducing potential hazards from natural
conditions and human activities, along with the
City’s emergency planning and response.

2.1. Planning Area
The Safety Element relates to the entire City of
Los Altos, which is an incorporated city in Santa
Clara County. Santa Clara County is located in the
southeastern region of the San Francisco Bay
Area. The City is located in the northwestern
portion of Santa Clara County within the San
Francisco Peninsula, between the southern
reaches of the San Francisco Bay and the Santa
Cruz Mountains.

Los Altos is bordered by the City of Palo Alto and
the City of Mountain View to the north; the City
of Sunnyvale to the east; the City of Cupertino
and the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara
County to the south; and the Town of Los Altos
Hills to the west. Los Altos also abuts the Santa
Cruz Mountains, which run southeast from the
San Francisco Peninsula along the western
border of Santa Clara County.

The analysis of existing conditions and potential
hazards for this Safety Element applies to the
entirety of the City of Los Altos. Certain hazards
and disaster events are regional and/or
interrelated, such as earthquake and tsunami,
and may transcend geographic boundaries. Thus,
this Safety Element also considers potential
hazards outside of the planning area that may
occur or originate in other jurisdictions when the
potential impact of those hazards might impact
the City.

2.2. Geologic Hazards
Santa Clara County has a geologically diverse
composition of bayside alluvial plains, hills,
valleys, and mountains and is located in the
Coast Ranges Geomorphic Province, which
extends roughly 400 miles from Oregon to
Southern California. To the west is the Pacific
Ocean, where the coastline is uplifted, terraced,
and wave-cut. To the east is the Central Valley
of California. Major geological and
hydrogeological features of Santa Clara County
include the San Francisco Bay to the north and
Santa Clara Valley, the geologic trough that
extends roughly 90 miles from the San Francisco
Bay to the City of Hollister. The Coast Ranges
are subparallel to the Holocene-Active San
Andreas fault, and Santa Clara County intersects
with various faults that run parallel to the San
Andreas fault. The proximity of the many faults
in the area may exacerbate geologic and seismic
hazards.

The City is primarily underlain by marine and
continental sedimentary rocks and soil types
that range from unconsolidated to semi- or
loosely consolidated. Unconsolidated soil types
may be more susceptible to geologic hazards.

Figure 1 and Table 1 show the geologic makeup
of the City of Los Altos.
100
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 6
Topographically, Los Altos is relatively flat and is
located where the foothills of the Santa Cruz
Mountains meet the Santa Clara Valley. Various
creeks and riparian areas, including Adobe
Creek, Hale Creek, Permanente Creek, and
Stevens Creek, run down the foothills into the
City. The foothills that abut the City to the south
are prone to geologic hazards. The primary
geologic concerns within Los Altos include
landslides and seismic impacts related to
earthquakes. Seismic hazards can lead to fault
rupture, ground shaking, and liquefaction. They
can also be one of the causes of landslides,
subsidence, tsunamis, and seiches. Other
geologic hazards include subsidence, expansive
soils, tsunamis, and seiches.

Table 1: Geology
Rock
Types
General
Lithology
Age Description
Q Marine and nonmarine
(continental) sedimentary
rocks
PleistoceneHoloceneAlluvium, lake, playa, and terrace deposits; unconsolidated and semi-consolidated. Mostly nonmarine but includes marine deposits near the coast.

QPc Nonmarine (continental)
sedimentary rocks
Pliocene Sandstone, shale, and gravel deposits; are mostly loosely consolidated.

Qoa Marine and nonmarine
(continental) sedimentary
rocks
Pleistocene Older alluvium, lake, playa, and terrace deposits.

KJf Marine sedimentary and
metasedimentary rocks
CretaceousJurassicCretaceous and Jurassic sandstone with smaller amounts of shale, chert, limestone, and conglomerate. Includes Franciscan melange, except where separated.

Mzv Metavolcanic rocks Mesozoic Undivided Mesozoic volcanic and metavolcanic rocks. Andesite and rhyolite flow rocks, greenstone, volcanic breccia and other pyroclastic rocks; in part strongly metamorphosed. Includes volcanic rocks of Franciscan Complex: basaltic pillow lava, diabase, greenstone, and minor pyroclastic rocks.

Source: California Geological Survey, https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/gmc/App/.

Regional infrastructure damage from the
1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.

Photo Courtesy of SFGate.
101
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 7
Figure 1: Geology
Source: California Department of Geology and Mines; Esri; City of Los Altos. 102
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 8

2.2.1. Seismic Hazards
The City of Los Altos is located in a region with
active seismic faults and is therefore subject to
risk of hazards associated with earthquakes.

Seismic activity poses two types of hazards:
primary and secondary. Primary hazards include
ground rupture, ground shaking, ground
displacement, and subsidence and uplift from
earth movement. Primary hazards can induce
secondary hazards, such as ground failure (lurch
cracking, lateral spreading, and slope failure),
liquefaction, water waves (tsunamis and
seiches), movement on nearby faults
(sympathetic fault movement), dam failure, and
fires.

2.2.1.1. Fault Rupture
The City of Los Altos is situated in the central
area of the Coast Ranges Geomorphic Province, a
region with characteristic northwest-trending
landforms and geologic structures. The Coast
Range Geomorphic Province is an area of
moderate-to-high seismic activity. Earthquake
severity is typically categorized according to
magnitude (a measure of the amount of energy
released when a fault ruptures) and seismic
intensity (a qualitative estimate of the damage
caused by an earthquake at a given location).

Because the amount of destruction generally
decreases with distance from the epicenter (the
point at the earth's surface directly above where
the earthquake originated), earthquakes are
assigned several intensities. The most commonly
used seismic intensity scale is the Modified
Mercalli Intensity scale, which has 12 levels of
damage. The higher the number, the greater the
damage.

The largest earthquake likely to occur on a fault
or fault segment is called the maximum credible
or characteristic earthquake. A maximum
2 State of California Department of Conservation, Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones, accessed May 17, 2024,
https://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/alquist-priolo.
probable earthquake (MPE) is the earthquake
most likely to occur in a specified period of time,
such as 30 to 500 years. In general, the longer
the period between earthquakes on a specific
fault segment (recurrence interval), the larger
the earthquake. The State of California, under
the guidelines of the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake
Fault Zoning Act of 1972, regulates development
near active faults so as to mitigate the hazard of
surface fault rupture. The California
Department of Conservation classifies faults
according to the following criteria:
• Holocene-Active Fault: A fault that has
had surface displacement within
Holocene time (the last 11,700 years)
• Pre-Holocene Fault: A fault whose
recency of past movement is older than
11,700 years and thus does not meet
the criteria of Holocene-active fault as
defined in the State Mining and
Geology Board regulations
An earthquake or rupture along one of the
faults in the vicinity could result in casualties
and extensive property damage. The effects of
such a quake may result from aftershocks and
secondary effects such as fires, landslides, dam
failure, liquefaction, and other threats to public
health and safety. California is a seismically
active area with numerous faults throughout
the region. The City of Los Altos is listed within a
state-designated Alquist-Priolo Earthquake
Fault Zone.2 The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault
Zone Act prevents the construction of humanoccupied buildings on the surface trace of Holocene-Active faults. The San Andreas fault is
the closest Holocene-Active fault in the region,
bordering the City to the west. Several faults
are located within and near the City, including
the Monte Vista fault and various pre-Holocene
faults.
103
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 9
Figure 2: Regional Fault Locations
Source: California Department of Conservation; California Geological Survey; Esri; City of Los Altos. 104
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 10
San Andreas Fault. The San Andreas fault is a
continental, right lateral transform fault that
forms the tectonic boundary between the
Pacific Plate and the North American Plate. The
fault runs roughly 810 miles from Cape
Mendocino in the north to the Salton Sea in
Southern California. The largest historical
earthquakes along the San Andreas fault
include the 1857 Fort Tejon earthquake and the
1906 San Francisco earthquake. The 1857 Fort
Tejon earthquake occurred in January 1857 with
an estimated magnitude of 7.9, which resulted
in two deaths and significant damage
throughout the area. The length of the surface
rupture is estimated at 225 miles. The 1906 San
Francisco earthquake occurred on April 18,
1906, with a magnitude of 7.9. The fault slipped
over a segment of 270 miles, caused significant
damage, and resulted in an estimated 3,000
deaths. The earthquake also caused the 1906
San Francisco fire, which burned for three days.

Between the earthquake and fire, 28,000
buildings were destroyed with a total property
value loss estimated at $350 million. The 1906
earthquake is considered the most devastating
earthquake in the state to date.

Monte Vista Fault. The Monte Vista fault runs
approximately 29 miles from branching off of
the San Andreas fault and traversing southeast
through the neighboring Town of Los Altos Hills
to Cupertino. The fault is thought to be
Holocene-aged with fault displacement in the
last 11,700 years; however, there is no
historical record of fault rupture along this fault.

Pre-Holocene faults. Various Pre-Holocene
faults are located in proximity to the City. The
Cascade and Stanford faults are Quaternary
faults that run northwest and underlie portions
of the City of Los Altos. The Berrocal Fault is a
late Quaternary fault to the southwest of the
3 USGS, Quaternary Fault and Fold Database of the United States, accessed October 16, 2024,
https://www.usgs.gov/programs/earthquake-hazards/faults.

City. These faults are part of a complex system
of pre-Holocene faults located throughout the
area that roots southwestward into the San
Andreas fault zone. Other nearby faults include
the Hanover fault and San Jose fault. These
faults are understood to be inactive faults that
pose little threat to the City.3

2.2.1.2. Ground Shaking
Ground shaking is characterized by the physical
movement of the land surface during
earthquakes. Given the City’s proximity to
active faults in the region, seismic ground
shaking could damage buildings and cause
objects to fall, creating hazards to life and
property. Because Los Altos is in an earthquakeprone area of Northern California, and due to the close proximity to the San Andreas fault,
seismic shaking would most likely be felt
throughout the City. The effects of significant
ground shaking would be most severe in areas
with steep slopes, weak soils, and vulnerable
structures. In a probable earthquake scenario,
the majority of one- and two-story wood
structures in the planning area would not
sustain serious damage. Older, unreinforced
masonry buildings in the downtown area that
were built prior to improved building codes may
be subject to severe damage or collapse in the
event of an earthquake.

Figure 4 shows the shake potential in the City of
Los Altos. It shows the relative intensity of
ground shaking from anticipated future
earthquakes. Percentage of gravity (% g) is a
method for expressing acceleration, measured
relative to gravity (g). Shaking potential at 50
percent would be 0.50 g, perceived as severe
ground shaking with moderate to heavy
potential damage on the Modified Mercalli
Intensity scale.
105
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 11
Figure 3: Local Fault Locations
Source: California Department of Conservation; California Geological Survey; Esri; City of Los Altos. 106
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 12
Figure 4: Shake Potential Map
Source: California Geological Survey; Esri; City of Los Altos. 107
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 13
Based on the shake potential map, the
strongest ground shaking that could occur in
Los Altos would be 1.15 to 1.35 g. For
comparison purposes, the peak ground
acceleration in a single direction measured
during the 1994 Northridge earthquake was

1.82 g, moment magnitude of 6.7; this was the
highest ever instrumentally recorded in urban
North America. The shake potential map shows
the projected maximum capacity for ground
shaking in the specific geography based on
conditions such as topography, soil types, and
groundwater location. The entirety of the City is
vulnerable to the same levels of ground
shaking.

2.2.1.3. Liquefaction
Seismic ground shaking of relatively loose,
granular soils that are saturated or submerged
can cause the soils to liquefy and temporarily
behave as dense fluid. Liquefaction occurs
primarily in areas of recently deposited sands
and silts with poorly consolidated sediment
and in areas of high groundwater levels. Los
Altos sits on the very deep alluvial soils of the
Santa Clara Valley floor. These soils, consisting
of silt, clay, sand, and gravel deposits, can
extend to a depth of 4,000 to 5,000 feet
throughout most of the City.

Figure 5 shows areas of liquefaction hazards
throughout the City. Mapped liquefaction
zones exist near the creeks that run through
Los Altos. Namely, the areas surrounding
Adobe Creek, Hale Creek, Permanente Creek,
and Stevens Creek are areas of potential
liquefaction. Although severe ground motion
resulting from an earthquake would be
apparent in Los Altos because of the depth of
the loosely consolidated soils, damage
generally would not be serious to the
predominant one- or two-story wood frame
structures that are prevalent in the City of Los
Altos.

2.2.2. Subsidence
Ground subsidence is the gradual settling or
sinking of the ground surface with little or no
horizontal movement. Most ground
subsidence is anthropogenic (created or
influenced by humans) and is usually
associated with the extraction of oil, gas, or
groundwater from below the ground surface
in valleys filled with recent alluvium. Land
subsidence can also occur during an
earthquake because of offset along fault lines
and as a result of the settling and compacting
of unconsolidated sediment from the shaking
of an earthquake.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS)
documents areas of land subsidence
throughout California, including historical and
current subsidence. The USGS has identified
significant areas of regional subsidence as a
result of groundwater pumping throughout
Santa Clara County.

The majority of Santa Clara Valley, including
the City of Los Altos, has been identified as an
area of land subsidence. Generally, eastern
areas of the City are identified as areas of land
subsidence. Figure 6 shows California’s
Groundwater Update land subsidence data
which maps 0.25-foot intervals of land
subsidence. The data shows that eastern areas
of the City have experienced up to 0.25 feet of
land subsidence.

Due to the geology of the City and the
potential for seismicity, land subsidence may
impact significant eastern portions of Los
Altos. Continued groundwater withdrawal
may worsen land subsidence throughout the
planning area.
108
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 14
Figure 5: Liquefaction Zones
Source: US Geological Survey; Esri; City of Los Altos.
109
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 15
Figure 6: Land Subsidence
Source: California’s Groundwater Update 2020 (Bulletin 118), Land Subsidence Vertical Displacement Polygon dataset. 110
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 16

2.2.3. Expansive Soils
Expansive soils are those that have the ability
to expand or contract, changing in volume
based on their moisture content. They are
typically composed of a form of expansive clay
mineral that readily absorbs water and swells,
leading to an increase in volume when wet
and shrinkage when dry. This shrink-swell
process can cause fatigue and cracks in
infrastructure or foundations placed directly
on or within expansive soils. Structural
damage may result over a long period of time,
making it difficult to estimate the severity of
long-term impacts.

The geology of Los Altos may be susceptible to
expansive soils due to groundwater. The City
is within the Santa Clara Valley which is
characterized by high groundwater levels and
potentially soils with high clay content. Figure
7 shows that the majority of soil throughout
the City is human-transported material. There
may be swelling potential within these soils.

Expansive soils have not been well
documented throughout the City, but the
potential for expansive soils exists throughout
the area where the Santa Clara Valley contains
groundwater and soil conditions that are
conducive.

Resilient Los Altos and Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT) provide
volunteer support to the City.

Photos Courtesy of Los Altos CERT and Resilient Los Altos 111
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 17
Figure 7: Soils
Source: Santa Clara County Planning Office GIS; Esri; City of Los Altos. 112
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 18

2.2.4. Landslides
A landslide is defined as the movement of a mass
of rock, debris, or earth down a slope. Landslides
are subdivided by the type of geologic material
(bedrock, debris, or earth). Debris flows
(commonly referred to as mudflows or
mudslides) and rock falls are examples of
common landslide types.4Landslides can be
initiated in slopes already on the verge of
movement by rainfall, snowmelt, changes in
water level, stream erosion, changes in
groundwater, earthquakes, volcanic activity,
disturbance by human activities, or any
combination of these factors. When a hillside or
other slope becomes unstable, downslope
movement of rock and soil occurs under the
direct influence of gravity. Landslides can include
events such as rock falls, topples, slides, spreads,
and flows.

Landslides are often sudden, although some
occur very slowly over a long period of time.

Loose and fractured materials are more likely to
slide than compact materials or solid rock, and
steep slopes are at greater risk than gentle rises.

Areas that have been recently burned by wildfires
are more susceptible to sliding because the fire
destroys the plant cover that helps stabilize
slopes. Areas underlain by shale and siltstone are
more prone to landslides when compared to
other bedrock geology, which is more prone to
slow-developing, slump-type failure.

Landslides are usually induced by either
earthquakes or moisture. The shaking of an
earthquake can decrease slope stability or, in a
more severe instance, can fracture the earth's
material enough to slide. Moisture-induced
landslides can occur when the ground soaks up
4 United States Geological Survey, “What is a landslide and what causes one?”, accessed May 20, 2024,
https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-landslide-and-what-causes-one. 5 “Deep-seated landslide” is typically defined as a landslide that is slow moving, rooted in bedrock, and covering larger areas. enough water that it becomes loose and
unstable. This is often the result of intense or
long-lasting rainfall but can also result from a
pipeline burst or overwatering landscapes. In
some cases, hillside erosion from rainfall can
cause instability and result in landslides. If the
slide is wet enough to become mud, the event is
known as a mudslide or a mudflow.

Figure 8 shows the relative likelihood of deepseated landsliding based on regional estimates of rock strength and steepness of slopes.5 On the
most basic level, weak rocks and steep slopes are
most likely to generate landslides. The map uses
detailed information on the location of past
landslides, the location and relative strength of
rock units, and the steepness of the slope to
estimate susceptibility to deep-seated
landsliding, shown through classes of landslide
susceptibility ranging from 0 (low) to 10 (high).

These classes generalize that on very low slopes,
landslide susceptibility is low even in weak
materials, but it increases with slope and in weak
rocks. Landslide susceptibility is based on rock
strength and slope steepness. Areas with steep or
unstable slopes have the highest landslide risk in
Los Altos. Landslides are also likely on hillsides
where rock strata parallel surface slopes, high
clay content absorbs excess water, displacement
fractures a fault zone, or erosion or human
activity removes a slope’s base. Landslides are
unlikely on slopes under 15 percent. In Los Altos,
slopes of 15 percent or more are isolated to the
City’s southwest. While no recent landslides have
occurred in the planning area, development on
such slopes should be carefully reviewed to
mitigate risks.

Source: Washington Geological Survey, accessed May 20, 2024, https://www.dnr.wa.gov/publications/ger_fs_landslide_processes .pdf.
113
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 19
Figure 8: Landslide Areas
Source: California Department of Conservation; California Geological Survey; Esri; City of Los Altos. 114
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 20

2.2.5. Tsunamis and Seiches
A tsunami is a wave or series of waves generated
by a large and sudden upward movement of the
ocean floor, usually the result of an earthquake
below or near the ocean floor. This sudden
displacement and force create waves that
radiate outward in all directions away from their
source, sometimes crossing entire ocean basins.

Los Altos is located five to six miles from the
San Francisco Bay with an elevation of 150 feet
or more above sea level. Consequently,
potential hazards associated with water waves
are not likely to impact populations and
facilities within the City. Furthermore, based on
the Tsunami Hazard simulations by the California
Department of Conservation, a tsunami event
will not impact the City of Los Altos (refer to
Figure 9).

However, regional infrastructure and facilities in
nearby areas that serve the City, such as the Palo
Alto Regional Water Quality Control Plant, may
be impacted by tsunamis. Inundation due to
tsunami could cause regional impacts that
disrupt water and utility services by damaging
infrastructure such as pipelines, power lines, and
sewage systems. Secondary impacts to the City
of Los Altos might include contamination of
water supplies, loss of power, and interruptions
to communication and transportation networks.

These disruptions can lead to broader public
health and safety issues, affecting emergency
response and overall community resilience.

A seiche is defined as a standing wave oscillation
in an enclosed or semi-enclosed, shallow to
moderately shallow water body to the basin,
such as a lake, reservoir, bay, or harbor, due to
ground shaking, usually following an earthquake.

Seiches continue in a pendulum fashion after the
cessation of the originating force, which can be
tidal action, wind action, or a seismic event.

Seiches are often described by the period of the
waves (how quickly the waves repeat
themselves) since the period will often
determine whether adjoining structures will be
damaged. The period of a seiche varies
depending on the dimensions of the basin.

Whether the earthquake will create seiches
depends upon a number of earthquake-specific
parameters, including the earthquake location (a
distant earthquake is more likely to generate a
seiche than a local earthquake), the style of fault
rupture (e.g., dip-slip or strike-slip), and the
configuration (length, width, and depth) of the
basin.

The nearest body of water to the City is the San
Francisco Bay; however, seiches within the Bay
would not impact the City. Similarly to tsunami,
although populations and facilities within the
City may not be directly impacted, regional
infrastructure may be impacted by seiches. The
Palo Alto Regional Water Quality Control Plant is
of particular concern because it serves the City of
Los Altos but is located within the tsunami and
sea level rise hazard area in Palo Alto. Seiches
that impact surrounding areas may damage
infrastructure such as pipelines, power lines, and
sewage systems and cause secondary impacts to
the City including contamination of water
supplies, loss of power, and interruptions to
communication and transportation networks.
115
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 21
Figure 9: Tsunami and Sea Level Rise Map
Source: California Geologic Survey, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; Esri; City of Los Altos. 116
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 22

2.3. Fire Hazards

2.3.1. Wildland Fires
A wildfire is defined as an unplanned and
unwanted wildland fire, including unauthorized
human-caused fires, escaped wildland fire use
events, escaped prescribed fire projects, and all
other wildland fires where the object is to
extinguish the fire. Wildfire is a natural part of
the California ecosystem, helping to clear brush
and debris, and is a necessary part of various
species' life cycles. Wildfires can be sparked by
lightning, accidents, or arson.

Human activity has changed the buffer zone
between urbanized and undeveloped areas,
known as the wildland-urban interface, where
naturally fire-prone landscapes abut developed
neighborhoods. The natural setting of a
wildland-urban interface can make these areas
highly desirable places to live, and many of
these areas in California are now developed.

This development has brought more people
into wildfire-prone areas. The availability of fuel
and increasing encroachment into the wildlandurban interface have made wildfires a common and dangerous hazard in California. Structural
conditions that may affect fire control include
the type and use of a structure, roof covering,
surrounding landscaping, and exposure to the
building.

The Santa Clara County Community Wildfire
Protection Plan (CWPP) identifies wildland
urban interface areas within the City of Los
Altos; refer to Figure 10. The CWPP Wildland
Urban Interface dataset identifies a wildland
urban influence zone (lowest risk), wildland
urban intermix, and wildland urban interface
(highest risk). The majority of the City is not a
designated wildland urban interface area. The
City is mostly developed which has a low risk for
wildfire; however, development intermingles
with undeveloped, open space, and natural
areas that are prone to wildfire. The wildlandurban interface within the City primarily exists where development blends into the foothills of
Rancho San Antonio County Park and the Santa
Cruz Mountains to the southwest. Wildland
urban interface areas primarily include
residential areas in Woodland Acres and areas
north of South El Monte Ave and west of
Foothill Expressway. Additionally, wildlandurban interface areas include riparian zones along Adobe Creek, Stevens Creek, Hale Creek
and Permanente Creek which run throughout
the City. Regional wildfires and large wildfires
outside of the City, particularly wildfires in
undeveloped areas of unincorporated Santa
Clara County, may cross wildland-urban
interface areas and threaten the City. Urban fire
hazards in Los Altos are concentrated primarily
in dense nonresidential areas with limited
landscape and separation between structures.

The City will reduce the potential for dangerous
fires by coordinating with the Santa Clara
County Fire Department to implement fire
hazard education and fire protection programs.

The City will also ensure that construction is
consistent with the current California Fire Code
including water flow and pressure requirements
for firefighting purposes, requirements for
turnarounds at dead end roads, road widths,
and distances between fire hydrants.
117
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 23
Figure 10: Wildland Urban Interface
Source: Santa Clara County CWPP GIS Data Portal; Esri; City of Los Altos. 118
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 24

2.3.2. Fire Hazard Severity Zones
The California Department of Forestry and Fire
Protection (Cal Fire) prepares wildfire hazard
severity maps, including mapping areas of
significant fire hazards based on fuels, terrain,
weather, and other relevant factors. These
zones, referred to as fire hazard severity zones
(FHSZ), define the application of various
mitigation strategies and influence how people
construct buildings and protect property to
reduce the risk associated with wildland fires.

While a designation of FHSZ does not predict
when or where wildfire will occur, it does
identify areas where wildfire hazards could be
more severe and therefore is of greater
concern. Zones are designated in varying
degrees, from moderate to high and very high.

An FHSZ may fall under one of three types of
responsibility areas: Local Responsibility Area
(LRA), State Responsibility Area (SRA), or
Federal Responsibility Area (FRA). LRAs are
incorporated into cities, urban regions, and
agricultural lands where the local government is
responsible for wildfire protection. SRAs are
those for which the State of California is
financially responsible for the prevention and
suppression of wildfires. FRAs are land for
which neither the state nor the local
government has legal responsibility for
providing fire protection. For LRAs, only very
high fire hazard severity zones are mapped.

The entirety of Los Altos is categorized as an
LRA, where the local government is responsible
for wildfire protection. There are no areas
identified as a very high fire hazard severity
zone within the City. However, the
unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County to
the southwest, which include Rancho San
Antonio County Park and the Santa Cruz
Mountains, are identified as SRAs with areas of
high and very high fire hazard severity zones
(Figure 11). Therefore, the southwestern area
of the City, which abuts these severity zones
under state responsibility, is at risk for wildfires.

