37 deprive any employee the right to a hearing. Rather, the hearing shall be continued by the Administrative Services Director or designee from time to time until a majority of the Appeals Board is present.
18.7 City Manager Review
The City Manager shall review the findings and recommendations of the Appeals Board and shall, within fifteen (15) calendar days following the receipt of the recommendation from the Appeals Board, affirm, revoke, or modify the action taken.
The City Manger’s decision shall be final.
ARTICLE 19. WORK STOPPAGE AND LOCKOUTS
During the term of this agreement, no work stoppage, slowdown, strikes, sympathy strikes, or picketing shall be caused, encourages, or sanctioned by the Union, and the City agrees that it will not lock out employees.
ARTICLE 20. CONTRACTING OUT
The City will notify the Union prior to contracting or subcontracting work customarily performed by members of the Union bargaining units. The Union shall be given an opportunity to discuss the effect of the proposed action upon its members and, upon request, to propose an effective and economical alternative way in which such services could continue to be provided by the City’s own employees. In the event that the City decides to contract or subcontract work the City will:
(a) Follow the layoff procedure stated in Article 6;
(b) Pursue in a reasonable manner obtaining employment for affected employees with the proposed contractor or subcontractor;
(c) Consider attrition or other similar alternatives if practical or feasible, however, the City does not guarantee employment.
ARTICLE 21. MISCELLANEOUS
22.1 Use of City Facilities for Private Purposes
Employees shall be entitled to rent City facilities for private use by the employee at the rate of twenty-four dollars ($24) up to two non-consecutive days per calendar year.
Should the employee wish to rent City facilities additional days within the same calendar year, the employee may do so at the non-profit resident rate. If no non-profit resident rate is listed, the employee may rent the facility at the resident rate.
22.2 Americans with Disabilities Act
The City reserves the right to take all necessary actions to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other State and Federal laws protecting disabled employees, including determining the need for defining and making available reasonable accommodations to disabled employees who are otherwise qualified to perform the essential job functions of their position. The City agrees to meet and confer with the
38 Union to discuss any actions which impact wages, hours and other terms and conditions of employment of any member of this bargaining unit.
22.3 Personnel Regulations
The City will regularly update the Personnel Regulations. The City shall meet and confer with the Union on revisions, which are within the scope of representation.
22.4 Probationary Appointments
The probationary period for all newly hired employees to the City shall be twelve (12) months. All newly hired employees to the City may be dismissed during the probationary period at any time without right of appeal.
The promotional probationary period shall be six (6) months. An employee rejected during the probationary period from a position to which the employee has been promoted (“promotional probation”) shall be reinstated to the position from which employee was promoted, unless the employee is dismissed for cause.
The probationary (original or promotional) period may be extended by the City Manager, upon recommendation of the department head, for not more than six (6) months, not to exceed twelve (12) months total.
ARTICLE 22. AUTHORIZED AGENTS
For the purpose of administering the terms and provisions of this MOU the following will apply:
The City’s principal authorized agent shall be:
Human Resources Director or Designee
City of Los Altos
1 North San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
(650) 948-1491
Sanitary Truck Drivers Teamster Local 350 principal authorized agent shall be:
Sanitary Truck Drivers Local 350
295 89th Street, Suite 304
Daly City, CA 94015
(650) 757-7290
ARTICLE 23. SAVINGS CLAUSE
This MOU is subject to all current and future applicable Federal and State laws and regulations and the Constitution of the State of California. If any part or provision of this agreement is in conflict or inconsistent with such applicable laws, or regulation,
39 or it is rendered or declared invalid by reason of any State or Federal legislation, such invalidation of such part or portion of this MOU shall not invalidate the remaining portions hereof, and the remaining portions shall remain in full force and effect, insofar as such remaining portions shall remain in full force and effect, insofar as such remaining portions are severable. Parties shall meet and confer to the extent required to address the impacts Federal or State laws have upon matters within the scope of employment.
ARTICLE 24. TERM
This MOU sets forth the full and entire understanding of the parties regarding the matters set forth herein, and any other prior or existing understanding or agreements by the parties, whether formal or informal, regarding any such matters are hereby superseded or terminated in their entirety and shall become in full force and effect on August XX, 2025 (date City Council approves successor MOU), unless otherwise noted, and shall continue in full force until midnight June 30, 2031.
The Union shall provide the City with its written proposals on terms within the scope of representation for the period beginning July 1, 2031 no later than March 15, 2031.
Sanitary Truck Drivers and Helpers
Union, Local No. 350
DATE: _______________________
______________________________
Juan Coca
Union Business Representative
______________________________
Jamaane Bridges,
Union Representative
______________________________
Chris Fournier
Union Representative
______________________________
Bob Machado
Union Representative
City of Los Altos
DATE: ________________________
______________________________
Scott Gerdes
Human Resources Administrator
______________________________
Irene Barragan
Human Resources Director
______________________________
Gabriel Engeland
City Manager
40 APPENDIX A
Full-Time Equivalent Salary Schedule
Teamsters Local 350
PAY SCHEDULE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026
Effective June 22, 2025
Teamsters Pay Schedule FY 25/26 Biweekly
Teamsters Classifications Step A Step B Step C Step D Step E Senior Maintenance Technician $3,962.79 Open Range $4,816.80 Senior Wastewater Maintenance Worker $3,843.09 $4,035.24 $4,237.01 $4,448.86 $4,671.30 Maintenance Leadworker $3,674.61 Open Range $4,466.51
Equipment Mechanic II $3,660.08 $3,843.09 $4,035.24 $4,237.00 $4,448.85 Wastewater Maintenance Worker II $3,493.73 Open Range $4,246.65 Maintenance Technician $3,442.84 Open Range $4,184.80
Equipment Mechanic I $3,327.35 $3,493.72 $3,668.40 $3,851.82 $4,044.41 Wastewater Maintenance Worker I $3,169.78 $3,328.27 $3,494.68 $3,669.42 $3,852.89 Maintenance Worker II $3,057.72 Open Range $3,716.67
Maintenance Worker I $2,751.78 Open Range $3,344.80
41 APPENDIX B
Step 1 – Informal Grievance
EMPLOYEE/UNION TO DISCUSS WITH SUPERVISOR 10 DAYS
SUPERVISOR RESPONSE TO EMPLOYEE/UNION 10 DAYS
Step 2 – Formal Grievance
EMPLOYEE/UNION TO FILE WITH DEPARTMENT
HEAD 10 DAYS
DEPARTMENT HEAD RESPONSE TO EMPLOYEE/
UNION 10 DAYS
Step 3 – Personnel Review
EMPLOYEE/UNION TO FILE WITH
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR 10 DAYS
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR
RESPONSE TO EMPLOYEE/UNION 10 DAYS
Step 4 - Appeals Board
EMPLOYEE/UNION TO FILE FORMAL APPEAL
WITH THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR 10 DAYS
Appointment of Appeals Board Members
CITY MANAGER AND EMPLOYEE 10 DAYS
APPEALS HEARING 25 DAYS
Appeals Board Recommendation to City Manager
WITHIN 15 DAYS AFTER APPEAL HEARING
City Manager Issues Final Written Decision
WITHIN 15 DAYS FOLLOWING RECEIPT OF APPEALS BOARD
RECOMMENDATION.
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: November 18, 2025
Prepared By: Jane Hou
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution and authorize the City Manager to execute a construction contract with C2R Engineering, Inc. of the Total Bid for the On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services FY 2025-2026 Project in the amount of $174,000.00 on behalf of the City and find the action exempt from review under CEQA pursuant to CEQA guidelines Section 15301 (b)
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
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.
FISCAL IMPACT
The lowest responsible bid was $117,875.00. However, repairs will be performed on an asneeded basis and per the contract will have a not-to-exceed cost of $174,00.00, as budgeted in FY 2025-2026 Budget.
Breakdown of funds to be used: $174,000.00 from the Sewer Fund account 03042300-5280, per the approved sewer maintenance budget.
Amount already included in the approved budget: Y
Amount above budget requested: 0
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
Not applicable.
BACKGROUND
The City’s Sewer Maintenance Division 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 solicited bids for On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services.
ANALYSIS
On October 22, 2025, the City opened two bids for the On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services FY 2025-2026. The bid results are included in Attachment 2.
It is recommended that the not-to-exceed $174,000.00 contract be awarded to C2R Engineering, Inc., which was determined to be the apparently lowest responsive bidder. C2R Engineering, Inc. has been in business since 2014 and has satisfactorily completed similar projects for the City of Los Altos, the City of Mountain View, the Town of Los Altos Hills, and other local agencies. C2R Engineering Inc. has previously completed On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspections Services FY 2023-2024 and FY 2024-2025 for the City of Los Altos in a satisfactory and timely manner.
DISCUSSION
Not applicable.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment 1 - Resolution
2. Attachment 2 - Bid Results
ATTACHMENT 1
4896-0400-7884v1
JH\27916001
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-___
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONSTRUCTION
CONTRACT WITH C2R ENGINEERING, INC. FOR THE ON-CALL
SANITARY SEWER SPOT REPAIRS AND CCTV INSPECTION SERVICES FY 2025-2026 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $174,000
WHEREAS, the project, which consists of on-call repairs to the City’s sanitary sewer system on an as-needed basis as well as Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) inspection of various sizes of sanitary sewer pipes; and
WHEREAS, C2R Engineering, Inc. was the lowest apparent responsible, responsive bidder for the Project; and
WHEREAS, the Project 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.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby:
1. Authorizes the City Manager to execute a Construction Contract in an amount not to exceed $174,000 to perform the On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services FY 2025-2026 Project.
2. Authorizes the City Manager to take such further actions as may be necessary to implement the foregoing agreement.
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 18th day of November 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
___________________________
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
Attest:
___________________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC CITY CLERK
ATTACHMENT 2
City of Los
Altos
1 North San Antonio Road
Los Altos, California 94022-3087
BID RESULTS
Project Name:
On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs and CCTV Inspection Services FY2025-2026
Bid Opening Date:
October 22, 2025
CONTRACTOR TOTAL BID
C2R Engineering, Inc. $117,875.00
Casey Construction, Inc $266,400.00
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: November 18, 2025
Prepared By: Anthony Carnesecca
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Downtown Performing Arts Center MOU
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Business Communities
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution to extend Downtown Performing Arts Center MOU two additional years through November 18, 2027
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
This report is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State Guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact by extending the existing MOU.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
November 9, 2021, November 30, 2021, May 9, 2023, June 13, 2023, November 12, 2024, April 8, 2025, & April 22, 2025
BACKGROUND
The Los Altos Stage Company has operated in the Bus Barn Theater at the Los Altos Civic Center site.
Since August 2018, a community performing arts center was identified as part of the Los Altos Downtown Vision Plan that would relocate the Los Altos Stage Company to a new performing arts center in the downtown triangle.
During the November 9, 2021 meeting, the Los Altos Stage Company presented to the City Council and requested a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the City of Los Altos in order to pursue building a downtown performing arts center. At that meeting, the City Council directed staff to prepare a MOU under which the City would reserve a specified City-owned parking plaza through November 9, 2024 as a potential site for a community performing arts center, in order to give the Los Altos Stage Company an opportunity to raise funds.
During the November 30, 2021 meeting, the City Council approved the MOU for a three-year agreement through November 30, 2024.
During the May 9, 2023 study session with the Los Altos Stage Company, City Council directed staff to bring a one-year extension of this MOU in order to support their next step in completing a capital campaign analysis.
During the June 13, 2023 meeting, the City Council voted to extend the existing MOU through November 9, 2025 with the updated language.
During the November 12, 2024 meeting, the City Council directed City staff to explore bringing in a fundraising expert as part of the process.
ANALYSIS
DISCUSSION
At the April 8, 2025 meeting, the City Council unanimously voted that the City allocate $300,000 to the Los Altos Mountain View Community Foundation to hire a capital campaign firm or individual under a separate Resolution No. 2025-33.
Per the guidelines in that resolution, a Steering Committee consisting of one individual from the City, Los Altos Mountain View Community Foundation, and Los Altos Stage Company was formed to evaluate possible capital campaign firms or individuals. This Steering Committee disbanded once they agreed on a capital campaign firm and a Capital Campaign Cabinet began to take shape.
The capital campaign firm is currently working through the initial steps of the fundraising process and will report back to the City Council when ready.
The proposed MOU extension will extend through November 18, 2027, clean up language to update with developments since the initial creation of the MOU, and increase flexibility of downtown space while maintaining a commitment to a proposed downtown performing arts space.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment 1 - Proposed MOU Extension
2. Attachment 2 - Existing MOU
3. Attachment 3 - Proposed MOU Redlined Version
-1-
4890-5154-7396v1
JH\00000999
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN
THE LOS ALTOS STAGE COMPANY AND THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
This MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) is made as of November 18, 2025, by and between the City of Los Altos, a municipal corporation of the State of California (City) and the Los Altos Stage Company, a 501(c)(3) Corporation (LASC), or hereinafter the Parties.
WHEREAS, LASC has had a Use Agreement with the City for the Bus Barn Theater, which is owned by the City and located at the Los Altos Civic Center site; and WHEREAS, since August 2018 a community performing arts center has been part of the Los Altos Downtown Vision Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Los Altos City Council (“City Council”) believes that a community performing arts center would be a benefit to the community; and
WHEREAS, on November 9, 2021, the Los Altos City Council directed City staff to prepare a MOU under which the City would reserve a specified City-owned parking plaza through November 9, 2024 as a potential site for a community performing arts center, in order to give LASC an opportunity to raise funds towards building a community performing arts center; and WHEREAS, on June 13, 2023, the Los Altos City Council directed City staff to extend the MOU for an additional year through November 9, 2025; and
WHEREAS, on November 18, 2025, City staff requests to update the MOU for two additional years through November 18, 2027 to allow the Community Cabinet to work through the fundraising process as approved by City Council.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Parties hereby declare the following:
1. LASC is considering options to utilize half of the City-owned Downtown Parking Plaza No. 2 described in and attached herein as Exhibit “A” to develop a downtown performing arts center (Project). The City will provide that space, or an equivalent space in the downtown area, for the downtown performing arts center.
2. The City shall refrain from selling or otherwise disposing of the Property, or an equivalent space in the downtown area, until November 18, 2027 it being the intent of the Parties that the Property shall be reserved for the potential future construction of the Project.
3. LASC is expected to solicit funding for the Project, and the use of any such solicited funds that involves the City or any City-owned property would need to be covered in a separate agreement.
-2-
4890-5154-7396v1
JH\00000999
4. This MOU allows City staff to work with LASC through this process.
5. This MOU does not sell, lease, license or in any way dispose of the Property.
6. The Parties further declare and further acknowledge that the City’s and LASC’s commitments are subject to the compliance with all legal requirements, including and but not limited to compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Nothing in this MOU shall be construed to compel LASC or the City to approve or make any particular findings with respect to any environmental documentation that is prepared, pursuant to CEQA, for any portion of the Project.
The City retains full discretion to approve any CEQA documents prepared or to analyze environmental impacts or the Project.
7. This MOU is expressly non-binding and does not commit the City to approving the Project nor does it contain all of the terms and conditions related to the transaction contemplated herein. The City expressly retains the right to terminate this MOU at its convenience. If LASC abandons or does not pursue the Project, then this MOU shall be deemed to be null and void.
8. This MOU or Project may be subject to or superseded by any Federal, State, or local laws, including but not limited to, laws governing affordable housing.
CITY OF LOS ALTOS LASC
Name: Gabriel Engeland
Title: City Manager
Name: Vicki Reeder
Title: Board President
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Name: Jolie Houston
Title: City Attorney, Los Altos
Name:
Title:
-3-
4890-5154-7396v1
JH\00000999
Exhibit A
6. The Parties further declare and further acknowledge that the City's and LASC's commitments are subject to the compliance with all legal requirements, including and but not limited to compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Nothing in this MOU shall be construed to compel LASC or the City to approve or make any particular findings with respect to any environmental documentation that is prepared, pursuant to CEQA, for any portion of the Project.
The City retains full discretion to approve any CEQA documents prepared or to analyze environmental impacts or the Project.
7. This MOU is expressly non-binding and does not commit the City to approving the Project nor does it contain all of the terms and conditions related to the transaction contemplated herein. The City expressly retains the right to terminate this MOU at its convenience. If LASC abandons or does not pursue the Project, then this MOU shall be deemed to be null and void.
8. This MOU or Project may be subject to or superseded by any Federal, State, or local laws, including but not limited to, laws governing affordable housing.
CITY OF LOS ALTOS LASC
Name: Gabriel Engeland Name: Vicki Reeder
Title: City Manager Title: Board President
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Name: Jolie Houston Name:
Title: City Attorney, Los Altos Title:
4890-5154-7396v1
JH\00000999 -2-
-1-
4890-5154-7396v1
JH\00000999
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN
THE LOS ALTOS STAGE COMPANY AND THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
This MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) is made as of November 18, 2025June 13, 2023, by and between the City of Los Altos, a municipal corporation of the State of California (City) and the Los Altos Stage Company, a 501(c)(3) Corporation (LASC), or hereinafter the Parties.
WHEREAS, LASC has had a Use Agreement with the City for the Bus Barn Theater for twentynine (29) years, which is owned by the City and located at the Los Altos Civic Center site; and WHEREAS, since August 2018 a community performing arts center theater has been part of the Los Altos Downtown Vision Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Los Altos City Council (“City Council”) believes that a community performing arts center theater would be a benefit to the community; and WHEREAS, on November 9, 2021, the Los Altos City Council (“City Council”) directed City staff to prepare a MOU under which the City would reserve a specified City-owned parking plaza through November 9, 2024 as a potential site for a community theater, in order to give LASC an opportunity to raise funds towards building a community theater; and WHEREAS, on June 13, 2023May 9, 2023, the Los Altos City Council directed City staff to extend the MOU for an additional year through November 9, 2025; and.
WHEREAS, on November 18, 2025, City staff requests to update the MOU for two additional years through November 18, 2027 to allow the Community Cabinet to work through the fundraising process as approved by City Council.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Parties hereby declare the following:
1. LASC is considering options to utilize half of the City-owned Downtown Parking Plaza No. 2 described in and attached herein as Exhibit “A” and incorporated by this reference) to develop a downtown theater performing arts center (Project). The City will provide that space, or an equivalent space in the downtown area, for the downtown performing arts center.
2. The City shall refrain from selling or otherwise disposing of the Property, or an equivalent space in the downtown area, until November 18, 20279, 2025 it being the intent of the Parties that the Property shall be reserved for the potential future construction of the Project.
-2-
4890-5154-7396v1
JH\00000999
3. LASC is expected to solicit funding for the Project, and the use of any such solicited funds that involves the City or any City-owned property would need to be covered in a separate agreement.
4. This MOU allows City staff to work with LASC through this process.
5. This MOU does not sell, lease, license or in any way dispose of the Property.
6. The Parties further declare and further acknowledge that the City’s and LASC’s commitments are subject to the compliance with all legal requirements, including and but not limited to compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Nothing in this MOU shall be construed to compel LASC or the City to approve or make any particular findings with respect to any environmental documentation that is prepared, pursuant to CEQA, for any portion of the Project.
The City retains full discretion to approve any CEQA documents prepared or to analyze environmental impacts or the Project.
7. This MOU is expressly non-binding and does not commit the City to approving the Project nor does it contain all of the terms and conditions related to the transaction contemplated herein. The City expressly retains the right to terminate this MOU at its convenience. If LASC abandons or does not pursue the Project, then this MOU shall be deemed to be null and void.
8. This MOU or Project may be subject to or superseded by any Federal, State, or local laws, including but not limited to, laws governing affordable housing.