Additionally, wildfires do not only occur in areas
identified as fire hazard severity zones, and
regional wildfires have the potential to have
wide impacts across jurisdictions. Wildfires in
the unincorporated areas to the southwest of
the City would potentially impact the developed
neighborhoods within Los Altos.
“The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) prepares wildfire hazard severity maps, including mapping areas of significant fire hazards based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant factors.” 119
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 25
Figure 11: Fire Hazard Severity Zone
Source: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection; Esri; City of Los Altos. 120
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 26

2.4. Flooding

2.4.1. Major Sources of Flooding
Flood hazards fall into three categories: natural
flooding, dam inundation, and mud and debris
flows. Flooding occurs when a waterway (either
natural or artificial drainage channel) receives
more water than it is capable of conveying,
causing the water level in the waterway to rise.

Depending on how long these conditions last
and the amount of runoff the waterway
receives in proportion to its capacity, the rising
water level may eventually overtop the
waterway's banks or any other boundaries to
the drainage area, resulting in flooding.

Floods often occur during heavy precipitation
events, when the amount of rainwater exceeds
the capacity of storm drains or flood control
channels. Floods can also happen when
infrastructure such as levees, dams, reservoirs,
or culverts fail or when a section of drainage
infrastructure fails, and water cannot be
drained from an area quickly enough. These
failures can be linked to precipitation events
(e.g., when water erodes a levee, allowing
water to escape and flood nearby areas) or can
be a consequence of other emergency
situations (e.g., a dam collapsing due to an
earthquake).

FEMA maintains flood maps throughout the
United States. FEMA defines flood or flooding as
a general and temporary condition of partial or
complete inundation of normally dry land areas
from:
• The overflow of inland or tidal waters;
• The unusual and rapid accumulation or
runoff of surface waters from any
source; or,
6 Federal Emergency Management Agency, Flood Risk Increases After Fires Are Out – Buy Flood Insurance Now, accessed May 20, • Mudslides (i.e., mudflows) caused by
flooding, akin to a river of liquid and
flowing mud on the surfaces of
normally dry land areas, as when earth
material is carried by a current of water
and deposited along the path of the
current.

Floods can be caused and/or exacerbated by a
number of factors, including the following:
• Weather and climate patterns.
• Hydrologic features such as reservoirs,
ponds, lakes, rivers, etc.
• The ground's absorption capacity,
which depends on the soil's
composition and the area's bedrock.

Less absorbent soil conditions, in
addition to a lack of proper storm
infrastructure, can result in flooding.
• The type and density of vegetation,
which affect the flow of water.
• Patterns of land use/urbanization relate
to the pervious and impervious ground.
• The level, age, and condition of flood
management infrastructure.
• Large-scale wildfires dramatically alter
the terrain and ground conditions.

Vegetation absorbs rainfall, reducing
runoff. However, wildfires leave the
ground charred, barren, and unable to
absorb water properly, creating
conditions ripe for flash flooding and
mudflow until vegetation is restored—
up to five years after a wildfire.6
Los Altos is subject to periodic flood hazards
associated with creek overflow, dam
inundation, and potential mud and debris flows
during rainstorms of a few hillsides within the
planning area. The Los Altos planning area
2024, https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/4562/flood-riskincreases-after-fires-are-out-buy-flood-insurance-now. 121
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 27
contains both 100- and 500-year floodplain
areas as shown in Figure 12.

Flood hazard areas identified on the Flood
Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) are identified as
Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA). SFHAs are
defined as the area that will be inundated by
the flood event having a 1 percent chance of
being equaled or exceeded in any given year.

The 1 percent annual chance flood is also
referred to as the base flood or 100-year flood.

SFHAs are labeled as Zone A, Zone AO, Zone AH,
Zones A1-A30, Zone AE, Zone A99, Zone AR,
Zone AR/AE, Zone AR/AO, Zone AR/A1-A30,
Zone AR/A, Zone V, Zone VE, and Zones V1-V30.

Moderate flood hazard areas, labeled Zone B or
Zone X (shaded), are also shown on the FIRM
and are the areas between the limits of the
base flood and the 0.2 percent annual chance
(or 500-year) flood. The areas of minimal flood
hazard, which are the areas outside the SFHA
and higher than the elevation of the 0.2 percent
annual chance of flood, are labeled Zone C or
Zone X (unshaded). There are Zone A, AO, AH,
and AE flood risk areas along the creeks of the
City.

A Zone (A): These are areas with a 1% annual
chance of flooding (also known as the 100-year
flood) and a 26% chance of flooding over the
life of a 30-year mortgage. These are
characterized as having highest risk for flooding,
but no detailed hydraulic analysis has been
performed. Flood insurance is mandatory for
properties with federally-backed mortgages.

AO Zone (AO): These are areas with a 1%
annual chance of shallow flooding, usually in
the form of sheet flow, with an average depth
of 1 to 3 feet. Flood depths and velocities are
determined for these areas, and they can result
from ponding or local drainage issues. Flood
insurance is mandatory for properties with
federally-backed mortgages.

AE Zone (AE): These are areas with a 1% annual
chance of flooding where Base Flood Elevations
(BFEs) are determined. Detailed hydraulic
analysis has been performed. The floodplain has
been mapped with more precision, and BFEs
are provided. Flood insurance is mandatory for
properties with federally-backed mortgages.

AH Zone (AH): Areas with a 1% annual chance
of shallow flooding, usually in the form of
ponding, with average depths between 1 and 3
feet. Like Zone AO, this zone experiences
shallow flooding, but the primary cause is
ponding rather than sheet flow. Detailed
hydraulic analyses have determined flood
depths. BEEs are provided for these areas,
indicating the expected water surface elevation
during a base flood event. Flood insurance is
mandatory for properties with federally-backed
mortgages
.

Stevens Creek (above) is one of four creeks
that serve as floodways in the City.

Photo Courtesy of City of Los Altos
122
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 28
Figure 12: FEMA Flood Zones
Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency; Esri; City of Los Altos. 123
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 29

2.4.2. Natural Flooding
Natural flooding occurs when major rainstorms
cause stream overflows. Surface waters within
Los Altos are primarily creeks that originate in
the foothills and meander toward the low-lying
areas in the northeast. Creeks in the area
include Adobe Creek, Hale Creek, Permanente
Creek, and Stevens Creek; flooding would
potentially occur in these areas in the event of
significant storm events. Portions of these four
creeks have been channelized to increase the
capacity of the creeks to reduce flooding and to
permit development of the floodplain. The
majority of mapped flood zones within the City
are confined to these flood channels. Further
channelization is not recommended for any of
the creeks in Los Altos because of the conflict
with preservation of natural resources.

According to the FEMA flood maps, Adobe
Creek and Permanente Creek are the most
flood-prone of Los Altos’ creeks. The flood
zones in the area are categorized as a FEMA
100-year flood hazard zone with only a 1
percent annual chance of flooding.

2.4.3. Dam Inundation
Dam failure is the uncontrolled release of
impounded water from behind a dam. Flooding,
earthquakes, blockages, landslides, lack of
maintenance, improper operation, poor
construction, vandalism, and terrorism can all
cause dam infrastructure to fail. Dam failure
causes downstream flooding of varying
velocities that can result in loss of life and
property.

Dam inundation could occur with the failure of
the Stevens Creek Dam. According to the
7 California Department of Water Resources, Dams Within Jurisdiction of the State of California Listed, accessed June 1, 2024, https://water.ca.gov/-/media/DWR-Website/WebPages/Programs/All-Programs/Division-of-Safety-ofCalifornia Department of Water Resources, Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD), the
downstream hazard from Stevens Creek Dam is
classified as extremely high.7 The downstream
hazard is based solely on potential downstream
impacts to life and property should a dam fail
when operating with a full reservoir, and is
expected to cause considerable loss of human life
or result in an inundation area with a population
of 1,000 or more. Built in 1935, the dam is owned
and operated by Santa Clara Valley Water District
and is in fair condition based on the DSOD report
from September 2022.

Figure 13 depicts areas subject to flood
inundation in the event of failure of the Stevens
Creek Dam. Dams typically fail due to overtopping
by reservoir water during heavy rainfall episodes,
structural damage, and earthquake-related
hazards such as landsliding, ground shaking, and
seiches. A dam failure event at Stevens Creek Dam
would cause flooding along Stevens Creek at the
southeastern border of the City. Depending on
the severity of the event, portions of south Los
Altos could be inundated by water released from
the dam.

California Government Code Section 8589.5
requires the City to have emergency procedures
in place for the evacuation and control of
populated areas within the limits of inundation
below dams. In addition, real estate disclosure
upon sale or transfer of property in the inundation
area is required under Assembly Bill 1195 Chapter
65 passed in June 1998. Los Altos participates in
the National Flood Insurance Program which
provides federal flood insurance and federally
financed loans for property owners in flood-prone
areas.

Dams/Files/Publications/Dams-Within-Jurisdiction-of-the-Stateof-California-Listed-Alphabetically-by-Name-September-2022.pdf. 124
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 30
Figure 13: Reservoir Inundation
Source: California Department of Water Resources-Division of Safety of Dams; Esri; City of Los Altos. 125
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 31

2.4.4. Mud and Debris Flows
Mud and debris flows are defined as a river of
rock, earth, mud, and other debris, including
saturated vegetation. While landslides can
occur without the presence of soil (such as a
rock landslide), debris flows consist of material
that contains at least 50 percent sand, silt, and
clay-sized particles. The high percentage of
water gives the debris flow a rapid rate of
movement down a slope, posing extremely
dangerous conditions to people and property.

Flows triggered by earthquakes or heavy rainfall
can occur on gentle slopes and can move
rapidly for large distances.

Mud and debris flows originate in hillside areas
having deep topsoil with poor drainage. The
majority of the Los Altos planning area is
relatively flat terrain that is not subject to mud
and debris flows. The rolling terrain in the
southwest portion of the planning area contains
deep soils consisting of silt, clay, sand, and
gravel deposits. While there are no recent
examples of mud or debris flows in the planning
area, development in the southwest slopes
should be carefully reviewed for mitigation of
mud and debris flow risks. The City will reduce
the potential for flood hazards by implementing
the adopted flood hazard area regulations for
designated floodways, mudflow-prone areas,
and flood-related erosion prone areas.

2.4.5. Drainage System
A watershed, also known as a drainage basin or
catchment area, is an area of land where all the
water, including rainfall and runoff, drains into a
common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean.

There are various watersheds within Los Altos
that originate in the mountains and drain
toward the low-lying areas of the Santa Clara
Valley and San Francisco Bay in the northeast.
8 Santa Clara County, Drainage Manual, 2007,
https://stgenpln.blob.core.windows.net/document/DrainageMan ual_Final.pdf.

Watersheds in the area include Adobe CreekFrontal San Francisco Bay Estuaries, Permanente Creek-Frontal San Francisco Bay
Estuaries, and Stevens Creek. These watersheds
are essential for managing stormwater and
maintaining water quality in the City of Los
Altos. To further support flood control efforts,
portions of these creeks within Los Altos have
been channelized to increase capacity and
reduce flooding.

Land development can have a significant impact
on flooding as impervious surfaces increase the
amount of overland flow and decrease the
amount of water that is absorbed by the natural
landscape. To preserve the natural quality of
riparian zones, it is important to prevent
development that increases runoff that would
exceed the capacity of local creeks. To reduce
pollutants in urban runoff, the City requires
new development projects and substantial
rehabilitation projects to incorporate best
management practices pursuant to the National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit
and Santa Clara County Drainage Manual 2007.8
Additionally, the City of Los Altos served on the
Santa Clara Valley Water Resources Protection
Collaborative (Water Collaborative), established
in 2002. In 2006, the Water Collaborative
developed and adopted the Guidelines and
Standards for Land Use Near Streams: A Manual
of Tools, Standards, and Procedures to Protect
Streams and Streamside Resources in Santa
Clara County. The City adopted these guidelines
in 2007 as Resolution No. 07-03 and
implements the policies and standards for
development to the extent feasible and
appropriate. The City also protects watersheds
and drainages through storm drain
maintenance and erosion control.
126
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 32
Figure 14: Watersheds
Source: US Geological Survey-National Hydrography Dataset; Esri; City of Los Altos. 127
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 33

2.5. Climate Change and
Resilience

2.5.1. Climate Change
Climate change is generally defined as the longterm shift in global or regional temperature and weather patterns. Climate change may be a
natural global phenomenon to some extent, but
typically the observed change in global and
regional climate patterns is attributed to
increased levels of carbon dioxide in the
atmosphere caused by the burning of fossil
fuels.

Climate change can have widespread effects on
temperature and weather patterns, creating
conditions that may make storms more
frequent or more intense, resulting in more
intense rainfall and flooding. In many areas,
climate change may increase the frequency and
duration of droughts and create conditions that
intensify wildfire vulnerability. Climate change
has the potential to exacerbate most natural
and environmental hazards, except seismic
hazards, which are not linked to climate
patterns. Additionally, climate change is not
linked to human-caused hazards such as
hazardous materials release.

The Cal-Adapt tool provides local climate
projections for temperature, precipitation, and
wildfire snapshots for cities and counties in
California.

Table 2 shows the changes specific to Los Altos.

As shown, the number of extreme heat days,
increase in annual maximum temperatures, and
decrease in annual precipitation may be a cause
of concern.

Table 2: Local Climate Change Snapshot
Climate Change Factors Impacting the City Observed
(1961-1990)
Mid-Century (2035-2064)
Medium Emissions A High Emissions A
Annual Average Maximum Temperature (°F) 68.9–69.4 70.8–73.6 71.3–74.7 Extreme Heat Days (days)B 3–6 7–17 8–20
Annual Average Precipitation (inches)C 1.3–1.6 1.3–2.0 1.3–1.75 Annual Average Area Burned (acres)D 56.2–63.6 37.1–46.8 42.6–51.4 A. The Medium Emissions Scenario represents a mitigation scenario where global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions peak by 2040 and then decline. Statewide, the temperature is projected to increase by 2°C–4°C for this scenario by the end of this century.

The High Emissions Scenario represents a scenario where CO2 emissions continue to rise throughout the twenty-first century.

Statewide, the temperature is projected to increase by 4°C–7°C by the end of this century.

B. Number of days in a year when the daily maximum temperature is above a threshold temperature of 103.9°F (98th percentile).

C. Summary statistics are calculated using values between 1961 and 1990 from Modeled Historical data (CanESM2, CNRMCM5, HadGEM2-ES, MIROC5 models).

D. While Los Altos doesn’t have any history of areas that were burned, the data presented here are aggregated over all Localized Constructed Analogs (LOCA) grid cells that intersect Los Altos boundary and hence can contain areas outside the jurisdictional boundary. LOCA grid cells are downscaled to a 1/16 degree latitude/longitude grid using the LOCA statistical downscaling methodology.9
Source: Cal-Adapt, Local Climate Change Snapshot, cal-adapt.org. 9 Pierce, D. W., D. R. Cayan, and B. L. Thrasher, 2014, “Statistical Downscaling Using Localized Constructed Analogs (LOCA),” Journal of Hydrometeorology, 15, 2558-2585.
128
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City of Los Altos 34

2.5.2. Extreme Heat
An extreme heat event occurs between April
and October when the temperature is at or
above the 98th percentile for historical daily
maximum temperatures in Los Altos. An
increase in extreme heat waves can increase
the risk of heat stroke or dehydration. Extreme
heat may strain water, power, and
transportation systems, as well as have negative
effects on infrastructure such as roadways and
sidewalks, leading to deterioration and
buckling. Additionally, the increased use of air
conditioners can put strain on electrical systems
and lead to GHG emissions, which affect lung
function over time. According to the California
Access and Functional Needs map, the closest
cooling and warming centers for the residents
of Los Altos are the Los Altos Library, Woodland
Library and Los Altos Community Center.10

2.5.3. Sea Level Rise
According to the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, sea level rise at
the regional level can deviate significantly from
the global average rate.11 Thus, effects are
unique to specific coastal jurisdictions due to
variations in topography and geography. Sea
level rise projections and modeling are depicted
in Figure 15 and rely on the best available
science as evaluated by the California Coastal
Commission’s 2018 Sea Level Rise Policy
Guidance and are supplemented by National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s 2022
Sea Level Rise Technical Report. As shown in
Figure 15, projected sea level rise would not
directly impact the City of Los Altos. However,
sea level rise has the potential to impact
regional infrastructure that services the City of
Los Altos. For example, the Regional Water
Quality Control Plant is located in the sea level
10 AFN Web Map, accessed May 20, 2024,
https://www.caloes.ca.gov/office-of-the-director/policyadministration/access-functional-needs/oafn-web-map/. rise hazard zone within the City of Palo Alto.

The Regional Water Quality Control Plant treats
wastewater for the City of Los Altos and would
be impacted by sea level rise. Other
infrastructure systems outside of the City may
be impacted by sea level rise which would have
secondary impacts to Los Altos. Inundation of
pipelines, power lines, sewage systems and
transportation infrastructure would potentially
cause secondary impacts to the City of Los Altos
including contamination of water supplies, loss
of power, and interruptions to communication
and transportation networks. Sea level rise in
surrounding communities may result in public
health and safety issues, affecting emergency
response and overall community resilience
throughout the area.

2.5.4. Resilience
Resilience in the face of climate change refers
to the actions that can be taken to reduce the
drivers of climate change and actions to
mitigate the effects of climate change.

Strategies such as reducing greenhouse gas
emissions, sustainable land uses, and policy
change can mitigate the drivers of climate
change. However, these strategies alone will
not prevent the climate impacts already set in
motion by current greenhouse gas levels.

Climate change impacts will play out over an
extended period. Because climate change is a
long-term phenomenon, it is important to
adequately plan for the impacts of climate
change.

Climate change is anticipated to cause more
frequent and/or more severe storms. To
increase resilience to climate change,
communities can strengthen infrastructure to
withstand extreme weather and storms.

Bolstering drainage capacities and flood control
11 National Ocean Service/National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2022 Sea Level Rise Technical Report,
https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/hazards/sealevelrise/sealevelrisetech-report-sections.html. 129
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 35
measures can mitigate the effects of intense
storms. Strengthening and modernizing utility
infrastructure can mitigate the secondary
impacts of storms such as service interruptions,
contaminated water supplies, and power
outages. With more frequent or intense storm
events, it is likely that flooding may have a more
significant effect on the City. Additionally,
regional assets outside of the City such as
utilities and infrastructure are at risk. Flooding
or damage to regional infrastructure and
facilities including the Palo Alto Regional Water
Quality Control Plant, would have impacts to
the City of Los Altos. The Regional Water
Quality Control Plant treats wastewater for Los
Altos and is located in the anticipated sea level
rise zone or San Francisco Bay; flooding of this
facility would disrupt service to Los Altos and
may have regional impacts to water quality.

Increasing the capacity of the City's drainage
infrastructure would make Los Altos more
resilient to weather events linked to climate
change. Coordinating regional resilience
projects to protect critical infrastructure and
bolster stormwater management inside and
outside of the City would protect the larger area
surrounding Los Altos.

Climate change resiliency also includes
measures to reduce vulnerability to droughts
and wildfires. This may include water
conservation and water supply management
efforts to ensure the City is prepared in the
event of a long-term drought. Diversifying the
City's water supply by introducing and
maintaining water sources that are less
susceptible to drought or are more sustainable
also accomplishes this goal. Additionally, as
wildfire becomes more frequent or intense with
climate change, actions to mitigate the City’s
vulnerability may be warranted. Although the
City is not generally prone to wildfire hazards,
regional wildfires may become an increasing
threat with climate change.

Resilient Los Altos (RLA) is dedicated to strengthening neighborhoods in Los Altos by providing residents with knowledge, training and resources needed to prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies.

Photo Courtesy of Resilient Los Altos
130
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 36
Figure 15: Sea Level Rise
Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; Esri; City of Los Altos. 131
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 37

2.5.5. Vulnerability Assessment
Summary
The Vulnerability Assessment for City of Los
Altos is supported by two documents: the Santa
Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard
Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) and the Los Altos
Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP). The
goal of the Vulnerability Assessment is to
understand how and to what extent the
changing climate will impact the community—
assets, people, and the economy.

According to the MJHMP, Los Altos faces
several vulnerabilities related to climate
hazards. These include extreme heat, drought,
and wildfires, which can impact community
health, air quality, water availability, and
biodiversity. Additionally, storms with intense
precipitation, flooding, and high winds pose a
growing risk. Vulnerabilities also extend to
potential flooding, property damage, and loss of
life downstream of Stevens Creek Dam. The
City’s primary wildfire vulnerability is poor air
quality due to neighboring wildfire events,
which affect vulnerable populations. The City
does not have a mandatory earthquake retrofit
policy in place. In general, buildings with a
higher collapse potential include residential and
commercial buildings constructed prior to 1990
that have not had seismic retrofits. Areas near
creeks are also at risk due to higher liquefaction
potential. Below is the vulnerability summary
from the MJHMP.

The CAAP provides a risk probability score for
each of the hazards. The CAAP Task Force is a
group of City staff and Environmental
Commission members who guided the
development of the CAAP. Task force members
ranked their concerns on a scale of 1 to 3 for
primary and secondary climate hazards. Primary
climate hazards are phenomena that are
climate variables. Temperature and
precipitation define climate. Secondary climate
hazards are hazards resulting from changes in
primary climate hazards in relation to
community sectors like the natural
environment, the economy, and the public. In
addition to identifying risks, the CAAP outlines
climate impacts, mitigation strategies, priority
actions, and implementation measures to
enhance the city’s resilience against climate
change.

Table 3: Hazard Risk Index
Hazard Probability Life Impact Property
Impact
Percentage of
Area Impacted
Maximum
Probable
Extent
Drought Highly Likely Limited Limited Extensive Moderate Earthquake Likely Critical Critical Significant Major
Heavy Rain / Atmospheric
River
Highly Likely Critical Limited Significant Moderate
Extreme Heat Likely Minor Minor Significant Moderate
High Wind Occasional Minor Limited Minimal Moderate
Climate change Highly Likely Minor Critical Significant Major Wildfire/smoke/air quality Highly Likely Critical Limited Minimal Moderate Dam and levee failure Unlikely Critical Limited Negligible Weak Flood Occasional Minor Limited Minimal Moderate
Landslide/mass movement Unlikely Minor Minor Negligible Weak Source: Santa Clara County, Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. 132
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City of Los Altos 38
Table 4: CAAP Climate Hazards Ranking
Primary Climate Hazards Score
Temperature increase 2.4
Precipitation changes 1.8
Sea level rise 1.3
Secondary Climate Hazards Score
Drought 2.8
Extreme heat/heat waves 2.4
Wildfire 2.4
Air pollution 2.4
Flooding (riverine, areal) 2.3
Urban heat island 1.9
Flooding (coastal) 1.4
Landslide 1.3
Source: Los Altos Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.

2.6. Drought
Drought is defined as an extremely dry climatic
period where the available water falls below a
statistical average for a region. Drought is also
defined by factors other than rainfall, including
vegetation conditions, agricultural productivity,
soil moisture, water levels in reservoirs, and
streamflow. Droughts or water shortages are a
gradual phenomenon, occurring over multi-year
periods and increasing with the length of dry
conditions. When precipitation is less than normal
for a period of time, the flow of streams and rivers
declines, water levels in lakes and reservoirs fall,
and the depth to water in wells increases. If dry
weather persists and water supply problems
develop, the dry period can become a drought.

The term "drought" can have different meanings
depending on how a water deficiency affects dayto-day activities. Drought is a complex natural hazard, which is reflected in the following four
definitions commonly used to describe it12:
• Agricultural – Agricultural drought is
defined principally in terms of naturally
occurring soil moisture deficiencies
12 Types of Drought, Accessed June 1, 2024,
https://drought.unl.edu/Education/DroughtIndepth/TypesofDrought.aspx relative to water demands of plant life,
usually arid crops.
• Hydrological – Hydrological drought is
related to the effects of precipitation
shortfalls on stream flows and reservoir,
lake, and groundwater levels.
• Meteorological – Meteorological drought
is defined solely on the degree of dryness,
expressed as a departure of actual
precipitation from an expected average
or normal amount based on monthly,
seasonal, or annual time scales.
• Regulatory (or socioeconomic) –
Regulatory drought can occur when the
availability of water is reduced due to the
imposition of regulatory restrictions on
the diversion and export of water out of a
watershed to another area.

Although the climate is a primary contributor to
hydrological drought, other factors such as changes
in land use (i.e., deforestation), land degradation,
and the construction of dams can affect the
hydrological characteristics of a region. Because
regions are geographically interconnected by
natural systems, the impact of meteorological
drought may extend well beyond the borders of
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 39
the precipitation-deficient area. Changes in land
use upstream may alter hydrologic characteristics
such as infiltration and runoff rates, resulting in
more variable streamflow and a higher incidence of
hydrologic drought downstream. Land use change
is one way that human actions can alter the
frequency of water shortage even when no change
in precipitation has been observed.

Droughts cause public health and safety impacts, as
well as economic and environmental impacts.

Public health and safety impacts are primarily
associated with catastrophic wildfire risks and
drinking water shortage risks for small water
systems in rural areas and private residential wells.

Examples of other impacts include costs to
homeowners due to loss of residential landscaping;
degradation of urban environments due to loss of
landscaping; agricultural land fallowing and
associated job loss; degradation of fishery habitat;
and tree mortality with damage to forest
ecosystems.

Drought conditions can also result in damage to
older infrastructure that is located within dry soils
with the potential to leak or break. Dead or dying
vegetation poses a risk of falling and damaging
structures and infrastructure systems.

2.6.1. Drought Severity
Drought severity depends on numerous factors,
including duration, intensity, and geographic
extent, as well as regional water supply demands
by humans and vegetation. The severity of
drought can be aggravated by other climatic
factors, such as prolonged high winds and low
relative humidity. The magnitude of drought is
usually measured in time and the severity of the
hydrologic deficit.

The United States Drought Monitor is a map
released weekly that indicates the portions of
the United States that are experiencing drought
and the severity of the drought based on five
classifications: abnormally dry (D0), showing
areas that may be going into or are coming out
of drought, and four levels of drought: moderate
(D1), severe (D2), extreme (D3), and exceptional
(D4) (refer to Table 5).

The Drought Monitor is not a forecast but looks
backward, providing a weekly assessment of
drought conditions based on how much
precipitation did or did not fall. Because
drought is a slow-moving hazard, it may take
more than one good rainfall to end a drought,
especially if an area has been in drought for a
long time.

Table 5: Drought Severity Classification
Category Description Possible Impacts
D0 Abnormally Dry Going into drought: short-term dryness slowing planting, growth of crops or pastures.

Coming out of drought: some lingering water deficits; pastures or crops not fully recovered.

D1 Moderate
Drought
Some damage to crops, pastures, streams, reservoirs, or wells is low. Some water shortages are developing or imminent; voluntary water-use restrictions are requested.

D2 Severe Drought Crop or pasture losses likely; water shortages common; water restrictions imposed.

D3 Extreme Drought Major crop/pasture losses; widespread water shortages or restrictions.

D4 Exceptional
Drought
Exceptional and widespread crop/pasture losses; shortages of water in reservoirs, streams, and wells create water emergencies.

Source: US Drought Monitor.
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City of Los Altos 40

2.6.2. California Drought History
Drought has affected virtually every county in
California, and California has experienced
numerous severe droughts over the past
century. FEMA declared one drought
emergency for California in January 1977, and
other drought emergency declarations have
been declared by the state.13 According to the
2018 State Hazard Mitigation Plan, from 1972
to 2016, there were 15 drought state
emergency proclamations in California.14
The most severe drought on record began in
2012 and continued through 2017. On January
13 Federal Emergency Management Agency, Disaster Declarations, accessed May 21, 2024, https://www.fema.gov/disaster/3023. 14 California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, 2018 California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, September 2018, 17, 2014, the governor of California declared a
state drought emergency, and on April 1, 2015,
the governor announced the first-ever
mandatory 25 percent statewide water use
reduction and a series of actions to help save
water, increase enforcement to prevent
wasteful water use, streamline the state's
drought response, and invest in new
technologies that would make California more
drought resilient. At the time of the
announcement, the volume of Sierra Nevada
snowpack was approximately 14 percent of
normal. Despite multiple storms in February
2014, drought conditions persisted. By the end
https://www.caloes.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/002-2018-
SHMP_FINAL_ENTIRE-PLAN.pdf.

Santa Clara
County
135
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 41
of May 2014, all of California was in a condition
of "extreme" or "exceptional" drought. At the
same time, the volume of the Sierra Nevada
snowpack had decreased to less than 10
percent of normal, and water stored in Lake
Oroville, the major reservoir for the State Water
Project, was at 58 percent of normal.15 On April
7, 2017, the governor issued an executive order
ending the drought emergency in most of
California, including Santa Clara County.

Drought conditions returned in 2021 and
throughout 2022. Winter storms at the end of
2022 and into 2023 largely ended drought
conditions throughout California. By the end of
February 2023, the entirety of California was no
longer experiencing drought according to the
United States Drought Monitor.

Table 6: Historical Droughts
Date Area Affected Notes
1827–1916 Statewide Multiyear: 1827–29, 1843–44, 1856–57, 1863–64 (particularly extreme), 1887–88, 1897–1900, 1912–13.
1917–21 Statewide, except
for the central
Sierra Nevada and
north coast
Simultaneous in affected areas, 1919–20. Most extreme in the north. 1922–26 Statewide, except
for the central
Sierra Nevada
Simultaneously in effect for the entire state only during 1924, which was particularly severe.
1928–37 Statewide Simultaneously in effect for the entire state, 1929–34. Longest in the state's history. 1943–51 Statewide Simultaneously in effect for the entire state, 1947–49. Most extreme in the south. 1959–62 Statewide Most extreme in the Sierra Nevada and the central coast. 1976–77 Statewide, except
for southwestern
deserts
Driest 2 years in the state's history. Most severe in the northern two-thirds of the state. 1987–92 Statewide Moderate. Most extreme in the northern Sierra Nevada. 2000–02 Statewide Most severe in Southern California.
2007–09 Statewide Twelfth driest 3-year period on record at the time. Most severe in western San Joaquin Valley.
2012–17 Statewide Most severe California drought on record. 2021–2023 Statewide 2021 became the second driest year on record. The drought emergency expanded statewide as of October 2021.

Sources: Paulson, R. W., E. B. Chase, R. S. Roberts, and D. W. Moody, Compilers, National Water Summary 1988-89: Hydrologic Events and Floods and Droughts: US Geological Survey Water-Supply Paper; California Department of Water Resources, California's Most Significant Droughts: Comparing Historical and Recent Conditions.

2.6.3. Water Supply
Los Altos receives all of its water from the
California Water Service Company (Cal Water),
which operates local wells, but imports the
majority of its domestic water. Cal Water operates
15 California Department of Water Resources, California’s Most Significant Droughts: Comparing Historical and Recent Conditions, 2015.
25 districts. The Los Altos Suburban District was
formed in 1931 with the purchase of the Los Altos
Water Company. The district’s Service Area Map is
shown in Figure 16. With water issues becoming
more important throughout California, Los Altos
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 42
needs to ensure that its residents and businesses
have access to adequate supplies of high-quality
water now and in the future. Water conservation
is critical to achieving this objective since
conservation reduces the overall need for water by
the community.

According to the 2020 Urban Water Management
Plan (UWMP) - Los Altos Suburban District,16
“California Water Service Company (Cal Water)
currently purchases treated surface water from
the Santa Clara Valley Water District (Valley
Water). In addition to its local surface water
supplies, Valley Water imports surface water to
the region through the South Bay Aqueduct of the
State Water Project (SWP) and the San Felipe
Division of the federal Central Valley Project (CVP).

Valley Water operates three drinking water
treatment plants (WTPs) (i.e., Penitencia WTP,
Rinconada WTP, and Santa Teresa WTP) that treat
its combined surface water supplies. Valley Water
disinfects the water using a blend of chlorine and
ammonia (chloramines).” Cal Water anticipates a
less than 2.5 percent increase in water demand
under normal conditions for the Los Altos
Suburban District from 2025 through 2035;17 Cal
Water and the Santa Clara Valley Water District
have not identified any substantial concerns with
water resources or meeting water demand into
the future.

The Cal Water UWMP provides current and future
demand projects for both potable and nonpotable uses of water for the entire service area.

Table 7 provides the breakdown of water demand
in Cal Water’s Los Altos Suburban District. The
table also includes the calculations based on
conservation strategies discussed in the district’s
2015 Conservation Master Plan as well as
projected housing demand.

Cal Water has analyzed the effect of climate and
weather variability on water demand and has
found that, for plausible emission scenarios and
corresponding temperature increases, climate
change may, on average, increase future district
demands by 2 to 3 percent compared to current
climate conditions. The 2020 Urban Water
Management Plan - Los Altos Suburban District
concludes that “Cal Water’s supply portfolio for
Los Altos Suburban District is expected to be able
to serve those demands in all year types through
2045.” Although water supply and demand are not
anticipated issues for Cal Water and the Los Altos
Suburban District, there are areas where water
infrastructure does not meet California Fire Code
including water flow and pressure requirements
for firefighting purposes. The Cal Water system has
many areas of gridded four-inch water mains that
are substandard and have challenges meeting fire
flow requirement.

Table 7: Water Supply Demand
Year 2017 2018 2019 2020
2035
projected
2045
projected
Potable and Non-Potable Water
(in acre feet)
11,656 12,438 11,982 13,023 13,324 14,097
Source: California Water Service, 2020 Urban Water Management Plan - Los Altos Suburban District. 16 California Water Service, 2020 Urban Water Management Plan - Los Altos Suburban District, 2021,
https://www.calwater.com/conservation/uwmp2020/.
17 California Water Service, 2020 Urban Water Management Plan - Los Altos Suburban District, 2021,
https://www.calwater.com/conservation/uwmp2020/.
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 43
Figure 16: California American Water Service Area Map
Source: California Water Service, 2020 Urban Water Management Plan- Los Altos Suburban District.

2.7. Hazardous Materials
A "hazardous material" is defined by California
Health and Safety Code Section 25501 as "any
material that, because of its quantity,
concentration, or physical or chemical
characteristics, poses a significant present or
potential hazard to human health and safety or to
the environment if released into the workplace or
the environment." Improper handling of
hazardous materials or waste may result in
significant impacts on human health and the
environment. Hazardous materials can be in the
form of explosives, flammable and combustible
substances, poisons, and radioactive materials.

Hazardous materials accidents can occur during
production, storage, transportation, use, or
disposal.
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City of Los Altos 44
The impacts of hazardous materials release can
vary, depending on the type and amount of
material released. Exposure to hazardous
materials can include the following effects:
skin/eye irritation, difficulty breathing, headaches,
nausea, behavior abnormalities, cancer, genetic
mutations, physiological malfunctions (i.e.,
reproductive impairment, kidney failure), physical
deformations, or birth defects. Some
demographics may be particularly susceptible to
the effects of hazardous materials. These sensitive
receptors typically include children and the
elderly.

Many businesses and residents in Los Altos use
hazardous materials and generate hazardous
waste. Common hazardous waste is generated
from uses such as gasoline service stations, dry
cleaners, and automotive mechanics.

Improper storage and disposal of hazardous waste
can result in environmental contamination of
surface water and groundwater. Heavy metals
such as lead, zinc, copper, nickel, mercury, and
cadmium can enter the waste stream via
residential sewage and urban runoff. To ensure
proper disposal, Los Altos joined with Santa Clara
County and the other cities in the County in
developing the County Hazardous Waste
Management Plan, which establishes a
comprehensive and coordinated countywide
approach to hazardous waste management.

Los Altos residents can safely dispose of
household hazardous waste through the Santa
Clara Countywide Household Hazardous Waste
Program. The County and 14 cities (including Los
Altos) participate in the program and share costs
based on the number of households served from
each jurisdiction.

2.7.1. Hazardous Materials Incidents
Potential threats from hazardous materials exist
where they are manufactured, stored,
transported, or used. Although localized, smallscale hazardous materials spills pose lowmagnitude risks to the City, there is potential for a major hazardous materials spill to severely impact
the City, its inhabitants, or environmental
resources. In Los Altos, commercial businesses
that use hazardous materials include dry cleaners,
film processors, auto service providers, and
medical clinics. Residences also generate
household hazardous wastes in the form of paints,
thinners, pesticides, fertilizers, etc.

Hazardous waste generators and users in the City
are required to comply with regulations enforced
by several federal, state, and county agencies. The
regulations aim toward reducing risk associated
with human exposure to hazardous materials and
minimizing adverse environmental effects. Los
Altos contracts with the Santa Clara County Fire
Department for fire protection services. The Fire
Department conducts inspections related to
hazardous materials. The Hazardous Materials
Compliance Division of the County Environmental
Health Services Department ensures compliance
and reporting in accordance with the Santa Clara
County Hazardous Waste Management Plan.

Hazardous materials can be flammable,
radioactive, infectious, corrosive, toxic/poisonous,
or otherwise reactive. The magnitude and severity
of the hazard would be dependent on the type of
spill, location, and the extent to which hazardous
materials enter the water system. For example, a
radioactive material spill would have a furtherreaching impact compared to a paint spill. Most hazardous materials operations within the City
are small-scale and pose minimal risk.

2.7.2. Hazardous Materials Sites
The State Water Resources Control Board
(SWRCB) maintains a data management system
called GeoTracker. GeoTracker identifies sites that
impact or have the potential to impact water
quality in jurisdictions statewide. These sites, such
as leaking underground storage tank sites,
Department of Defense sites, and cleanup
program sites, are required to undergo cleanups.
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City of Los Altos 45
GeoTracker also contains records for various
unregulated projects as well as permitted
facilities, including irrigated lands, oil and gas
production, operating permitted underground
storage tanks, and land disposal sites.18
As identified by the SWRCB, 42 sites have been
cleaned up in Los Altos since 1990. The majority of
hazardous materials sites were leaking
underground storage tank sites at private
residences. In 2024, five sites were shown to have
ongoing activities related to the previously known
or suspected release of hazardous materials to
soil and groundwater in Los Altos.

2.7.3. Transportation of Hazardous
Materials
Commercial transportation of hazardous materials
via Interstate 280 would potentially have
significant impacts during an incident, given the
volumes of hazardous materials being
transported. Transportation of hazardous
materials/wastes is regulated by the California
Code of Regulations Title 26. The US Department
of Transportation is the primary regulatory
authority for the interstate transport of hazardous
materials, and establishes regulations for safe
handling procedures (i.e., packaging, marking,
labeling, and routing). Criteria also exist regarding
personnel qualifications and training, inspection
requirements, and equipment specifications.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) enforces
regulations related to the intrastate transport of
hazardous materials and hazardous wastes. The
CHP and the California Department of
Transportation (Caltrans) enforce federal and
state regulations and respond to hazardous
materials transportation emergencies.

The transportation of hazardous materials via
railroad is not an issue as there are no railway
18 GeoTracker, accessed June 1, 2024,
https://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov/map/?myaddress=Californ ia&from=header&cqid=5315671622.
lines traversing the City. However, transportation
of hazardous materials via freeway may be an
issue as the Foothill Expressway traverses the City.

Hazardous materials also pass through the City in
route to other designations via the freeway, rail,
and surface street system. The US Department of
Transportation regulates the transport of
hazardous materials on state highways and rail
lines using established criteria for safe handling
procedures. Federal safety standards are also
included in the California Administrative Code and
the California Health Services Department
regulates the haulers of hazardous waste.

2.7.3.1. Siting and Managing Facilities
The use, storage, and handling of hazardous
materials and waste within Los Altos are
rigorously controlled by federal, state, and local
regulations. The City uses a variety of tools to
regulate facilities that use, store, and handle
hazardous materials and waste in order to
ensure compatibility with existing and planned
surrounding land uses. The primary tools are
zoning regulations, environmental review of
proposed developments in accordance with
CEQA, and the issuance of business licenses.

As development and redevelopment in Los
Altos continue, the potential exists for facilities
that use, store, and handle hazardous materials
and waste to be sited in locations where such
activities may be incompatible with existing and
planned surrounding land uses. Through the use
of appropriate tools, the City will ensure that
facilities using, storing, and handling hazardous
materials and waste will be appropriately sited
and that the operation of such facilities will be
regulated such that significant adverse effects
to surrounding land uses will be avoided to the
extent possible.
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 46
Figure 17: Hazardous Materials Sites
Source: State Water Resources Control Board, GeoTracker; Department of Toxic Substances Control, EnviroStor; Esri; City of Los Altos. 141
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 47

2.7.4. Household Hazardous Waste
Program
Hazardous Waste Management Plan
The City of Los Altos has a Household
Hazardous Waste Program in place to manage
items that pose a threat if disposed of
improperly. Mission Trail Waste Systems
provides residential, commercial, and industrial
collection services for garbage, recycling, and
organics in Los Altos. Some items, like batteries,
fluorescent light bulbs, electronic waste, and
mercury thermostats, are considered hazardous
waste. These items cannot be disposed of in
regular trash cans.

Hazardous waste generators and users in the
City are required to comply with regulations
enforced by several federal, state, and county
agencies. The regulations are designed to
reduce risk associated with human exposure to
hazardous materials and minimize adverse
environmental effects.

To ensure that classified hazardous substances
used by commercial and residential activities
are properly handled, contained, and disposed
of, the Santa Clara County Fire Department
coordinates with the County’s Hazardous
Materials Compliance Division to implement the
Santa Clara County Hazardous Waste
Management Plan.

2.8. Emergency
Planning/Response
The Los Altos Emergency Preparedness Program
includes an emergency preparedness webpage,
Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), and
Emergency Operations Center (EOC). In
19 City of Los Altos, “Emergency Preparedness,” accessed June 1, 2024, https://www.losaltosca.gov/police/page/emergencypreparedness. addition, Los Altos has two fire stations and one
police station.

2.8.1. Emergency Preparedness
Website
The City maintains an emergency preparedness
webpage on the City website, which provides
information regarding hazards and
preparedness.19 It identifies potential risks,
facilities, and resources relied upon in the event
of a catastrophe, and persons responsible for
implementation. The webpage also provides
personal emergency preparedness training,
which includes the “26 Steps: Personal
Emergency Preparedness Workbook.” The
webpage has information related to emergency
supply kits, pet emergency preparedness,
communications plan during the time of
emergency, storm preparation and Resilient Los
Altos. Resilient Los Altos is a community-driven
initiative aimed at enhancing the City’s
resilience to various challenges, including
natural disasters, climate change, and social
disruptions.

2.8.2. Emergency Operations Plan
The EOP for the City of Los Altos outlines
authorities, organizational structures, and
procedures used to coordinate activities related
to local and regional emergencies or disasters.20
It establishes the emergency organization,
assigns tasks, specifies policies, and provides for
coordination of planning efforts using the
Standardized Emergency Management System.

The plan also meets the requirements
established by the National Incident
Management System. The objective of this plan
is to incorporate and coordinate all agencies
and personnel within the City into an efficient
organization capable of responding to any
20 City of Los Altos, Emergency Operations Plan, accessed June 1, 2024,
https://www.losaltosca.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/p ublic_works/project/56151/los_altos_eop_3.22.2016.pdf.
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 48
emergency. The EOP serves as the foundational
element of the City’s approach to emergency
management. While all City resources may be
called upon as needed, specific departmental
responsibilities are outlined in the EOP Basic
Plan and associated annexes.

The EOP calls for post-incident or post-exercise
evaluation of the EOP, and/or changes in
responsibilities, procedures, laws, or
regulations. The City’s Police Department is
responsible for the review, revisions,
management, and distribution of the City of Los
Altos EOP. The post-disaster analysis will help
the City improve safety plans and responses.

2.8.3. Emergency Operations Center
The Santa Clara County MJHMP identified that
the City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
needs to be replaced. The City proposes to
incorporate a code compliant EOC into the
existing Los Altos Community Center, which is
located at 97 Hillview Avenue in the City of Los
Altos. The proposed project would install radio
equipment, antennas, and a satellite dish;
replace existing HVAC system equipment with a
new system equipped with more robust filters
and connections to emergency power system;
and construct a small enclosure to house a
diesel emergency back-up generator. Following
construction of the EOC, operation of the center
would be limited to essential City functions
during emergencies and natural disasters.

Completion of the EOC is anticipated for August
2025, which includes the time to furnish and
commission the generator; much of the work is
anticipated to occur before that date.

The main purpose of the EOC is to provide a
centralized location where emergency
management coordination and decision making
can be supported during a critical incident,
major emergency, or disaster. The EOC will
provide essential services to the public after a
natural disaster; support a number of critical
tasks such as monitoring activities related to
emergency preparedness; and provide a
location for collecting and analyzing data to
help make decisions that protect the City of Los
Altos.

In coordination with Santa Clara County Fire
Department, the City partners with Resilient Los
Altos, a program dedicated to improving the
ability of groups of people to respond to and
recover from adverse situations, such as natural
disasters, acts of violence, economic hardship,
and other challenges to the community of Los
Altos and the adjacent areas. Resilient Los Altos
offers classes, events, and webinars on
emergency preparedness topics. Stakeholders
include Los Altos Block Action Team members,
the Los Altos Community Emergency Response
Team (CERT) members, Los Altos Amateur
Radio Emergency Service members, Los Altos
School District representatives, Mountain View
Los Altos High School District, faith-based
community representatives, allied health
representatives, and representatives from the
business community.

The core Resilient Los Altos groups are the
Block Action Teams, CERTs and ham radio
operators. Block Action Teams are small
neighborhood groups led by a volunteer leader
who come together to work as a team after a
disaster. CERTs are resident volunteers that
have taken training about disaster
preparedness and basic disaster response skills,
such as fire safety, light search and rescue,
team organization, and disaster medical
operations. Ham radio operators are licensed
individuals who can provide communications
services when other services such as telephone
and text are unable.

Los Altos also offers a free personal emergency
preparedness class in partnership with the
Santa Clara County Fire Department. The class is
designed to teach residents how to be self143
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 49
sufficient in the event of an emergency until
relief is available.

The City maintains an emergency preparedness
page on its website, which provides information
about various resources and programs. In
addition to County emergency alert notification
systems such as Alert SCC, the City also
subscribes to Nixle for text and voice
notifications.

The first line of defense against any catastrophe
is to avoid threatening situations and to prepare
disaster response plans that will minimize the
harmful impacts. Quick action in the event of an
emergency will reduce the probability of
additional injuries and damage.

Government disaster preparedness planning
efforts are handled primarily by the police
departments and the County Office of
Emergency Services. The County and each city
are required to prepare disaster plans in
accordance with state regulations; assign duties
for emergency response; designate EOCs and
emergency shelters; and establish an
emergency broadcast system.

2.8.4. Law Enforcement and Fire
Protection

2.8.4.1. Law Enforcement
Law enforcement services are provided by the
Los Altos Police Department. The Los Altos
Police Department has a total of 32 sworn
officers and 14 professional support staff;
divisions include Patrol, Traffic, Investigations,
Code Enforcement, Crime Prevention, Canine,
SWAT and the Reserves. The following crime
prevention programs and services are offered
through the Los Altos Police Department:
• Neighborhood Watch
21 Santa Clara County Fire Department, 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, https://www.sccfd.org/wp-
• Home security inspections
• A group presentation as requested by
various resident or business
groups/organizations.
• CityProtect program, which enables
residents and businesses to register
their cameras or submit a tip.

2.8.4.2. Fire Protection
The City contracts with the Santa Clara County
Fire Department for fire protection services
within the City boundaries. Two fire stations
serve the City of Los Altos.
• Almond Fire Station at 10 Almond
Avenue: 3 Personnel, Engine 75 (3),
Engine 675 (Select Call), Engine 175
(Reserve), 1929 Model A (Antique)
• Loyola Fire Station at 765 Fremont
Avenue: 3 Personnel, Engine 76 (3),
Engine 176 (Reserve)
Services provided by the Fire Department
include fire prevention, emergency medical
services, hazardous materials, and fire
investigations. Additionally, the mutual aid
agreement between Los Altos and the Santa
Clara County Fire Department includes
automatic response from the 13 other fire
stations in the event of large-scale fire events.

One of the key performance indicators
according to Santa Clara County Fire
Department’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan is that
“the first suppression unit arrives at structure
fires, hazardous material releases, and other
urgent incidents requiring the use of PPE within
7 minutes and 50 seconds (urban) or 11
minutes and 50 seconds (rural) for 90 percent
of incidents.”21
There are no plans for the expansion of existing
facilities or addition of new stations in the area.

Although the Santa Clara County Fire
content/uploads/2023/04/2023.4.26_SCCFD_StrategicPlan2023_F INAL_WEB.pdf.
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 50
Department does not currently anticipate a
need for new or expanded fire response
capabilities, this may change due to future
development and increased population density.

2.9. Evacuation Routes
In the event of a significant emergency, clear
routes are needed to ensure that emergency
responders and supplies can be transported and
that community members can be evacuated.

Evacuation efforts depend on the severity and
type of hazard incident that is occurring. In some
cases, people may have a day or two to prepare,
while other situations might call for an
immediate evacuation. Evacuation routes
include major roadways and thoroughfares
intended to transport people from areas
impacted by hazardous events to areas of
safety. Refer to Figure 18 for mapped
evacuation routes.

The designated evacuation routes in the City
include all arterials and highways. The primary
north/south evacuation routes include
Arastradero Road, West Fremont Road, San
Antonio Road, South El Monte Avenue,
Magdalena Avenue, South Springer Road, and
Grant Road. The primary east/west evacuation
routes from the City include Foothill
Expressway, El Camino Real, Cuesta Drive,
Fremont Avenue, Interstate 280, and Highway
101. Designated evacuation routes are the most
reliable roadway facilities for the following
reasons:
• These roads are designed to
accommodate higher volumes of traffic
in line with their classifications.
• Access controls are more stringent on
roads of higher classification.
• Intersection controls are designed to
prioritize travel on roads of higher
classification.
• Roadway maintenance policies
prioritize roads of higher classification.