CITY OF LOS ALTOS LASC
Name: Gabriel Engeland
Title: City Manager
Name: Vicki Reeder
Title: Board President
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Name: Jolie Houston
Title: City Attorney, Los Altos
Name:
Title:
-3-
4890-5154-7396v1
JH\00000999
Exhibit A
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: November 18, 2025
Prepared By: Monica Gallardo-Melkesian
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Prohousing Incentive Program
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Housing
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution authorizing application to and receipt of HCD Prohousing Incentive Program Funds, in the amount of $580,000
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Resolution approval is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State Guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970.
FISCAL IMPACT
The City will receive up to $580,000 in Prohousing Incentive Program Funds provided HCD approves its application in 2026.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
None
BACKGROUND
On June 11, 2024, the City Council approved the Resolution Authorizing Application to and Participation in the HCD Prohousing Designation Program. The City was awarded the prestigious Prohousing Designation, which was announced in September 2025.
Also, in September 2025, HCD announced their Round 4 Prohousing Incentive Program (PIP) Notice of Funding Ability (NOFA) for approximately $8 million available for Prohousing jurisdictions. Eligible uses for the PIP funds include:
• Affordable housing production and preservation,
• Affordable homeownership programs,
• Rental assistance,
• Emergency shelters, and
• Transitional and permanent housing for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
ANALYSIS
The PIP NOFA application is due the beginning of 2026; therefore, Council approval of the Resolution will assist staff to prepare the application and submit it in a timely manner. If awarded the PIP funds, the City may receive up to $580,000, which may be used to further production of affordable housing within our community.
DISCUSSION
The Prohousing Incentive Program creates incentives for Jurisdictions that are compliant with State Housing Element Law and that have enacted Prohousing Policies. These incentives will take the form of additional points or other preference in the scoring of applications for competitive housing and infrastructure programs. The administrators of each such program will determine the value and form of the preference.
In addition to applying to receive funds from the PIP NOFA, the City’s award of the Prohousing Designation will allow it to receive priority processing or funding points when applying for several funding programs, including:
1. Affordable Housing & Sustainable Communities (AHSC)
2. Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG)
3. Transformative Climate Communities (TCC)
4. Solutions for Congested Corridors
5. Local Partnership Program
6. Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP)
7. Other programs may be added to the list after HCD engages with stakeholders and partner agencies on adding Prohousing points to other housing and non-housing programs.
8. Currently, there are only 64 participating jurisdictions throughout California, including Los Altos.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment 1 - Draft Resolution
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-___
A RESOLUTION OF THECITYCOUNCILOFTHECITYOFLOSALTOS
AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR, AND RECEIPT OF, PROHOUSING
INCENTIVE PROGRAM FUNDS
WHEREAS, pursuant to Health and Safety Code 50470 et. Seq, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (Department) is authorized to issue Guidelines as part of an incentive program (hereinafter referred to by the Department asthe Prohousing Incentive Program or "PIP"); and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Los Altos desires to submit a PIP grant application package ("Application"), on the forms provided by the Department, for approval of grant funding for eligible activities toward planning and implementation activities related to housing and community development as a result of meeting eligibility criteria including but not limited to Prohousing Designation; and WHEREAS, the Department hasissued Guidelines and Application on September 30, 2025, in the amount of $8,000,000 for PIP;
Now, therefore, the City Council of the City of Los Altos ("Applicant") resolves as follows:
SECTION 1. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to submit an Application to the Department in response to the NOFA, and to apply for the PIP grant funds in a total amount not to exceed $580,000.
SECTION 2. In connection with the PIP grant, if the Application is approved by the Department, the City Manager of the city of Los Altos is authorized and directed to enter into, execute, and deliver on behalf of the Applicant, a State of California Agreement (Standard Agreement) for the amount of $580,000, and any and all other documents required or deemed necessary or appropriate to evidence and secure the PIP grant, the Applicant's obligations related thereto, and all amendments thereto; and SECTION 3. The Applicant shall be subject to the terms and conditions as specified in the Guidelines, and the Standard Agreement provided by the Department after approval. The Application and any and all accompanying documents are incorporated in full as part of the Standard Agreement. Any and all activities funded, information provided, and timelines represented in the Application will be enforceable through the fully executed Standard Agreement. Pursuant to the Guidelines and in conjunction with the terms of the Standard Agreement, the Applicant hereby agrees to use the fundsfor eligible uses and allowable expenditures in the manner presented and specifically identified in the approved Application.
ADOPTED ON ____________, 2025, by the City Council of the City of Los Altos by the following vote count:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
The undersigned, Pete Dailey, Mayor, of Applicant, does hereby attest and certify that the foregoing is a true and full copy of a resolution of the Applicant’s governing body adopted at a duly convened meeting on the date above-mentioned, and that the resolution has not been altered, amended or repealed.
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
ATTEST:
Melissa Thurman, MMC,
CITY CLERK
Resolution 2025-___ Page 2
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: November 18, 2025
Prepared By: Anthony Carnesecca
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Amendment No. 1 with Los Altos Chamber of Commerce
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Business Communities
RECOMMENDATION
Amend contract with Los Altos Chamber of Commerce
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
This report is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State Guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970.
FISCAL IMPACT
This amendment will retain $14,000 annually in the Operating Budget for the next three fiscal years FY25-26, FY26-27, and FY27-28 totaling $42,000, while removing $53,500 annually in the Operating Budget for the next three fiscal years FY25-26, FY26-27, and FY27-28 totaling $160,500.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
May 23, 2023, September 12, 2023, October 14, 2025, & October 28, 2025
BACKGROUND
At the May 23, 2023 City Council meeting, City Council directed City staff to draft a contract with the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce in the amount of $67,500 annually for five years.
City staff worked with the Chamber of Commerce to draft a contract that will execute specific objectives and achieve accomplishments regarding tourism and visitor attraction on an annual basis.
At the September 12, 2023 City Council meeting, City Council unanimously directed the City Manager to sign a contract with the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce in the amount of $67,500 annually for five years as previously directed during the budget process, which was intended to be for Tourism and Visitor Attraction services that support visitor attraction efforts of the City and will increase the amount of visitors supporting our local economy.
Per the staff report from September 12, 2023, the City of Los Altos and Los Altos Chamber of Commerce entered into an agreement, which is attached to this staff report, requiring certain items to be completed on a fiscal year basis.
The Los Altos Chamber of Commerce successfully completed these tasks in fulfillment of their obligations for Fiscal Year 23-24.
In Fiscal Year 24-25, the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce was able to successfully operate the Visitors Center, but was unable to complete the tasks outlined relating to the Los Altos Magazine due to extenuating circumstances.
At the October 14, 2025 City Council meeting, the City Council directed staff to return with a review of the contract with the Chamber of Commerce.
ANALYSIS
DISCUSSION
At the October 28, 2025 City Council meeting, the City Council directed staff to return to a future meeting with a contract amendment to remove all portions pertaining to the Los Altos Magazine for FY25-26, FY26-27, and FY27-28.
The proposed contract amendment allows the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce to complete the Los Altos Magazine from FY24-25 as soon as possible with an end date of December 31, 2025 and removes all portions pertaining to the Los Altos Magazine for FY25-26, FY26-27, and FY27-28
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment 1 - Resolution
2. Attachment 2 - Chamber of Commerce Contract
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO AMEND AN AGREEMENT ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS WITH LOS ALTOS CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE FOR TOURISM AND VISITOR ATTRACTION SERVICES FOR
LOS ALTOS
WHEREAS, the City desires to retain the Chamber of Commerce as an essential partner to our business community that supports the tourism and visitor attraction efforts; and WHEREAS, at the May 23, 2023 City Council meeting, City Council directed City staff to draft a contract with the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce in the amount of $67,500 annually for five years; and
WHEREAS, at the September 12, 2023 City Council meeting, City Council unanimously directed the City Manager to sign a contract with the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce in the amount of $67,500 annually for five years as previously directed during the budget process, which was intended to be for Tourism and Visitor Attraction services that support visitor attraction efforts of the City and will increase the amount of visitors supporting our local economy; and
WHEREAS, the City and Chamber of Commerce entered into an agreement in October 2023; and
WHEREAS, in Fiscal Year 24-25, the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce was able to successfully operate the Visitors Center, but was unable to complete the tasks outlined relating to the Los Altos Magazine due to extenuating circumstances; and WHEREAS, at the October 14, 2025 City Council meeting, City Council directed staff to return with a review of the contract with the Chamber of Commerce; and WHEREAS, at the October 28, 2025 City Council meeting, City Council directed staff to return to a future meeting with a contract amendment to remove all portions pertaining to the Los Altos Magazine for FY25-26, FY26-27, and FY27-28; and WHEREAS, the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce has committed to delivering the Fiscal Year 24-25 edition of the Los Altos Magazine by December 31, 2025; and WHEREAS, this resolution is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State Guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos adopt a resolution to:
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 2
1. Authorize the City Manager to amend the contract with Los Altos Chamber of Commerce allowing the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce to complete the Los Altos Magazine from FY24-25 as soon as possible with an end date of January 30, 2026, and removing all portions pertaining to the Los Altos Magazine for FY25-26, FY26-27, and FY27-28, where the amended contract will now be $14,000 annually for Operations of the Visitors Center over the next three fiscal years (FY25-26, FY26-27, and FY27-28) totaling $42,000, and
2. Authorize the City Manager to take such further actions as may be necessary to implement the foregoing agreement.
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 18th day of November 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
___________________________
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
Attest:
_____________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC
CITY CLERK
jolie houston (Oct 3, 2023 14:39 PDT) Gabriel Engeland (Oct 3, 2023 17:18 CDT) Oct 3, 2023 Page 278 of 533
Jon Maginot (Oct 5, 2023 14:17 PDT) Page 284 of 533
Chamber Contract with Insurance
Final Audit Report 2023-10-05
Created: 2023-10-03
By: Anthony Carnesecca ([email protected])
Status: Signed
Transaction ID: CBJCHBCAABAAKOOgPcP_q7I7uaT4DPmVpTBRdF2hDp8r "Chamber Contract with Insurance" History
Document created by Anthony Carnesecca ([email protected]) 2023-10-03 - 9:34:57 PM GMT- IP address: 12.202.14.68
Document emailed to [email protected] for signature 2023-10-03 - 9:36:00 PM GMT
Email viewed by [email protected]
2023-10-03 - 9:37:47 PM GMT- IP address: 68.121.158.241 Signer [email protected] entered name at signing as jolie houston 2023-10-03 - 9:39:04 PM GMT- IP address: 68.121.158.241 Document e-signed by jolie houston ([email protected]) Signature Date: 2023-10-03 - 9:39:06 PM GMT - Time Source: server- IP address: 68.121.158.241 Document emailed to Gabriel Engeland ([email protected]) for signature 2023-10-03 - 9:39:08 PM GMT
Email viewed by Gabriel Engeland ([email protected]) 2023-10-03 - 10:18:03 PM GMT- IP address: 104.5.62.38
Document e-signed by Gabriel Engeland ([email protected]) Signature Date: 2023-10-03 - 10:18:16 PM GMT - Time Source: server- IP address: 104.5.62.38 Document emailed to Jon Maginot ([email protected]) for signature 2023-10-03 - 10:18:17 PM GMT
Email viewed by Jon Maginot ([email protected])
2023-10-04 - 10:50:52 PM GMT- IP address: 172.58.31.146 Document e-signed by Jon Maginot ([email protected]) Signature Date: 2023-10-05 - 9:17:31 PM GMT - Time Source: server- IP address: 12.202.14.68
Agreement completed.
2023-10-05 - 9:17:31 PM GMT
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: November 18, 2025
Prepared By: Steven Son
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Amendment No. 3 with Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc.
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
Business Communities
General Government
Circulation Safety and Efficiency
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 3 to the Maintenance Service Agreement with Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc. to increase the total agreement amount by $250,000
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Not applicable - Categorically Exempt pursuant to CEQA Section 15301(c). It can be seen with certainty that the contract amendment will not have a significant effect on the physical environment, and none of the circumstances in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 applies.
FISCAL IMPACT
In the adopted FY2025/2026 annual budget, Council budgeted $250,000.00 for Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program, Maintenance and Replacement of Various Traffic and Pedestrian Systems, Project No. TS-01057.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
Council approved Amendment No. 2 on December 10, 2024 Council meeting and Amendment No. 1 on January 9, 2024 Council meeting.
BACKGROUND
None
ANALYSIS
None
DISCUSSION
On July 27, 2023, the City of Los Altos entered into an agreement in the amount of $78,816.00 with Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc. to provide maintenance services for traffic signal and streetlights for FY2023/24. Under the terms of the executed agreement, the City has the option
to extend the contract up to four additional years, not to exceed a total of 5 years. The current scope of work included but is not limited to the following tasks: 1. Inventory and initial system health check, 2. Traffic signal quarterly maintenance checks, 3. Traffic signal annual maintenance checks, 4. Vehicle radar speed sign (RSS) quarterly maintenance checks, 5.
Lighted crosswalk system quarterly maintenance checks, 6. Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB) lighted crosswalk system quarterly maintenance checks, 7. Additional special services as needed, 8. On-call support services.On March 7, 2024, Amendment No. 1 was executed in the amount of $186,205.00 and on February 7, 2025, Amendment No. 2 was executed in the amount of $150,130.00.As existing equipment ages, the cost to maintain, to be repaired or replaced continues to escalate. When safety equipment fails and requires replacement, the cost of the equipment has increased significantly with longer lead time. In addition to the regularly scheduled maintenance tasks, during the past year, one malfunctioning lighted crosswalk was replaced with a new RRFB crosswalk system; two other malfunctioning lighted crosswalks along Almond Avenue near Almond Elementary School and at the intersection of West Edith Avenue and University Avenue are scheduled to be replaced with new RRFB crosswalk systems, pending delivery of materials; four malfunctioning radar speed signs were replaced with new RSS systems; new traffic signal head was replaced at the intersection of San Antonio Road/West Edith Avenue; new Gridsmart traffic signal detection system was installed at Homestead Avenue near Foothill Crossing Shopping Center; and new radar replacement kits and/or batteries were installed for a RSS and lighted crosswalk.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment 1 - Resolution
ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE AGREEMENT WITH BEAR ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $250,000.00 FOR TRFFIC SIGNAL AND STREETLIGHT MAINTENANCE SERVICES WHEREAS, the CITY and CONTRACTOR entered into an agreement for maintenance services for traffic signal and streetlight maintenance services; and WHEREAS, Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc. was awarded a contract in the amount of $75,816 on July 27, 2023, Amendment No. 1 was executed in the amount of $186,205 on March 7, 2024, and Amendment No. 2 was executed in the amount of $150,130 on February 7, 2025; and WHEREAS, Amendment No. 3 to Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc.’s contract will carry forth the maintenance services; and
WHEREAS, the FY2025/26 Council-approved CIP budget has sufficient funds available; and NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby adopt a resolution:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 3 to the Maintenance Service Agreement with Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc., in the amount of $250,000.00, increasing the total not-to-exceed contract amount to $661,971.00 for continued maintenance services.
2. Authorize the City Manager to take such further actions as may be necessary to implement the foregoing Maintenance Service Agreement.
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 18th day of November, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
__________________________
Pete Dailey
Mayor
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTEST:
_________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC
City Clerk
City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: November 18, 2025
Prepared By: Sean Gallegos
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Vesting Tentative Map for a New Multi-Family Residential Project at 4898 El Camino Real
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Housing
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution approving a Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM25-0001) for the creation of eight-five (85) condominium lots and one common lot at 4898 El Camino Real per the recommended findings and conditions of approval; and find the project is categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15332 (In-Fill Development Projects) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) - Attachment 1.
FISCAL IMPACT
None
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The project is categorically exempt from environmental review under Section 15332 (In-Fill Development Projects) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines because it is a subdivision of property to support a project that is in conformance with the City’s General Plan and Zoning Ordinance except as modified by State Density Bonus Law, occurs within the urban services area on the project site of no more than five acres and will be served by all utilities and public services, does not have value as habitat for endangered, rare or threatened species; will not result in any significant effects relating to traffic, noise, air quality, or water quality, and none of the circumstances described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
None
BACKGROUND
Property Description
The approximeatly 0.43-acre vacant project site is located on the southeast corner of Jordan Avenue and El Camino Real. Surrounding land uses include a fast-food restaurant and residential uses across Jordan Avenue to the west, office and residential uses across El Camino Real to the north, office uses to the west, and the parking lot serving 4906 El Camino Real to the south.
Project Overview
The project includes a Vesting Tentative Map for condominium purposes which would divide the site into eighty-five (85) individual residential condominium units and a common lot (see Attachment 2).
The approved development project associated with the map includes the construction of an eightstory, 85-unit multi-family residential building and associated parking and site improvements.
Planning Commission Review
On November 6, 2025, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to review the Design Review, Conditional Use Permit, and Vesting Tentative Map applications. The Planning Commission unanimously approved the Design Review and Conditional Use Permit application and recommended approval of the Vesting Tentative Map application to the City Council. The Planning Commission Report is included as Attachment 3.
ANALYSIS
General Plan Consistency
The project is consistent with the General Plan’s Thoroughfare Commercial (TC) Land Use Designation, which supports retail, service, office, and higher-density residential uses along El Camino Real. The designation is intended to promote walkability, support local businesses, and provide opportunities for housing near services and transit. By providing a high-density residential development with ground-floor residential support uses, including affordable units through the State Density Bonus program, the project aligns with these objectives and contributes to a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented corridor. The project will contribute towards the City’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) obligation and is aligned with the City’s recently adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element by adding eighty-five (85) units to the City’s housing stock, including ten (10) very low-income units.
The project complies with the following General Plan polices:
• LU Policy 1.1: Maintain flexibility of standards and procedures to accommodate changing trends in retail, housing, and office uses.
• LU Policy 2.3: Continue to conduct design review of residential and non-residential development applications to ensure compatibility with surrounding property and neighborhoods.
• LU Policy 3.1 Encourage residential development above the ground floor that includes affordable housing units.
• LU Policy 4.2 Encourage mixed-use projects with retail, housing, and/or lodging in addition to retail and office uses.
• LU Policy 4.4 Encourage the development of affordable housing.
• Housing Policy 1.1: The City will encourage a diverse range of both market-rate and affordable housing sizes and residential densities to accommodate the varied housing needs of families, couples, and individuals. • Housing Policy 1.2: The City will encourage mixed-use development in designated zoning districts.
• Housing Policy 2.1 The City will facilitate the development of new affordable housing units.
Subdivision Consistency
The proposed Vesting Tentative Map for condominium purposes will divide the site into eightyfive (85) individual residential condominium units and a common lot. The subdivision conforms to the General Plan, Subdivision Ordinance, and provisions of the Subdivision Map Act, as substantiated in the Draft Resolution for approval of the Vesting Tentative Map (see Attachment 1).
Housing Accountability Act (HAA)
The Housing Accountability Act (HAA) (Government Code Section 65589.5), establishes the state’s overarching policy that a local government may not deny, reduce the density of, or make infeasible housing development projects (projects resulting in more than two (2) housing units or resulting parcels) which includes subdivision of land that are consistent with objective local development standards. Before doing any of those things, local governments must make specified written findings based upon a preponderance of the evidence that a specific, adverse health or safety impact exists. Legislative intent language indicates that the conditions that would give rise to such a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety would occur infrequently.
The proposed project is protected under the Housing Accountability Act (HAA) as it creates additional housing stock within the City of Los Altos and meets all applicable objective design standards.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
A public meeting notice was mailed to property owners and commercial business tenants within (300) feet of the project site and published in the newspaper. The applicant also posted the site with a public notice sign in conformance with the Planning Division posting requirements.