Evacuation route vulnerability can be expressed
from several perspectives. The most direct
expression of route vulnerability deals with
physical features along an evacuation route that
can be damaged during emergency scenarios
and cause the evacuation route to be disrupted
and unusable. These physical features include:
• Bridges (over rivers, creeks, and other
drainage features)
• Bridges (creating grade-separated
roadways)
• Low points along the route that are
prone to flooding
• Route locations along steep natural
slopes that are prone to landslides
• Narrow road widths constraining access
and egress of civilians and first
responders
• Roads having significant slopes in
excess of 20 percent grade
Evacuation route vulnerability can also be
expressed in terms of vulnerability to residents
where development areas are isolated and/or
areas that have access to only one evacuation
route. These areas are a concern and require
additional advanced planning to address
emergency scenarios where an evacuation is
needed, and the single evacuation route may be
blocked or damaged and cannot be used.

Figure 19 shows those residential development
areas (neighborhoods) that have only one
access point to a primary evacuation route.

These neighborhoods were identified after a
thorough review of various citywide maps and
aerial photographs and include residential
developments that may be access-constrained
during an evacuation. If a neighborhood has
direct access to another roadway and that
roadway funnels to more than one designated
evacuation route, it would not be considered
vulnerable. Similarly, if a neighborhood has
direct access to a designated evacuation route
with only one way in and out, this would be
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 51
considered a vulnerable neighborhood.

Vulnerable neighborhoods also include those
with roads below the minimum width required
by the Fire Code, dead-end roads that lack
adequate turn arounds, or roads where
distances between fire hydrants exceed Fire
Code Requirements.

In an evacuation scenario, these neighborhoods
could be exposed to an increased risk due to
the lack of multiple egress opportunities;
therefore, they should be given earlier
evacuation consideration. Additionally, these
neighborhoods should be evaluated for
improvements, including road widening, smaller
distances between fire hydrants, slope
modifications, landscaping and other strategies
to provide increased wildfire safety.
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 52
Figure 18: Evacuation Routes Map
147
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 53
Figure 19: Evacuation Route Vulnerable Neighborhoods
148
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City of Los Altos 54
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City of Los Altos 55
Goal SE-1: Reduce Geologic
and Seismic Hazard Risk
Policies
SE-1.1: Monitor and update risk/life safety
standards and regulate developments
to mitigate risk to life and property
related to earthquakes, liquefaction,
erosion, landslides, and unstable soil
conditions.

SE-1.2: Require site-specific soil analysis and
geotechnical investigations for
developments on sites in known or
suspected hazard zones.

SE-1.3: Encourage regular assessments of the
structural integrity of critical City
facilities and infrastructure. Consider
seismic retrofits for modifications to
existing buildings and new buildings,
ensuring that all construction complies
with current seismic standards, when
applicable.

Actions in Support of Goal SE-1
SE-1.a: Require the submission and review of
geologic and soils reports for all
developments, in accordance with the
Los Altos Municipal Code. The
geological risk areas identified in these
studies must include established
standards and recommendations, which
shall be incorporated into the
development plans.

SE-1.b: Ensure strict compliance with the
requirements of the California Code of
Regulations (CCR), Title 24, during the
plan check review process to minimize
damage from earthquakes and other
geologic activity.

Goal SE-2: Reduce Flooding
Hazard Risk
Policies
SE-2.1: Regulate land uses in flood-prone areas
in accordance with the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP)
requirements. Allow development in
flood-prone areas (including the 100-
year and 500-year flood zones) that
would avoid adverse impacts to existing
properties and flood control and
drainage structures or avoid adverse
impacts with the appropriate
mitigation.

SE-2.2: Identify and pursue local, state, and
federal funding sources, including
grants, to support flood prevention and
mitigation efforts.

SE-2.3: Regularly maintain creeks and drainage
systems to prevent flooding and
property damage and proactively
inspect drainage systems to remove
obstructions. Coordinate with agencies
to enhance infrastructure and promote
sustainable stormwater management.

SE-2.4: Require all development projects
requiring a building permit to
Minimize risks of personal injury and
property damage associated with seismic
activity, landslides, and other geologic
hazards.

Reduce the potential for flooding along
creeks that traverse Los Altos.
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 56
incorporate stormwater management
measures that align with current
National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDSE) permit
requirements.

SE-2.5: Enhance public awareness and
education on flood risks and mitigation
measures.

Actions in Support of Goal SE-2
SE-2.a: Continue to review projects in flood
hazard areas to ensure compliance with
Los Altos Municipal Code Chapter 12.60
(Flood Management Ordinance).

SE-2.b: Coordinate with the Valley Water
District to maintain flood control
channels, complete necessary repairs
and secure funding to ensure resilient
stormwater infrastructure.

SE-2.c: Prioritize the development and
maintenance of a comprehensive and
functional emergency evacuation plan
for populated areas within identified
dam inundation zones. This plan should
address public concerns by including
detailed procedures for evacuation and
control, ensuring it is practical and
effective for real-world scenarios.

SE-2.d: Continue to safeguard creeks and
habitats by enforcing the Watercourse
Protection Ordinance, which preserves
water quality, biodiversity, and the
natural integrity of creek ecosystems.

Maintain and enhance the special
setback provisions along Adobe Creek,
from Shoup Park to O’Keefe Lane, to
prevent development or activities that
could degrade water flow, habitat, or
water quality. Regularly review and
update the ordinance to address
emerging environmental challenges and
ensure long-term protection of these
vital watercourses.

SE-2.e: Continue erosion and sediment control
measures for all construction and
development projects to reduce soil
erosion and minimize runoff into
waterways.

Goal SE-3: Reduce Hazardous
Materials Hazard Risk
Policies
SE-3.1: Cooperate with and participate in
development of the policies and future
programs of the Santa Clara County
Health Department and the California
Legislature.

SE-3.2: Require hazardous waste generated
within Los Altos to be disposed of in a
safe manner, consistent with all
applicable local, State, and Federal
laws.

SE-3.3: Identify hazardous materials users and
producers, to identify and mitigate risk
of hazardous materials spills to the
community.

SE-3.4: Coordinate with the Santa Clara County
Fire Department (SCCFD) to ensure that
businesses in Los Altos handling
hazardous materials prepare and file a
Hazardous Materials Management Plan
(HMMP) and Hazardous Materials
Inventory Statement (HMIS).

Protect the community’s health, safety,
welfare, natural resources, and property
through regulation of use, storage,
transport, and disposal of hazardous
materials.
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 57
SE-3.5: Require compliance with the Santa
Clara County Hazardous Waste
Management Plan.

Actions in Support of Goal SE-3
SE-3.a: Maintain coordination with the Santa
Clara County Fire Department (SCCFD)
and support their ongoing efforts to
conduct internal training for local fire
personnel in the handling, containment,
and cleanup procedures necessary for
responding to spills of radioactive, toxic,
and hazardous substances.

SE-3.b: Enforce compliance with the Santa
Clara County Hazardous Waste
Management Plan for all relevant
businesses and operations within the
City.

Goal SE-4: Reduce Climate
Change Hazard Risk
Policies
SE-4.1: Continue implementing the Climate
Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) to
reduce risks and vulnerabilities
associated with climate-related
hazards. Efforts shall include ongoing
assessment and progress tracking to
enhance resilience and adaptation
while ensuring actions do not lead to
disproportionately adverse effects on
vulnerable populations.

SE-4.2: Ensure that emergency response plans
and training programs continue to
evolve and are modified to protect
residents, infrastructure, and facilities
during emergencies and extreme
weather events.

Actions in Support of Goal SE-4
SE-4.a: Continue to implement actions as
identified in the Los Altos Climate Action
and Adaptation Plan (CAAP), to reduce
risk and vulnerability for climate related
hazards..

SE-4b Identify, designate, and publicize the
availability of public buildings, specific
private buildings, or institutions with air
conditioning as cooling shelters for
residents without access to air
conditioning during extreme heat days.

SE-4c: Collaborate with the City of Palo Alto to
reduce the impact of sea level rise and
secure funding to ensure resilient
infrastructure for the Regional Water
Quality Control Plant.

Goal SE-5: Reduce HumanCaused Hazard Risk
Policies
SE-5.1: Continue to explore new community
policing techniques to maintain the safe
neighborhood character of the
community.

SE-5.2: Apply design techniques and standards
to prevent criminal activity in new
development and reuse/revitalization
projects.

SE-5.3: Reduce the risk from air and ground
transportation hazards, such as aircraft,
rail, truck, and roadway systems.

Minimize the risk of hazards and climate
change to Los Altos residents.

Minimize risks of personal injury and
property damage associated with human
activities, such as criminal activity and air
and ground transportation.
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 58
Actions in Support of Goal SE-5
SE-5.a: Support multi-jurisdictional cooperation
on emergency preparedness, hazard
mitigation, and response. Coordinate
with Santa Clara County to improve
communication, training, and exercises,
pursue a joint risk reduction project, and
enhance system redundancy.

SE-5.b: Collaborate with community-based
organizations like CERT, Resilient Los
Altos, and the Los Altos Amateur Radio
Emergency Service to strengthen local
preparedness and emergency response.

Leverage volunteer capacity and
promote educational opportunities from
regional and national nonprofits like the
American Red Cross.

SE-5.c: Ensure critical facilities like hospitals,
fire stations, and communication
centers are designed to remain
functional during disasters. Regularly
assess these facilities for vulnerabilities
and collaborate on necessary upgrades.

Goal SE-6: Plan for City
Action During a Disaster
Policies
SE-6.1: Maintain an updated Emergency
Operations Plan (EOP) and emergency
preparedness information on the City
website. Emergency preparedness
information should increase public
awareness of natural hazards and
hazards associated with human activity
and of methods to avoid or mitigate the
effects of these hazards. The EOP
should ensure that critical facilities will
function during and after a disaster.

SE-6.2: Coordinate emergency preparedness
with neighboring cities, local school
districts, and the Santa Clara County
Operational Area (OA), and continue to
identify and support opportunities for
shared mitigation activities, mutual aid
and other support.

SE-6.3: Support Santa Clara County as the lead
agency in the County-wide MultiJurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) and participate as an annex in
future updates.

SE-6.4: Encourage participation in City
Volunteer programs, such as
Community Emergency Response Team
(CERT) training, and regional/national
programs, such as Red Cross. Encourage
residents and community leaders to
participate in disaster training
programs, and as feasible, assist in
neighborhood drills and safety exercises
to increase participation and build
community support.

SE-6.5: Promote and ensure the development,
implementation, and regular updating
of a comprehensive emergency
evacuation plan. The plan should
include detailed evacuation routes and
awareness programs, with a particular
focus on residential neighborhoods
with limited access or egress points.

The plan must be functional, regularly
tested, and updated based on
community feedback and evolving best
practices.

SE-6.6: Continue to improve the City’s
notification system to ensure timely
and effective notification of residents
and community members in the event
of an emergency. Encourage
participation and registration in Santa
Clara County’s emergency alert,
Plan for City and citizen actions in the
event of a disaster.
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Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 59
warning, and evacuation systems, such
as AlertSCC and Genasys Protect, for all
Los Altos residents and workers.

Actions in Support of Goal SE-6
SE-6.a: Continue to maintain a comprehensive
Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) to
enhance coordination among
emergency service providers– including
fire, medical and law enforcement-and
to minimize human suffering and
property damage during disasters. The
Plan should do the following:

1. Identify Resources & Coordination –
Outline available emergency response
resources and establish coordinated
action plans for various disaster
scenarios, including earthquakes, fires,
roadway accidents, flooding, hazardous
materials incidents, civil disturbances,
and chemical, biological, or nuclear
attack.

2. Designate Public Shelters – Identify
locations where aid, supplies, and
shelter will be available to residents
during emergencies.

3. Ensure Regular Review & Alignment
– Conduct an annual review of the EOP
to update roles, responsibilities, and
contact information, ensuring
alignment with current capabilities.

Maintain consistency with the Santa
Clara County Operational Area
Emergency Operations Plan to facilitate
seamless mutual aid coordination.

4. Conduct Training & Exercises – Hold
annual tabletop exercises with City staff
to reinforce emergency response
procedures and preparedness.

Additionally, participate in County-wide
training opportunities as available to
enhance coordination and readiness.

SE-6.b: Implement mitigation actions from the
Santa Clara County Multi-Jurisdictional
Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP), City
of Los Altos Annex. Use Federal
Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Assistance
(HMA) grants where appropriate and
participate in MJHMP updates every
five years.

SE-6.c: Continue to partner with communitybased organizations such as Los Altos Community Emergency Response Team
(CERT), Resilient Los Altos, and the Los
Altos Amateur Radio Emergency Service
members in emergency response
efforts.

SE-6.d: Encourage schools, neighborhood
associations, and other interested
groups to teach first aid and disaster
preparedness, including Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT)
programs, and other tools available to
neighborhood and community groups to
improve disaster preparedness.

SE-6.e: Identify areas with inadequate
evacuation routes, particularly those
lacking at least two emergency exits or
located on streets narrower than 20
feet. Prioritize emergency outreach on
neighborhoods with limited access,
document them in the Emergency
Operations Plan, prioritize early
warnings, and improve evacuation
routes as funding allows. Where
feasible and as funding allows, develop
and implement improvement plans to
meet minimum evacuation standards.

SE-6.f: Continue to maintain tree trimming and
maintenance for street trees and
encourage maintenance on private
property to prevent trees from
obstructing evacuation routes.
154
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 60
SE-6.g: Continue to track and implement
emerging technologies into the existing
emergency notification systems to
improve communications with residents
during emergencies. Conduct regular
tests and provide training for staff and
community members to ensure effective
notifications and communication during
emergencies.

Goal SE-7: Reduce Fire and
Wildfire Risk
Policies
SE-7.1: Reduce wildfire risk through land use
planning and wildfire prevention
measures.

SE-7.2: Coordinate with Santa Clara County Fire
Department and neighboring cities to
provide roadside fuel reduction,
defensible space, and vegetation
management, particularly along
evacuation routes.

SE-7.3: Provide outreach and education on
topics including fire resilient
landscaping, defensible space and
evacuation procedures.

SE-7.4: Require undergrounding of utilities
(including electric and communication
utilities) on public and private property,
where feasible.

SE-7.5: Prioritize the development and
maintenance of a comprehensive and
functional evacuation plan for areas
potentially affected by wildfire hazards
as part of the Emergency Operations
Plan. Prioritize evacuation efforts and
notice for neighborhoods that have only
one evacuation point.

SE-7.6: Require new development to construct
and fund all fire suppression
infrastructure and equipment needed
to provide adequate fire protection
services.

SE-7.7: Promote fire safety through education
and building design. Ensure all new
development and redevelopment
complies with the most current version
of the California Building Code,
California Fire Code, Los Altos Municipal
Code, and all other legal requirements
for fire safety.

SE-7.8 Ensure that adequate water supplies
are available for fire suppression
throughout the City and support the
California Water Service efforts to
remedy any deficiencies in the water
delivery system to ensure adequate
fire-suppression flows.

Actions in Support of Goal SE-7
SE-7.a: Continue to participate in the Santa
Clara County Weed Abatement program
to identify and mandate the abatement
of fire hazards due to weed or plant
growth. Ensure private properties within
the Urban Wildland Interface reduce
wildfire risk through comprehensive
vegetation management, including
establishing defensible space and
proper storage of flammable materials.

Coordinate with the Santa Clara County
Fire Department and neighboring cities
to mitigate hazardous conditions on or
near the City's jurisdictional boundary.

SE-7.b: Promote community awareness and
participation in the Santa Clara County
Fire Department’s fire education
programs.

Minimize risks of personal injury and
property damage associated with urban
fire and wildfire hazards.
155
Agenda Item # 7.

City of Los Altos 61
SE-7.c: Require that all new utility services and
relocated existing utility services are
placed underground, in accordance with
Los Altos Municipal Code Chapter 12.68.

SE-7.d: Continue to regularly track designated
wildfire hazard zones such as the fire
hazard severity zone (CalFIRE) and
county-designated Wildland Urban
Interface (WUI) zones.

SE-7.e: Collaborate with the California Water
Service to regularly evaluate existing
infrastructure and ensure adequate fire
flow for fire suppression. Coordinate
with the California Water Service to
identify and remediate infrastructure
that does not meet fire flow
requirements and explore emergency
water supply agreements, if necessary.

Goal SE-8: Emergency
Services
Policies
SE-8.1: Provide adequate funding for police
personnel and equipment, to
accommodate existing and future
community needs to ensure a safe and
secure environment for people and
property.

SE-8.2: Promote and support community-based
crime prevention programs as an
important augmentation to the
provision of professional police
services. Support existing programs and
encourage expanded or new programs
that focus on youth crime prevention,
anti-gang, and anti-graffiti programs, or
other community programs that reduce
crime throughout the City.

SE-8.3: Cooperate with neighboring cities,
Santa Clara County, and regional
agencies to address crime issues that
cross jurisdictional boundaries.

Actions in Support of Goal SE-8
SE-8.a: Allocate sufficient budgetary resources
to ensure the recruitment, training, and
retention of police personnel, and the
procurement of necessary equipment.

Identify and pursue grants and funding
opportunities to support these efforts.

SE-8.b: Periodically evaluate Police Department
response times and incident data to
ensure adequate police services are
provided throughout the city.

SE-8.c: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of
crime reduction initiatives with the
Police Department and adapt policies
and programs accordingly.

SE-8.d: As part of the development review
process, continue to consult with the
Santa Clara County Fire Department in
order to ensure that development
projects facilitate adequate fire services
and fire prevention measures.

SE-8.e: Maintain regular communication with
regional public safety providers,
including County of Santa Clara Office of
the Sheriff and Office of Emergency
Management to discuss regional issues,
share best practices, and develop joint
strategies for solutions.

Maintain a safe community through
adequate, efficient, and high-quality
police, fire, and emergency services.
156
Agenda Item # 7.

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT & HAZARDS

ELEMENT

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION........................................................................... 2 Purpose of the Natural Environment & Hazards Element................................... 2 Scope and Content of the Natural Environment & Hazards Element.................. 2 Related Laws Plans and Programs ....................................................................... 2 Relationship to Other General Plan Elements ..................................................... 3 NATURAL ENVORNMENT & HAZARD PLAN................................. 4 Noise ................................................................................................................. 4 Air Quality ............................................................................................................ 16 ISSUES, GOALS, AND POLICIES .................................................... 15 Noise ................................................................................................................. 15 Air Quality ............................................................................................................ 16 IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM INDEX ......................................... 17 Use of the General Plan Implementation Program ............................................. 17 Natural Environment & Hazards.......................................................................... 17 Noise ................................................................................................................. 16 Air Quality ............................................................................................................ 20 157
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 2 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT

INTRODUCTION
Hazardous conditions due to human activity,
such as noise and air pollutants can impact
community safety and quality of life. Los Altos
seeks to minimize the hazards associated with
human activities. The Natural Environment &
Hazards Element establishes goals, policies, and
a plan for that purpose.

Purpose of the Natural
Environment & Hazards
Element
The purpose of the Natural Environment &
Hazards Element is to identify and address
those features or characteristics in or near the
City’s planning area, which represents a
potential hazard to the people in Los Altos.

Goals and policies in the element are intended
to protect the community from deteriorating
quality of life resulting from hazards relating to
human activity
Scope and Content of the
Natural Environment &
Hazards Element
The Natural Environment & Hazards Element of
Los Altos satisfies the requirements of the
state-mandated Noise Element. Air quality is
also addressed to comply with the
requirements of the Bay Area Air Quality
Management District (BAAQMD) standards.

As specified in Government Code Section
65302(f), the Noise Element must identify and
appraise noise problems in the community to
ensure acceptable levels of noise exposure.

Existing (baseline) and future noise conditions
are quantified as noise exposure contours. This
information serves as the basis to develop
guidelines for compatible land uses.

The element is comprised of four sections: 1)
Introduction, 2) the Natural Environment &
Hazards Plan; 3) Issues, Goals and Policies;
and 4) Implementation Programs Appendix.

The Plan provides background information
and explains how the goals and policies will
be achieved and implemented. In the Issues,
Goals and Policies section, hazards associated
with human activity are identified and related
goals and policies are established to address
these issues. The goals, which are overall
statements of the community’s desires, are
comprised of broad statements of purpose and
direction. The policies serve as guides for
determining acceptable risks/impacts,
regulating development in reducing or avoiding
adverse effects, and ensuring land use
compatibility. The Natural Environment &
Hazards Implementation Programs Appendix
identifies the specific implementation programs
for this element.

Related Laws Plans and
Programs
There are a number of existing plans and
programs that directly relate to the goals of the
Natural Environment & Hazards Element.

Enacted through state and local action, these
plans and programs are administered by
agencies with responsibility for their
enforcement.

California Environmental Quality Act
The California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) was adopted by the state legislature
in response to a public mandate for a thorough
environmental analysis of projects that might
adversely affect the environment. The
provisions of the law, review procedure and any
subsequent analysis are described in the CEQA
Statutes and Guidelines as amended in 1998.

Safety hazards, as well as noise and air quality
impacts are recognized as environmental
impacts under CEQA.
158
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 3 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
California Noise Insulation Standards
The California Commission of Housing and
Community Development officially adopted
noise insulation standards in 1974. Revised in
1988, the standards established an interior
noise standard of 45 dBA for residential space
(CNEL or Ldn). Acoustical studies are required
for residential structures proposed within noise
contours of 60 dBA or greater from industrial or
transportation noise sources to demonstrate
compliance with interior noise standards.

Uniform Building Code
The Uniform Building Code includes Sound
Transmission Control standards for building
construction under Appendix 12, Division 2/2a.

Los Altos Noise Control Ordinance
The City’s Noise Ordinance (adopted as part of
the Municipal Code) establishes interior and
exterior noise standards for daytime and
nighttime hours by zoning district, identifies
prohibited acts relative to noise, including
maximum noise levels for mobile and stationary
noise sources, and special exemptions. Noise
Ordinance requirements are identified in this
Element.

Federal Clean Air Act
The Federal Clean Air Act established National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) in 1970
for six pollutants: carbon monoxide, ozone,
particulates, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide,
and lead. The Act requires states with air
pollution that exceeds the NAAQS to prepare air
quality plans demonstrating how the standards
would be met (State Implementation Plans
SIPs). In 1990, amendments to the Act
established categories of severity for nonattainment areas (“marginal” to “extreme”). In 1994, the California Air Resources Board
adopted a revised State Implementation Plan
for ozone to meet the requirements of the 1990
amendments.

California Clean Air Act
The California Clean Air Act (CCAA) was enacted in 1988 requiring attainment of California’s ambient air quality standards. Amended in 1992
and 1996, the state’s ambient air quality
standard are more stringent than the national
standards. In general, the CCAA requires
regions whose air quality exceeds state
standards to reduce pollutants by five percent
or more per year, or to implement all feasible
measures to meet the state air quality
standards as expeditiously as possible.

Relationship to Other
General Plan Elements
According to state planning law, the Natural
Environment & Hazards Element must be
consistent with the other General Plan
elements. While all elements are
interdependent, they are also interrelated to a
degree. Certain goals and policies of each
element may address issues that are primary
subjects of other elements. This integration of
issues throughout the General Plan creates a
strong basis for the implementation of plans
and programs and the achievement of
community goals. The Natural & Hazards
Element is most directly related to Land Use,
Housing, and Open Space, Conservation &
Community Facilities Elements.
159
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 4 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARD PLAN
Noise
In Los Altos, the predominant source of noise is
transportation-related noise from vehicle and
truck traffic on the City’s road system.

Commercial noise sources in Los Altos are not
significant enough to warrant identification as
significant stationary noise sources. In order to
minimize impacts associated with
transportation-related noise sources, residential
development and redevelopment proposed
within areas where a noise of 60 dBA is or will
be exceeded should conduct acoustical analysis
to ensure compliance with the City’s noise level
standards.

Noise is generally defined as unwanted sound –
unwanted being dependent on when and where
the sound occurs, what the listener is doing,
characteristics of the sound, and how intrusive
it is above background sound levels. Noise
hazards are a function of increasing
mechanization, with noise being principally
produced by machines for transportation and
production. In Los Altos, traffic movement on
the City’s road system is the predominant
source of noise.

Noise levels are measured on a logarithmic
scale in decibels which are then weighted and
added over a 24-hour period to reflect not only
the magnitude of the sound but also its
duration, frequency, and time of occurrence. In
this manner, various acoustical scales and units
of measurement have been developed such as
equivalent sound levels (Leq), day-night average sound levels (Ldn) and Community Noise Equivalent Levels (CNEL).

These measurements become the basis for
setting acceptable standards at sensitive noise
receptors and identifying potential noise
generators. The State of California Office of
Noise Control, in its Land Use Compatibility
Standards table (), defines an outdoor level of
Ldn 60 dBA or less as being “normally
acceptable” for residential uses, schools,
libraries, churches, and hospitals. This standard
also intends to provide for interior noise levels
no greater than 45 dBA (Ldn), which is generally
accepted as the maximum acceptable noise
level for most indoor residential activities.

Maximum noise exposure levels acceptable in
Los Altos are consistent with the standards in
Table 1.

In 1974, the state adopted Noise Insulation
Standards (Chapter 2-35 of Title 24) for new
hotels, motels, and dwellings other than single
family detached dwellings. Those standards
established 45 dBA (Ldn) as the maximum
interior sound level (attributable to exterior
sources) in any room. Where exterior sound
levels are 60 dBA (Ldn) or above, acoustical
analyses for projects are required to ensure
that the structure has been designed to limit
outside noise to the allowable interior levels.

Title 24 also includes standards to be met for
sound transmission between units. Multi-family
attached units must incorporate noise reduction
features sufficient to assure that interior noise
levels in all habitable rooms do not exceed 45
dBA.
160
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 5 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Table 1: Land Use Compatibility Standards
Land Use
Community Noise Exposure
(Ldn or CNEL)
55 60 65 70 75 80
Residential
Transient Lodging – Motel,
Hotel
Schools, Libraries, Churches,
Hospitals, Nursing Homes
Auditoriums, Concert Halls,
Amphitheaters
Sports Arena, Outdoor
Spectator Sports
Playgrounds, Parks
Golf Course, Riding Stables,
Water Recreation,
Cemeteries
Office Buildings, Business
Commercial, and
Professional
Industrial, Manufacturing,
Utilities, Agriculture
Source: Modified by CBA from 1998 State of California General Plan Guidelines.

Normally Acceptable: Specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that any buildings involved meet conventional Title 24 construction standards. No special noise insulation requirements.

Conditionally Acceptable: New construction or development shall be undertaken only after a detailed noise analysis is made and noise reduction measures are identified and included in the project design.

Normally Unacceptable: New construction or development is discouraged. If new construction is proposed, a detailed analysis is required, noise reduction measures must be identified, and noise insulation features included in the design.

Clearly Unacceptable: New construction or development should not be undertaken. 161
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 6 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Existing Noise Sources in Los Altos
Noise emanates from stationary and mobile
sources. Fixed sources include construction,
refrigeration units, radio or television, loud
speakers, power tools (including leaf flowers),
and animals. Mobile noise sources typically are
transportation related. In Los Altos, motor
vehicles on the City’s roadway system are the
major source of continuous noise.

The state’s planning laws require identification
of areas exposed to high noise levels. “Noise
exposure areas” are defined as those areas
where noise levels exceed 60 dBA (Ldn). In Los
Altos, these noise exposure areas exist along
some collector streets, minor arterials, and
principal arterials with high traffic volumes and
relatively high speeds. The distance from the
road centerline to points at which noise levels
are 80, 75, 70, 65, and 60 dBA have been
calculated from the 2001 Average Daily Traffic
(ADT) for arterials and collectors throughout Los
Altos. Assumptions and results are listed in
Table 2 and shown in Figure 1.

No commercial or industrial uses have been
identified to be major on-going noise sources
for which noise contours need to be prepared.

Projected Future Noise Sources
Growth in and near Los Altos will generate increased traffic volumes and thereby increase the exposure to high noise levels. Resulting
future noise contours for the year 2025 are
shown in Table 3 and Figure 2.

Land use planning, with appropriate noise reduction mitigation, will establish land use, site, and building design acceptable for new
development adjacent to major roadways.

Acoustic architectural design, involving site
plans, building heights, room arrangements,
window size, balcony and courtyard design, and
acoustic construction, involving treatment of
various parts of a building to reduce interior
noise levels, shall be considered in mitigating
noise hazards at new developments.

Noise barriers should be considered when other
mitigation is infeasible. Ideally, noise barriers
will incorporate berms, walls, and ap-propriate
landscaping to reduce the visual im-pact of the
sound walls.

Certain areas within Los Altos are subject to
high noise levels. The primary noise source
impacting Los Altos results from transportationrelated activities, especially along major transportation corridors. Other noise sources
not related to transportation include
construction, business operation, recreational
activities, and property maintenance.

Consideration of the sources and recipients of
noise early in the land use planning and
development process can be an effective
method of minimizing the impact of noise on
people in the community. Consideration may be
given to reducing noise in areas already
impacted by noise through re-habilitative
improvements and enforcement of local noise
regulations.
162
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Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 7 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Table 2: Distance to Existing CNEL Contour Lines
Roadway/Reach
Speed
Limit
mph
% Trucks
Average
Daily
Traffic
CNEL @
50’
from
near
lane
C/L
Distance to Existing Contours
From Near Lane Centerline, feet
Med/Heavy 2001 2001 60dB 65dB 70dB 75dB 80dB
Almond Avenue:

E of San Antonio
E of Solana
25 25

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
7,380
6,010

61.0 60.0
62 50
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Covington Road:

E of El Monte
W of Springer
E of Springer
E of Miramonte
25 25
25 25

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
3,610
2,670
5,220
5,910

58.0 57.0

59.5 60.0
--
--
--
50 --
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Cristo Rey Drive:

W of Foothill 30 1.8/0.7% 6,950 64.0 110 -- -- -- --
Cuesta Drive:

E of El Monte
San Antonio - El Monte
25 25

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
8,540
5,830

61.5 60.0
69 50
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Distel Drive:

S of El Camino Real 25 1.8/0.7% 2,190 56.5 -- -- -- -- -- Edith Avenue:

Los Altos – San
Antonio
25 1.8/0.7% 7,210 61.0 62 -- -- -- --
El Monte Avenue:

S of Foothill Expy.

N of Foothill Expy.

S of Jay
25 25
25 2.0/2.0%

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
31,180
14,660
12,290

69.0 64.0

63.0 255
110
90 110
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Fallen Leaf Lane:

N of Fremont
S of Fremont
N of Homestead
25 25
25 1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
1,180
2,860
1,410

54.0 57.5

54.5 --
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Fremont Avenue:

Miramonte – Grant
Grant – Truman
E of Truman
35 35
35 1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
9,360
17,500
23,470

65.0 67.5

69.0 130
200
255
50 83
110
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Granger Avenue:

N of Grant 25 1.8/0.7% 1,510 55.0 -- -- -- -- --
Grant Road:

Foothill Exwy. –
Morton
Morton – Fremont
N of Fremont
S of North City Limits
25 25
35 35

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
14,120
11,880
21,370
24,200

63.5 63.0

68.5 69.0
100
90 235
255
--
--
100
110
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Homestead Road:

S of Grant
W of SR-85
35 35

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
4,030
15,660

61.5 67.0
69 185
--
75 --
--
--
--
--
--
Jordan Avenue:

S of El Camino Real 25 1.8/0.7% 2,890 57.5 -- -- -- -- -- 163
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 8 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Roadway/Reach
Speed
Limit
mph
% Trucks
Average
Daily
Traffic
CNEL @
50’
from
near
lane
C/L
Distance to Existing Contours
From Near Lane Centerline, feet
Med/Heavy 2001 2001 60dB 65dB 70dB 75dB 80dB
Los Altos Avenue:

S of El Camino Real
Louck – Pine
Pine – Edith
Edith – Main
Main – San Antonio
25 25
25 25
25 1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
5,240
4,540
5,690
6,680
6,590

59.5 59.0

60.0 60.5

60.5 --
--
50 56
56 --
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Main Street:

Los Altos – San
Antonio
25 1.8/0.7% 9,710 62.0 75 -- -- -- --
Miramonte Avenue:

N of Fremont Avenue
S of North City Limits
25 35

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
11,880
11,610

63.0 66.0
90 155
--
62 --
--
--
--
--
--
Oak Avenue:

E of Grant 25 1.8/0.7% 2,650 57.0 -- -- -- -- --
Portland Avenue:

E of Miramonte 25 1.8/0.7% 3,360 58.0 -- -- -- -- --
Saint Joseph Avenue:

S. of Foothill Exwy 25 1.8/0.7% 5,380 60.0 50 -- -- -- -- San Antonio Road:

S of El Camino Real
Loucks – Almond
Almond – Hillview
Hillview – Foothill
Exwy
35 35
35 35

2.0/2.0%

2.0/2.0%
29,150
29,710
32,000
20,970

69.5 70.0

70.0 68.5
278
300
300
235
120
130
130
100
--
50 50
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Sherwood Avenue:

E of San Antonio 25 1.8/0.7% 2,460 56.5 -- -- -- -- --
Springer Road:

N of Foothill Exwy.

S of El Monte
30 30

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
12,930
8,990

65.5 64.0
143
110
56 --
--
--
--
--
--
--
Truman Avenue:

N of Fremont
S of Fremont
25 25

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
4,800
380

59.5 50.0
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
University Avenue:

W of El Monte 25 1.8/0.7% 3,040 57.5 -- -- -- -- --
SR-82:

S of El Monte
N of El Monte
S of San Antonio
N of San Antonio
35 35
35 35

3.5/0.5%

3.5/0.5%
46,500
46,500
44,500
49,700

71.0 71.0

71.0 71.0
340
340
320
340
155
155
143
155
62 62
56 62
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
SR-85:

I-280 – Homestead
Homestead – Fremont
Fremont – SR-82
65 65
65 1.6/1.6%

1.6/1.6%

2.5/2.0%
118,000
125,000
116,000

75.0 75.0

75.0 600
600
600
300
300
300
130
130
130
50 50
50 --
--
--
I-280:

SF-85 – Foothill
Foothill – Magdelena
65 65

1.9/1.4%

1.9/1.4%
142,000
127,000

82.0 75.5
1,250
640
760
320
395
143
185
56 75
--
164
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 9 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

Homestead –
Arboretm
Arboretm – Grant
Grant – Fremont
Fremont – Springer
Springer – El Monte
El Monte – San
Antonio
San Antonio – Main
Main – Edith
Edith to Arastadero
45 45
45 45
45 45
45 45
45 2.0/2.0%

2.0/2.0%

2.0/2.0%
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
(1)
69/73
69/73
69/73
73 69/73
69/73
69/73
69/73
69/73
(1)
--
95/140
255/140
460
255/460
255/460
255/140
460/140
195/140
(1)
--
74/90
110/90
215
110
110
110/90
--/90
--/90
(1)
--
--/69
--/69
90/--
90/--
90/--
--/69
--/69
--/69
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Source: Weiland Associates, Inc. 2001
(1) numbers in this section represent the west/east sides of the road segment. 165
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 10 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Figure 1: Existing Noise Contours
166
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 11 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Table 3: Distance to Future CNEL Contour Lines
Roadway/Reach
Speed
Limit
mph
% Trucks
Average
Daily
Traffic
CNEL @
50’ from
near
lane C/L
Distance to Future Contours
From Near Lane Centerline, feet
Med/Heavy 2025 2025 60dB 65dB 70dB 75dB 80dB
Almond Avenue:

E of San Antonio
E of Solana
25 25

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
8,920
7,270

62.0 61.0
75 62
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Covington Road:

El Monte - Fremont
Riverside - Springer
Springer - Spencer
Thatcher - Eastwood
25 25
25 25

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
6,780
3,020
5,850
6,670

60.5 57.5

60.0 60.5
56 --
50 56
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Cristo Rey Drive:

Foothill - Friar 35 1.8/0.7% 7,090 64.0 110 -- -- -- -- Cuesta Drive:

Clark - Springer
El Monte - Gabilan
25 25

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
9,650
6,590

62.0 60.5
75 56
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Distel Drive:

ECR - Distel 25 1.8/0.7% 2,230 56.5 -- -- -- -- --
Edith Avenue:

Third - View 25 1.8/0.7% 8,830 61.5 69 -- -- -- --
El Monte Avenue:

University - Milverton
Giffin - Shirlynn
Jay - Almond
25 25
25 2.0/2.0%

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
35,220
16,580
13,890

69.5 64.5

63.5 278
120
100
120
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Fallen Leaf Lane:

Fremont - Brookmill
Fremont - Alexander
Homestead - Marshall
25 25
25 1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
1,440
3,410
1,470

54.5 58.0

55.0 --
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Fremont Avenue:

Grant - Lisa
Grant - Siesta
Fallen Leaf - Stevens
Creek
35 35
35 1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
10,560
19,770
26,580

65.5 68.0

69.5 130
200
255
50 83
110
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Granger Avenue:

St Joseph - Sandalwood 25 1.8/0.7% 1,570 55.0 -- -- -- -- -- Grant Road:

Foothill Exwy. – Morton
Fremont - Richardson
Fremont - Garthwick
Covington - Levin
25 25
35 35

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
15,970
13,430
24,150
27,340

64.0 63.5

69.0 69.5
110
100
255
278
--
--
110
120
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Homestead Road:

S of Grant
Fallen Leaf – Stevens
Creek
35 35

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
4,190
16,910

62.0 67.5
75 200
--
83 --
--
--
--
--
--
Jordan Avenue:

ECR - Marich 25 1.8/0.7% 3,010 57.5 -- -- -- -- --
Los Altos Avenue:

ECR - Santa Rita
Pine - Spagnoli
W. Edith - Mt Hamilton
25 25
25 1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
7,220
6,520
7,050

61.0 60.5

61.0 62
56 62
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
167
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 12 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Roadway/Reach
Speed
Limit
mph
% Trucks
Average
Daily
Traffic
CNEL @
50’ from
near
lane C/L
Distance to Future Contours
From Near Lane Centerline, feet
Med/Heavy 2025 2025 60dB 65dB 70dB 75dB 80dB
Main Street:

Foothill Exwy. - First 25 1.8/0.7% 9,710 62.0 75 -- -- -- -- Miramonte Avenue:

A - B
Covington - Alegre
25 35

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
13,540
13,120

63.5 66.5
100
170
--
69 --
--
--
--
--
--
Oak Avenue:

Grant - Braddale 25 1.8/0.7% 2,760 57.0 -- -- -- -- --
Portland Avenue:

Grant - Carvo 25 1.8/0.7% 4,050 58.5 -- -- -- -- --
Saint Joseph Avenue:

Deodora - Stonehaven 25 1.8/0.7% 5,490 60.0 50 -- -- -- -- San Antonio Road:

ECR - Loucks
Pine - Arbuelo
Edith - Mt. Hamilton
Pepper - Hawthorn
35 35
35 35

2.0/2.0%

2.0/2.0%
35,970
36,830
39,000
23,790

70.5 70.5

71.0 69.0
320
320
340
255
143
143
155
110
56 56
62 --
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Sherwood Avenue:

San Antonio - Acacia 25 1.8/0.7% 2,930 57.5 -- -- -- -- -- Springer Road:

Berry to Fremont
Vista Grande– El Monte
30 30

1.8/0.7%

1.8/0.7%
14,620
10,160

66.0 64.5
155
120
62 --
--
--
--
--
--
--
Truman Avenue:

Fremont - Wakefield 25 1.8/0.7% 4,990 59.5 -- -- -- -- -- University Avenue:

El Monte - Edgewood 25 1.8/0.7% 3,430 58.0 -- -- -- -- -- SR-82:

S of El Monte
N of El Monte
S of San Antonio
N of San Antonio
35 35
35 35

3.5/0.5%

3.5/0.5%
52,000
52,000
50,000
56,000

71.5 71.5

71.0 71.5
368
368
340
368
170
170
155
170
69 69
62 69
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
SR-85:

I-280 – Homestead
Homestead – Fremont
Fremont – SR-82
65 65
65 1.6/1.6%

1.6/1.6%

2.5/2.0%
130,000
137,000
128,000

75.5 75.5

75.5 640
640
640
320
320
320
143
143
143
56 56
56 --
--
--
I-280:

SF-85 – Foothill
Foothill – Magdelena
65 65

1.9/1.4%

1.9/1.4%
156,000
139,000

82.5 78.0
1,325
860
810
460
428
215
200
90 82.5
--
Foothill Expressway:

Homestead – Arboretm
Arboretm – Grant
Grant – Fremont
Fremont – Springer
Springer – El Monte
El Monte – San Antonio
San Antonio – Main
Main – Edith
Edith to Arastadero
45 45
45 45
45 45
45 45
45 2.0/2.0%

2.0/2.0%

2.0/2.0%
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
40,540
(1)
69/73
69/73
69/73
73 69/73
69/73
69/73
69/73
69/73
(1)
255/460
95/140
255/140
460
255/460
255/460
255/140
460/140
195/140
(1)
110/215
74/90
110/90
215
110
110
110/90
--/90
--/90
(1)
-/90
--/69
--/69
90/--
90/--
90/--
--/69
--/69
--/69
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Source: Weiland Associates, Inc. 2001
(1) numbers in this section represent the west/east sides of the road segment. 168
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 13 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Figure 2: Future Noise Contours
169
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 14 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Air Quality
The City of Los Altos is located within the Bay
Area Air Quality Management District
(BAAQMD). The district is governed by a 21-
member Board of Directors, responsible for
developing and enforcing regulations to control
air pollution. Air pollutants regulated by the
district include:
❖ Particulate matter;
❖ Organic compounds;
❖ Nitrogen oxides;
❖ Sulfur dioxide/oxides;
❖ Carbon monoxide;
❖ Hydrogen sulfide;
❖ Photochemical smog; and
❖ Acid deposition.

The generation of air pollutants degrade the air
quality and can pose a significant health hazard.

Air pollutants are closely linked to land use,
transportation, and energy use planning. Daily
automobile travel from suburban areas to the
employment centers of Santa Clara County is
the primary cause of air pollution in the
subregion. Planning that can reduce the overall
vehicle miles traveled (VMT) will also reduce
the amount of air pollutants generated. In
addition, air movement patterns in the Bay Area
carry air pollutants from north to south. The
Santa Clara Valley thereby receives the
accumulated air pollution from its neighbors to
the north.

The Bay Area experienced 12 days of ozone
non-attainment in 2000, down from 20 days in
1999. The monitoring station in Mountain View
near Los Altos registered seven days of ozone
non-attainment in 1999 and the monitoring
station was out of service in 2000. Unless
federal legislation is changed, non-compliance
with federal standards means that the
Environmental Protection Agency will cease
funding for clean-up of air pollution, ban
construction of wastewater treatment facilities,
and cease highway funding.

Air pollution problems in Los Altos are a result
of activities in the entire Bay region and cannot
be solved at the local level. However, through
appropriate land use, transportation, and
energy use planning, the City can participate in
the most feasible remedies.

Cooperation among all agencies in the BAAQMD
is necessary to achieve desired improvements
to air quality. Los Altos can participate and
contribute its share in those efforts by proper
planning for land use and transportation
consistent with the most recent Air Quality
Management Plan.
170
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 15 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT

ISSUES, GOALS AND POLICIES
Certain natural conditions and human activities
in Los Altos create risks to individuals
and property within the community. Excessive
risk and impact from such hazards can
be reduced or avoided through implementation
of the Natural Environment & Hazards
Element.

Major issues addressed by the goals, policies,
and plan of the Natural Environment &
Hazards Element are as follows:
1) Minimizing impacts associated with
stationary and transportation-related
noise sources; and
2) Reducing impacts associated with air
pollutants.

Noise
Certain areas within Los Altos are subject to
high noise levels. The primary noise source
impacting Los Altos results from transportationrelated activities, especially along major transportation corridors. Other noise sources
not related to transportation include
construction, business operation, recreational
activities, and property maintenance.

Consideration of the sources and recipients of
noise early in the land use planning and
development process can be an effective
method of minimizing the impact of noise on
people in the community. Consideration may be
given to reducing noise in areas already
impacted by noise through rehabilitative
improvements and enforcement of local noise
regulations.

Goal 7:

Minimize the amount of noise to which the
community is exposed and the amount of
noise created by future development and
urban activities.

Policy 7.1: Ensure that new development
can be made compatible with the noise
environment by utilizing noise/land use
compatibility standards and the Noise Contours
Map as a guide for future planning and
development decisions.

Policy 7.2: Enforce the following maximum
acceptable noise levels for new construction of
various noise-sensitive uses in an existing noise
environment.
❖ 60 dBA CNEL is the maximum acceptable
outdoor noise exposure level for singlefamily residential areas. ❖ 65 dBA CNEL is the maximum acceptable
outdoor noise exposure level for multiplefamily residential areas. ❖ 70 dBA CNEL is the maximum acceptable
outdoor noise exposure level for schools
(public and private), libraries, churches,
hospitals, nursing homes, parks,
commercial, and recreation areas. Excepted
from these standards are golf courses,
stables, water recreation, and cemeteries.

Policy 7.3: Work to achieve indoor noise
levels not exceeding 45 dBA CNEL in the event
that outdoor acceptable noise exposure levels
cannot be achieved by various noise
attenuation mitigation measures.

Policy 7.4: Consider the potential impact
on the general noise level when planning
changes and improvements to the circulation
system.

Policy 7.5: Require reasonable mitigation
measures to reduce noise levels to those
171
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 16 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
determined to be acceptable in the event that
significant increased noise levels will result from
an improvement to the circulation system.

Policy 7.6: Consider noise attenuation
measures to reduce noise levels to City-adopted
acceptable levels for any development along
roadways.

Policy 7.7: Require the inclusion of design
features in development and
reuse/revitalization projects to reduce the
impact of noise on residential development.

Policy 7.8: Require an acoustical analysis
for new construction and in areas with a higher
than established noise levels.

Policy 7.9: Minimize stationary noise
sources and noise emanating from construction
activities.

Policy 7.10: Publicize and enforce local noise
regulations to reduce nuisance noises related to
private developments and residences.

Air Quality
Los Altos is located within the Bay Area Air
Quality Management District, which is
considered a non-attainment air basin since it
exceeds some of the allowable levels for various
air pollutants. Cooperation among all agencies
in the district is necessary to achieve desired
improvements to air quality. Los Altos can
participate and contribute its share in those
efforts by proper planning for land use and
transportation.

Goal 8:

Maintain or improve air quality in Los
Altos.

Policy 8.1: Support the principles of reducing air
pollutants through land use, transportation, and
energy use planning.

Policy 8.2 Encourage transportation modes that
minimize contaminant emissions from motor
vehicle use.

Policy 8.3: Interpret and implement the General
Plan to be consistent with the regional Bay Area
Air Quality Management Plan, as periodically
updated.

Policy 8.4: Ensure location and design of
development projects so as to conserve air
quality and minimize direct and indirect
emissions of air contaminants.
172
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 17 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT

IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMS

APPENDIX
The Implementation Programs Appendix
provides a guide to implement adopted General
Plan policies and plans for City elected officials,
staff and the public. The purpose of the
Implementation Programs are to ensure the
overall direction provided in the General Plan
for City growth and development is translated
from general terms to specific actions.

Each implementation program is a measure,
procedure, or technique that requires
additional City action. This action may either
occur on a City-wide basis or in specific areas
within the City. The City Council, by relating the
Implementation Programs to the General Plan,
recognizes the importance of long-range
planning considerations in day-to-day decision
making and budgeting. Implementation of the
specific program.

Use of the General Plan
Implementation Program
The Implementation Programs are intended for
use in preparing the Annual Report to the City
Council on the status of the City’s progress in
implementing the General Plan, as described in
Section 65400 of the California Government
Code. Because some of the individual actions
and programs described in the Implementation
Programs Appendix act as mitigation for
significant environmental impacts resulting
from planned development identified in the
General Plan, the annual report can also
provide a means of monitoring the application
of the mitigation measures as required by
Section 15097 of the State CEQA Guidelines.

This Implementation Programs Appendix may
be updated annually with the budget process
and whenever the City’s General Plan is
amended or updated to ensure continued
consistency and usefulness.

Natural Environment & Hazards
Ensure that new development is exposed to a
This Implementation Program provides actions
to implement the adopted policies and plans
identified in the Natural Environment & Hazards
Element. The Natural Environment & Hazards
Implementation Program is a series of actions,
procedures and techniques which includes a
description of the responsible
agency/department, funding source, time frame
and related policies in the Natural Environment
& Hazards Element.
173
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 18 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
Noise
NEH 21: Compatible Development
Use noise and land use compatibility standards to guide future planning and development decisions.

Table 1 in the Noise and Air Quality Element summarizes the standard for acceptable noise levels by land use types. Review development proposals to ensure that the City’s noise standards and compatibility criteria are met. Require mitigation measures, where necessary, to reduce noise levels to meet these standards and criteria.

Responsible Agency/Department: Community Development
Funding Source: Development fees
Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 7.1
NEH 22: Acceptable Noise Levels for New Development
Ensure that new development is exposed to acceptable noise levels. Require acoustical analyses for all for all proposed development within the 60 dB CNEL contour as shown on Table 3, Future Noise Contours in the Natural Environment & Hazards Element. Also require acoustical analyses for selected proposed residential projects in the vicinity of existing and proposed commercial areas that may generate excessive noise. Where the noise analyses indicates that the City’s noise standards will be exceeded, require noise control measures to be incorporated into the proposed development to reduce noise to acceptable levels. Noise control measures may include berms, walls, and sound attenuating architectural design and construction methods. Only permit new development if the noise standards and the City’s Noise Ordinance can be met.

Responsible Agency/Department: Community Development
Funding Source: Development fees
Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 7.2
NEH 23: Noise Insulation Standards
Enforce the provisions of the State of California Noise Insulation Standards (Title 24) that specify that indoor noise levels for multi-family residential living spaces shall not exceed 45 dB CNEL. The Title 24 noise standard is defined as the combined effect of all noise sources and is implemented when existing or future exterior noise levels exceed 60 dB CNEL. Table 3, Future Noise Contours, will be used to determine where exterior noise levels exceed 60 dB CNEL. Title 24 requires that the standard be applied to all new hotels, motels, apartment houses and dwellings other than single-family dwellings. Also apply the standard to single-family dwellings and condominium conversion projects as official policy.