At the time of preparation of this report, the Planning Division has not received comments on the proposed subdivision.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Resolution
2. Vesting Tentative Map
3. November 6, 2025 Planning Commission Staff Report
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-___
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS APPROVING A VESTING TENTATIVE MAP (APPLICATION NO. TM25-0001) FOR THE CREATION OF 85 RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM LOTS AND ONE COMMON LOT AT 4898 EL CAMINO REAL
WHEREAS, the applicant submitted an application for a Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM25-0001) to subdivide an 18,916 square-foot (0.43-acre) parcel into 85 residential condominium lots and one (1) common lot at 4898 El Camino Real; and WHEREAS, approving the Vesting Tentative Map would be categorically exempt from environmental review under Section 15332 (In-fill Development Projects) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines because it is a subdivision of property to support a project that is in conformance with the City’s General Plan and Zoning Ordinance except as modified by State Density Bonus Law, occurs within the urban services area on the project site of no more than five acres and will be served by all utilities and public services, does not have value as habitat for endangered, rare or threatened species, will not result in any significant effects relating to traffic, noise, air quality, or water quality, and none of the circumstances described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply; and
WHEREAS, the Project was processed in accordance with the applicable provisions of the California Government Code and Los Altos Municipal Code; and WHEREAS, on November 6, 2025, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing at which members of the public were afforded an opportunity to comment on the project, and at the conclusion of the meeting, the Planning Commission recommended the City Council approve the Vesting Tentative Map; and
WHEREAS, on November 18, 2025, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law and considered public testimony and evidence and recommendations presented by staff in connection with the Project; 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; and WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby approves the Vesting Tentative Map for the creation of 85 residential condominium lots and one (1) common lot, subject to the findings (Exhibit A) and Conditions of Approval (Exhibit B) attached hereto and incorporated by this reference.
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 2
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 November 18, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
___________________________
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
Attest:
_________________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC, CITY CLERK
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 3
EXHIBIT A
FINDINGS
With regard to the Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM25-0001), the City Council finds the following in accordance with Chapter 4, Article 1, Section 66474 of the Subdivision Map Act of the State of California:
1. The proposed subdivision is not consistent with applicable general and specific plans as specified in 65451.
This Finding cannot be made. The proposed subdivision is consistent with the Los Altos General Plan, including the Thoroughfare Commercial land use designation, which supports high-density residential and mixed-use development along major corridors such as El Camino Real. The project advances City objectives for sustainable infill development, pedestrian orientation, and integration of housing and residential support uses within established urban areas.
2. That the design or improvement of the proposed subdivision is not consistent with applicable general and specific plans.
This Finding cannot be made. The design and improvements are consistent with the General Plan and the Commercial Thoroughfare zoning district, as modified by the State Density Bonus Law. The project provides a high-density residential building with residential support uses on the ground floor, consistent with permitted uses in the Commercial Thoroughfare district and allows for the creation of eighty-five (85) residential condominium lots and one (1) common lot.
3. That the site is not physically suitable for the type of development.
This Finding cannot be made. The site is physically suitable because it is consistent with the Thoroughfare Commercial land use designation and Commercial Thoroughfare zoning district (as modified by the State Density Bonus Law), and adequately accommodates vehicle, pedestrian, and bicycle circulation while meeting life-safety and service requirements.
4. That the site is not physically suitable for the proposed density of development.
This Finding cannot be made. The site is physically suitable for the proposed density because the Thoroughfare Commercial land use designation supports higher-density residential development along major corridors such as El Camino Real. The project complies with the Commercial Thoroughfare zoning district standards, except as modified by the State Density Bonus Law, and is located within an urbanized corridor surrounded by comparable commercial and multi-family residential uses, with adequate access to infrastructure, utilities, and services.
5. That the design of the subdivision or the proposed improvements are likely to cause substantial environmental damage or substantially and avoidably injure fish or wildlife or their habitat.
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 4
This Finding cannot be made. The subdivision will not cause substantial environmental damage or injure wildlife or habitat. The project qualifies for a categorical exemption under Section 15332 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines as an infill development project. The site is surrounded by urban development, contains no sensitive biological resources, and would not result in significant impacts related to traffic, noise, air quality, or water quality. The project will be served by existing infrastructure, utilities, and public services.
6. That the design of the subdivision or type of improvements is likely to cause serious public health problems.
This Finding cannot be made. The subdivision will not cause serious public health problems because the site is in an urbanized area served by existing infrastructure, including sewer, water, and electricity. Police and fire protection will continue to be provided by the Los Altos Police Department and Santa Clara County Fire Department.
7. That the design of the subdivision or the type of improvements will conflict with easements acquired by the public at large, for access through or use of, property within the proposed subdivision. In this connection, the governing body may approve a map if it finds that alternate easements, for access or for use, will be provided, and that these will be substantially equivalent to ones previously acquired by the public. This subsection shall apply only to easements of record or to easements established by judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction and no authority is hereby granted to a legislative body to determine that the public at large has acquired easements for access through or use of property within the proposed subdivision.
This Finding cannot be made. The design of the subdivision will not conflict with access easements because the existing access easement along the rear of the site will be maintained and incorporated into the project design, ensuring continued access and compliance with applicable requirements.
8. That the project is not exempt from environmental review.
This Finding cannot be made. The project would be categorically exempt from environmental review under Section 15332 (In-Fill Development Projects) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines because the 0.43-acre site is an infill parcel that is substantially surrounded by urban development and contains no significant natural habitat for endangered, rare, or threatened species. The proposed development is consistent with the General Plan and Commercial Thoroughfare zoning district, as modified by the State Density Bonus Law, and will not result in any significant impacts related to traffic, noise, air quality, or water quality. The site can be served by existing utilities and public services, and none of the circumstances described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply.
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 5
EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
PLANNING DIVISION
1. Approved Plans: The project shall be developed in substantial compliance with the approved project plans, except as modified by these conditions as specified below.
2. Expiration: This Permit is valid for a period of two years and will expire on November 18, 2027, unless prior to the date of expiration, a building permit is issued, or an extension is granted pursuant to the procedures and timeline for extensions.
3. Revisions to the Approved Project: Minor revisions to the approved plans which are found to be in substantial compliance with the overall approvals may be approved by the Development Services Director.
4. Notice of Right to Protest: The conditions of project approval set forth herein include certain fees, dedication requirements, reservation requirements, and other exactions. Pursuant to Government Code Section 66020(d)(1), these conditions constitute written notice of a statement of the amount of such fees, and a description of the dedications, reservations, and other exactions. You are hereby further notified that the 90-day period in which you may protest these fees, dedications, reservations, and other exactions pursuant to Government Code Section 66020(a) began on the date of approval of this project. If you fail to file a protest within this 90-day period complying with all of the requirements of Section 66020, you will be legally barred from later challenging such exactions.
5. Indemnity and Hold Harmless: The applicant/owner agrees to indemnify, defend, protect, and hold the City harmless from all costs and expenses, including attorney’s fees, incurred by the City or held to be the liability of the City in connection with the City’s defense of its actions in any proceedings brought in any State or Federal Court, challenging any of the City’s action with respect to the applicant’s project. The City may withhold final maps and/or permits, including temporary or final occupancy permits, for failure to pay all costs and expenses, including attorney's fees, incurred by the City in connection with the City's defense of its actions.
6. Affordable Housing Agreements: All applicable affordable housing agreements for the project shall be executed and recorded on a form provided by the City to the satisfaction of the Development Services Director and City Attorney prior to the recordation of the final map.
ENGINEERING DIVISION
7. Payment of Impact and Development Fees: The applicant shall pay all applicable fees, including but not limited to sanitary sewer connection and impact fees, parkland dedication in
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 6
lieu fees, traffic impact fees, public art impact fee, and map check fee as required by the City of Los Altos Municipal Code prior to issuance of a building permit.
8. Encroachment Permit: An encroachment permit and/or an excavation permit shall be obtained prior to any work done within the public right-of-way and it shall be in accordance with plans to be approved by the City Engineer. Any work within El Camino Real will require the applicant to obtain an encroachment permit with Caltrans prior to commencement of work.
9. Americans with Disabilities Act: All improvements shall comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The latest edition of Caltrans ADA requirements shall apply to all improvements in the public right-of-way. Compliance with all ADA requirements shall be shown on all building permit plans.
10. Public Access Easement: The applicant shall dedicate public access easements for the purpose of providing pedestrian access prior to the recordation of the final map.
11. Public Utility Dedication: Prior to final map recordation the applicant shall dedicate public utility easements as required by the utility companies to serve the site.
12. Subdivision Agreement: The applicant shall sign and return Subdivision Improvement Agreement to the City for records and recordation prior to the recordation of the final map.
13. Final Map Recordation: The applicant shall record the final map. Building Permits shall not be issued until the final map is recorded. Plats and legal descriptions of the final map shall be submitted for review by the City Land Surveyor. Applicant shall provide a sufficient fee retainer to cover the cost of the map review by the City.
14. Condominium Map: The applicant shall record the condominium map as required by the City Engineer prior to final occupancy.
15. SWMP Certification: The applicant shall have a final inspection and certification done and submitted by the Engineer who designed the SWMP to ensure that the treatments were installed per design. The applicant shall submit a maintenance agreement to City for review and approval of the stormwater treatment methods installed in accordance with the SWMP.
Once approved, City shall record the agreement.
16. Storm Water Management Plan: The Applicant shall submit a Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) in compliance with the City of Los Altos Municipal Regional Stormwater (MRP)NPDES Permit. The SWMP shall be reviewed and approved by a City approved third party consultant at the Applicant’s expense. The recommendations from the Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) shall be shown on the building permit plans.
17. Storm Water Filtration Systems: The applicant shall insure the design of all storm water filtration systems and devices are without standing water to avoid mosquito/insect infestation.
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 7
18. Sewer Lateral: Any proposed sewer lateral connection shall be approved by the City Engineer. Only one sewer lateral per lot shall be installed. All existing unused sewer laterals shall be abandoned according to the City Standards, cut and cap 12” away from the main.
19. Public Improvements: Install or reconstruct standard public improvements required for the project along the project frontages of El Camino Real and Jordan Ave. These improvements include, new sidewalk, curb and gutter including extending the sidewalk along the frontage on Jordan Ave to the corner of El Camino Real and Jordan Ave. Additionally the applicant shall grind and overlay half of Jordan Ave as directed by the City Engineer. a. Provide a 5-foot wide sidewalk along Jordan Ave; the 6-inch curb shall not be included in the sidewalk width.
b. The existing street centerline on Jordan Ave shall be repainted and extended to a total length of 150 feet.
c. Provide checker non-slip lids for the electric vault and all other utility lids located within the right-of-way.
20. New ADA Ramps and Crosswalks: The applicant shall provide new ADA ramps and crosswalk striping per the City standards at the corner of El Camino Real and Jordan Ave crossing over Jordan Ave. Additionally, ADA ramps shall be installed in either side of the proposed driveway on Jordan Ave and an ADA ramp shall be installed at the corner or El Camino Real and Jordan Ave crossing El Camino Real.
a. New ADA Ramps shall follow the latest Caltrans Standard Detail A88A. b. Truncated domes on ADA ramps shall be cast iron and baked-on-oil finish. c. The crosswalk on Jordan shall be repainted.
±±
PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date November 6, 2025
Subject 4898 El Camino Real – New Multi-Family Residential Project Prepared by: Sean Gallegos, Senior Planner
Initiated by: Subhendu Datta on behalf of ADL 15 LLC, Applicant Attachments:
1. Draft Resolution – Design Review and Conditional Use Permit
2. Draft Resolution – Vesting Tentative Map
3. Project Plans
4. Density Bonus Report
5. Transportation Analysis
Recommendation
1. Adopt a Resolution approving Design Review (Application No. D25-0004) and Conditional Use Permit (Application No. CUP25-0001) for the construction of an eight (8) story, multiplefamily development with eighty-five (85) residential units utilizing State Density Bonus with waivers at 4898 El Camino Real, per the recommended findings and conditions of approval; and find the project is categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15332 (In-Fill Development Projects) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) - Attachment 1.
2. Recommend the City Council adopt a Resolution approving a Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM25-0001) to create eighty-five (85) condominium lots and one (1) common lot at 4898 El Camino Real, per the recommended findings and conditions of approval; and find the project is categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15332 (In-Fill Development Projects) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) - Attachment 2.
November 6, 2025
Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 2 Background
Property Description
The approximeatly 0.43-acre vacant project site is located on the southeast corner of Jordan Avenue and El Camino Real. Surrounding land uses include a fast-food restaurant and residential uses across Jordan Avenue to the west, office and residential uses across El Camino Real to the north, office uses to the west, and the parking lot serving 4906 El Camino Real to the south.
Project Overview
The project proposes to construct an eight (8) story, multi-family development utilizing State Density Bonus law. The development includes 85 dwelling units, consisting of nine studios, 47 one-bedroom units, and 29 two-bedroom units (Attachment 3 – Project Plans).
The site design provides pedestrian-oriented access and circulation while maintaining an active frontage along El Camino Real and Jordan Avenue. Pedestrian entries to the residential lobby are located along El Camino Real, with additional access from Jordan Avenue and the rear of the building. Streetscape improvements include new sidewalks, street trees, landscaped planters, and accessible curb ramps, enhancing the transition between the public right-of-way and building entrances. Vehicular access is provided from Jordan Avenue to the underground automated parking garage.
The ground floor includes the residential lobby and support areas, the primary building entry, and an entrance for a fully underground automated parking garage providing ninety-five (95) vehicle spaces, of which twelve (12) are EV-ready and six (6) are equipped with active EV charging stations. Bicycle parking is provided with long-term storage for ninety-eight (98) bicycles in a secure room, twenty (20) Class I bicycle spaces within the automated parking system, and five (5) Class II outdoor bicycle spaces located near the building entry.
Mechanical equipment will be located on the rooftop and screened from view by the parapet and cornice elements integrated into the building’s design. Trash and utility areas are located within the building envelope, with an internal trash room provided on the lower floor adjacent to the garage.
The proposed building has a contemporary architectural design that incorporates smooth plaster in light and dark tones, fiber cement panels, and stone veneer accents to provide visual interest and reduce the perception of mass. At the ground level, aluminum storefront glazing framed by plaster columns and stone bases creates a transparent and active frontage along El Camino Real. Recessed and projecting balconies, vertical bays, and metal canopies further articulate the façades, reinforce a pedestrian scale, and highlight building entries.
November 6, 2025
Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 3 The upper residential levels
are finished with a
combination of smooth
stucco, composite fiber
panels in wood and neutral
tones, and cultured stone
veneer, complemented by
black-framed aluminum
windows and metal railings.
The roofline is defined by a
parapet with cornice
detailing that frames the
building and screens rooftop
elements. Behind the
parapet, a landscaped rooftop
deck provides resident
amenity space while adding
architectural interest and
softening the overall building
mass as viewed from the
street.
The project site is currently vacant and contains no protected trees. New ground-level landscaping will feature a mix of ornamental shrubs, grasses, and flowering plants along the El Camino Real and Jordan Avenue frontages, with planters at the building base. A total of seven (7) new street trees will be planted at the ground level, consisting of three (3) Chinese Pistache trees along El Camino Real and four (4) Maidenhair (Ginkgo biloba) trees along Jordan Avenue, contributing to shade and visual interest along the streetscape.
The rooftop deck will provide approximately 2,720 square feet of landscaped resident amenity space, including six (6) Golden Spirit Smoke trees in planters, drought-tolerant shrubs, and flowering species. Seating areas, open gathering spaces, and integrated shade elements will create a functional and comfortable outdoor environment. Plantings are arranged to frame outward views, provide privacy between seating areas, and soften the building’s upper profile when viewed from surrounding streets.
Previous Site Approvals
On October 1, 2019, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2019-42 approving a Design Review Permit, Conditional Use Permit, and Tentative Map for a five-story multifamily residential development consisting of twenty-eight (28) units under the State Density Bonus Law. The approved unit mix included four (4) one-bedroom units, eleven (11) two-bedroom units, and thirteen (13) three-bedroom units. Of these, four (4) units were designated as affordable. The project approval expired on October 1, 2022.
Figure 1: View from El Camino Real
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Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 4 Analysis
General Plan Consistency
The project is consistent with the General Plan’s Thoroughfare Commercial Land Use Designation, which supports retail, service, office, and higher-density residential uses along El Camino Real, except as modified by State Density Bonus Law. The designation is intended to promote walkability, support local businesses, and provide opportunities for housing near services and transit. By providing a high-density residential development with ground-floor residential support uses, including affordable units utilizing State Density Bonus law, the project aligns with these objectives and contributes to a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented corridor. The project will contribute towards the City’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) obligation and is aligned with the City’s recently adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element by adding eighty-five (85) units to the City’s housing stock, including ten (10) very low-income units.
The project complies with the following General Plan polices:
• LU Policy 1.1: Maintain flexibility of standards and procedures to accommodate changing trends in retail, housing, and office uses.
• LU Policy 2.3: Continue to conduct design review of residential and nonresidential development applications to ensure compatibility with surrounding property and neighborhoods.
• LU Policy 3.1 Encourage residential development above the ground floor that includes affordable housing units.
• LU Policy 4.2 Encourage mixed-use projects with retail, housing, and/or lodging in addition to retail and office uses.
• LU Policy 4.4 Encourage the development of affordable housing. • Housing Policy 1.1: The City will encourage a diverse range of both market-rate and affordable housing sizes and residential densities to accommodate the varied housing needs of families, couples, and individuals. • Housing Policy 1.2: The City will encourage mixed-use development in designated zoning districts.
• Housing Policy 2.1 The City will facilitate the development of new affordable housing units.
Zoning Consistency
The project complies with the Zoning Standards of the Commercial Thoroughfare (CT) Zoning District, except as modified by State Density Bonus law. An analysis of the project’s compliance with CT Standards is provided in the table below:
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Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 5 CT Zoning District Zoning Standards
Requirement Proposal Project Compliance
Front setback Minimum 20 ft 17 ft 2.5 in Waiver requested under State Density Bonus
Front setback
landscaping
Minimum 50% of
setback area landscaped
795 square feet
(50%)
Complies
Interior side
setback
Minimum 10 ft 9 ft 6 in Waiver requested under
State Density Bonus
Interior side
setback
landscaping
Minimum 50% of
setback area landscaped
41.5% Waiver requested under
State Density Bonus
Exterior side
setback
Minimum 15 ft 8 ft Waiver requested under
State Density Bonus
Exterior side
setback
landscaping
Minimum 50% of
setback area landscaped
50.8% Complies
Rear setback Minimum 25 ft 20 ft 8 in Waiver requested under State Density Bonus
Rear setback
landscaping
Minimum 50% of
setback area landscaped
14% Waiver requested under
State Density Bonus
Building height 55 ft (5 stories) 109 ft 9 in (8
stories)
Waiver requested under
State Density Bonus
Private Open
Space
An average of 50 square
feet
An average of 50.8
square feet
Project Complies
Common Open
Space
Minimum of 2,400
square feet
3,280 square feet Project Complies
Off-Street
Vehicle Parking
0 Spaces. AB 2097
eliminates minimum
parking requirements for
projects within one-half
mile of a major transit
stop; the site is located
95 automated
parking spaces
Project Complies
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Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 6 CT Zoning District Zoning Standards
within this distance and
therefore qualifies for
the exemption.
Bicycle Parking 5 short -term (Class-II)
bicycle parking spaces.
128 long-term (Class-I)
bicycle parking spaces.
5 short-term (ClassII) bicycle parking
spaces
128 long-term
(Class-I) bicycle
parking spaces
Project Complies
The project must also comply with the City’s Objective Design Control Standards, as outlined in Los Altos Municipal Code (LAMC) Section 14.50.170 for the CT Zoning District and Section
14.66.280 for all multiple-family and mixed-use projects. Except for the requested waivers under Density Bonus, the project is consistent with the applicable Objective Design Control Standards.
The requested waivers to the objective design control standards are described in the “Density Bonus Request” section of this report.
Density Bonus Request
Under California’s Density Bonus Law (Government Code Section 65915 et seq.), the Thoroughfare Commercial (TC) General Plan designation and the Commercial Thoroughfare (CT) Zoning District do not establish a fixed maximum dwelling unit density. In such cases, the City calculates base density using a hypothetical development consistent with all applicable standards and average unit sizes. Based on this methodology, the site supports a base density of 116 dwelling units per acre, or 50 units.