Responsible Agency/Department: Community Development
Funding Source: Development Fees
Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 7.3
174
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 19 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
NEH 24: Noise Ordinance Implementation and Enforcement
Implement and enforce the City’s Noise Ordinance to protect residents from excessive noise levels.

Responsible Agency/Department: Community Development, Public Works, Police Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 7.10
NEH 25: Reduce Roadway Noise
Reduce noise impacts from transportation activity to enhance the quality of the community. Incorporate noise control measures, such as sound walls and berms, into roadway improvement projects to mitigate impacts to adjacent development. Request Caltrans and the Santa Clara County Transportation Agencies to provide noise control for roadway projects within the Planning Area. Particularly advocate reducing noise impacts from the list of major noise sources.

Responsible Agency/Department: Public Works, Community Development Funding Source: General Fund, development fees, gas tax revenues Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 7.5, NEH 7.6
NEH 26: Minimize Vehicle, Bus and Truck Noise
Coordinate with the Police Department, Santa Clara County Sheriffs Department and the California Highway Patrol to enforce the California Vehicle Code pertaining to noise standards for cars, trucks and motorcycles. Periodically review truck and bus routes in the Planning Area for noise impacts to residential and other sensitive land uses. Where noise impacts are identified from truck traffic, modify the designated truck routes to avoid impacts. Where impacts are identified from bus traffic, recommend alternative routes to the Santa Clara County Transportation Authority.

Responsible Agency/Department: Public Works, Police
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 7.5, NEH 7.6
NEH 27: Minimize Commercial Noise
Amend the City Noise Ordinance to limit delivery hours for stores with loading areas or docks that front, side, border or gain access on driveways next to residential and other noise sensitive areas. Only approve exceptions if full compliance with the nighttime limits of the noise ordinance is achieved.

Responsible Agency/Department: Community Development
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 7.8, NEH 7.9
175
Agenda Item # 7.

Los Altos General Plan 2002 – 2020 20 November 2002

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT &

HAZARDS ELEMENT
NEH 28: Minimize Construction Noise
Require all construction activity to comply with the limits established in the City Noise Ordinance.

Responsible Agency/Department: Community Development
Funding Source: Development fees
Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 7.9
Air Quality
NEH 29: Minimize Impacts of New Development
Review development proposals for potential impacts pursuant to CEQA and the BAAQMD Air Quality Handbook. Reduce impacts of new development using available land use and transportation planning techniques such as:
1) Incorporation of public transit stops;
2) Pedestrian and bicycle linkage to commercial centers, employment centers, schools, and parks; 3) Preferential parking for car pools;
4) Traffic flow improvements; and
5) Employer trip reduction programs.

Responsible Agency/Department: Community Development, Public Works Funding Source: Development fees
Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 8.1, NEH 8.4
NEH 30: Participation in Regional Air Quality Programs
Work with the BAAQMD and ABAG and to meet federal and State air quality standards for all pollutants.

To ensure that new measures can be practically enforced in the region, participate in future amendments and updates of the BAAQMP.

Responsible Agency/Department: Community Development, Public Works Funding Source: General Fund, BAAQMD Revenue
Time Frame: Ongoing
Related Policies: NEH 8.1, NEH 8.2, NEH 8.3
176
Agenda Item # 7.

City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: June 10, 2025
Prepared By: Jessie Kim
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Proposed FY 2025-26 Operating Budget and FY2026-30 Five-Year Capital & Major Maintenance Program

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
☒Public Safety
☒Business Communities
☒Circulation Safety and Efficiency
☒Environmental Sustainability
☒Housing
☒General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council adopt the following items:

1. City of Los Altos Resolution - FY25-26 Appropriations Limit

2. City of Los Altos Resolution - FY25-26 Fee Schedule

3. City of Los Altos Resolution - FY25-26 Salary Schedule

4. City of Los Altos Resolution - FY25-26 Utility User Tax

5. City of Los Altos Resolution - FY25-26 Transient Occupancy Tax

6. City of Los Altos Resolution - FY25-26 Park in-lieu

7. City of Los Altos Resolution - FY25-26 Operating Budget

8. City of Los Altos Resolution - FY26-30 Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program (CIMMP)

9. Purchasing Policy

POLICY QUESTION(S) FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
Does the FY2025-26 Proposed Budget and FY2025-30 Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program (CIMMP) align with the City Council's strategic goals?

FISCAL IMPACT
Adoption of the attached resolution will establish appropriations limits, fees, salaries, utility user tax, transient occupancy tax, the operating budget, and the capital improvement and major maintenance program from the 2025-26 Fiscal Year.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
These resolutions are exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State Guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended. 177
Agenda Item # 8.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
The City Council considers adoption of these resolutions at least annually.

DISCUSSION/ANALYSIS
The City Council will consider the attached resolutions which will approve the Appropriations Limit, the FY2025-26 Fee Schedule, the FY2025-26 Salary Schedule, FY2025-26 Utility User Tax, FY2025-26 Transient Occupancy Tax, FY2025-26 Park in-lieu, FY2025-26 Operating Budget, and FY2026-30 Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program (CIMMP), and Purchasing Policy. Together, these financial plans authorize the City to continue delivering essential services and making investments that reflect the community’s needs and priorities.

BACKROUND
The City of Los Altos, under the policy direction of the City Council, presents the annual budget with the following considerations in mind:

To align with the stated council priority areas and incorporate resident feedback, while addressing the external pressures that uniquely shape municipal budgets this year.

As the council is aware: the City of Los Altos, like most California cities, relies in part on agreedupon federal funds and return of local tax dollars to balance its budget. As has been robustly communicated in the public arena, one-time federal funds are no longer available, and additional federal cuts, which will both directly and indirectly impact Los Altos, are expected.

At the State level, with a $12 Billion budget deficit to address, Sacramento is continuing its past practice of state takeaways of local funds- leaving Los Altos tax funds that were expected to be returned to address local Los Altos priorities remaining at the State.

In addition, the city has increased fire safety and 911 communication needs, including but not limited to updated and maintained police facilities and technology to maintain 9-1-1 dispatch, crime fighting and investigation services, keep neighborhoods safe, and ensure operations during an emergency, and to be better prepared to quickly respond to wildfires like those in Los Angeles earlier this year.

Given the need to be more self-sufficient in future, city staff have prioritized investments in public safety where possible, while initiating community outreach on long-term service priorities to inform the City’s long term fiscal planning.

Annual Budget Format and Process
The FY25-26 Operating Budget is presented as an annual budget, continuing the shift away from the previous biennial format. This annual structure allows the City to more effectively respond to changing conditions and better reflect the Council’s strategic goals, which are reviewed and updated each year.

In developing the budget, the City applied zero-based budgeting approach, requiring departments to justify every line item based on need and alignment with community outcomes. This method ensured that all proposed costs were evaluated from the ground up rather than carried over from prior years.
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The resulting budget and capital plan reflect Los Altos’ broader mission: to be a sustainable, vibrant, and inclusive community where people can live, work, visit, and play. They translate the Council’s most recently adopted Strategic Goals into action by allocating resources that support equity, fiscal responsibility, and long-term service delivery outcomes as directed by the Council.

Strategic Priorities and Implementation
The FY2025-26 Budget reflects the City Council’s Strategic Goals by directing resources to initiatives that support the community’s values and long-term vision. The financial plan is structured to ensure that key areas identified by the Council receive sustained attention, with investments distributed across programs and services in alignment with the City’s overarching values: equity, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility.

Public Safety
The FY2025-26 Budget supports public safety as one of the City’s core responsibilities. It maintains funding for police services, emergency response, and contracted fire protection. The budget reflects updates to service contracts and provides for expanded parking enforcement and installation of safety technology, such as the Flock camera system. In addition, planning is underway for long-term facility needs, including design work for a future Police Department building and improvements to existing fire stations. These investments ensure that public safety services remain strong, reliable, and responsive to the community.

Business Communities
Support for the local business community remains a key focus. The budget includes investments that advance the Downtown Vision Plan and promote economic vitality throughout the city.

Improvements such as upgraded lighting, new park spaces, and EV charging stations are aimed at enhancing public spaces and encouraging foot traffic. In parallel, staff will continue integrating economic development into broader planning initiatives, including zoning updates and Housing Element implementation, to foster a healthy, accessible business environment.

Circulation Safety and Efficiency
The FY2025-26 Budget continues to prioritize circulation safety and mobility throughout the City.

Funding is allocated to implement key elements of the Complete Streets Master Plan, including pedestrian and bicycle improvements, street resurfacing, traffic calming, and signage upgrades.

These investments promote safer travel for all modes of transportation, including vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. The Safe Routes to School program remains a focus, with projects targeting improved student access through upgraded crosswalks, traffic calming near school zones, and systemwide visibility enhancements.

Environmental Sustainability
The FY2025-26 Budget supports the City’s efforts to operate sustainably and prepare for longterm environmental needs. Funding includes new solar panels and battery storage at Grant Park, backup generators with lower emissions, and upgrades to stormwater infrastructure. These projects are guided by the City’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and are designed to improve energy use, reduce environmental impacts, and strengthen community resilience. Together, they reflect a practical approach to sustainability, focused on reliable infrastructure and responsible resource management. Additionally, in collaboration with SVCE and PG&E, the City is preparing for 179
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municipal fleet electrification by deploying EV charging infrastructure at the MSC site (707 Fremont Ave). The project includes “behind-the-meter” improvements by the City and “front-ofmeter” utility upgrades by PG&E under the Make-Ready Incentive Program.

Housing
The FY2025-26 Budget reflects the City’s continued implementation of its certified Housing Element. Resources are dedicated to zoning and General Plan updates, public engagement, and support for development applications. These include playground renovations at Grant and Shoup Parks, improvements to community gathering areas, and continued work on the Downtown Park.

Together, these investments enhance livability, expand community access to shared spaces, and support a high quality of life for all residents.

Fiscal Responsibility and Internal Reserves
The FY2025-26 Budget supports the City’s long-term financial stability through targeted reserve contributions. It includes a $2.0 million allocation to the CalPERS Reserve Fund, following a $6.0 million contribution in FY2024-25, of which $5.0 million will be applied toward an Additional Discretionary Payment (ADP) to CalPERS. This continued funding strategy is intended to reduce future pension obligations.

At fiscal year-end, the General Fund is projected to reflect a balance of $13.5 million in the Facility Maintenance Fund and $1.07 million in the Fleet Vehicle Fund to support ongoing infrastructure and equipment needs. The Emergency and Operating Reserve will remain fully funded at 20% of General Fund operating expenditures, or $11.4 million. After these designations, the General Fund is expected to retain an unassigned balance of $16.9 million, maintaining flexibility for future Council priorities.

General Fund Revenues and Expenditures
General Fund revenue for FY2025-26 is projected at $65.1 million. Property tax remains the largest source, totaling $38.2 million, or 59% of the total. Other key revenues include Community Development Fees ($7.1 million), Utility Users Tax ($4.1 million), Sales Tax ($3.6 million), and other sources. These revenues support a broad range of City functions and priorities.

General Fund operating expenditures are budgeted at $56.8 million. Increases reflect higher personnel costs, pension contributions, insurance, and key service contracts. The City expects an operating surplus of approximately $8.3 million, which will support reserve contributions and overall financial strength.

Enterprise Operations
The FY2025-26 Budget includes continued investment in the City’s enterprise operations, which support essential services in wastewater and solid waste management. The Sewer Fund projects $12.5 million in revenue and $11.6 million in expenses, including costs for local system upgrades and the City’s share of operations at the regional wastewater treatment facility. The Solid Waste Fund includes $1.2 million in revenue and $2.4 million in expenses, including costs for franchise services, street sweeping, regulatory compliance, hazardous waste programs, receptacle improvements, and emergency cleanup efforts.
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Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program
The City of Los Altos prepares the Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program (CIMMP) each year as part of the annual budget. The program provides a structured approach to funding both one-time capital projects, such as new facilities, park improvements, and street upgrades, and recurring major maintenance that preserves the condition and function of existing assets. Capital projects typically exceed $10,000 and may span multiple years, while major maintenance addresses routine upgrades to buildings, transportation systems, and infrastructure.

For FY2025-26, the City has appropriated $25.0 million for capital and major maintenance projects, which includes $8.0 million in rollover funding from FY2024-25. Of the total, $12.1 million is funded by the General Fund, with the remainder supported by special revenue funds, the Sewer Fund, and other sources. Projects are selected and prioritized based on safety, regulatory needs, cost-effectiveness, and community benefit. Key priorities in the upcoming year include Annual Street Resurfacing, the San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project, installation of Downtown EV charging infrastructure, enhancements to Hillview and McKenzie Dog Parks, facility upgrades at Grant Park, and improvements to the Emergency Operations Center.

CIMMP project areas cover civic facilities, parks and trails, downtown development, wastewater and stormwater systems, technology systems, fleet and equipment replacements, and traffic safety improvements. Capital investments typically deliver long-term benefits and address infrastructure expansion or modernization. Major maintenance focuses on recurring repairs and upgrades to meet code, improve safety, and extend asset life. Together, these efforts help maintain a safe, resilient, and high-quality environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Purchasing Policy Updates
As part of the City’s ongoing effort to review and modernize its Purchasing Policy, staff has implemented several updates to enhance clarity, improve operational efficiency, and align with current administrative practices. General wording and formatting throughout the policy have been revised to improve readability, correct grammatical and typographical issues, and streamline procedural descriptions to ensure consistency with compliance standards. The threshold for requiring a formal Purchase Order has been increased from $5,000 to $10,000 to reduce the administrative workload associated with routine purchases. In addition, the City Manager’s signing authority has been raised from $100,000 to $125,000, providing greater flexibility to approve contracts and agreements necessary to support efficient City operations.

Summary of Updates from the May 27, 2025 Study Session
At the May 27, 2025, City Council Study Session, staff received input and direction on several key budget-related items. As a result, some adjustments have been incorporated into the FY2025-26 Proposed Operating Budget and FY2026-30 Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program (CIMMP), while others remain pending further Council direction:
 An updated ADA parking map and cost estimate for McKenzie Park was developed. An additional $87,400 has been added to the McKenzie/Hillview project to expand ADA parking improvements.
 A list and map of completed and planned Safe Routes to School (SRTS) projects are attached for Council’s reference.
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 Proposed changes to University Avenue, based on a public request, were reviewed. The total estimated cost of $294,250 has not been added to the budget and is contingent on Council direction.
 The caretaker unit project is a carryover item. It was budgeted in FY25 and will roll forward to FY26; therefore, no new appropriation is required this year.  A corridor assessment for ADA ramp and sidewalk improvements along El Camino Real was added to the budget with an allocation of $95,000.
 A beautification and landscape plan for the Police Department substation at 999 Fremont Avenue, including limited enhancements in the Loyola area, was added to the CIMMP with a preliminary budget of $44,500.
 Staff reviewed the existing Foothill Expressway maintenance agreement, which currently totals $209,116 annually through June 30, 2026. In addition, staff explored hardscape improvement options totaling $148,000, including replacing open median areas with concrete or aggregate and removing existing concrete to install mulch or decorative rock.

These enhancements have not been added to the budget and are awaiting Council direction.  Additionally, a Councilmember requested funds be added for emergency “Go Bags” to be distributed to the community. At that time, staff informed Council that funds were already included in the budget to be provided to Resilient Los Altos (RLA) for this purpose. The proposed budget will provide 500 “Go Bags” for distribution by RLA. In addition, the Council approved a funding request from Compassion Week which includes an additional 120 “Go Bags” to be distributed through Community Services Agency (CSA).

ATTACHMENTS

1. Council Priorities Budget Detail

2. Draft Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget General Fund

3. Draft Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Enterprise Funds

4. Draft Fiscal Year 2026-30 CIMPP Detail

5. FY2025-26 Fee Schedule

6. FY2025-26 Salary Schedule

7. A list of completed and planned Safe Routes to School (SRTS) projects

8. Purchasing Policy

9. City of Los Altos Resolution - Appropriations Limit

10. City of Los Altos Resolution - Fee Schedule

11. City of Los Altos Resolution - Salary Schedule

12. City of Los Altos Resolution - Utility User Tax

13. City of Los Altos Resolution - Transient Occupancy Tax

14. City of Los Altos Resolution - Park in-lieu

15. City of Los Altos Resolution - Operating Budget

16. City of Los Altos Resolution - Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program (CIMMP)
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Public Safety
• Almond Fire Station Roof - $250,000
• Fire Station Improvements - $214,000
• 999 Fremont - $150,000
• Parking Enforcement contract (new) - $207,000
• Police Building Design - $300,000
• Crossing Guards – services brought in-house
• Flock Cameras (Increasing from 15 to 25) - $87,500
• Drone Program - $120,000
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Business Communities
• Downtown Park - $1,713,500
• Downtown EV Charging - $500,000
• Downtown Parking Lot Resurfacing - $1,479,000
• Downtown Lighting Improvements - $200,000
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Circulation Safety and Efficiency
• Annual Street Resurfacing/Striping/Slurry Seal (includes Safe Routes to School Updates) - $6,300,000
• Traffic and Pedestrian System Maintenance - $300,000
• San Antonio Road Complete Street Project (dependent on Federal Government) - $1,400,000
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Environmental Sustainability
• Downtown EV Charging - $500,000
• MSC EV Infrastructure - $350,000
• Downtown Lighting Improvements - $200,000
• Grant Park Solar and Battery Storage - $175,000
• Electric Vehicle Purchase - $90,000
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Housing (including Parks)
• Playground (Grant and Shoup) renovations - $1,240,000 • Downtown Park - $1,713,500
• General Plan Update - $500,000
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Facilities
• Main Library Interior Improvements - $955,000
• Woodland Library Patio - $150,000
• History Museum Roof Replacement - $175,000
• Community Center Café - $165,000
• City Hall Emergency Back-up Power Generator - $420,000 188
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GENERAL FUND
FY2022/23
Actual
FY2023/24
Actual
FY2024/25
Budget
FY2024/25
Estimated
Actual
FY2025/26
Budget
% Change
Over FY25
Estimated
% Change
over FY
Budget

REVENUES
Taxes $ 43,653,732 $ 45,692,947 $ 46,669,216 $ 47,838,458 $ 50,741,767 6% 9% Fees 11,691,808 9,884,055 11,028,518 12,319,552 11,573,254 -6% 5% Interest 376,624 2,455,767 444,000 2,000,000 1,656,000 -17% 273% Misc. Revenue 1,443,680 1,422,260 1,292,900 757,992 1,142,696 51% -12% One Time Revenue - - - - -
Total General Fund Revenue 57,165,844 59,455,029 59,434,634 62,916,002 65,113,717 3% 10%

PROGRAM EXPENDITURES
FY2022/23
Actual
FY2023/24
Actual
FY2024/25
Budget
FY2024/25
Estimated
Actual
FY2025/26
Budget
% Change
Over FY25
Estimated
% Change
over FY
Budget
Legislative 392,169 584,065 1,082,668 904,905 1,018,533 13% -6% City Manager's Office 4,675,356 5,109,970 5,691,520 4,537,741 4,132,738 -9% -27% Finance 1,730,254 2,392,063 2,320,248 2,058,012 2,566,664 25% 11% Human Resources 1,131,239 1,827,293 1,839,309 1,580,573 2,066,391 31% 12% Development Services 4,387,216 4,737,432 5,665,944 5,796,244 7,166,896 24% 26% Public Works 3,297,241 3,045,355 3,356,835 2,733,602 3,242,367 19% -3% Public Safety 20,716,876 22,006,310 25,697,667 25,088,207 27,016,213 8% 5% Recreation 7,300,834 7,957,165 9,571,586 8,611,373 9,588,551 11% 0% Total General Fund Expenditure 43,631,185 47,659,654 55,225,777 51,310,656 56,798,353 11% 3% Debt Service - - 844,925 844,925 842,490
Transfers In/Out (3,972,077) (1,578,000) (20,565,209) (20,810,577) (6,952,719) Revenues over Expenditures Surplus
/ (Deficit) Before Transfers 13,534,659 11,795,375 3,363,932 10,760,421 7,472,874 Revenues over Expenditures Surplus
/ (Deficit) After Transfers 3,972,077 1,578,000 19,720,284 19,965,652 6,110,229

GENERAL FUND SUMMARY
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FY2022/23
Actual
FY2023/24
Actual
FY2024/25
Budget
FY2024/25
Estimated
Actual
FY2025/26
Budget
% Change
Over FY25
Estimated
% Change
over FY
Budget

GENERAL FUND
Property Tax $ 32,644,256 $ 34,410,697 $ 35,928,295 $ 35,617,436 $ 38,243,942 7.4% 6.4% Sales Tax 3,686,148 3,442,623 3,571,000 3,565,650 3,592,738 0.8% 0.6% Utility Users Tax 3,214,718 3,517,437 3,579,921 4,007,785 4,128,018 3.0% 15.3% Other Taxes 4,108,610 4,322,189 3,590,000 4,647,587 4,777,069 2.8% 33.1% Franchise Fees 2,516,465 2,608,195 2,913,078 2,759,673 2,842,464 3.0% -2.4% Recreation Fees 1,416,954 1,598,589 1,661,140 1,493,166 1,647,790 10.4% -0.8% Community Development Fees 7,758,389 5,677,271 6,454,300 8,066,713 7,083,000 -12.2% 9.7% Intergovernmental 118,436 23,238 110,000 - - 0.0% -100.0% Grants and Donations 172,437 806,765 10,000 310,555 10,000 -96.8% 0.0% Interest Income 376,624 2,455,767 444,000 2,000,000 1,656,000 -17.2% 273.0% Miscellaneous Revenue 1,152,807 592,257 1,172,900 447,437 1,132,696 153% -3% Total General Fund Revenue 57,165,844 59,455,029 59,434,634 62,916,002 65,113,717 3% 10% One-Time Revenue - - - - -
Transfer In - - - - 73,500
Total General Fund
Revenue/Transfers In $ 57,165,844 $ 59,455,029 $ 59,434,634 $ 62,916,002 $ 65,187,217 4% 10%

GENERAL FUND REVENUE SUMMARY
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PROGRAM EXPENDITURES
FY2022/23
Actual
FY2023/24
Actual
FY2024/25
Budget
FY2024/25
Estimated
Actual
FY2025/26
Budget
% Change Over
FY25 Estimated
% Change
over FY
Budget

LEGISLATIVE
1110-City Council $ 392,169 $ 584,065 $ 1,082,668 $ 904,905 $ 1,018,533 13% -6% Total City Council 392,169 584,065 1,082,668 904,905 1,018,533 13% -6%

CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE
1210-City Manager 969,251 975,308 1,674,484 1,050,503 1,020,084 -3% -39% 1310-City Attorney 1,248,394 1,369,103 1,540,000 1,165,501 817,000 -30% -47% 1410-City Clerk 991,111 530,646 501,927 553,841 700,038 26% 39% 1420-Public Information - 320,545 296,669 209,768 9,330 -96% -97% 6160-Emergency Preparedness 32,500 55,624 284,960 39,841 10,000 -75% -96% 3310-Economic Development 133,915 416,710 - 231,434 249,415 8% 100% 2310-Information Technology 1,300,185 1,442,033 1,393,480 1,286,853 1,326,872 3% -5% Total City Manager's Office 4,675,356 5,109,970 5,691,520 4,537,741 4,132,738 -9% -27% 2110-Finance 1,481,649 2,023,378 1,819,448 1,561,046 1,876,904 20% 3% 2410-Non Department 248,605 368,685 500,800 496,965 689,760 39% 38% Total Finance 1,730,254 2,392,063 2,320,248 2,058,012 2,566,664 25% 11% 2210-Human Resources 1,131,239 1,827,293 $ 1,839,309 $ 1,580,573 $ 2,066,391 31% 12%

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
3110-Planning 2,100,886 2,685,792 2,663,179 2,678,300 2,891,600 8% 9% 3210-Building 2,285,794 1,672,910 2,249,790 2,664,715 3,078,886 16% 37% 3410-Sustainability 536 138,795 104,960 3,784 517,500 13575% 393% 3510-Business License - 89,251 125,213 17,957 110,906 518% -11% 3610-Code Enforcement - 150,683 166,257 133,648 286,560 114% 72% 3710-Land Use Engineering - - 356,545 297,840 281,445 -6% -21% Total Development Services 4,387,216 4,737,432 5,665,944 5,796,244 7,166,896 24% 26%

PUBLIC WORKS
4110-Engineering 1,595,551 1,212,366 732,730 1,152,836 1,206,547 5% 65% 4210-Transportation 652,126 828,887 1,214,701 546,066 859,699 57% -29% 4310-Urban Runoff 215,631 325,813 363,501 260,254 328,997 26% -9% 5310-Street Maintenance 833,933 678,289 1,045,903 774,446 847,123 9% -19% Total Public Works 3,297,241 3,045,355 3,356,835 2,733,602 3,242,367 19% -3%