The applicant proposes to restrict ten (10) units as very low-income, which represents twenty (20) percent of the base 50 units. Under Government Code Section 65915(f)(2) and Los Altos Municipal Code Chapter 14.28, Table B, projects providing at least fifteen (15) percent of the base units as very low-income are entitled to a fifty (50) percent density bonus. Applying the 50 percent bonus to the 50-unit base allows an additional 25 units, for a subtotal of 75 units. In addition, because the project provides more than five (5) percent very low-income units, it also qualifies for an additional 20 percent bonus under Government Code Section 65915(v). This additional bonus increases the total by ten (10) units, resulting in a maximum of eighty-five (85) units on site.
Accordingly, the project is entitled to 85 total units, including ten (10) very low-income units, as documented in the Density Bonus Report submitted by the applicant (Attachment 4). The report also identifies the requested waivers, which are necessary to accommodate the project at the proposed density while including the required affordable units.
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Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 7 Waivers
Under the Density Bonus Law, eligible projects may request unlimited waivers of development standards. Waivers modify zoning or site development requirements that would otherwise physically preclude construction of the project, including the affordable and density bonus units.
The applicant requests sixteen such waivers, described below.
1. Front Setback: LAMC §14.50.090 requires a minimum front setback of 20 feet. The project proposes 17 feet 2-1/4 inches. Compliance would reduce the building footprint by about 99 square feet per floor (792 square feet total over eight floors), which would constrain residential layouts and reduce unit yield, directly conflicting with the affordable housing requirement.
2. Interior Side Setback: LAMC §14.50.100(A) requires a minimum 10-foot interior side setback.
The project proposes a 9-foot 6-inch setback. Compliance would reduce the buildable width by approximately 82 square feet per floor (660 square feet total across eight levels), constraining residential layout and preventing the project from achieving the proposed density and affordable housing objectives.
3. Exterior Side Setback: LAMC §14.50.100(B) requires a minimum 15-foot exterior side setback. The project proposes an 8-foot setback. Compliance would remove approximately 1,155 square feet per floor (9,235 square feet total), substantially shrinking the building envelope and eliminating multiple units, thereby undermining project feasibility.
4. Rear Setback: LAMC §14.50.110 requires a minimum rear setback of 25 feet. The project proposes a 20-foot, 8-inch setback. Compliance would displace about 360 square feet per floor (2,880 square feet total), compressing unit depth and circulation and resulting in inefficient layouts and fewer units.
5. Building Height: LAMC §14.50.140(A) limits building height in the CT District to 55 feet, with an additional 12 feet permitted for rooftop equipment and appurtenances under §14.66.240(E), for a combined maximum height of 67 feet. The project proposes a roof deck at 92 feet, 2¼ inches and an elevator overrun at 109 feet, 7¼ inches, exceeding the 67-foot limit by 42 feet, 7¼ inches. A waiver is therefore requested to allow the roof deck to exceed the base height limit by 37 feet, 2¼ inches and the elevator overrun to exceed the combined maximum height by 42 feet, 7¼ inches. Strict adherence to the height limitation would require removal of approximately three stories and 35 units, thereby preventing the project from achieving the density permitted under State Density Bonus Law (Gov. Code §65915).
6. Upper-Story Step Backs: LAMC §14.50.170(B)(1)(a–b) requires a minimum 10-foot step back along the front and street-facing façades for stories above 45 feet. The project proposes no upper-story step backs. Compliance would reduce the building area by approximately 2,051 square feet per floor (8,204 square feet total over four floors), resulting in the loss of roughly ten residential units and making it infeasible to achieve the density allowed under State Density Bonus Law.
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Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 8
7. Vertical Façade Articulation: LAMC §14.50.170(B)(2)(a)–(b) requires that building façades exceeding 100 feet in length along a right-of-way be divided into primary façade bays no greater than 50 feet in width and secondary façade bays defined by recesses at least three feet deep and 10 feet wide. The project proposes primary bays that exceed 50 feet in some locations and utilizes vertically stacked balconies approximately five feet by 10 feet to provide visual articulation. Full compliance would eliminate about 316 square feet per floor, totaling approximately 2,528 square feet or three residential units, thereby reducing the building’s efficiency and precluding the intended density.
8. Façade Entrances: LAMC §14.50.170(B)(2)(c) requires at least one pedestrian entrance per 150 linear feet along El Camino Real and per primary façade bay along other street frontages.
The project proposes fewer entrances than required to maintain functional interior layouts and avoid the loss of ground-floor residential and commercial space. Full compliance would displace approximately two units, which adversely affects project feasibility and site design objectives.
9. Privacy and Line of Sight: LAMC §14.50.170(B)(5)(a) requires that when primary living spaces and balconies are along a side setback, principal windows and balconies be oriented toward the front or rear of the building. The project orients some primary living space windows and balconies toward the front, rear, and sides to preserve functional layouts and private open space. Enforcing this standard would reduce the building area by approximately 2,099 square feet per level (16,792 square feet total over eight levels) and eliminate about 21 units, substantially constraining unit design and preventing achievement of the intended density under State Density Bonus Law.
10. Parapet Length/Screening: LAMC §14.50.170(B)(6)(a)(v)(b) limits parapet segments above the third floor to twenty-five feet. The project proposes a maximum parapet length of thirtynine feet, five inches. Meeting the standard would reduce approximately 488 square feet of floor area and about one half of a unit, and would require irregular parapet breaks that disrupt façade rhythm and design cohesion. A waiver is requested to preserve architectural consistency, maintain efficient unit layouts, and achieve the permitted density under State Density Bonus Law.
11. Pedestrian-Scaled Entrance: LAMC §14.50.170(C)(3)(a) requires buildings over seventy feet in length along a right-of-way to include at least one forecourt frontage. The project instead provides a recessed main entrance at the corner of Jordan Avenue and El Camino Real.
Compliance would remove about 412 square feet per level (3,296 square feet total), eliminating roughly four units and reducing overall housing capacity.
12. Interior Side Yard Landscaping: LAMC §14.50.100 requires at least 50 percent of the interior side yard to be landscaped. The project provides 41.5 percent. Full compliance would remove approximately 736 square feet, reducing usable site area and eliminating one unit, which would constrain density and overall project feasibility.
13. Rear Yard Landscaping: LAMC §14.50.100 requires at least 50 percent of the required rear yard to be landscaped. The project provides 14 percent. Compliance would displace
November 6, 2025
Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 9 approximately 5,416 square feet, resulting in the loss of about seven units and directly reducing housing capacity.
14. Driveway Landscaping: LAMC §14.50.170(G) requires landscaping on each side of a driveway at grade or in raised planters. Compliance would eliminate approximately 5,416 square feet of developable area, equivalent to seven units, reducing project density.
15. Transformer Fence Height: LAMC §14.72 limits fences within 15 feet of a driveway to a maximum height of 4 feet to preserve visibility. The project proposes a 6-foot-5-inch fence to screen transformers adjacent to the driveway. Compliance would require reducing the fence height, exposing equipment to public view, or redesigning the layout, displacing approximately 5,578 square feet (seven units). To maintain driveway safety, the project will include warning lights and/or signage consistent with the recommendations of the Transportation Impact Analysis prepared by Abrams Associates (2025).
16. Loading Space Location: LAMC §14.74.090 requires at least one on-site loading space of specific dimensions that allows safe vehicle maneuvering without blocking traffic or parking.
Due to site constraints, the project’s loading facility requires vehicles to back onto Jordan Avenue. Relocating the space elsewhere on-site would displace about 5,081 square feet (seven units), undermining the project’s housing capacity and design efficiency.
Conditional Use Permit
The project requires a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to Los Altos Municipal Code Section
14.74.070, which governs the use of automated parking systems as an alternative to conventional off-street parking. The applicant proposes a mechanical parking system providing ninety-five (95) parking spaces in a fully enclosed underground garage. In compliance with code requirements, the system is located within a permanent structure, is supported by a Parking Management Plan, incorporates backup power for emergency operation, and has been reviewed for overall compliance with City requirements. Based on this review, staff finds the project consistent with the requirements of LAMC §14.74.070 and recommends approval of the Conditional Use Permit as outlined in the Draft Resolution (Attachment 1).
Subdivision
The project includes a Vesting Tentative Map for condominium purposes. The subdivision will divide the site into eighty-five (85) individual residential condominium units and a common lot.
The subdivision conforms to the General Plan, Subdivision Ordinance, and provisions of the Subdivision Map Act as substantiated in the Draft Resolution recommending approval of the Vesting Tentative Map (Attachment 2).
Transportation Analysis
The City retains the existing level of service policy in the General Plan and continues to require development projects to conduct non-CEQA transportation analyses to evaluate and manage a project’s adverse effects on local roadways by imposing conditions related to operational improvements during the project review and permitting phases. Under the adopted City policy, a
November 6, 2025
Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 10 Local Transportation Analysis (LTA) is required for projects adding 50 or more net new daily trips. A transportation analysis was prepared by Abrams Associates Traffic Engineering, Inc. and evaluated the project in accordance with the City’s LTA requirements. Based on the project’s design and a detailed analysis conducted according to the City’s LTA requirements, there would be no significant impacts to traffic operations according to established traffic engineering standards and no off-site transportation improvements would be required (Attachment 5).
Bankers Hill 150 v. City of San Diego
Bankers Hill 150, the developer (Greystar), applied to construct a 20-story mixed-use project, at a building height of 223 feet, that would include 204 dwelling units, office space, a large courtyard, and underground parking. The proposed project qualified as a Density Bonus project because it set aside 18 dwelling units as affordable for very low-income residents. Accordingly, the City of San Diego granted Greystar a density bonus to exceed the zone’s maximum density of 147 units, as well as incentives to exceed the City’s 65-foot building height limit, eliminate requirements for a 15-foot setback and on-site truck loading and reduce private storage areas.
Two community groups, Bankers Hill 150 and Bankers Hill/Park West Community Association, filed a petition for writ of mandate challenging the City’s approval of the project application, alleging that the project is inconsistent with the City’s development standards for that neighborhood. The trial court denied the Association’s writ petition because it fatally failed to address the application of the Density Bonus Law.
The Court of Appeal affirmed the trial court’s denial of the writ petition. The court emphasized that, under the Density Bonus Law, absent very limited exceptions, the project is entitled to the waiver of any development standards that would have precluded the project’s construction as designed, including those with which the Association alleged the project is inconsistent.
Furthermore, the waiver or reduction in development standards is in addition to the incentives and concessions mandated by the Density Bonus Law.
The Association argued that the project could be redesigned to yield a shorter and less bulky building by eliminating a courtyard. Reaffirming the holding in Wollmer v. City of Berkeley (2011) 193 Cal.App.4th 1329, the court rejected the Association’s argument. According to the court, the City could not demand that Greystar redesign its building to better meet City development standards even if a design existed that would allow fewer deviations from the City’s requirements.
Housing Accountability Act (HAA)
The Housing Accountability Act (HAA) (Government Code Section 65589.5), establishes the state’s overarching policy that a local government may not deny, reduce the density of, or make infeasible housing development projects (projects resulting in more than two (2) housing units or resulting parcels) which includes subdivision of land that are consistent with objective local development standards. Before doing any of those things, local governments must make specified written findings based upon a preponderance of the evidence that a specific, adverse health or
November 6, 2025
Multi-Family Residential Development at 4898 El Camino Real Page 11 safety impact exists. Legislative intent language indicates that the conditions that would give rise to such a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety would occur infrequently.
The proposed project is protected under the Housing Accountability Act (HAA) as it creates additional housing stock within the City of Los Altos. Additionally, the proposed project meets all applicable objective design standards, except as modified by Density Bonus law.
Environmental Review
The 0.43-acre project site is an infill location along El Camino Real surrounded by urban development and contains no natural habitat for endangered species. The proposed development is consistent with the General Plan and CT District standards, as modified by State Density Bonus law, and will not result in significant impacts related to traffic, noise, air quality, or water quality.
The site can be served by all required utilities and public services, and none of the exceptions in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply.
Based on the City’s adopted vehicle miles traveled (VMT) policy and CEQA Guidelines section 15064.3, transportation effects under CEQA are evaluated using vehicle miles traveled (VMT). A screening memo prepared by Abrams Associates Traffic Engineering, Inc. confirms that the project is screened out under the City’s VMT Policy based on the map screening and Transit Proximity Screening criteria; therefore, transportation impacts are presumed less than significant.
Therefore, the project qualifies for an exemption under Section 15332 (Infill Development Projects) of the CEQA Guidelines.
Public Notification
A public meeting notice was mailed to property owners within (300) feet of the project site and published in the newspaper. The applicant also posted the site with a public notice sign in conformance with the Planning Division posting requirements.
At the time of preparation of this report, the Planning Division has not received comments on the proposed project.
Next Steps
The Planning Commissions decision on the Design Review and Conditional Use Permit applications are final. The Planning Commission’s consideration and recommendation on the Vesting Tentative Map application will be forwarded to Council for consideration at a future meeting and will be noticed separately.
City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: November 18, 2025
Prepared By: Sean Gallegos
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Vesting Tentative Map for a New Mixed-Use Project at 996 Loraine Avenue
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Housing
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution approving a Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM22-0005) for the creation of thirteen (13) condominium lots and one (1) common lot at 996 Loraine Avenue per the recommended findings and conditions of approval; and find the project is statutorily exempt from environmental review pursuant to Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21080.66 - Attachment
1. FISCAL IMPACT
None.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The project is statutorily exempt under Public Resources Code Section 21080.66. The 0.2 acre infill site is previously developed, within the urban services area, and surrounded by urban uses; the project conforms to the General Plan and Commercial Neighborhood zoning as modified through State Density Bonus Law, the site contains no sensitive habitat or historic resources, is not in an area identified in Section 21080.66(a)(6), and utilities and public services are available.
Tribal consultation is complete, environmental site assessments are prepared, and any required remediation will be completed before construction. The project therefore meets the statutory exemption and is not subject to further environmental review.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
None.
BACKGROUND
Property Description
The approximately 0.2-acre project site is located on the southwest corner of Loraine Avenue and Miramonte Avenue. The project site is currently developed with an approximately 2,240 squarefoot, single-story commercial building, landscaping, and eleven (11) surface parking spaces.
Surrounding land uses include residences
to the north and west, a day care use to the
south, and along the east property line
Miramonte Avenue, with a single-family
residence and commercial uses (including
a U.S. Post Office) located across the
street.
Project Overview
The project proposes to demolish the
existing one-story commercial building
and construct a three-story, approximately
17,674 square foot mixed-use building.
The new development provides 962
square feet of ground floor commercial
space and twelve (12) multiple-family
residential units on the upper floors. The
residential mix includes four (4) onebedroom units and eight (8) two-bedroom units, of which two (2) units will be affordable to low-income households. On site parking is provided at grade with sixteen (16) spaces, including twelve (12) for residents and four (4) for commercial use.
The project includes a Vesting Tentative Map for condominium purposes which would divide the site into twelve (12) individual residential condominium units, one (1) commercial condominium unit, and a common area that surrounds the units (see Attachment 2).
Planning Commission Review
On November 6, 2025, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to review the Design Review, Conditional Use Permit and Vesting Tentative Map applications. The Planning Commission unanimously approved the Design Review and Conditional Use Permit applications and recommended approval of the Vesting Tentative Map application to the City Council. The Planning Commission Agenda Report Packet is included as Attachment 3.
ANALYSIS
General Plan Consistency
The project is consistent with the General Plan’s Neighborhood Commercial (NC) Land Use Designation, which supports neighborhood-serving retail, service, commercial, and office uses.
The designation also encourages higher-density residential uses in appropriate locations to promote walkability and support local businesses. By providing ground-floor commercial space with residential units above, including affordable units, the project aligns with these objectives and contributes to a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented environment. The project will contribute towards the City’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) and is aligned with the City’s recently Figure 1: Location Map
adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element by adding twelve (12) units to the City’s housing stock, two (2) of which will be low-income units.
The project complies with the following General Plan polices:
• LU Policy 1.1: Maintain flexibility of standards and procedures to accommodate changing trends in retail, housing, and office uses.
• LU Policy 2.3: Continue to conduct design review of residential and non-residential development applications to ensure compatibility with surrounding property and neighborhoods.
• LU Policy 3.1 Encourage residential development above the ground floor that includes affordable housing units.
• LU Policy 4.2 Encourage mixed-use projects with retail, housing, and/or lodging in addition to retail and office uses.
• LU Policy 4.4 Encourage the development of affordable housing. • Housing Policy 1.1: The City will encourage a diverse range of both market-rate and affordable housing sizes and residential densities to accommodate the varied housing needs of families, couples, and individuals. • Housing Policy 1.2: The City will encourage mixed-use development in designated zoning districts.
• Housing Policy 2.1 The City will facilitate the development of new affordable housing units.
Subdivision Consistency
The project includes a Vesting Tentative Map for condominium purposes. The subdivision will divide the site into twelve (12) individual residential condominium units, one (1) commercial condominium unit, and a common lot. The subdivision conforms to the General Plan, Subdivision Ordinance, and provisions of the Subdivision Map Act as substantiated in the Draft Resolution for approval of the Vesting Tentative Map (see Attachment 1).
Housing Accountability Act (HAA)
The Housing Accountability Act (HAA) (Government Code Section 65589.5), establishes the state’s overarching policy that a local government may not deny, reduce the density of, or make infeasible housing development projects (projects resulting in more than two (2) housing units or resulting parcels) which includes subdivision of land that are consistent with objective local development standards. Before doing any of those things, local governments must make specified written findings based upon a preponderance of the evidence that a specific, adverse health or safety impact exists. Legislative intent language indicates that the conditions that would give rise to such a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety would occur infrequently.
The proposed project is protected under the Housing Accountability Act (HAA) as it creates additional housing stock within the City of Los Altos and meets all applicable objective design standards.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
A public meeting notice was mailed to property owners and commercial business tenants within (300) feet of the project site and published in the newspaper. The applicant also posted the site with a public notice sign in conformance with the Planning Division posting requirements.
At the time of preparation of this report, the Planning Division has not received comments on the proposed subdivision.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Resolution
2. Vesting Tentative Map
3. November 6, 2025 Planning Commission Staff Report
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-___
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS APPROVING A VESTING TENTATIVE MAP (APPLICATION NO. TM22-0005) FOR THE CREATION OF 12 RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM LOTS, ONE COMMERCIAL CONDOMINIUM LOT, AND ONE COMMON LOT AT 996 LORAINE AVENUE WHEREAS, the applicant, 996 Loraine LLC, submitted an application for a Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM22-0005) to subdivide an 8,898 square-foot (0.20-acre) parcel at 996 Loraine Avenue (APN 189-15-0186) into twelve (12) residential condominium lots, one (1) commercial condominium lot, and one (1) common lot; and WHEREAS, approval of the project is statutorily exempt from environmental review under Public Resources Code Section 21080.66 as a qualifying mixed-use housing project on an infill site consistent with the General Plan Neighborhood Commercial (NC) designation and the Commercial Neighborhood (CN) zoning district, as modified by the State Density Bonus Law.
The site is developed, served by utilities, surrounded by urban uses, and not located in any environmentally sensitive area identified in Section 21080.66(a)(6). The property is not a historic resource, tribal consultation has been completed, environmental site assessments prepared with remediation to occur before occupancy, and the site is more than 500 feet from the nearest freeway.
The project therefore meets all criteria for the statutory exemption.
WHEREAS, the Project was processed in accordance with the applicable provisions of the California Government Code and Los Altos Municipal Code; and WHEREAS, on November 6, 2025, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing at which members of the public were afforded an opportunity to comment on the project, and at the conclusion of the meeting, the Planning Commission recommended the City Council approve the Vesting Tentative Map; and
WHEREAS, on November 18, 2025, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law and considered public testimony and evidence and recommendations presented by staff in connection with the Project; 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; and WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby approves the Vesting Tentative Map for the creation of twelve (12) residential condominium lots, one (1) commercial condominium lot, and one (1) common lot, subject to the findings (Exhibit A) and Conditions of Approval (Exhibit B) attached hereto and incorporated by this reference.