PUBLIC SAFETY
6110-Administration 1,595,572 2,007,285 2,614,991 2,865,801 3,032,569 6% 16% 6120-Support Services 2,287,336 2,459,448 2,803,172 2,668,134 3,648,776 37% 30% 6130-Investigation Services 1,620,931 1,524,816 2,007,276 1,629,858 1,326,267 -19% -34% 6140-Traffic Operations 1,543,503 1,643,910 1,800,845 1,808,566 1,138,318 -37% -37% 6150-Patrol Services 5,452,759 5,744,867 6,747,333 5,843,720 8,146,234 39% 21% 6410-Fire Services 8,216,775 8,625,984 9,724,050 10,272,127 9,724,050 -5% 0% Total Public Safety 20,716,876 22,006,310 25,697,667 25,088,207 27,016,213 8% 5%

PARKS & RECREATION
7110-REC Administration 1,063,801 1,381,190 1,721,319 1,166,868 1,460,724 25% -15% 72xx-Facilities 589,712 400,937 340,349 488,534 367,540 -25% 8% 7320-Tiny Tots 233,463 356,245 226,333 277,720 254,389 -8% 12%

GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURE SUMMARY
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PROGRAM EXPENDITURES
FY2022/23
Actual
FY2023/24
Actual
FY2024/25
Budget
FY2024/25
Estimated
Actual
FY2025/26
Budget
% Change Over
FY25 Estimated
% Change
over FY
Budget

GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURE SUMMARY
7410-Community Events 42,837 60,643 231,737 61,484 142,098 131% -39% 7610-Teen Program 76,085 68,561 93,619 66,705 98,302 47% 5% 7710-Camps-Contracts 20,802 28,548 48,956 27,930 54,033 93% 10% 7720-Camps-Programs 93,893 151,440 232,792 178,531 228,001 28% -2% 7730-Classes-Youth 243,829 223,438 282,668 229,450 344,096 50% 22% 7740-Classes-Adults 66,811 40,926 48,000 52,500 48,000 -9% 0% 7820-Sports Junior High 142,631 132,947 156,223 123,302 165,112 34% 6% 7830-Sports Adults 25,853 1,711 24,378 130 - -100% -100% 7910-Seniors Operations 221,624 262,840 272,927 273,214 317,276 16% 16% 7920-Seniors Activities 25,919 36,151 68,600 37,861 152,700 303% 123% 5110-MSC Administration 288,795 238,591 165,925 511,842 478,354 -7% 188% 5220-Fleet Maintenance 158,901 280,083 509,426 326,634 516,837 58% 1% 5410-Parks and Street Landscaping 2,694,984 3,104,082 3,718,961 3,408,286 3,789,690 11% 2% 5510-Facility Maintenance 1,310,894 1,188,832 1,429,373 1,380,378 1,171,400 -15% -18% Total Parks & Recreation 11% 0%
Total General Fund Expenditures 43,631,185 47,659,654 55,225,777 51,310,656 56,798,353 11% 3% Debt Service - - 844,925 844,925 842,490
Transfer In / (Out) (3,972,077) (1,578,000) (20,565,209) (20,810,577) (6,952,719) Total General Fund
Expenditures/Transfers/Debt $ 47,603,262 $ 49,237,654 $ 76,635,911 $ 72,966,158 $ 64,593,562 -11% -16% 7,300,834 7,957,165 9,571,586 8,611,373 9,588,551
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SEWER FUND FY2022/23 Actual FY2023/24 Actual FY2024/25 Budget FY2024/25
Estimated
Actual
FY2025/26
Budget
Beginning Unrestricted Fund Balance $ - $ - $ - $ 12,852,366 $ 13,999,405 Interest Income 118,371 403,753 - 376,422 310,500
Sewer Charges 8,840,756 10,383,108 10,800,874 10,504,495 12,202,565 Sewer Connection Fees 2,106 1,085 14,000 193,619 14,000 Misc. Sewer Fees 6,616 25,825 20,000 249,837 20,000
Total Revenues 8,967,849 10,813,771 10,834,874 11,324,373 12,547,065 Sewer Administration 6,523,741 7,572,122 10,470,873 8,867,448 9,830,392 Sewer Equipment/Depreciation 563,339 378,203 - - -
Capital Program 2,344,704 224,591 2,785,000 1,309,886 1,892,736 Total Expenditures 9,431,784 8,174,916 13,255,873 10,177,334 11,723,128 Net Operations (463,935) 2,638,855 (2,420,999) 1,147,040 823,937 Transfer In / (Out) (201,000) (720,000) - - -
Ending Unrestricted Fund Balance $ - $ - $ - $ 13,999,405 $ 14,823,342 SOLID WASTE FUND FY2022/23 Actual FY2023/24 Actual FY2024/25 Budget FY2024/25
Estimated
Actual
FY2025/26
Budget
Beginning Unrestricted Fund Balance $ - $ - $ - $ 3,251,670 $ 2,314,794 Interest Income 30,231 229,463 45,000 126,207 103,500
Administrative Charges 919,848 951,996 1,000,000 1,124,690 1,048,900 AB939 Tax 49,186 - 40,000 - 38,000
Grants and donations - - - - -
Solid Waste Revenues 999,265 1,181,459 1,085,000 1,250,897 1,190,400 Solid Waste Administration 2,151,447 2,151,447 2,398,654 2,187,773 2,326,451 Transfer In / (Out) (57,700) - - - -
Ending Unrestricted Fund Balance $ - $ - $ - $ 2,314,794 $ 1,178,743

ENTERPRISE FUND SUMMARY
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FY2025-30 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Projects No. Project # Project Name Category Project Scope Funding Source Prior years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 Total 1 CD-01006
Police Records
Management & Dispatch
System
Technology
Procurement of regional tri-city (Los Altos, Mountain View & Palo Alto) “virtual consolidation” public safety information system, which includes the sharing of a Computer Aided
Dispatch (CAD) system, Records Management System
(RMS), Field Based Reporting (FBR) and Mobile for Public Safety (MPS) system. These enterprise-wide applications will serve as the centerpiece for the larger project including a common 9-1-1 phone system and a shared police radio
frequency. It will provide both technical and physical
redundancy for all three cities.

CIP $ 247,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 247,000
2 CD-01008 Reliable IT Enhancement Technology
The project is rooted from the IT Initiatives CIP that was carried out since FY 2016-17. After performing critical updates on the City's infrastructure (fiber, 10Gb switches, HA Firewalls, Wifi, cloud VoIP, etc.), data center
modernization (server rack reconfiguration,
hyperconverged, Virtualization platform, UPS, backup
solution), business applications (TRAKiT, ArcGIS, Finance Enterprise, webhosting), and cybersecurity and software solutions (Managed Dectection & Responses, Endpoint and Ransomware Protection), the City's IT Department
continues to work on hardware and software refresh, as
well as utilizing cloud-based solutions to enhance the IT experience for all City staff.

Technology $ 2,656,912 $ 400,000 $ 175,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 3,231,912 3 CD-01012
Annual Storm Drain
Improvement
Community
Development
The project provides for rehabilitation or replacement of existing infrastructure,installation of new infrastructure, and professional service as they relate to special studies or reports needed to remain in compliance with the San
Francisco Regional Permit (MPRP under the National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit.

CIP $ - $ - $ 175,000 $ 800,000 $ 220,000 $ 800,000 $ 1,995,000 4 CD-01021 Chamber AV Equipment
Upgrade
Equipment &
Vehicles
This project is correct some issues with the AV equipment in the Council Chambers. These fixes will make the existing equipment easier to use and correct several issues that have been encountered in recent months.

PEG Fees $ 50,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 50,000
5 CD-01024 General Plan Studies
The General Plan is the vision about how a community will grow, reflecting priorities and values while shaping the future. The City of Los Altos General Plan was last updated in 2002. Countless State laws have been established which necessitates a comprehensive overhaul of the exististing adopted plan. Most recently the City adopted its 6th Cycle Housing Element to comply with State Housing law. Upon
adoption of a City's 6th Cycle Housing Element, the
jurisdiction must update its Safety Element. When a
jurisdiction is required to update two or more required elements of the General Plan it necessitates the creation of an additional required element, the Environmental Justice Element. Additionally, the City in 2022 adopted both its Climate Acition & Adaptaton Plan (CAAP) and it Complete Streets Master Plan (CSMP) both of which provide direction on how the City should continue to grow and develop well into the future. However, it is important for the City of Los Altos to integrate policies and the overall vision of both documents into the General Plan as it is the highest level regulatory land use document within the City.

CIP $ 250,000 $ 250,000 $ 500,000 $ 500,000 $ 500,000 $ - $ 2,000,000 194
Agenda Item # 8.

FY2025-30 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Projects No. Project # Project Name Category Project Scope Funding Source Prior years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 Total Grant $ 150,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 150,000
Downtown
Parking $ 42,952 $ 150,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 192,952
CIP $ - $ 50,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 50,000
7 CD-01029 Downtown Bicycle Parking
Installation
Downtown
Development
Downtown has a number of bicycle parking within the
downtown core, but there are not many locations for safe electric bicyle parking area. City staff has identified locations in the repaving for Parking Plaza #6 that will be completed as part of that project.

Grant $ - $ 50,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 50,000
8 CD-01030 Downtown Park Space with
Parking
Downtown
Development
The City has hired a consultant who is working on
completing community engagement and design before
creating construction-ready bid documents. The consultant plans to complete robust community engagement and then
refine aspects of the project into three feasible conceptual design alternatives, create cost estimates and identify funding sources for the alternatives, garner consensus on preferred alternatives, and provide a final update to City Council. At that time, City Council will move forward with the preferred design and create full bid-ready construction documents.

In-Lieu Park $ 500,000 $ 1,313,500 $ 475,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 2,288,500 9 CD-01031 Downtown EV Charging
Downtown
Development
The City applied for grant funding from the California Energy Commission for EV charging in the downtown core. City
staff is waiting for installation of these charging stations that will add charging faclities to downtown.

Grant $ - $ 500,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 500,000
CIP $ - $ 30,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 30,000
Grant $ - $ 120,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 120,000
CIP $ - $ 175,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 175,000
Fleet Vehicle $ - $ 175,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 175,000
12 CF-01004 Halsey House
Rehabilitation
Civic FacilitiesBuildings
The Facilities Maintenance Division manages the annual rat abatement contract and the fencing rental for the Halsey House. An environmental consultant is currently working on the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Halsey
House.

CIP $ 157,393 $ 30,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 267,393 Project Description: In collaboration with SVCE and PG&E the City of Los Altos is electrifying the City's Fleet with various Electric Vehicles. As part of electrification of the City's Fleet, EV Charging Infrastructure is necessary. In 2024, the City obtain Technical Assistance from SVCE for completion of EV Infrastructure Plans at the MSC Property located at 707 Fremont Avenue. In tandem the City was
selected by PG&E to participate in the Make-ready Incentive which requires the City to provide and maintain "Behind the Meter" (EV supply such as chargers, and ground work)
infrastructure, while PG&E will provide in "Front the Meter" (New Electrical Transformer, Trenching and necessary
upgrades). This CIP will facilitate the deployment of
necessary infrastructure in preparation of PG&E electrical upgrades, both allowing for the Electrification of the City's Fleet.
11 CD-XXXX2 MSC EV Infrastructure Infrastructure
City staff will improve the lighting within the downtown core because sidewalks, Veterans Community Plaza, and
parking plazas are not extremely well lit in some locations.

This will improve safety for residents and businesses while also increasing downtown vibrancy. City staff will identify other lighting solutions that may limit their impact on the overall electrical infrastructure.

Downtown
Development
Downtown Lighting
Improvements
6 CD-01025
The Los Altos Library Endowment are working to expand the existing patio at the Woodland Library and Greentown Los Altos are working to expand the native plant garden also at the Woodland Library. These projects are currently being designed by a landscape architect. Once that is completed, the City will issue a Bid for the work to prepare and grade the space and then complete construction of the expanded patio area.

Community
Development
10 CD-XXXX1 Woodland Library Patio
195
Agenda Item # 8.

FY2025-30 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Projects No. Project # Project Name Category Project Scope Funding Source Prior years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 Total 13 CF-01006 999 Fremont
Civic FacilitiesBuildings
The City-owned facility at 999 Fremont Ave. is currently unoccuped. The Los Altos Police Department plans to use it as a sub-station with a few interior upgrades that will allow officers better access to the south side of the city. The facility will have a reception area for the public along with workspace, fitness area and break area for officers.

Funding for this project is to install a small kitchen space as well as a shower and changing space. Prior year funding added the walls that created the reception area.

CIP $ 69,500 $ 100,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 169,500
196
Agenda Item # 8.

FY2025-30 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Projects No. Project # Project Name Category Project Scope Funding Source Prior years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 Total 14 CF-01009 Grant Park / Shoup Park
Pathway Rehabilitation
Civic FacilitiesParks and Trails
As part of the City's annual rehabilitation or replacement of existing bicycle and pedestrian pathway infrastructure, this project will improve existing pathways at Grant Park and Shoup Park. The improvements will be based on condition assessment, the City’s Pedestrian Master Plan, Bicycle
Transportation Master Plan, and Parks Plan.

In-Lieu Park $ - $ 285,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 285,000
15 CF-01011 City Hall Emergency Backup Power Generator Civic FacilitiesBuildings
The existing stand-by generators at City Hall, Police
Department and the Municipal Services Center are beyond their useful life and in need of replacement. The City has been required by Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) to
register the emergency generator under the Portable
Equipment Registration Program. The generator is subject to unscheduled inspections by the State for compliance
with emission requirements. While the existing generator is meeting the current emission requirements, it is aging and at risk of exceeding emission standards soon. A new more energy-efficient generator will meet all BAAQMD
requirements and will be more cost-effective to operate.

CIP $ 140,000 $ 280,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 420,000
16 CF-01021 Emergency Operations
Center (EOC)
Civic FacilitiesBuildings
This project is for the retrofitting the Community Center into the City's main Emergency Operations Center in the event of an emergency. Storage and technology systems will be installed inside the buliding and a new back-up emergency generator will service the Community Center. In an
emergency event the Community Center will transform into the City's EOC and will have power back up from the new generator. The current EOC is at the Municipal Service
Center and will serve as the back-up EOC.

In-Lieu Park $ 3,400,000 $ 600,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 4,000,000 17 CF-01032 Hillview/McKenzie Dog
Parks
Civic FacilitiesParks and Trails
This funding is for the design and construction of the
permanent dog park at Hillview Park and the upgrades to the dog park at McKenzie. The Hillview dog park is planned to be located where the current auxillary parking area
currently is across from the main library. Funding for this project includes conceptual design & public outreach in previous year and construction in the comming year.

Construction includes drainage, grading, irrigation, fencing, plumbing, pathway lighting, landscape, hardscape, furniture signage and dog play equipment. The design phase will
produce a preferred option that will be a divided "small dog/all dog" park and an alternative option that is an
undivided "all-dog" park. McKenzie upgrades may include fence expnasion, surfacing improvements, drinking
fountain, seating and new landscape installation. This
project is now combined with the Hillview Dog Park for
improvements of both locations.

In-Lieu Park $ 248,312 $ 1,030,088 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 1,278,400 18 CF-01034
Grant Park Facility
(Electrical, Hot Water, &
HVAC)
Civic FacilitiesParks and Trails
The community buildings at Grant Park are aged and in need of upgrades to provide the amenities desired for the
Recreation programming and community services for the
surrounding community. The essential need is hot water in the activity room wing and air conditioning in both wings. In order to do that the electrical service for the entire facility must be increased. This project is to add these essentials to the buildings at Grant Park. Construction costs include electrical panel upgrades, PG&E upgrades and approvals, new and upgraded HVAC mechanical components, HVAC
thermostats, HVAC control systems, hot water mechanical and plumbing connections.

In-Lieu Park $ 1,178,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 1,178,000 197
Agenda Item # 8.

FY2025-30 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Projects No. Project # Project Name Category Project Scope Funding Source Prior years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 Total 19 CF-01036 New Financial System Technology
This project is replacing the City's existing financial system with a more modern ERP system. The new system will
enhance the reporting capabilities and streamline workflow processes within the organization. The City signed the
contract with the vendor on December 2022.

Technology $ 755,000 $ 200,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 955,000 20 CF-01038 Shoup Park Playground
Civic FacilitiesParks and Trails
This project will upgrade the aging play equipment at Shoup Park. There are two playgrounds in the park. One
playground is age appropriate for 2-5 year olds and another for 5-12 year olds. The funding includes design and
construction services.

In-Lieu Park $ - $ 620,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 620,000
21 CF-01041 Hillview Fitness Equipment
Civic FacilitiesParks and Trails
This project will redesign and replace the aged outdoor fitness equipment at Hillview Park near the Little League baseball field.

In-Lieu Park $ - $ 145,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 145,000
22 CF-01043
San Antonio Club
Upgrades
Civic FacilitiesBuildings Upgrades to the interior and exterior of the historic facility. In-Lieu Park $ - $ 85,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 85,000 23 CF-01047 Police Department
Building Security Upgrades
Civic FacilitiesBuildingsThe Police department security cameras need replacement/upgrading. Technology $ 75,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 75,000 24 CF-01049
Caretaker House
Demolition and
Replacement
Civic FacilitiesBuildings
This project will demolish the Caretaker house that is
located in Redwood Grove and replace it with a new prefabricated restroom and office space. Based on the house location and condition, it is not usable as a public building and is currently being utilized as a storage facility for camp and open space restoration supplies. The project will need to evaluate ADA accessibility, and environmental factors given its proximity to the creek.

CIP $ 402,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 402,000
25 CF-01056
Almond fire station reroofingCivic FacilitiesParks and Trails Make necessary upgrade and modification of the fire station to accommodate new equipments and address building
deficiencies.

Facility
Maintenance $ 250,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 250,000
CIP $ 478,678 $ 500,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 978,678
Downtown
Parking $ - $ 500,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 500,000
CIP $ - $ 200,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 200,000
In-Lieu Park $ - $ 50,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 50,000
28 CF-XXXX2 Grant Playground
Civic FacilitiesParks and Trails
This project will upgrade the aging play equipment at Grant Park. The funding includes design and construction
services.

In-Lieu Park $ 620,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 620,000
29 CF-XXXX3 History Museum Roof
Replacement
Civic FacilitiesBuildingsThis project will replace the roof at the Los Altos History Museum. The roof is beyond it's useful life.

Facility
Maintenance $ 175,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 175,000
30 CF-XXXX4
Bus Barn Theatre HVAC
unit replaceent
Civic FacilitiesBuildings
This project is for the purchase and installation of both HVAC unots at the Bus Barn Community Theatre in the Civic Center. Both current units are beyond their usefull life and one has started failing recently. The new units will be more reliable and more efficient.

CIP $ 45,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 45,000
31 CF-XXXX6 Fire station improvements
Civic FacilitiesBuildings
This funding is an estimate to cover the outstanding
immediate needs (some items were completed in 2025)
and replacement/reserve needs in accordance with the
recommendations in the 2024 Property Condition
Assesment for the Police Department and Fire Facilities (2).

Facility
Maintenance $ 214,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 214,000
This project addresses parking needs near the Police
Department and dog park by evaluating replacement and
additional stalls to support Civic Center operations and park user access.

TransportationStreets/Roadways
27 Civic Center Parking
To prepare topographic survey of all parking lots in the downtown area. Design and reconstruct Parking lot 4, 5 and 6 TransportationStreets/RoadwaysDowntown Parking lot
resurfacing
26 CF-XXXX1
CF-01057
198
Agenda Item # 8.

FY2025-30 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Projects No. Project # Project Name Category Project Scope Funding Source Prior years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 Total 32 CF-XXXX7
Grant Park Fence
Replacement
Civic FacilitiesParks and Trails
This project is to replace the split-rail fence that borders most of the perimiter of Grant Park. The current fence is beginning to show signs of wear beyond repair. The current fence age is unknown but appears to be beyond its useful life. A new fence will be sturdier and will be more appealing.

Also for additional fencing for utility screening onsite.

In-Lieu Park $ 90,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 90,000
33 CF-XXXX8
Grant Park Facility Solar
and Battery Storage
Installation
Civic FacilitiesBuildings
This project is for the purchase and installation of solar panels and battery power storage at the Grant Park
buldings. This would reduce the electric load required from the public utility supplier and create an emergency power storage back-up in case of power outage.

In-Lieu Park $ 275,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 275,000
34 CF-XXXX9 Community Center Café Civic FacilitiesBuildings Complete the construction documents and permitting,
purchase the appliances, and complete the construction for a new café inside the Los Altos Community Center.

In-Lieu Park $ - $ 165,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 165,000
35 CF-XXX10 New Police Building Design
Civic FacilitiesBuildings
This project supports the planning and design of a
modernized Police Department facility to enhance
operational efficiency, safety, and service delivery at the Civic Center.

Facility
Maintenance $ - $ 300,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 300,000
36 CF-XXX11
Police Substation
Landscaping
Civic FacilitiesBuildings
This project involves the development of a beautification plan for the Police Substation located at 999 Fremont
Avenue, as part of broader enhancements in the
Loyola/Fremont area. The project is expected to include landscape design and improvements at the site. It
complements recently installed street banners and aligns with citywide aesthetic enhancement goals.

CIP $ - $ 44,500 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 44,500
37 LI-01001 Library Construction Community
Development
The Library Commission identified potential improvements for the interior portion of the Main Library that was broken down into three phases. Phase 1 is a Design Alternative Analysis that will investigate the existing condition, create design alternatives, evaluate cost estimates, and garner consensus for a final preferred design. Phase 2 is 65%
drawings that will include technical specifications for the building with a more detailed cost breakdown. Phase 3 is bid-ready construction documents and construction
transition. City staff and the architect are currently working through Phase 1 and will transition to Phase 2 early in FY25-

26. Grant $ 145,891 $ 900,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 1,045,891 CIP $ 1,217,586 $ 1,467,542 $ 1,500,000 $ 1,500,000 $ 1,500,000 $ 1,500,000 $ 8,685,128 Gas Tax $ 443,031 $ 500,000 $ 500,000 $ 500,000 $ 500,000 $ 2,443,031 Measure B $ 507,327 $ 553,789 $ 622,411 $ 622,411 $ 622,411 $ 622,411 $ 3,550,760 RMAA $ 304,396 $ 304,584 $ 360,433 $ 360,433 $ 360,433 $ 360,433 $ 2,050,712 Gas Tax $ 150,000 $ 150,000 $ 150,000 $ 150,000 $ 150,000 $ 750,000 VRF $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 500,000 CIP $ 1,716,000 $ 194,000 $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 2,710,000 Gas Tax $ 1,716,000 $ 368,600 $ 350,000 $ 350,000 $ 350,000 $ 350,000 $ 3,484,600 Measure B $ 1,716,000 $ 9,700 $ 400,000 $ 400,000 $ 400,000 $ 400,000 $ 3,325,700 VRF $ 1,716,000 $ 397,700 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 2,193,700 TransportationStreets/Roadways Annual Street Resurfacing TS-01004
This project slurry- or micro-seals City streets annually, including cutout and repair of minor pavement failures. The seal typically places a thin layer of sand and oil over City streets. Neighborhood streets should receive a surface
treatment (slurry seal) other than an overlay about every seven years. Sealing is a preventative maintenance
treatment that prevents moisture from penetrating the
pavement and softening the base material supporting the pavement.

TransportationStreets/Roadways
40 Annual Street Slurry Seal
The annual street resurfacing project includes milling and an overlay of asphalt concrete (AC) on existing street
surfaces that are approaching the end of their useful life, as evidenced by cracking and minor pavement failures.

Priority was given to streets that is been identified as safe route to school.
38 Roadway striping and markers throughout the City need to be refreshed on a regular basis. Adjustments of striping on existing roadway to reduce conflicts are also considered.

Visibility of pavement markings is important to prevent traffic accidents and improve traffic flow.

TransportationStreets/Roadways
39 Street Striping
TS-01001
TS-01003
199
Agenda Item # 8.

FY2025-30 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Projects No. Project # Project Name Category Project Scope Funding Source Prior years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 Total 41 TS-01005 City-owned Sidewalk
Assessment
TransportationPedestrian/Bicycl
e Safety
The project will locate and identify damaged sidewalk and curb/gutter and make necessary repairs that does not fall within the legal responsibility of adjacent property owners.

For economies of scale, this project may be integrated with the annual street resurfacing contract.

CIP $ - $ 50,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 50,000
42 TS-01006 Annual Traffic Sign
Replacement
TransportationPedestrian/Bicycl
e Safety
There are approximately 8,000 standard roadway traffic
signs throughout the City including street name signs. After time, the signs lose its reflectivity and makes it difficult for the public to see, especially at night. The Traffic Sign Replacement project provides funds to inventory and
maintain and replace these signs. This project will also improve signage per the City’s Complete Streets Master
Plan, where appropriate, to improve safe access for
bicycles and pedestrians and safer routes to schools. When appropriate, for economies of scale, this project may be integrated with the annual street resurfacing contract.

RMAA $ - $ 50,000 $ 300,000 $ 300,000 $ 300,000 $ 300,000 $ 1,250,000 43 TS-01055
Fremont Ave Pedestrian
Bridge Rehabilitation
TransportationStreets/Roadways
Rehabilitation would include: replacement of timber
decking, replacement of structural blocking and cross
bracing, replacement of endspans middle glulam stringer, replacement of timber railing, installation of a drainage system, minor repairs to the bridge abutments, and
backfilling of the first span to repair scour damage and loss of backfill material. Existing bridge abutments will remain.