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 2
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 November 18, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
___________________________
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
Attest:
_________________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC, CITY CLERK
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 3
EXHIBIT A
FINDINGS
With regard to the Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM22-0005), the City Council finds the following in accordance with Chapter 4, Article 1, Section 66474 of the Subdivision Map Act of the State of California:
1. The proposed subdivision is not consistent with applicable general and specific plans as specified in 65451.
This Finding cannot be made. The subdivision is consistent with the Los Altos General Plan, including the Neighborhood Commercial (NC) designation, which supports neighborhoodserving commercial uses with higher-density residential above the ground floor, and with the Loyola Corners Specific Plan. Relevant policies include Land Use Element Policies 1.1 and
2.2; Housing Element Policies 1.1 and 1.2; and Infrastructure and Waste Disposal Element Policies 1.3, 2.2, and 3.1.
2. That the design or improvement of the proposed subdivision is not consistent with applicable general and specific plans.
This Finding cannot be made. The design and improvements are consistent with the General Plan and the Commercial Neighborhood (CN) zoning district, as modified by the State Density Bonus Law. The project provides ground-floor commercial space and upper-floor housing, consistent with permitted uses, and allows for the creation of twelve (12) residential condominium lots, one (1) commercial condominium lot, and one (1) common lot.
3. That the site is not physically suitable for the type of development.
This Finding cannot be made. The site is physically suitable because it is consistent with the Neighborhood Commercial (NC) designation and Commercial Neighborhood (CN) zoning district (as modified by the State Density Bonus Law), and adequately accommodates vehicle, pedestrian, and bicycle circulation while meeting life-safety and service requirements.
4. That the site is not physically suitable for the proposed density of development.
This Finding cannot be made. The site is physically suitable for the proposed density because the General Plan Neighborhood Commercial (NC) designation supports higher-density residential uses and the project complies with Commercial Neighborhood (CN) zoning district, except as modified by the State Density Bonus Law, and is located in an urbanized area surrounded by similar uses.
5. That the design of the subdivision or the proposed improvements are likely to cause substantial environmental damage or substantially and avoidably injure fish or wildlife or their habitat.
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 4
This Finding cannot be made. The subdivision will not cause substantial environmental damage or injury to wildlife or habitat. The project qualifies for a statutory exemption under Public Resources Code Section 21080.66 (AB 130). The site is substantially surrounded by urban uses, has no sensitive habitat, would not result in significant impacts related to traffic, noise, or air quality, and will be served by existing utilities and public services.
6. That the design of the subdivision or type of improvements is likely to cause serious public health problems.
This Finding cannot be made. The subdivision will not cause serious public health problems because the site is in an urbanized area served by existing infrastructure, including sewer, water, and electricity. Police and fire protection will continue to be provided by the Los Altos Police Department and Santa Clara County Fire Department.
7. That the design of the subdivision or the type of improvements will conflict with easements acquired by the public at large, for access through or use of, property within the proposed subdivision. In this connection, the governing body may approve a map if it finds that alternate easements, for access or for use, will be provided, and that these will be substantially equivalent to ones previously acquired by the public. This subsection shall apply only to easements of record or to easements established by judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction and no authority is hereby granted to a legislative body to determine that the public at large has acquired easements for access through or use of property within the proposed subdivision.
This Finding cannot be made. The design of the subdivision will not conflict with access easements because there are no known existing access easements encumbering this property.
8. That the project is not exempt from environmental review.
This Finding cannot be made. The project is statutorily exempt under Public Resources Code Section 21080.66 (AB 130) as a qualifying infill mixed-use housing development. The 0.20- acre site is within city limits, previously developed, consistent with the General Plan Neighborhood Commercial designation and Commercial Neighborhood (CN) zoning (as modified by the State Density Bonus Law), and served by utilities. The site is not located in an environmentally sensitive area, it is not a historic resource, and is more than 500 feet from a freeway. Tribal consultation has been completed, and environmental site assessments with required remediation will be completed prior to occupancy.
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 5
EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
PLANNING DIVISION
1. Approved Plans: The project shall be developed in substantial compliance with the approved project plans, except as modified by these conditions as specified below.
2. Expiration: This Permit is valid for a period of two years and will expire on November 18, 2027, unless prior to the date of expiration, a building permit is issued, or an extension is granted pursuant to the procedures and timeline for extensions.
3. Revisions to the Approved Project: Minor revisions to the approved plans which are found to be in substantial compliance with the overall approvals may be approved by the Development Services Director.
4. Notice of Right to Protest: The conditions of project approval set forth herein include certain fees, dedication requirements, reservation requirements, and other exactions. Pursuant to Government Code Section 66020(d)(1), these conditions constitute written notice of a statement of the amount of such fees, and a description of the dedications, reservations, and other exactions. You are hereby further notified that the 90-day period in which you may protest these fees, dedications, reservations, and other exactions pursuant to Government Code Section 66020(a) began on the date of approval of this project. If you fail to file a protest within this 90-day period complying with all of the requirements of Section 66020, you will be legally barred from later challenging such exactions.
5. Indemnity and Hold Harmless: The applicant/owner agrees to indemnify, defend, protect, and hold the City harmless from all costs and expenses, including attorney’s fees, incurred by the City or held to be the liability of the City in connection with the City’s defense of its actions in any proceedings brought in any State or Federal Court, challenging any of the City’s action with respect to the applicant’s project. The City may withhold final maps and/or permits, including temporary or final occupancy permits, for failure to pay all costs and expenses, including attorney's fees, incurred by the City in connection with the City's defense of its actions.
6. Affordable Housing Agreements: All applicable affordable housing agreements for the project shall be executed and recorded on a form provided by the City to the satisfaction of the Development Services Director and City Attorney prior to the issuance of the final map
ENGINEERING DIVISION
7. Payment of Impact and Development Fees: The applicant shall pay all applicable fees, including but not limited to sanitary sewer connection and impact fees, parkland dedication in
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 6
lieu fees, traffic impact fees, public art impact fee, and map check fee as required by the City of Los Altos Municipal Code prior to issuance of a building permit.
8. Encroachment Permit: An encroachment permit shall be obtained from the Engineering Division prior to doing any work within the public right-of-way including the street shoulder.
All work within the public street right-of-way shall be in compliance with the City’s Shoulder Paving Policy.
9. Americans with Disabilities Act: All improvements shall comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The latest edition of Caltrans ADA requirements shall apply to all improvements in the public right-of-way. Compliance with all ADA requirements shall be shown on all building permit plans.
10. Public Utility Dedication: Prior to final map recordation the applicant shall dedicate public utility easements as required by the utility companies to serve the site.
11. Subdivision Agreement: The applicant shall sign and return Subdivision Improvement Agreement to the City for records and recordation prior to the recordation of the final map.
12. Final Map Recordation: The applicant shall record the final map. Building Permits shall not be issued until the final map is recorded. Plats and legal descriptions of the final map shall be submitted for review by the City Land Surveyor. Applicant shall provide a sufficient fee retainer to cover the cost of the map review by the City.
13. Condominium Map: The applicant shall record the condominium map as required by the City Engineer prior to final occupancy.
14. SWMP Certification: The applicant shall have a final inspection and certification done and submitted by the Engineer who designed the SWMP to ensure that the treatments were installed per design. The applicant shall submit a maintenance agreement to City for review and approval of the stormwater treatment methods installed in accordance with the SWMP. Once approved, City shall record the agreement.
15. Storm Water Management Plan: The Applicant shall submit a Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) in compliance with the City of Los Altos Municipal Regional Stormwater (MRP)NPDES Permit. The SWMP shall be reviewed and approved by a City approved third party consultant at the Applicant’s expense. The recommendations from the Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) shall be shown on the building permit plans.
16. Storm Water Filtration Systems: The applicant shall insure the design of all storm water filtration systems and devices are without standing water to avoid mosquito/insect infestation.
17. Sewer Lateral: Any proposed sewer lateral connection shall be approved by the City Engineer. Only one sewer lateral per lot shall be installed. All existing unused sewer laterals shall be abandoned according to the City Standards, cut and cap 12” away from the main.
Resolution No. 2025-XX Page 7
18. Public Improvements: Install or reconstruct standard public improvements along the project frontages of Miramonte Avenue and Loraine Avenue, as directed by the City Engineer.
Required improvements include curb, gutter, and a five-foot-wide sidewalk constructed to comply with City standards for concrete sidewalks. A landscaped strip or rain garden shall be provided along both frontages. The applicant shall design street improvements up to one half the width of Miramonte Avenue and Loraine Avenue, as directed by the City Engineer or designee.
19. New ADA Ramps and Crosswalks: The applicant shall provide two new ADA ramps and crosswalk striping per the City standards at the intersection with Miramonte Avenue and Loriane Avenue. The applicant shall also install new ADA ramps at each side of the driveway approach on Loriane Avenue.
PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date November 6, 2025
Subject 996 Loraine Avenue – Mixed-Use Development
Prepared by: Sean Gallegos, Senior Planner
Initiated by: 996 Loraine LLC, Applicant
Attachments:
1. Draft Resolution – Design Review and Conditional Use Permit
2. Draft Resolution – Vesting Tentative Map
3. Project Plans
4. Density Bonus Report
5. Public Comment Letters
Recommendation
1. Adopt a Resolution approving Design Review (Application No. D22-0013) and Conditional Use Permit (Application No. CUP22-0003) for the construction of a three (3) story, mixed-use development with twelve (12) residential units and 962 square feet of ground floor commercial space utilizing State Density Bonus with a concession and waivers at 996 Loraine Avenue, per the recommended findings and conditions of approval; and find the project is statutorily exempt from environmental review pursuant to Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21080.66 - Attachment 1.
2. Recommend the City Council adopt a Resolution approving a Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM22-0003) to create thirteen (13) condominium lots and one (1) common lot at 996 Loraine Avenue, per the recommended findings and conditions of approval; and find the project is statutorily exempt from environmental review pursuant to Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21080.66 - Attachment 2.
Background
Property Description
The approximately 0.2-acre project site is located on the southwest corner of Loraine Avenue and Miramonte Avenue. The project site is currently developed with an approximately 2,240 squarefoot, single-story commercial building, landscaping, andsurface parking spaces.
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Mixed-Use Development at 996 Loraine Avenue Page 2
Surrounding land uses include residences
to the north and west, a day care use to the
south, and along the east property line
Miramonte Avenue, with a single-family
residence and commercial uses (including
a U.S. Post Office) located across the
street.
Preliminary Application
A preliminary application under Housing
Crisis Act (SB 330) allows a developer to
“freeze” applicable fees and development
standards as of the submission date,
provided that a formal project application
is filed within 180 days and the project
scope remains substantially consistent. A
Preliminary application was filed on
December 22, 2021 and discussed by the
Planning Commission at a study session on
March 17, 2022. No formal application was filed within 180 days of the preliminary filing; therefore, the preliminary application is deemed expired under the SB 330. A new preliminary application pursuant to SB 330 was submitted by the developer on November 2, 2022.
Formal Application
On November 8, 2022, a formal application was submitted, within the required 180-day period of the preliminary application. Accordingly, the project is eligible to “freeze” the fees and standards in effect as of November 2, 2022. The project has been reviewed under the zoning regulations in effect at the time of project submittal and is subject to Design Review under former Chapter 14.78 of the Los Altos Zoning Code, as well as a Use Permit for mixed use development, and a Tentative Map under Chapter 14.44.
At its meeting of September 4, 2025, the Planning Commission continued this item after staff confirmed that the required public notice sign was not posted at the project site. The applicant has since posted the sign, meeting Planning Division site posting requirements.
Project Overview
The project proposes to demolish the existing one-story commercial building and construct a threestory, approximately 17,674 square foot mixed-use building. The new development provides 962 square feet of ground floor commercial space and twelve (12) multiple-family residential units on the two upper floors. The residential mix includes four (4) one-bedroom units and eight (8) twobedroom units, of which two (2) units will be affordable for low-income households. On site parking is provided at grade with sixteen (16) spaces, including twelve (12) for residents and four (4) for the commercial use (Attachment 3 – Project Plans).
Figure 1: Location Map
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Mixed-Use Development at 996 Loraine Avenue Page 3
Adjacent to the commercial space, the first floor contains 924 square feet of residential support facilities and a partially enclosed parking garage with sixteen (16) vehicle spaces. Long-term bicycle parking for five bicycles will be provided in a secure indoor storage room, and two shortterm bicycle spaces will be located outside the building.
The proposed building will have a contemporary mixed-use design that integrates high-quality, durable materials to provide visual interest, reduce the perception of mass, and reinforce its architectural character. At the ground level, the commercial space is designed with large dark bronze anodized aluminum storefront glazing framed by smooth troweled plaster in Dover White and Portico, accented with stone veneer to create an inviting and transparent commercial frontage along the street. Metal canopies and recessed entries establish a comfortable pedestrian scale and provide weather protection.
Figure 21: Perspective from Miramonte Avenue
The second and third floors will feature smooth plaster in Dover White, Portico, and Hammered Silver combined with horizontal stained wood siding, introducing warmth and texture to the upper levels. The building will be articulated through vertical and horizontal modulation, alternating materials, and changes in color tone to break up the building mass. Projecting balconies with metal railings will add depth and shadow, while varied window placement and balcony recesses will further enhance visual interest.
The roofline will be defined by sloped standing seam metal roofing and vertical metal siding in a muted gray finish, which will frame and partially screen mechanical areas. A level rooftop terrace will offer 1,824 square feet of landscaped resident amenity space.
The site design provides vehicle and pedestrian access while maintaining an active public frontage.
Pedestrian entries to the commercial space and residential lobby are from existing sidewalks along Miramonte Avenue. Streetscape improvements include new sidewalks, accessible curb ramps with truncated domes, and landscaped planters to enhance the transition from the public right of way to
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Mixed-Use Development at 996 Loraine Avenue Page 4
building entrances. Vehicular access is provided by a single full-access driveway on Loraine Avenue leading to the parking garage.
The project will remove three (3) existing trees on site, none of which meet the definition of a protected tree under Chapter 11.08.050 of the Municipal Code, while preserving four (4) trees on adjacent properties. Ground-level landscaping will feature ornamental shrubs, grasses, and flowering plants along the Loraine Avenue and Miramonte Avenue frontages, with raised planters at the building base and a six-foot-tall wood fence along the southern and western boundaries. In total, nine new trees will be planted at the ground level, contributing to shade, greenery, and visual interest along the public edges of the site.
The rooftop terrace will provide 1,824 square feet of landscaped resident amenity space, including planters with five (5) small ornamental trees, drought-tolerant shrubs, and flowering plants.
Seating areas, open gathering spaces, and integrated shade elements will create a comfortable and functional outdoor environment. Plantings are arranged to frame outward views, add privacy between seating areas, and soften the upper profile of the building when viewed from surrounding properties.
Mechanical equipment is located on the rooftop and screened from public view by mansard roof forms integrated into the building’s design. Trash and utility areas are enclosed within the building near the parking area, with an internal trash room on the lower floor.
Analysis
General Plan Consistency
The project is consistent with the General Plan’s Neighborhood Commercial (NC) Land Use Designation, which supports neighborhood-serving retail, service, commercial, and office uses.
The designation also encourages higher-density residential uses in appropriate locations to promote walkability and support local businesses. By providing ground-floor commercial space with residential units above, including affordable units, the project aligns with these objectives and contributes to a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented environment. The project will contribute towards the City’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) and is aligned with the City’s recently adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element by adding twelve (12) units to the City’s housing stock, two (2) of which will be low-income units.
The project complies with the following General Plan polices:
• LU Policy 1.1: Maintain flexibility of standards and procedures to accommodate changing trends in retail, housing, and office uses.
• LU Policy 2.3: Continue to conduct design review of residential and nonresidential development applications to ensure compatibility with surrounding property and neighborhoods.
• LU Policy 3.1 Encourage residential development above the ground floor that includes affordable housing units.
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Mixed-Use Development at 996 Loraine Avenue Page 5
• LU Policy 4.2 Encourage mixed-use projects with retail, housing, and/or lodging in addition to retail and office uses.
• LU Policy 4.4 Encourage the development of affordable housing. • Housing Policy 1.1: The City will encourage a diverse range of both market-rate and affordable housing sizes and residential densities to accommodate the varied housing needs of families, couples, and individuals. • Housing Policy 1.2: The City will encourage mixed-use development in designated zoning districts.
• Housing Policy 2.1 The City will facilitate the development of new affordable housing units.
Zoning Consistency
The project complies with the Zoning Standards of the CN Zoning District, except as modified by State Density Bonus Law. An analysis of the project’s compliance with CN Standards is provided in the table below:
CN Zoning District Zoning Standards
Requirement Proposal Project Compliance
Density N/A 12 units (60du/ac) Project Complies
Front Setback 40’ at R Zones 0’ SDBL Waiver; additional information provided
under “Density Bonus
Request” section
Interior and
Exterior Side
Setback
40’ at R Zones 0’ SDBL Waiver; additional
information provided
under “Density Bonus
Request” section
Rear Setback 20’ 20’ Project Complies
Height 30’ 41’1” SDBL Concession;
additional information
provided under “Density
Bonus Request” section
Off-Street Parking Zoning Standards
Residential Use 16 spaces 12 spaces SDBL Waiver; additional information provided
under “Density Bonus
Request” section
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Mixed-Use Development at 996 Loraine Avenue Page 6
CN Zoning District Zoning Standards
Commercial Use 4 spaces 4 spaces Project Complies
Parking Space
Size, vertical
clearance and
back up space
Space size: At least 9’
by 18’
Aisle Width: for
perpendicular parking
with 26’ back up space
Space size of 9 feet
by 18 feet
Aisle Width: 26
feet
Project Complies
Bicycle Parking
Residential Use 1 Short-term (Class-II)
bicycle parking space.
4 Long-term (Class-I)
bicycle parking spaces
1 short-term (ClassII) bicycle space
4 long-term (ClassI) bicycle g spaces
Project Complies
Commercial Use 1 Short-term (Class-II)
bicycle parking space.
1 Long-term (Class-I)
bicycle parking space.
1 short-term (ClassII) bicycle space.
1 long-term (ClassI) bicycle space.
Project Complies
Under Senate Bill 330, the City’s review is limited to applying adopted objective standards.
Concerns regarding neighborhood character, precedent, aesthetic preferences, economic viability, and requests for optional studies are not enforceable absent measurable standards. Transportation, parking, rooftop operations, construction management, and public notice are addressed through existing objective thresholds, policies, and permit stage requirements, except as modified by State Density Bonus Law, which the project meets or will be required to meet as conditions of approval.
Objective Design Control Standards for CN Zoning District The project must comply with the City's Objective Design Control Standards, as outlined in Los Altos Municipal (LAMC) Sections 14.40.150 for the CN Zoning District and 14.66.280 for all multiple-family and mixed-use projects. Except for the Density Bonus waivers requested by the applicant to deviate from some of the objective standards, the project is found consistent with all objective design control standards. The waivers requested for the objective design control standards are provided under the “Density Bonus Request” section.
Density Bonus Request
The subject site has a gross lot area of 0.20 acres (8,898 square feet). The Neighborhood Commercial (NC) General Plan designation and zoning district do not specify a maximum dwelling unit density. Consistent with California’s Density Bonus Law (Government Code Section
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Mixed-Use Development at 996 Loraine Avenue Page 7
65915 et seq.), the base density is therefore determined in accordance with LAMC Section
14.28.050.2, which calculates density based on a hypothetical code-compliant development using an average unit size consistent with the proposed project.
The project’s base density was calculated assuming a development consistent with all applicable standards, resulting in a base density of 39 dwelling units per acre, or eight (8) units for the site.
Under California’s Density Bonus Law (Government Code Section 65915), the applicant proposes two low-income units, which qualifies the project for a 50 percent density bonus. This allows four (4) additional units, for a total of twelve units on the site. A Density Bonus Report (Attachment 4) has been submitted documenting compliance with state and local requirements, including the requested concession and waivers.
Concession
The applicant requests a single density bonus concession under LAMC §14.44.120 to increase the maximum building height in the Neighborhood Commercial (CN) district from 30 feet to 41 feet, as shown in the project plans. The additional height is needed to accommodate two residential stories above the ground floor, achieve the project’s density objectives, and include affordable units consistent with State Density Bonus Law. The request qualifies as an “on-menu” concession under the LAMC.
Waivers
Under the Density Bonus Law, eligible projects may request unlimited waivers of development standards. The requested waivers are necessary to avoid physical preclusion of the project as proposed, including the density bonus and required affordable units. All other applicable objective standards are met. The applicant requests seven such waivers, described below.
1. Front Setback: LAMC §14.40.080 requires a minimum front yard setback of 40 feet when a site is located across from a residential district. The project proposes a zero-foot front setback, as shown on plans. The required setback would reduce the developable area by approximately 6,942 square feet (2,314 square feet per floor), substantially limiting the building envelope and preventing the project from achieving the permitted density.
2. Side Yard Setback: LAMC §14.40.090 requires a minimum side yard setback of 40 feet for sites across from a residential district. The project proposes a zero-foot side yard setback, as shown on plans. Compliance would reduce the developable area by approximately 8,142 square feet (2,714 square feet per floor), significantly decreasing the building envelope and precluding the proposed density.
3. Third Story Step-back: LAMC §14.40.150.B.1.a requires a minimum 10-foot step-back from the ground floor façade for upper stories exceeding 30 feet in height along front and street sides. The project proposes a step-back less than 10 feet, as shown on plans. Compliance would reduce the developable area by approximately 1,087 square feet, limiting residential unit layout and density.
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4. Third Story Step-back: LAMC §14.40.150.B.2.a requires a minimum 10-foot step-back for the third story when adjacent to an R-1 district. The project proposes a step-back less than 10 feet, as shown on plans. Compliance would reduce the developable area by approximately 1,300 square feet, constraining building design and unit count.
5. Building Recesses: LAMC §14.40.150.B.5.a.ii requires building recesses at least 10 feet wide by 15 feet deep for exterior façades longer than 48 feet abutting an R-1 district. The project proposes to omit or reduce recess dimensions, as shown on plans. Compliance would reduce the developable area by approximately 1,350 square feet (450 square feet per floor), decreasing usable floor space and residential density.
6. Orientation of Principal Windows and Balconies: LAMC §14.40.150.B.6.a/b requires that principal windows and balconies of living spaces along a side setback be oriented toward the front or rear of the building. The project proposes to orient certain living spaces and balconies toward the side yard to maintain functional layouts. Due to site constraints and interior layout needs, compliance would require eliminating balconies and reducing private open space by 238 square feet (119 square feet per residential floor), making it infeasible without reducing unit count.
7. Parking and Loading Space Requirements: LAMC §14.74 requires the provision of parking and loading spaces consistent with zoning standards. The project proposes providing parking at ratios shown on plans, which are below standard requirements. Compliance would require 21 parking spaces and providing these spaces while meeting setback standards would limit the project to 8 units, thereby eliminating 4 units and undermining the affordable housing objective.
Subdivision
The project includes a Vesting Tentative Map for condominium purposes. The subdivision will divide the site into twelve (12) individual residential condominium units, one (1) commercial condominium unit, and a common lot. The subdivision conforms to the General Plan, Subdivision Ordinance, and provisions of the Subdivision Map Act as substantiated in the Draft Resolution recommending approval of the Vesting Tentative Map (Attachment 2).
Bankers Hill 150 v. City of San Diego
Bankers Hill 150, the developer (Greystar), applied to construct a 20-story mixed-use project, at a building height of 223 feet, that would include 204 dwelling units, office space, a large courtyard, and underground parking. The proposed project qualified as a Density Bonus project because it set aside 18 dwelling units as affordable for very low-income residents. Accordingly, the City of San Diego granted Greystar a density bonus to exceed the zone’s maximum density of 147 units, as well as incentives to exceed the City’s 65-foot building height limit, eliminate requirements for a 15-foot setback and on-site truck loading and reduce private storage areas.
Two community groups, Bankers Hill 150 and Bankers Hill/Park West Community Association, filed a petition for writ of mandate challenging the City’s approval of the project application, alleging that the project is inconsistent with the City’s development standards for that
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neighborhood. The trial court denied the Association’s writ petition because it fatally failed to address the application of the Density Bonus Law.
The Court of Appeal affirmed the trial court’s denial of the writ petition. The court emphasized that, under the Density Bonus Law, absent very limited exceptions, the project is entitled to the waiver of any development standards that would have precluded the project’s construction as designed, including those with which the Association alleged the project is inconsistent.
Furthermore, the waiver or reduction in development standards is in addition to the incentives and concessions mandated by the Density Bonus Law.
The Association argued that the project could be redesigned to yield a shorter and less bulky building by eliminating a courtyard. Reaffirming the holding in Wollmer v. City of Berkeley (2011) 193 Cal.App.4th 1329, the court rejected the Association’s argument. According to the court, the City could not demand that Greystar redesign its building to better meet City development standards even if a design existed that would allow fewer deviations from the City’s requirements.
Housing Accountability Act (HAA)
The Housing Accountability Act (HAA) (Government Code Section 65589.5), establishes the state’s overarching policy that a local government may not deny, reduce the density of, or make infeasible housing development projects (projects resulting in more than two (2) housing units or resulting parcels) which includes subdivision of land that are consistent with objective local development standards. Before doing any of those things, local governments must make specified written findings based upon a preponderance of the evidence that a specific, adverse health or safety impact exists. Legislative intent language indicates that the conditions that would give rise to such a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety would occur infrequently.
The proposed project is protected under the Housing Accountability Act (HAA) as it creates additional housing stock within the City of Los Altos. Additionally, the proposed project meets all applicable objective design standards, except as modified by State Density Bonus Law.
Environmental Review
On June 30, 2025, Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 130 (AB 130), which included a new statutory exemption for qualifying housing projects. AB 130 became effective on June 30, 2025, and is codified in the Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21080.66.
The proposed mixed-use project meets the requirements for this exemption. The 0.2-acre site is infill, surrounded by urban uses, previously developed, and contains no sensitive habitat or historic resources. The project is consistent with the General Plan and Commercial Neighborhood (CN) zoning as modified through the State Density Bonus Law (SDBL) and is not located in any environmentally sensitive area identified in PRC Section 21080.66(a)(6). Tribal consultation has
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been completed, environmental site assessments are prepared, and any required remediation will be completed.
Under Senate Bill 743, transportation effects under CEQA are evaluated using vehicle miles traveled (VMT). A screening memo prepared by Hexagon Transportation Consultants confirms that the project is screened out under the City’s VMT Policy; therefore, transportation impacts are presumed less than significant and a detailed VMT analysis is not required.
The City retains the existing level of service policy in the General Plan and continues to require development projects to conduct non-CEQA transportation analyses to evaluate and manage a project’s adverse effects on local roadways by imposing conditions related to operational improvements during the project review and permitting phases. Under the adopted City policy, a Local Transportation Analysis (LTA) is required for projects adding 50 or more net new daily trips. A trip generation memo was prepared by Hexagon Transportation Consultants and found the project results in an estimated net decrease of approximately five daily trips from the existing on site commercial use, so an LTA is not required and no site-specific operational intersection analysis is required. The project includes no roadway capacity expansions or other features that would induce additional trips and construction traffic will be managed through a construction management plan and any required encroachment permits.
Public Notification
A public meeting notice was mailed to property owners and commercial business tenants within (300) feet of the project site and published in the newspaper. The applicant also posted the site with a public notice sign in conformance with the Planning Division posting requirements.
At the time of preparation of this report, the Planning Division received four written public comment letters for the September 4, 2025 hearing that was continued: three individual letters and one collective objection letter signed by eight nearby residents and are included as Attachment #5.
Next Steps
The Planning Commissions decision on the Design Review and Conditional Use Permit applications are final. The Planning Commission’s consideration and recommendation on the Vesting Tentative Map application will be forwarded to Council for consideration at a future meeting and will be noticed separately.
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: November 18, 2025
Prepared By: Katie Krauss
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Introduction of Ordinance - Review and Renewal of Ordinance No. 2023-489 Approving Los Altos Police Policy 709
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Review and renew the Ordinance by introducing and waiving further reading of the Ordinance approving Los Altos Police Policy 709 pertaining to the funding, acquisition, and use of military equipment as mandated by Assembly Bill 481. Staff further recommends Council approve the acquisition of the new items of military equipment
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Not applicable
FISCAL IMPACT
There is sufficient funding for the purchase of the Skydio drones that has been appropriated in the FY25/26 Operating Budget under the Public Safety Department. No additional appropriation is required at this time for the current fiscal year.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
February 27, 2024: 2023 Military Equipment Use Annual Report presented to Council, Ordinance No. 2023-489 governing Military Equipment Use was adopted by Council April 11, 2023: Ordinance No. 2023-489 governing Military Equipment Use was adopted by Council
March 14, 2023: 2022 Military Equipment Use Annual Report presented to Council September 20, 2022: Military Equipment Use Policy was presented to Council
BACKGROUND
On September 30, 2021, Governor Newsom signed a series of eight (8) policing reform legislation aimed at increasing the transparency of peace officer misconduct records and creates a system to decertify peace officers for serious misconduct, improving policing responsibility and accountability guidelines, raising eligibility standards, banning harmful restraint techniques, and creates a public forum for the funding, acquisition and use of military equipment. Assembly Bill 481 (AB 481) was authored by Assemblymember David Chiu (D-San Francisco) to address the funding, acquisition and use of military equipment.
California Government Section 7071 requires a law enforcement agency’s military equipment policy, which includes the type of equipment the department may acquire and use, to be approved by the governing body. “Military equipment” is not related to whether or not the equipment was acquired through military sources. The Los Altos Police Department does not possess any equipment specifically designed for military use, nor has the department acquired any equipment through a military surplus program, commonly known as the 1033 Program. Our “military equipment” is included in the attached policy under inventory, and includes items such as patrol rifles, several less lethal force options, and training flash bangs utilized as diversionary devices by our SWAT team.
As part of the approval process outlined in Assembly Bill 481, the proposed military equipment policy with red-lined changes to the inventory was made available on the department website on October 16, 2025 (Government Code § 7071). The police department also hosted a community meeting to discuss the changes to Policy 709 on November 5, 2025.
ANALYSIS
California Assembly Bill 481, signed into law on September 30, 2021, requires police agencies to obtain City Council approval by the adoption of a military equipment use policy prior to taking certain actions relating to the funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment as defined by the legislature. If an agency wishes to make changes to the military use policy or acquire additional equipment that is defined as military equipment, they must receive Council approval.
DISCUSSION
The Los Altos Police Department is requesting Council approval for the purchase of two Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for a comprehensive public safety Drone as a First Responder Program. We are requesting authorization to purchase two Skydio X10 Drones, which have a standalone cost of approximately $15,000 each. As part of the Axon Air bundle package with the docking station, licensing, training, software and support, the cost is $113,877 annually. Skydio is an American manufacturer of drones headquartered in San Mateo. The Skydio X10 drone is manufactured in Hayward, CA. This drone is equipped with obstacle-avoidance technology and has multiple cameras for varying distances. Skydio X10 is equipped with an infrared thermal camera and a sensor package light with 1000 lumens, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as infrastructure inspections, emergency response, and public safety. When fully charged, Skydio X10 delivers a flight time of 40 minutes depending on payload and environmental conditions.
In order to utilize the UAS for a DFR program, we request approval for minor changes to the "Purposes" section of the Unmanned Aerial Systems in Policy 709 (Inventory #11). This includes changing the language of Purpose #20 from "Other unforeseen exigent circumstances" to "Anytime a UAS would enhance public safety, improve operational safety, incident stabilization or incident mitigation on a call for service." In addition, we would like to modify Purpose #18 to include "Planning for and service of high risk search and arrest warrants involving armed and/or dangerous persons". These changes are reflected in the red-lined inventory section of Policy 709 included in the attachments.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment 1 - Ordinance
2. Attachment 2 - Policy 709
3. Attachment 3 - Proposed Inventory
Policy
709
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 1 Military Equipment
709.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for the approval, acquisition, and reporting requirements of military equipment (Government Code § 7070; Government Code § 7071; Government Code § 7072). Assembly Bill 481 (AB 481), signed into law on September 30, 2021, requires law enforcement agencies to create a policy establishing guidelines and requirements for the funding, acquisition, and use of "military equipment" (Government Code § 7070, 7071, and 7072), including requirements to host informational meetings with the public, generate annual "military equipment" use reports, and seek annual approval from their respective governing bodies.
The purpose of this policy is to make sure that safeguards exist, including transparency, governing body oversight, and accountability measures, to ensure the funding, acquisition, and use of "military equipment" is consistent with the provisions set forth by the governing body and as outlined in AB 481. This policy will also provide the public with a transparent view of the "military equipment" utilized by the Los Altos Police Department. The military equipment use policy will safeguard the public's welfare, safety, civil rights and civil liberties. 709.1.1 DEFINITIONS
Definitions related to this policy include (Government Code § 7070):
Governing body – The Los Altos City Council for the adoption of this ordinance and the approval of the annual report
POST - Peace Officer Standards and Training
SWAT - Special Weapons and Tactics
Military equipment – Per AB 481, military equipment includes but is not limited to the following:
(1) Unmanned, remotely piloted, powered aerial or ground vehicles. (2) Mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles or armored personnel carriers. However, police versions of standard consumer vehicles are specifically excluded from this subdivision. (3) High mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV), commonly referred to as Humvees, two and one-half-ton trucks, five-ton trucks, or wheeled vehicles that have a breaching or entry apparatus attached. However, unarmored all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and motorized dirt bikes are specifically excluded from this subdivision.
(4) Tracked armored vehicles that provide ballistic protection to their occupants and utilize a tracked system instead of wheels for forward motion.
(5) Command and control vehicles that are either built or modified to facilitate the operational control and direction of public safety units.
(6) Weaponized aircraft, vessels, or vehicles of any kind.
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Military Equipment
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 2 (7) Battering rams, slugs, and breaching apparatuses that are explosive in nature. However, items designed to remove a lock, such as bolt cutters, or a handheld ram designed to be operated by one person, are specifically excluded from this subdivision. (8) Firearms of.50 caliber or greater. However, standard issue shotguns are specifically excluded from this subdivision.
(9) Ammunition of.50 caliber or greater. However, standard issue shotgun ammunition is specifically excluded from this subdivision.
(10) Specialized firearms and ammunition of less than.50 caliber, including assault weapons as defined in Sections 30510 and 30515 of the Penal Code, with the exception of standard issue service weapons and ammunition of less than.50 caliber that are issued to officers, agents, or employees of a law enforcement agency or a state agency. (11) Any firearm or firearm accessory that is designed to launch explosive projectiles. (12) "Flashbang" grenades and explosive breaching tools, "tear gas," and "pepper balls," excluding standard, service-issued handheld pepper spray.
(13) Taser Shockwave, microwave weapons, water cannons, and the Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD).
(14) The following projectile launch platforms and their associated munitions: 40mm projectile launchers, "bean bag," rubber bullet, and specialty impact munition (SIM) weapons. (15) Any other equipment as determined by a governing body or a state agency to require additional oversight.
(16) Not withstanding paragraphs (1) through (15), "military equipment" does not include general equipment not designated as prohibited or controlled by the federal Defense Logistics Agency. 709.2 POLICY
It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department that members of the department comply with the provisions of Government Code § 7071 with respect to qualifying "military equipment". "Military equipment" should be used by members of the Department who have completed applicable training, including training required by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). See the Military Equipment Inventory List (section 709.4) for associated "military equipment" training requirements.
"Military equipment", which has been approved for use by the governing body, shall be used in accordance with all other applicable department policies and laws. These policies and laws include, but are not limited to:
• Los Altos Police Department Policy 300 (Use of Force) • Los Altos Police Department Policy 308 (Control Devices and Techniques) • Los Altos Police Department Policy 312 (Firearms)
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Military Equipment
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 3 • Los Altos Police Department Policy 414 (Hostage and Barricade Incidents) • Los Altos Police Department Policy 611 (Unmanned Aerial Systems Operations) • California Assembly Bill No. 48 (Use of Kinetic Energy Projectiles and Chemical Agents-Assemblies, Protests, and Demonstrations)
• California Penal Code Section 13652 (Use of Kinetic Energy Projectiles and Chemical Agents)
This policy expressly prohibits the use of "military equipment" on individuals or groups solely based on actual or perceived characteristics, such as race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, economic status, age, cultural group, or disability. 709.3 APPROVAL
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall obtain approval from the governing body by way of an ordinance adopting the military equipment policy. As part of the approval process, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall ensure the proposed military equipment policy is submitted to the governing body and is available on the department website at least 30 days prior to any public hearing concerning the military equipment at issue (Government Code § 7071).
The military equipment policy must be approved by the governing body before the Department engages in any of the following (Government Code § 7071):
(a) Requests military equipment made available pursuant to 10 USC § 2576a. (b) Seeks funds for military equipment, including but not limited to applying for a grant, soliciting or accepting private, local, state, or federal funds, in-kind donations, or other donations or transfers.
(c) Acquires military equipment either permanently or temporarily, including by borrowing or leasing.
(d) Collaborates with another law enforcement agency in the deployment or other use of military equipment within the jurisdiction of this department. (e) Uses any new or existing military equipment for a purpose, in a manner, or by a person not previously approved by the governing body.
(f) Solicits or responds to a proposal for, or enters into an agreement with, any other person or entity to seek funds for, apply to receive, acquire, use, or collaborate in the use of military equipment.
(g) Acquires military equipment through any means not provided above. 709.3.1 EXIGENCY- PROCUREMENT AND USE
Subject to this paragraph, nothing in this policy shall prohibit the procurement or use of controlled equipment when exigent circumstances exist. In rare circumstances, exigent circumstances may occur where the immediate procurement and use of controlled equipment may be necessary to preserve life, prevent physical harm to officers or other persons, prevent the destruction of relevant
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Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Military Equipment
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 4 evidence, prevent the escape of the suspect, or maintain public safety. In the event such an event occurs, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee may authorize the procurement and use of controlled equipment. Any exigent procurement and/or use of controlled equipment will be reported to the governing body, in writing, unless such information is confidential or privileged under local, state or federal law.
709.3.2 MAINTENANCE AND RESUPPLY OF CONTROLLED EQUIPMENT In the event a previously approved supply of controlled equipment falls below the approved quantity, the Department may replenish the supply, as needed, without first obtaining additional approval from the Governing Body.
709.4 COORDINATION WITH OTHER JURISDICTIONS
Military equipment used by other law enforcement agencies that are providing mutual aid to this jurisdiction or otherwise engaged in law enforcement operations within this jurisdiction should comply with their respective military equipment policies in rendering mutual aid. 709.5 ANNUAL REPORT
Upon approval of a military equipment policy, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee should submit a military equipment report to the governing body for each type of military equipment approved within one year of approval, and annually thereafter for as long as the military equipment is available for use (Government Code § 7072).
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee should also make each annual military equipment report publicly available on the department website for as long as the military equipment is available for use. The report shall include all information required by Government Code § 7072 for the preceding calendar year for each type of military equipment in department inventory. 709.6 POLICY COMPLIANCE AND SUBMITTING COMPLAINTS
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee will ensure that all Los Altos Police Department employees comply with this policy. Suspected violations of the provisions set forth in this policy, or in other laws or policies governing the use of "military equipment", should be handled in accordance with Los Altos Police Department Policy 340 (Standards of Conduct). Additionally, violations of the provisions set forth in this policy, or in other laws or policies governing the use of "military equipment", will be reported to the governing body via the annual Military Equipment Report.