CIP $ 294,729 $ 315,271 $ 240,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 850,000 CIP $ 135,000 $ - $ 120,000 $ 120,000 $ 120,000 $ 120,000 $ 615,000 Traffic Impact
Fees $ 445,000 $ 445,000
Measure B $ - $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 250,000 RMAA $ - $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 1,000,000 45 TS-01058
Intersection Access Barrier
Removal
TransportationPedestrian/Bicycl
e Safety
The Hetch Hetchy pathway is a multi-use bike and
pedestrian trail within the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) right-of-way, connecting the City to Palo Alto via Arastradero Road. It also serves maintenance access for SFPUC and City staff. The City will reconstruct the existing crossings at Estrellita Way and Los Altos
Avenue to meet current ADA standards and improve
connectivity.

CIP $ 129,734 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 129,734
OBAG $ 1,120,000 $ - $ 6,178,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 7,298,000 Traffic Impact
Fees $ 280,000 $ - $ 950,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 1,230,000
VRF $ - $ - $ 591,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 591,000
47 TS-XXXX1 El Camino Real ADA Ramp
& Sidewalk Assessment
Funds will support an ADA compliance assessment of
ramps and sidewalks along El Camino Real at the city limits.

The assessment will evaluate existing conditions, determine compliance with current ADA standards, and prioritize areas for future improvements.

CIP $ - $ 95,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 95,000
TransportationPedestrian/Bicycl
e Safety
This project would employ best practice street design
principles to create designated space for each mode of
transporation, separating pedestrians and cyclists from motor vehicle traffic, and reducing conflicts between
vulnerable road users and vehicles. This improvement
project would facilitate a safer experience for these
vulnerable roadway users and would provide a connection where a gap currently exists.

TransportationPedestrian/Bicycl
e Safety
San Antonio Road
Complete Street Project
46 TS-01062
The City has existing pedestrian-activated in-pavement
warning light systems at crosswalk locations in and around Downtown. The existing systems are past their useful life and failures in the equipment are starting to occur. This project will replace the 14 failed in-pavement crosswalk lights and adjacent signs with state of the art Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacon systems (RRFBs) and include the
installation of RRFBs at four crosswalks that do not have the in-pavement lights.

TransportationStreets/RoadwaysIn-Road Light System
Maintenance
44 TS-01057
200
Agenda Item # 8.

FY2025-30 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Projects No. Project # Project Name Category Project Scope Funding Source Prior years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 Total 48 WW-01001 Annual Sewer System
Repair Program
Wastewater
Systems
The 2013 Sanitary Sewer Master Plan Update
recommended replacement of segments of pipes located at various locations throughout the City that are included in the focused cleaning schedule that have severe sags. Such sags can cause accumulation of debris and grease which
necessitates frequent cleaning.

Sewer $ - $ - $ 200,000 $ 750,000 $ 200,000 $ 750,000 $ 1,900,000 49 WW-01002
Annual Structural Reach
Replacement
Wastewater
Systems
The 2013 Sanitary Sewer Master Plan Update
recommended replacement of segments of pipes at various locations throughout the City that have multiple moderateto-severe structural defects. The areas selected for replacement were identified by closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection.

Sewer $ 1,407,005 $ - $ 225,000 $ 900,000 $ 225,000 $ 900,000 $ 3,657,005 50 WW-01003 Annual Root Foaming
Wastewater
Systems
The Sewer Master Plan Update recommends that an annual
project be performed to remove invasive tree roots within sewer mains. Root removal products currently on the
market provide protection from future root growth for two to three years following application.

Sewer $ - $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 200,000 $ 1,000,000 51 WW-01005
Annual CIPP Corrosion
Replacement
Wastewater
Systems
This project consists of work to repair pipe corrosion using the cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) repair method for the trunk sewer. The pipe sizes range from 24-inches to 42-inches, which are the largest pipe diameter sections in the system that deliver sewage to the Palo Alto Regional Water Quality Control Plant. The trunk sewer rehabilitation is divided into several phases to be more manageable to prioritize the
rehabilitation of the most corroded reaches.

Sewer $ - $ - $ 200,000 $ 1,200,000 $ 200,000 $ 1,200,000 $ 2,800,000 52 WW-01006 Annual Fats, Oils, Grease
Program (FOG)
Wastewater
Systems
The Fats, Oil and Grease (FOG) Program is critical to the operation of a sewer system. This project provides funding for inspections and follow-up and to educate customers on best management practices (BMPs) to prevent sewer backups resulting from FOG being deposited into drains and ultimately to the sewage collection system.

Sewer $ 68,000 $ 52,000 $ 52,000 $ 54,000 $ 56,000 $ 58,000 $ 340,000 53 WW-01009 Sewer System
Management Plan Update
Wastewater
Systems
In accordance with State requirements, this project will update the City of Los Altos Sewer System Management
Plan. The updating is typically done by a sewer management consultant. The update of the SSMP will be based on
compliance with the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Sanitary Sewer Discharge Requirements (WDR).

Sewer $ 148,771 $ - $ 25,000 $ 50,000 $ 25,000 $ 50,000 $ 298,771 54 WW-01011 Sanitary Sewer Video
Inspection
Wastewater
Systems
As sewer system networks age, the risk of deterioration, blockages, and collapses become a major concern.

Cleaning and inspecting sewer lines is essential to
maintaining a properly functioning system. These activities further a community’s reinvestment into its wastewater
infrastructure. Inspection programs are required to
determine current sewer conditions and to aid in planning a maintenance or rehabilitation strategy. Closed-circuit
television (CCTV) inspections are the most frequently used, most cost efficient, and most effective method to inspect the internal condition of a sewer.

The 2013 Sanitary Sewer Master Plan Update recommends
full video inspection of the sanitary sewer system every 5 years. Current system CCTV data was last collected
between 2021 and 2023.

Sewer $ 880,000 $ - $ 440,000 $ 440,000 $ 440,000 $ 440,000 $ 2,640,000 201
Agenda Item # 8.

FY2025-30 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Projects No. Project # Project Name Category Project Scope Funding Source Prior years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 Total 55 WW-01012
Adobe Creek Sewer Main
Replacement
Wastewater
Systems
The project involves rehabilitation and partial realignment of approximately 6,580 linear fee of sewer main along Adobe Creek. The construction of the project is to be completed in four phases. Obtaining permits with regulatory agencies to work near and within the creek requires additional time, coordination, environmental submittal review, and overall project management.

Sewer $ 491,960 $ 250,000 $ 1,700,000 $ 1,700,000 $ 1,700,000 $ 1,700,000 $ 7,541,960 56 WW-01013 Document Scanning
Wastewater
Systems
The Document Scanning project includes the conversion of hardcopy documents into digital format and the
maintenance of the operating software for the storage and retrieval of documents. This project increases efficiency in work flow for the creation , maintenance, preservation, and retrieval of project records and documentation, which
improves the overall utilization of resources including space and staff time.

Sewer $ - $ 300,000 $ 150,000 $ 150,000 $ 150,000 $ 150,000 $ 900,000 Funding Source Prior Years Fund 25-26 Fund 26-27 Fund 27-28 Fund 28-29 Fund 29-30 PEG Fees $ 50,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Technology $ 3,486,912 $ 600,000 $ 175,000 $ - $ - $ -
Grant $ 295,891 $ 1,570,000 $ - $ - $ - $ -
Downtown Parking $ 42,952 $ 650,000 $ - $ - $ - $ -
CIP $ 3,881,980 $ 3,826,313 $ 2,755,000 $ 3,140,000 $ 2,560,000 $ 2,640,000 In-Lieu Park $ 5,326,312 $ 5,278,588 $ 475,000 $ - $ - $ - Facility Maintenance $ 250,000 $ 689,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - Fleet Vehicle $ - $ 175,000 $ - $ - $ - $ -
Sewer $ 2,995,736 $ 802,000 $ 3,192,000 $ 5,444,000 $ 3,196,000 $ 5,448,000 Gas Tax $ 617,760 $ 961,631 $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000 Measure B $ 541,647 $ 613,489 $ 1,072,411 $ 1,072,411 $ 1,072,411 $ 1,072,411 RMAA $ 304,396 $ 554,584 $ 860,433 $ 860,433 $ 860,433 $ 860,433 VRF $ 703,560 $ 497,700 $ 711,000 $ 120,000 $ 120,000 $ 120,000 Traffic Impact Fees $ 725,000 $ - $ 950,000 $ - $ - $ - OBAG $ 1,120,000 $ - $ 6,178,000 $ - $ - $ -
Annual Total $ 20,342,146 $ 16,218,305 $ 17,368,844 $ 11,636,844 $ 8,808,844 $ 11,140,844 202
Agenda Item # 8.

Total Valuation
$1.00 - $3,000.00 $245.73
$3,001.00 - $25,000.00
First $3,000 $245.73
Each Additional $1,000 $31.70
$25,001.00 - $50,000.00
First $25,000 $943.08
Each Additional $1,000 $32.65
$50,001.00 - $100,000.00
First $50,000 $1,759.38
Each Additional $1,000 $17.75
$100,001.00 - $500,000.00
First $100,000 $3,552.06
Each Additional $1,000 $7.76
$500,001.00 - $1,000,000.00
First $500,000 $7,722.65
Each Additional $1,000 $12.61
$1,000,001.00 and up
First $1,000,000 $14,605.15
Each Additional $1,000 $6.31
ADU Building Permit $0.00
$1.00 - $3,000.00 $208.70
$3,001.00 - $25,000.00
First $3,000 $398.89
Each Additional $1,000 $24.74
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES FY2025/2026

BUILDING DIVISION
Building Permit
Electrical, Mechanical or Plumbing Permit
Valuation based on price per square foot of construction. Minimum valuation for new residential and commercial construction is $576.97 per square-foot.

Effective Date: July 1, 2025
203
Agenda Item # 8.
$25,001.00 - $50,000.00
First $25,000 $943.08
Each Additional $1,000 $26.10
$50,001.00 - $100,000.00
First $50,000 $1,595.55
Each Additional $1,000 $53.68
$100,001.00 and up 1.62%
ADU Electrical, Mechanical or Plumbing
Permit $0.00
ADU Plan Check $0.00
Building Plan Check 135.00%
Energy Plan Check (Title 24) 25.00%
Residential
15 kw or less $306.90
15kw - 50kw $306.90
Per kw above 15kw $10.23
51kw - 250kw $511.50
Per kw above 50kw $5.12
250+ kw $511.50
Per kw above 250kw $5.12
Commercial
50kw or less $306.90
50kw - 250kw $511.50
Per kw above 50 kw $5.12
250+ kw $511.50
Per kw above 250 kw $5.12
Plan Check
Solar/Photovoltaic Permit
Standalone Building Permits
204
Agenda Item # 8.

Water Heater $153.45
Water Line/Sewer Line $308.95
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station $306.90
Energy Storage System $409.20
Single Family $238.36
Commercial/Mixed-Use/Multifamily $364.19
Re-inspection Request $253.70
Inspections Outside of Normal
Business Hours (Minimum Charge of 2
hours) $589.25
Each Additional Hour $294.62
Expired Permit Fees Based on Original Permit Fees
Penalty for Expired Permits
0 to 30 days $0.00
31st day through 60th day $200.00/per day
61st day through 120th day $400.00/per day
121st day and everyday thereafter $800.00/per day
Alternate Means and Methods Request
(AMMR) $454.21
Certificate of Occupancy $111.51
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy $668.02
Inspections
Demolition Permit
Expired Permits
Misc. Building Fees
205
Agenda Item # 8.

Duplicate Permit Request $111.51
Street Address Change $742.70
Stop Work Penalties 2-4x All Plan review and Permit Fees In House Plan Check Review $302.81/per hour
Consultant Review Actual Cost
Building Code Compliance Review $151.40
California Green Building Fund
Assessed at the rate of $4.20 per $100,000
in valuation, with appropriate fractions
thereof, but not less than $1.00 per every
$25,000 in valuation
Construction Tax (Established per LAMC
Chapter 3.24)
Residential Square Footage $0.42/per Square Foot
Commercial Square Footage $0.70/per Square Foot
Strong Motion and Seismic Hazard
Mapping
Strong Motion Instrumentation &
Seismic Hazard Mapping Fees – SMIP
(1-3 Story Residential)
Valuation Amount x 0.00013
(Minimum Fee $0.50)
Strong Motion Instrumentation &
Seismic Hazard Mapping Fees – SMIP
(Over 3 story residential & all commercial)
Valuation Amount x 0.00028
(Minimum Fee $0.50)
General Plan Maintenance Fee (Charged
based Building Permit Fee) 7.00%
Technology Surcharge Fee (Charged
based on Building Permit Fee) 5.00%
Fees Assessed at Time of Building Permit Issuance

ENGINEERING DIVISION
Encroachment Permit
206
Agenda Item # 8.

Parking Stall
Base $297.69
Per Stall Per Day $34.78
Special $721.22
Miscellaneous $1,219.42
County Sewer Plan Check $1,834.24
Public Works Plan Check Actual Cost
Stormwater Management Plan Check $1,916.08
Transportation Plan Check Actual Cost
City $740.65
County $1,630.66
Sewer Tap-in $148.34
Sewer Dye Test $195.39
Transportation Permits
Single $16.37
Annual $92.07
Engineering Inspection Fee (Based on
Construction Costs) 6.00%
Additional Inspection Visit $360.10
Plan Check
Sewer Permit & Fees
Transportation Permits
Inspection
Mapping Fees
207
Agenda Item # 8.

Final Subdivision Map Check
Base $4,800.94
City Land Surveyor (Minimum Deposit) $2,046.00
Lot-Line Adjustment $2,779.49
Vacating Easement/Right-of-Way $11,399.29
Utility Street Cut Permit (Based on
Construction Costs) $409.20 + 4%
Temporary Lane Closure Permit
Application (First Day Only) $642.44
Each Additional Day $95.14
Technology Surcharge Fee (Charged
based on Engineering Permit Fee) 5.00%
Annexation $18,415.02
Appeal $1,023.00
Application Extension
Single-Family $1,035.28
Commercial/Multi-Family $1,742.17
Application Modification
Single-Family $2,394.84
Commercial/Multi-Family $5,244.92
Development Agreement $14,307.68
Environmental Review
Flood Hazard Letter $706.89
Misc. Engineering Fees
Fees Assessed at Time of Engineering Permit Issuance

PLANNING DIVISION
General Applications
208
Agenda Item # 8.

Home Occupation Permit $471.60
Preliminary Project Review
Staff Review $6,801.93
Planning Commission $11,322.56
SB9 Dual Opportunity Development $3,548.79
Zoning Use Compliance $471.60
Zoning Verification Letter $706.89
New Use Permit or Modification $9,391.14
New Use Permit or Modification (NonProfit) $9,011.61
Temporary Use Permit $461.37
Single-Family
Administrative (<150 sq. ft.) $706.89
Administrative (>150 sq. ft.) $3,548.79
Zoning Administrator $6,562.55
Commercial/Multi-Family
Administrative $7,295.01
Planning Commission $15,165.98
Advisory/Alteration Permit $7,336.96
Resource/Landmark Designation $4,373.33
Mills Act $6,730.32
New Sign $706.89
Design Review
Conditional Use Permit
Sign Review
Historic Permit
209
Agenda Item # 8.

Modification of Existing Sign $471.60
New/Modification of Sign Program $1,413.79
Public Notice
$2.00/per resident or occupant within
notification boundary
Tree Removal Permit
First Tree $306.90
Each Additional Tree $153.45
Invasive Species (subject to verification) $0.00
In-Lieu Tree Replacement Fee $1,227.60
Consulting Arborist Actual Cost
General Plan Amendment (Deposit) Actual Cost
Zone Change (Deposit) Actual Cost
Zone Text Amendment (Deposit) Actual Cost
Map Amendment (Deposit) Actual Cost
Planned Unit Development (Deposit) Actual Cost
Single-Story Overlay Zone (Deposit) Actual Cost
Initial Application $565.72
Annual Fee (Calculated per Square Foot
of Parklet Area) $3.07/sq. ft.

Public Notification
Tree Removal
Parklet Permit
Sidewalk Dining
Long Range Planning
210
Agenda Item # 8.

Sidewalk Permit
Initial Application $565.72
Annual Review $365.21
Outdoor Display Permit $1,178.50
Certificate of Compliance $4,095.07
Reversion to Acreage $7,446.42
Tentative Subdivision Map Review
Tentative Map $10,788.56
Parcel Map $10,788.56
Urban Lot Split $6,124.70
Lot Line Adjustment/Lot Merger $5,135.46
Map Extension or Modification
Administrative $3,813.74
Planning Commission/City Council $6,827.50
Variance
Single-Family $10,838.69
Commercial/Multi-Family $13,196.70
Multi-Family Rental $108.44/per Square Foot
Condominium For Sale $117.65/per Square Foot
Townhouse For Sale $173.91/per Square Foot
Technology Surcharge Fee (Charged
based on Planning Project/Permit Fee) 5.00%
Outdoor Display Permit
Subdivision Review
Variance
Fees Assessed at Time of Planning Project/Permit Submittal Inclusionary Housing In-Lieu Fee
211
Agenda Item # 8.
212
Agenda Item # 8.
213
Agenda Item # 8.
214
Agenda Item # 8.
215
Agenda Item # 8.

City Manager: None LAMEA: Market Adjustment to Individual Classifications effective 06/22/25 Unrepresented Department Heads: Market Adjustment to Individual Classifications effective 06/22/25 POA: 5% Increase effective 06/22/2025 Unrepresented Management: Market Adjustment to Individual Classifications effective 06/22/25 Teamsters: Market Range Adjustment to Individual Classifications effective 06/22/25 Unrepresented Confidential: Market Adjustment to Individual Classifications effective 06/22/25 City of Los Altos - Full Time Salary Schedule FY 25/26
Resolution 2025-XX
Unrep. Department Head Classifications FLSA Status Range Min. Range Max. Range Min. Range Max. Range Min. Range Max.

City Manager Exempt $11,493.27 $24,902.08 $298,825.00
Assistant City Manager Exempt $9,347.25 $11,361.58 $20,252.38 $24,616.77 $243,028.55 $295,401.20 Police Chief Exempt $9,347.25 $11,361.58 $20,252.38 $24,616.77 $243,028.55 $295,401.20 Public Works Director Exempt $8,620.95 $10,478.76 $18,678.72 $22,703.98 $224,144.64 $272,447.81 Development Services Director Exempt $8,514.77 $10,349.70 $18,448.66 $22,424.35 $221,383.95 $269,092.19 Parks, Recreation, & Community Svs. Director Exempt $8,514.77 $10,349.70 $18,448.66 $22,424.35 $221,383.95 $269,092.19 Finance Director Exempt $8,219.19 $9,990.43 $17,808.25 $21,645.93 $213,699.05 $259,751.19 Human Resources Director Exempt $8,107.21 $9,854.31 $17,565.62 $21,351.01 $210,787.43 $256,212.12 Unrep. Management Classifications FLSA Status Range Min. Range Max. Range Min. Range Max. Range Min. Range Max.

Deputy City Manager Exempt $7,754.66 $9,425.84 $16,801.77 $20,422.65 $201,621.22 $245,071.86 Police Captain Exempt $7,735.33 $9,402.34 $16,759.88 $20,371.74 $201,118.53 $244,460.83 City Engineer Exempt $7,238.77 $8,798.77 $15,684.00 $19,064.00 $188,208.05 $228,768.06 Police Lieutenant Exempt $7,238.77 $8,798.77 $15,684.00 $19,064.00 $188,208.05 $228,768.06 Deputy Director Exempt $7,210.67 $8,764.61 $15,623.12 $18,990.00 $187,477.42 $227,879.98 Capital Improvement Projects Manager Exempt $6,848.41 $8,324.29 $14,838.23 $18,035.96 $178,058.70 $216,431.46 City Clerk Exempt $6,569.52 $7,985.29 $14,233.95 $17,301.46 $170,807.45 $207,617.52 Building Official Exempt $6,536.53 $7,945.19 $14,162.47 $17,214.58 $169,949.69 $206,574.91 Information Technology Manager Exempt $6,518.42 $7,923.18 $14,123.24 $17,166.88 $169,478.84 $206,002.58 Finance Manager Exempt $6,518.42 $7,923.18 $14,123.24 $17,166.88 $169,478.84 $206,002.58 Human Resources Manager Exempt $6,518.42 $7,923.18 $14,123.24 $17,166.88 $169,478.84 $206,002.58 Maintenance Superintendent Exempt $6,410.99 $7,792.59 $13,890.47 $16,883.95 $166,685.63 $202,607.43 Development Services Manager Exempt $6,244.05 $7,589.68 $13,528.77 $16,444.30 $162,345.23 $197,331.64 Human Resources Administrator Exempt $6,053.00 $7,357.46 $13,114.83 $15,941.16 $157,378.00 $191,293.94 Public Works Manager Exempt $6,053.00 $7,357.46 $13,114.83 $15,941.16 $157,377.95 $191,293.88 Public Information Officer Exempt $5,855.68 $7,117.62 $12,687.31 $15,421.50 $152,247.69 $185,058.02 Assistant to the City Manager Exempt $5,726.01 $6,960.00 $12,406.35 $15,080.00 $148,876.24 $180,960.01 Recreation Manager Exempt $5,638.20 $6,853.27 $12,216.10 $14,848.75 $146,593.22 $178,184.97 Project Manager Exempt $5,620.81 $6,832.13 $12,178.42 $14,802.95 $146,141.07 $177,635.38 Unrep. Confidential Classifications FLSA Status Step A Step B Step C Step D Step E Step A Step B Step C Step D Step E Step A Step B Step C Step D Step E Senior Civil Engineer Exempt $6,237.01 $6,548.86 $6,876.30 $7,220.12 $7,581.12 $13,513.52 $14,189.19 $14,898.65 $15,643.59 $16,425.77 $162,162.23 $170,270.34 $178,783.85 $187,723.05 $197,109.20 Senior Human Resouces Analyst Exempt $4,784.27 $5,023.48 $5,274.65 $5,538.39 $5,815.30 $10,365.91 $10,884.20 $11,428.41 $11,999.84 $12,599.83 $124,390.91 $130,610.45 $137,140.97 $143,998.02 $151,197.92 Senior Accountant Exempt $4,654.30 $4,887.01 $5,131.36 $5,387.93 $5,657.32 $10,084.31 $10,588.52 $11,117.95 $11,673.84 $12,257.54 $121,011.67 $127,062.25 $133,415.37 $140,086.13 $147,090.44 Management Analyst II Exempt $4,575.54 $4,804.32 $5,044.53 $5,296.76 $5,561.60 $9,913.67 $10,409.35 $10,929.82 $11,476.31 $12,050.12 $118,964.01 $124,912.21 $131,157.82 $137,715.71 $144,601.49 Human Resources Analyst II Exempt $4,556.44 $4,784.27 $5,023.48 $5,274.65 $5,538.39 $9,872.29 $10,365.91 $10,884.20 $11,428.41 $11,999.84 $118,467.53 $124,390.91 $130,610.45 $137,140.97 $143,998.02 Public Information Coordinator Non-Exempt $4,379.27 $4,598.24 $4,828.15 $5,069.55 $5,323.03 $9,488.42 $9,962.84 $10,460.99 $10,984.04 $11,533.24 $113,861.07 $119,554.12 $125,531.83 $131,808.42 $138,398.84 Human Resources Analyst I Exempt $4,300.74 $4,515.77 $4,741.56 $4,978.64 $5,227.57 $9,318.26 $9,784.18 $10,273.39 $10,787.05 $11,326.41 $111,819.16 $117,410.12 $123,280.62 $129,444.65 $135,916.89 Management Analyst I Exempt $4,287.80 $4,502.19 $4,727.30 $4,963.66 $5,211.84 $9,290.23 $9,754.74 $10,242.48 $10,754.60 $11,292.33 $111,482.73 $117,056.87 $122,909.71 $129,055.20 $135,507.96 Confidential Exectuive Assistant Non-Exempt $3,832.02 $4,023.62 $4,224.81 $4,436.05 $4,657.85 $8,302.72 $8,717.85 $9,153.75 $9,611.43 $10,092.01 $99,632.62 $104,614.25 $109,844.96 $115,337.21 $121,104.07 Deputy City Clerk Exempt $3,673.15 $3,856.81 $4,049.65 $4,252.13 $4,464.73 $7,958.49 $8,356.41 $8,774.23 $9,212.95 $9,673.59 $95,501.86 $100,276.95 $105,290.80 $110,555.34 $116,083.11 Human Resources Technician Non-Exempt $3,570.76 $3,749.30 $3,936.77 $4,133.60 $4,340.28 $7,736.65 $8,123.49 $8,529.66 $8,956.14 $9,403.95 $92,839.84 $97,481.83 $102,355.93 $107,473.72 $112,847.41 Biweekly Monthly Annual
Open Range Open Range Open Range
Open Range Open Range Open Range

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Los Altos City CouncilJune 10, 2025

Los Altos City Council
June 10, 2025