Any member of the community can submit a complaint regarding the use of "military equipment" to any Los Altos Police Department employee or the Independent Intake Official. Complaints can be submitted in any form (e.g., in person, online, telephone, email, etc.). Once a complaint is received, it will be handled in accordance with Los Altos Police Department Policy 340 (Standards of Conduct) and LAPD Policy 1020 (Personnel Complaints). Formal complaints regarding alleged violations of this policy will be handled by an independent investigator.
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Military Equipment
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 5 Complaints may be made directly to the Independent Intake Official (IIO) Stephanie Atigh in one of the following ways:
Online Submission:
Complaint IIO WEBFORM (online)
By Email:
Fill out the appropriate Civilian Complaint Submission form (located online), save it to your computer and email as an attachment to [email protected] By Phone:
(831) 915-4643
Complaints may be made directly to the Los Altos Police Department in one of the following ways (for online options, please visit https://www.losaltosca.gov/police/page/how-are-we-doing-0):
In Person:
Los Altos Police Department
1 N. San Antonio Road, Los Altos, CA 94022
Online Submission:
Complaint PD WEBFORM
By Email:
Fill out the appropriate Civilian Complaint Submission form (online), save it to your computer and email as an attachment to [email protected] By Phone:
(650) 947-2770
709.7 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Within 30 days of submitting and publicly releasing the annual report, the Department should hold at least one well-publicized and conveniently located community engagement meeting, at which the Department should discuss the report and respond to public questions regarding the funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment.
709.8 MILITARY EQUIPMENT COORDINATOR
The Chief of Police should designate a member of this department to act as the military equipment coordinator. The responsibilities of the military equipment coordinator include but are not limited to:
(a) Acting as liaison to the governing body for matters related to the requirements of this policy.
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Military Equipment
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 6 (b) Identifying department equipment that qualifies as military equipment in the current possession of the Department, or the equipment the Department intends to acquire that requires approval by the governing body.
(c) Conducting an inventory of all military equipment at least annually. (d) Collaborating with any allied agency that may use military equipment within the jurisdiction of Los Altos Police Department (Government Code § 7071). (e) Preparing for, scheduling, and coordinating the annual community engagement meeting to include:
1. Publicizing the details of the meeting.
2. Preparing for public questions regarding the department's funding, acquisition, and use of equipment.
(f) Preparing the annual military equipment report for submission to the Chief of Police and ensuring that the report is made available on the department website (Government Code § 7072).
(g) Establishing the procedure for a person to register a complaint or concern, or how that person may submit any questions about the use of a type of military equipment, and how the Department will respond in a timely manner.
709.9 MILITARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY
See attachment: See attachment: Inventory list Policy 709 3.26.25.pdf
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
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Attachment
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Inventory list Policy 709 3.26.25.pdf - 8 Inventory list Policy 709 3.26.25.pdf
Inventory list Policy 709 3.26.25.pdf
709.9 MILITARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY (Updated 3.26.25)
The following constitutes a list and description of qualifying equipment for the Department:
1. 40 MM Launchers and Rounds: 40mm Launchers are utilized by department personnel as a less lethal tool to launch impact rounds.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. PENN ARMS GL-140-C, 40MM SINGLE SHOT LAUNCHER, cost:$1,000, quantity: 13. The 40mm Single Launcher is a tactical single shot launcher that features a collapsible stock. It will fire standard 40mm less lethal ammunition, up to 6.0 inches in cartridge length. 40mm launchers are capable of firing a variety of munitions with a maximum effective range of one hundred twenty (120) feet. ii. DEFTECH EXACT IMPACT 40MM STANDARD RANGE SPONGE ROUND, cost:
$25.00, quantity: 150. A less lethal 40mm impact sponge projectile fired from a single 40mm grenade launcher with a rifled barrel. The sponge round is a point-of-aim, point-ofimpact direct fire round. This lightweight, high-speed projectile consisting of a plastic body and sponge nose that is spin stabilized via the incorporated rifling collar and the 40 mm launcher’s rifled barrel. The round utilizes smokeless powder as the propellant, and, therefore, have velocities that are extremely consistent. (b) Purpose: To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable.
(c) Authorized Use: Subject to subsection (g) below, situations for use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to the following:
i. The suspect is armed with a weapon and the tactical circumstances allow for the safe application of approved munitions.
ii. The suspect has made credible threats to harm him/herself or others. iii. The suspect is engaged in riotous behavior or is throwing rocks, bottles or other dangerous projectiles at people and/or officers.
iv. There is probable cause to believe that the suspect has already committed a crime of violence and is refusing to comply with lawful orders. v. Other situations not listed here may also be deemed authorized use cases under applicable penal code and case law, and shall reflect necessary, reasonable, and proportional use of less lethal weapon system.
(d) Training: All personnel who are authorized to carry a control device must be properly trained and certified to carry the specific control device and are retrained or recertified as necessary. Proficiency training shall be monitored and documented by a certified, control-device weapons or tactics instructor.
(e) Lifespan:
i. Penn Arms GL-140-C- No lifespan indicated by manufacturer. Lifespan varies on operational usage and wear
ii. 40MM Standard Range Sponge Rounds-5 years
(f) Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $100 for each launcher. (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the 40mm launcher and 40mm baton rounds are subject to the requirements of Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE), 308 (CONTROL DEVICES AND TECHNIQUES), 308.9 (KINETIC ENERGY PROJECTILE GUIDELINES), and Policy 312 (FIREARMS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize the 40mm only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
2. Less Lethal Shotgun and Rounds: Less Lethal Shotgun is used to deploy the less lethal 12-gauge Super-Sock Beanbag Round. No longer in use as they were replaced by the 40MM launchers. Still in inventory as disposal/destruction is processed.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. REMINGTON 870 LESS LETHAL SHOTGUN, cost: $950, quantity: 11. The Remington 870 Less Lethal Shotgun is used to deploy the less lethal 12- gauge SuperSock Beanbag Round up to a distance of 75 feet. The range of the weapon system helps to maintain space between officers and a suspect reducing the immediacy of the threat which is a principle of de-escalation. The less lethal 12- gauge shotgun is distinguishable by an orange butt stock and fore grip.
ii. 12-GAUGE SUPER-SOCK BEANBAG ROUND 2581, cost: $6, quantity: 90.
A less lethal 2.4-inch 12-gauge shotgun round firing a ballistic fiber bag filled with 40 grams of lead shot at a velocity of 270-290 feet per second (FPS). CTS (Combined Tactical Systems) Super-Sock rounds are discharged from a dedicated 12- gauge shotgun that is distinguishable by an orange butt stock and fore grip. This round provides accurate and effective performance when fired from the approved distance of not fewer than five (5) feet. The maximum effective range of this munition is up to 75 feet from the target. The Model 2581 Super-Sock is in its deployed state immediately upon exiting the barrel. It does not require a minimum range to "unfold" or "stabilize." The Super-Sock is an aerodynamic projectile. However, accuracy is relative to the shotgun, barrel length, environmental conditions, and the operator. The Super-Sock is very accurate. However, effectiveness depends on many variables, such as distance, clothing, stature, and the point where the projectile impacts. (b) Purpose: To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable.
(c) Authorized Use - Subject to subsection (g) below, situations for use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to the following:
i. The suspect is armed with a weapon and the tactical circumstances allow for the safe application of approved munitions.
ii. The suspect has made credible threats to harm him/herself or others. iii. The suspect is engaged in riotous behavior or is throwing rocks, bottles or other dangerous projectiles at people and/or officers.
iv. There is probable cause to believe that the suspect has already committed a crime of violence and is refusing to comply with lawful orders. v. Other situations not listed here may also be deemed authorized use cases under applicable penal code and case law, and shall reflect necessary, reasonable, and proportional use of less lethal weapon system.
(d) Lifespan:
i. Remington 970 Less Lethal Shotgun-25 years
ii. Super Sock Round Model 2581: No listed expiration date (e) Training: All personnel who are authorized to carry a control device must be properly trained and certified to carry the specific control device and are retrained or recertified as necessary. Proficiency training shall be monitored and documented by a certified, control-device weapons or tactics instructor. (f) Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $100 per shotgun. (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the less lethal shotgun and Super Sock rounds are subject to the requirements of Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE), 308 (CONTROL DEVICES AND TECHNIQUES), 308.9 (KINETIC ENERGY PROJECTILE GUIDELINES), and Policy 312 (FIREARMS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize the less lethal shotgun only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
3. 5.56mm Semi-Automatic Rifles and Ammunition: The Colt AR-15/M4 5.56 mm/.223 semiautomatic rifles are currently used for patrol. Daniel Defense V7s AR- 15/M4, 5.56mm/.223 caliber semi-automatic rifle are planned for use by patrol personnel in FY 2025/26.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost
i. COLT AR RIFLES, cost: $1200, quantity: 27. (Cycled out of service as Daniel Defense Rifles are purchased and issued) These rifles, equipped and locked in each patrol car or police motorcycle, offer a higher degree of accuracy at a longer distance. The ammunition used in rifles are also more effective at penetrating body armor (as some suspects have worn during high-profile shooting events in the country). They are normally kept secured in patrol cars or in the Police station and are only deployed on specific incidents where officers believe guns or weapons are involved. ii. DANIEL DEFENSE V7 AR RIFLES, cost: $3000, authorized quantity: 36. These rifles offer a higher degree of accuracy at a longer distance. The ammunition used in rifles are also more effective at penetrating body armor (as some suspects have worn during high- profile shooting events in the country). These rifles would be standard issue and individually “sighted in” for each officer. Per policy, rifles are only deployed on specific incidents where officers believe guns or weapons are involved. iii. .223 CALIBER or 5.56MM RIFLE AMMUNITION, cost: $280 per case of 500 rounds, quantity: 10,800 rounds. This rifle ammunition used in conjunction with an AR-15 type rifle provides officers the ability to engage hostile suspects at distances generally greater than the effective distance of their handguns. Rifle ammunition fired from AR-15 rifles offer advantages over handguns, such as increased accuracy potential and the ability to defeat soft body armor but are not appropriate for every situation. (b) Purpose: To address a threat with more precision and/or greater distances than a handgun, if present and feasible.
(c) Authorized Use - Members may deploy the patrol rifle in any circumstance where the member can articulate a reasonable expectation that the rifle may be needed.
Subject to subsection (g) below), situations for use of these weapon systems may include, but are not limited to the following:
i. Situations where the member reasonably anticipates an armed encounter. ii. When a member is faced with a situation that may require accurate and effective fire at long range.
iii. Situations where a member reasonably expects the need to meet or exceed a suspect's firepower.
iv. When a member reasonably believes that there may be a need to fire on a barricaded person or a person with a hostage.
v. When a member reasonably believes that a suspect may be wearing body armor. vi. When authorized or requested by a supervisor.
vii. When needed to euthanize an animal.
viii. When an officer is training at an approved range or other approved facility
ix. Other situations not listed here may also be deemed authorized use cases under applicable penal code and case law, and shall reflect necessary, reasonable, and proportional use of this weapon system.
(d) Lifespan:
i. AR Rifles: Approximately 15-20 years
ii. 223 Caliber or 5.56mm rifle ammunition: No expiration (e) Training: Officers must successfully complete a 24-hour patrol rifle course as well as regular Department firearms training and qualifications as required by law and policy.
Firearm Instructors attend a 40-hour POST-approved rifle instructor class, and SWAT personnel must attend an 80-hour basic SWAT Team course. (f) Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $100 per rifle. (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the patrol rifles and ammunition are subject to the requirements of Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE), Policy 312.3.2 (PATROL RIFLES), and Policy 312 (FIREARMS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize rifles only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
4. .308 caliber LWRC REPR MKII 7.62 NATO sniper rifles (quantity 2) and Ammunition: The sniper rifles are capable of firing a.308 caliber bullet. This rifle may only be used by a SWAT Officer trained and certified to be a sniper (LAPD currently has two such officers) and may be deployed to assist the SWAT Team in a critical incident or emergency.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. .308 LWRC REPR MKII 7.62 NATO sniper rifles (quantity 2)., cost: $7,725, quantity: 2
ii. .308 AMMUNITION, cost: $1.50 per round, Authorized quantity: 3,040 rounds.
These nickel- plated bonded soft-point 308/7.62 cartridges from Speer Gold-Dot are resistant to corrosion, capable of expansion from barrels as short as 10", and retain accuracy from a variety of barrels lengths.
(b) Purpose: This rifle may only be used by a SWAT Officer trained and certified to be a sniper and may be deployed to assist the SWAT Team in a critical incident or emergency. The main use of this weapon system is for observation of an incident and to be able to accurately and immediately be able to stop a threat to life. (c) Authorized Use: Subject to subsection (g) below, examples of situations for deploying the sniper rifle may include, but are not limited to the following:
i. where the Officer reasonably anticipates an armed encounter;
ii. when the Officer is faced with a situation that may require accurate and effective fire at a long distance;
iii. where an Officer reasonably expects the need to meet or exceed the firearms and ammunition that a suspect is reported or believed to possess; iv.. when an Officer reasonably believes that there may be a need to fire on a barricaded person or a person with a hostage;
v. when an Officer reasonably believes that a suspect may be wearing body armor. vi. When an officer is training at an approved range or other approved facility vii. Other situations not listed here may also be deemed authorized use cases under applicable penal code and case law, and shall reflect necessary, reasonable, and proportional use of this weapon system.
(d) Lifespan:
i. .308 LWRC REPR MKII 7.62 NATO, sniper rifles (quantity 2). Approximately 15 years
ii. .308 Ammunition: No expiration
(e) Training: In addition to patrol rifle and standard SWAT operator training, SWAT snipers must successfully complete a California POST-certified sniper course as well as regular SWAT sniper training and qualifications as required by law and policy. (f) Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $100 per LWRC REPR rifle. (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the sniper rifles and ammunition are subject to the requirements of the SWAT Standard Operating Procedures for Mountain View/Los Altos, Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE), Policy 312.3.2 (PATROL RIFLES), Policy 312 (FIREARMS), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize rifles only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
5. Benelli M3Super90 12-gauge shotgun and ammunition: This firearm is not currently used by the department and is stored in the armory. The Benelli M3 is a dualmode (hybrid pump-action and semi-automatic) shotgun The ammunition for the shotgun is 00 Buck and slug rounds.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. BENELLI M3SUPER90 12 GAUGE SHOTGUN, cost $500, quantity: 1. The Benelli M3 is a combination Pump-Action and Semi-Automatic Shotgun. The shotgun can be chambered for 12 GA shells with a 20 inch barrel.
ii. 00 BUCK AMMUNITION, cost: $1.80 per round, quantity: 600 rounds. A typical 12-gauge, 2 ¾-inch 00 Buckshot shell holds 8 pellets that are 0.33" in diameter. A 3-inch shell most often contains 12 of these same sized pellets. iii. SLUG AMMUNITION, cost: $1.40 per round, quantity: 100. The Foster-type shotgun slug features exterior rifled grooves which contact the shotgun's bore to give it spin; and, the slug's hollow-point design initiates expansion to augment stopping power. (b) Purpose: This shotgun is not currently utilized by the department. The only shotguns used by the Department are the less lethal shotguns. The ammunition is purchased solely for recruits in the police academy, where shotgun instruction occurs. (c) Authorized Use: There is currently no authorized use for the shotgun in our policy.
(d) Lifespan:
i. Benelli M3Super90 12 gauge shotgun: Approximately 15 years ii. OO Buck Ammunition: No expiration
iii. Slug ammunition: No expiration
(e) Training: Officers receive training in shotgun use in the police academy, and have to pass firearm qualifications. There is no further training with the Benelli shotgun or ammunition.
(f) Fiscal Impact: None, the weapon is not utilized. When equipment is being used, yearly maintenance costs are estimated to be $100.
(g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of all firearms fall under the following policies:
Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE) and Policy 312 (FIREARMS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize firearms only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
6. Remington 870 MCS 12 Gauge Breaching shotgun and breaching rounds:
This firearm/ammunition is not currently used by the department and is stored in the SWAT armory.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. REMINGTON 870 MCS 12 GAUGE BREACHING SHOTGUN, cost:$1,400, quantity: 1. Extremely compact breaching model 12 gauge with a ten inch cylinder bore breaching barrel with parkerized finish, a Knoxx recoil reducing breacher pistol grip stock, and synthetic modular fore-end.
ii. 12 GAUGE BREACHING ROUNDS, cost: $5.00 per round, quantity: 25 rounds.
The 12-Gauge TKO Breaching Round is a 12-Gauge shell loaded with a compressed zinc slug, utilizing smokeless powder as a propellant. The is a widely used method to breach door locks or hinges for entry during tactical operations. (b) Purpose: The breaching shotgun is used to safely gain entry into a structure.
When properly deployed, the TKO breaching round is capable of defeating door lock mechanisms, door knobs, hinges, dead bolts, safety chains, and pad locks on both wooden or hollow core doors. Upon impact with the target, the zinc slug disintegrates in to a fine powder eliminating fragmentation. The Explosive Breaching Program, conducted in conjunction with the Mountain View Police Department, was established to provide the joint SWAT Team the ability to quickly create an opening in a wall or window to quickly enter a building for an emergency rescue of hostages. It is reserved for rescue operations only.
(c) Authorized Use: Subject to subsection (g) below, this equipment would only be deployed during a SWAT incident, and its use would need specific authorization from the Incident Commander. The equipment may only be used by a "tactical breacher" on the SWAT team. We currently do not have any authorized users at the Department. (d) Lifespan:
i. Remington 870 MCS 12 Gauge Breaching shotgun: Approximately 15 years ii. 12-Gauge TKO Breaching Round: Approximately 5 years (e) Training: The training consists of an 80-hour course for a member of the SWAT Team specifically designated as the "breacher." At the conclusion of the course, the breacher must pass a test proctored by CAL/OSHA. The OSHA certification is valid for 5 years. Before the expiration of the certification, the breacher must retake and pass the test.
(f) Fiscal Impact: None, the weapon is not utilized. When equipment is being used, yearly maintenance costs are estimated to be $100.
(g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the breaching shotgun and ammunition are subject to the requirements of the SWAT Standard Operating Procedures for Mountain View/Los Altos. Use is also under Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the LAPD to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
7. Kaiser Precision Vulcan II Munitions Pole: Telescoping tool utilized by SWAT personnel to safely deliver approved noise/diversionary devices. (a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. KAISER PRECISION VULCAN II MUNITIONS POLE, cost: $2,000, quantity: 1.
The munitions pole is a multi-purpose breaching tool, constructed of lightweight
aluminum square tubing used to deploy distraction devices and chemical munitions in order to gain entrance into a building, structure or even a vehicle. (b) Purpose: The munitions pole is used to safely deploy diversionary devices, chemical munitions, or other objects (cell phones, cameras) during SWAT operations. (c) Authorized Use: Subject to subsection (g) below, this equipment would be deployed during primarily during a SWAT incident, but could be utilized to gain entry into a residence during other high-risk operations on patrol. (d) Lifespan: Approximately 10 years
(e) Training: Kaiser Precision provided an instructional video for individual and team training.
(f) Fiscal Impact: None, does not require annual maintenance (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the munitions pole are subject to the requirements of the SWAT Standard Operating Procedures for Mountain View/Los Altos.
Use is also under Policy 317 (HIGH RISK OPERATIONS PROTOCOL), Policy 322 (SEARCH AND SEIZURE), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS).
It is the policy of the LAPD to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
8. Flashbangs: Noise Flash Diversionary Device (NFDD) An NFDD, or flashbang, is a device that creates a bright flash or loud sound to temporarily divert the attention of subjects in the immediate area.
a. Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. 7290-0 Flash-Bang, Aluminum body 9-bang, cost $168.65 each, Authorized quantity: 12. The patented multi-bangs feature top and bottom non-fragmenting, minimal movement devices that perform with high reliability incorporating CTS Superior fuze components with the patented and US Army adopted Confidence Clip and pin shroud.
ii. 7290 Flash-Bang, Steel Body, cost $55.45, authorized quantity 36. The CTS 7290 (single bang) is the standard for diversionary flash-bang devices. The 7290 produces a 165-180db and 6-8 million candela of light output. The patented design of the 7290, incorporates a porting system that eliminates movement of the body at detonation even if the top or bottom of the device should be in contact with a hard surface. In addition, internal adjustments have greatly reduced smoke output. b. Purpose: Flash-bangs are used to distract and temporarily immobilize dangerous suspects by overwhelming their senses of vision and hearing. The distraction gives Officers time to seize a moment and create an opportunity to take control of high-risk or dangerous situations.
c. Authorized Uses: Flashbangs are used to distract and temporarily immobilize dangerous suspects by overwhelming their senses of vision and hearing. The distraction gives Officers time to seize a moment and create an opportunity to take
control of high-risk or dangerous situations. SWAT Operators that have received authorized training shall use Diversionary Devices only under the following:
i. By officers who have been trained in their proper use. ii. In hostage and barricaded subject situations.
iii. In high risk warrant (search/arrest) services where there may be extreme hazards to officers.
iv. During other high-risk situations where their use would enhance officer safety. v. During training exercises.
d. Lifespan: Unknown
e. Training: 8-hour flash diversionary devices instructor school. f. Fiscal Impact: No known annual maintenance cost
g. g. Legal and Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the live flash-bangs are subject to the requirements of the SWAT Standard Operating Procedures for Mountain View/Los Altos. Use is also under Policy 317 (HIGH RISK OPERATIONS PROTOCOL), Policy 322 (SEARCH AND SEIZURE), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the LAPD to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
9. Chemical Agents: Chemical agent munitions can be used as a non-lethal tool to deny a designated area to a suspect, force a suspect to move to a desired area, or to disorient a suspect.
a. Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost:
i. OC Grenades (Purchase Cost $52.10 each, authorized quantity 5): The Defense Technology OC Vapor Aerosol Grenade is for law enforcement and corrections use to deliver a high concentration of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) in a powerful mist. The grenade is designed for indoor-use in confined areas and, once deployed, inflames the mucous membranes and exposed skin resulting in an intense burning sensation. The incapacitating effect of the OC Vapor on the subject is dramatic yet requires minimal decontamination. Removing the subject from the affected area to fresh air will resolve respiratory effects within minutes. The OC Vapor Aerosol Grenade is ideal for cell extractions or barricade situations where the use of pyrotechnic, powder or liquid devices is not practical or desired.
ii. CTS 5230B Baffled CS chemical agent canister munition (purchase cost $52.25 each, authorized quantity 15): Pyrotechnic grenade designed for indoor use delivering a maximum amount of irritant smoke throughout multiple rooms with minimal risk of fire. iii. CTS 5230 CS Chemical agent canister munition (Purchase price $39.70 each, authorized quantity 10): Large diameter burning grenade that discharges a high volume of smoke and chemical agent through multiple emission ports. Specifically for outdoor use and should not be deployed on rooftops, in crawl spaces or indoors due to potential fire hazard. Can be hand thrown or launched.
b. Purpose: Compel an individual to cease their actions when such munitions present a reasonable option; deny a designated area to a suspect, force a suspect to move to a desired area, or to disorient a suspect. Only officers who have received training from POST certified instructors in the use chemical agents are authorized to use chemical agents. To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable.
c. Authorized Uses: Situations for use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to:
i. Self-destructive, dangerous and/or combative individuals. ii. Circumstances where a tactical advantage can be obtained. iii. Potentially vicious animals.
iv. Training exercises or approved demonstrations.
d. Lifespan: 5 years from manufacturing date.
e. Training: 40-hour chemical agent instructor course.
f. Fiscal Impact: No known annual maintenance cost.
g. Legal and Procedural Rules: Use is established under the Mountain View-Los Altos Regional SWAT SOP. Use is also covered under Policy 300 USE OF FORCE), Policy 317 (HIGH RISK OPERATIONS PROTOCOL), Policy 322 (SEARCH AND SEIZURE), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the MVPD-LAPD Regional SWAT Team to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
10. 12 gauge Shotgun Chemical Munition Launcher: Cup that attaches to 12 gauge less lethal shotgun which allow SWAT operators to launch canisters of chemical agents or smoke.
a. Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost: COMBINED SYSTEMS LC5 12 GAUGE LAUNCHING CUP, cost: $400, authorized quantity: 1. The LC5 Launching Cups are designed for the 5200 series grenades. The cups can be attached to virtually any 12ga shotgun and the munition launched with the model 2600 launching cartridge.
b. Purpose: To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable.
c. Authorized Uses: Situations for use of the less-lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to:
i. Self-destructive, dangerous, and/or combative individuals ii. Circumstances where a tactical advantage can be obtained iii. Potentially vicious animals
iv. Training exercises or approved demonstrations
d. Lifespan: Combined Systems LC5 40MM Launching Cup- 25 years e. Fiscal Impact: No known annual maintenance cost
f. Training: 24-hour less lethal instructor course and/or 40 hour chemical instructor course.
g. Legal and Procedural Rules: Use is established under the Mountain View-Los Altos Regional SWAT SOP. Use is also covered under Policy 300 USE OF FORCE), Policy 308.9 (KINETIC ENERGY PROJECTILE GUIDELINES), Policy 317 (HIGH RISK OPERATIONS PROTOCOL), Policy 322 (SEARCH AND SEIZURE), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the MVPD-LAPD Regional SWAT Team to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
11. UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems Drones are utilized by department personnel as a means to search for missing persons more expeditiously and provide information during critical incidents as prescribed in policy 611. a. Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost:
i. DJI Matrice 30T Drone with Thermal Camera, cost: $15,495/each, quantity: 2.
The DJI Matrice 30T drone is a medium-sized UAS weighing approximately 3,770 grams. Capable of recording video and audio with approximately 41 minutes of flight time.
ii. ii. Loudspeaker Spotlight 2-in-1 Payload, cost: $1,750.00/each, quantity: 2. The DJI M30 drone loudspeaker and spotlight all in one payload is powered by DJI Onboard SDK. It features a fluid design to reduce wind resistance. It packs in high performance in its small size (only 270g) with lighting distance up to 100 meters and effective sound distance up 200 meters.
iii. DJI Avata 2 Drones, including lights and additional controllers, cost: $2,000 each, quantity: 2. The DJI Avata 2 is a small-sized UAS weighing approximately 377 grams and is appropriate for interior use. It has a maximum flight time of 23 minutes and supports fast charging. DJI Avata 2 drones has a maximum range of 10 kilometers and capture 4K video resolution. iv. DJI Mini Pro (DJI RC2), cost: $1,300, quantity: 2. The DJI Mini Pro would be utilized as training drone as it uses the same software and controller functions as our larger exterior drones. It in a small-sized UAS weighing 420 grams and supports a flight time of 34 minutes. DJI Mini Pro drones can be used indoors or outdoors, have omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, and capture 4K video. b. Purpose: To be deployed when its view would assist officers or incident commanders with the following situations, which include but are not limited to:
1) Mass casualty incidents (e.g. large structure fires with numerous casualties, mass shootings involving multiple deaths or injuries);
2) Disaster response and damage assessment;
3) Missing or lost persons;
4) Hazardous material releases;
5) Identifying, locating and apprehending non-compliant, threatening or combative persons who pose a threat of injury or death to themselves, others or officers;
6) Suspected explosive devices;
7) Video/photographic documentation of crime scenes or collision locations; 8) Reconnaissance of incident locations that are inaccessible for fire apparatus; 9) Response to fires or post-fire investigations;
10) Sideshow events where many vehicles and reckless driving is present; 11) Rescue operations;
12) Conduct inspections of the City’s utility infrastructure (e.g. electric, fiber, water, sewer, etc.) to detect leaks or stressed assets.
13) Training flights as required to meet FAA and Department certification standards; 14) Hazardous situations which present a high risk to officer and/or public safety, to include:
a. Armed suicidal persons;
b. Hostage situations;
c. Barricaded suspects;
15) Arrest of armed and/or dangerous persons
16) Locating suspect(s) who have fled from lawful detention 17) Locating suspects who are attempting to conceal themselves to avoid arrest. 18) Service of high risk search and arrest warrants involving armed and/or dangerous persons.
19) UAS product demos for the public at community events for educational and informational purposes
20) Other unforeseen exigent circumstances.
c. Authorized Uses: All use shall be in accordance with local, state, and federal law. Additionally, use of UAS is subject to the guidelines and requirements of LAPD Policy 611. Only assigned operators who have completed the required training shall be permitted to operate the DJI 30T during approved missions d. Lifespan:
i. Expected life of UAS are approximately three to five years. Lifespan varies on operational usage and wear.
ii. Expected life of the loudspeaker spotlight 2-in-1 payload is approximately three to five years.
Lifespan varies on operational usage and wear.
e. Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance and battery replacement are approximately $1500
per year for the DJI Matrice UAS. Batteries for the DJI Mini Pro and Avata 2 are approximately $250 each.
f. Training: All Department UAS operators are licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration for UAS operation. In addition, each operator must attend an online UAS pilot course and attend department trainings.
g. Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the UAS are subject to the requirements of Policy 611 (Unmanned Aerial Systems Operations). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize the UAS only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those outlined in Policy 611. All data and images gathered by the UAS are for the official use of this department. Such images are not open to public view, as it may contain confidential information. The Los Altos Police Department does not permit the sharing of UAS images gathered by the City for (1) any purpose that violates this policy or any applicable laws and regulations, (2) the purpose of federal immigration enforcement, pursuant to the California Values Act (Government Code 7282.5:
Government Code 7284.2 et seq) - these federal immigration agencies include Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), or (3) any purpose that would assist another state to carry out enforcement actions that violate California laws.
709.9 MILITARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY
The following constitutes a list and description of qualifying equipment for the Department:
1. 40 MM Launchers and Rounds: 40mm Launchers are utilized by department personnel as a less lethal tool to launch impact rounds.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. PENN ARMS GL-140-C, 40MM SINGLE SHOT LAUNCHER, cost:$1,000, quantity: 13. The 40mm Single Launcher is a tactical single shot launcher that features a collapsible stock. It will fire standard 40mm less lethal ammunition, up to 6.0 inches in cartridge length. 40mm launchers are capable of firing a variety of munitions with a maximum effective range of one hundred twenty (120) feet. ii. DEFTECH EXACT IMPACT 40MM STANDARD RANGE SPONGE ROUND, cost:
$25.00, quantity: 150. A less lethal 40mm impact sponge projectile fired from a single 40mm grenade launcher with a rifled barrel. The sponge round is a point-of-aim, point-ofimpact direct fire round. This lightweight, high-speed projectile consisting of a plastic body and sponge nose that is spin stabilized via the incorporated rifling collar and the 40 mm launcher’s rifled barrel. The round utilizes smokeless powder as the propellant, and, therefore, have velocities that are extremely consistent. (b) Purpose: To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable.
(c) Authorized Use: Subject to subsection (g) below, situations for use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to the following:
i. The suspect is armed with a weapon and the tactical circumstances allow for the safe application of approved munitions.
ii. The suspect has made credible threats to harm him/herself or others. iii. The suspect is engaged in riotous behavior or is throwing rocks, bottles or other dangerous projectiles at people and/or officers.
iv. There is probable cause to believe that the suspect has already committed a crime of violence and is refusing to comply with lawful orders. v. Other situations not listed here may also be deemed authorized use cases under applicable penal code and case law, and shall reflect necessary, reasonable, and proportional use of less lethal weapon system.
(d) Training: All personnel who are authorized to carry a control device must be properly trained and certified to carry the specific control device and are retrained or recertified as necessary. Proficiency training shall be monitored and documented by a certified, control-device weapons or tactics instructor.
(e) Lifespan:
i. Penn Arms GL-140-C- No lifespan indicated by manufacturer. Lifespan varies on operational usage and wear
ii. 40MM Standard Range Sponge Rounds-5 years
(f) Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $100 for each launcher. (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the 40mm launcher and 40mm baton rounds are subject to the requirements of Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE), 308 (CONTROL DEVICES AND TECHNIQUES), 308.9 (KINETIC ENERGY PROJECTILE GUIDELINES), and Policy 312 (FIREARMS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize the 40mm only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
2. Less Lethal Shotgun and Rounds: Less Lethal Shotgun is used to deploy the less lethal 12-gauge Super-Sock Beanbag Round. No longer in use as they were replaced by the 40MM launchers. Still in inventory as disposal/destruction is processed.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. REMINGTON 870 LESS LETHAL SHOTGUN, cost: $950, quantity: 11. The Remington 870 Less Lethal Shotgun is used to deploy the less lethal 12- gauge SuperSock Beanbag Round up to a distance of 75 feet. The range of the weapon system helps to maintain space between officers and a suspect reducing the immediacy of the threat which is a principle of de-escalation. The less lethal 12- gauge shotgun is distinguishable by an orange butt stock and fore grip.
ii. 12-GAUGE SUPER-SOCK BEANBAG ROUND 2581, cost: $6, quantity: 90.
A less lethal 2.4-inch 12-gauge shotgun round firing a ballistic fiber bag filled with 40 grams of lead shot at a velocity of 270-290 feet per second (FPS). CTS (Combined Tactical Systems) Super-Sock rounds are discharged from a dedicated 12- gauge shotgun that is distinguishable by an orange butt stock and fore grip. This round provides accurate and effective performance when fired from the approved distance of not fewer than five (5) feet. The maximum effective range of this munition is up to 75 feet from the target. The Model 2581 Super-Sock is in its deployed state immediately upon exiting the barrel. It does not require a minimum range to "unfold" or "stabilize." The Super-Sock is an aerodynamic projectile. However, accuracy is relative to the shotgun, barrel length, environmental conditions, and the operator. The Super-Sock is very accurate. However, effectiveness depends on many variables, such as distance, clothing, stature, and the point where the projectile impacts. (b) Purpose: To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable.
(c) Authorized Use - Subject to subsection (g) below, situations for use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to the following:
i. The suspect is armed with a weapon and the tactical circumstances allow for the safe application of approved munitions.
ii. The suspect has made credible threats to harm him/herself or others. iii. The suspect is engaged in riotous behavior or is throwing rocks, bottles or other dangerous projectiles at people and/or officers.
iv. There is probable cause to believe that the suspect has already committed a crime of violence and is refusing to comply with lawful orders. v. Other situations not listed here may also be deemed authorized use cases under applicable penal code and case law, and shall reflect necessary, reasonable, and proportional use of less lethal weapon system.
(d) Lifespan:
i. Remington 970 Less Lethal Shotgun-25 years
ii. Super Sock Round Model 2581: No listed expiration date (e) Training: All personnel who are authorized to carry a control device must be properly trained and certified to carry the specific control device and are retrained or recertified as necessary. Proficiency training shall be monitored and documented by a certified, control-device weapons or tactics instructor. (f) Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $100 per shotgun. (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the less lethal shotgun and Super Sock rounds are subject to the requirements of Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE), 308 (CONTROL DEVICES AND TECHNIQUES), 308.9 (KINETIC ENERGY PROJECTILE GUIDELINES), and Policy 312 (FIREARMS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize the less lethal shotgun only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
3. 5.56mm Semi-Automatic Rifles and Ammunition: The Colt AR-15/M4 5.56 mm/.223 semiautomatic rifles are currently used for patrol. Daniel Defense V7s AR- 15/M4, 5.56mm/.223 caliber semi-automatic rifle are planned for use by patrol personnel in FY 2025/26.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost
i. COLT AR RIFLES, cost: $1200, quantity: 27. (Cycled out of service as Daniel Defense Rifles are purchased and issued) These rifles, equipped and locked in each patrol car or police motorcycle, offer a higher degree of accuracy at a longer distance. The ammunition used in rifles are also more effective at penetrating body armor (as some suspects have worn during high-profile shooting events in the country). They are normally kept secured in patrol cars or in the Police station and are only deployed on specific incidents where officers believe guns or weapons are involved. ii. DANIEL DEFENSE V7 AR RIFLES, cost: $3000, authorized quantity: 36. These rifles offer a higher degree of accuracy at a longer distance. The ammunition used in rifles are also more effective at penetrating body armor (as some suspects have worn during high- profile shooting events in the country). These rifles would be standard issue and individually “sighted in” for each officer. Per policy, rifles are only deployed on specific incidents where officers believe guns or weapons are involved. iii. .223 CALIBER or 5.56MM RIFLE AMMUNITION, cost: $280 per case of 500 rounds, quantity: 10,800 rounds. This rifle ammunition used in conjunction with an AR-15 type rifle provides officers the ability to engage hostile suspects at distances generally greater than the effective distance of their handguns. Rifle ammunition fired from AR-15 rifles offer advantages over handguns, such as increased accuracy potential and the ability to defeat soft body armor but are not appropriate for every situation. (b) Purpose: To address a threat with more precision and/or greater distances than a handgun, if present and feasible.
(c) Authorized Use - Members may deploy the patrol rifle in any circumstance where the member can articulate a reasonable expectation that the rifle may be needed.
Subject to subsection (g) below), situations for use of these weapon systems may include, but are not limited to the following:
i. Situations where the member reasonably anticipates an armed encounter. ii. When a member is faced with a situation that may require accurate and effective fire at long range.
iii. Situations where a member reasonably expects the need to meet or exceed a suspect's firepower.
iv. When a member reasonably believes that there may be a need to fire on a barricaded person or a person with a hostage.
v. When a member reasonably believes that a suspect may be wearing body armor. vi. When authorized or requested by a supervisor.
vii. When needed to euthanize an animal.
viii. When an officer is training at an approved range or other approved facility
ix. Other situations not listed here may also be deemed authorized use cases under applicable penal code and case law, and shall reflect necessary, reasonable, and proportional use of this weapon system.
(d) Lifespan:
i. AR Rifles: Approximately 15-20 years
ii. 223 Caliber or 5.56mm rifle ammunition: No expiration (e) Training: Officers must successfully complete a 24-hour patrol rifle course as well as regular Department firearms training and qualifications as required by law and policy.
Firearm Instructors attend a 40-hour POST-approved rifle instructor class, and SWAT personnel must attend an 80-hour basic SWAT Team course. (f) Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $100 per rifle. (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the patrol rifles and ammunition are subject to the requirements of Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE), Policy 312.3.2 (PATROL RIFLES), and Policy 312 (FIREARMS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize rifles only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
4. .308 caliber LWRC REPR MKII 7.62 NATO sniper rifles (quantity 2) and Ammunition: The sniper rifles are capable of firing a.308 caliber bullet. This rifle may only be used by a SWAT Officer trained and certified to be a sniper (LAPD currently has two such officers) and may be deployed to assist the SWAT Team in a critical incident or emergency.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. .308 LWRC REPR MKII 7.62 NATO sniper rifles (quantity 2)., cost: $7,725, quantity: 2
ii. .308 AMMUNITION, cost: $1.50 per round, Authorized quantity: 3,040 rounds.
These nickel- plated bonded soft-point 308/7.62 cartridges from Speer Gold-Dot are resistant to corrosion, capable of expansion from barrels as short as 10", and retain accuracy from a variety of barrels lengths.
(b) Purpose: This rifle may only be used by a SWAT Officer trained and certified to be a sniper and may be deployed to assist the SWAT Team in a critical incident or emergency. The main use of this weapon system is for observation of an incident and to be able to accurately and immediately be able to stop a threat to life. (c) Authorized Use: Subject to subsection (g) below, examples of situations for deploying the sniper rifle may include, but are not limited to the following:
i. where the Officer reasonably anticipates an armed encounter;
ii. when the Officer is faced with a situation that may require accurate and effective fire at a long distance;
iii. where an Officer reasonably expects the need to meet or exceed the firearms and ammunition that a suspect is reported or believed to possess; iv.. when an Officer reasonably believes that there may be a need to fire on a barricaded person or a person with a hostage;
v. when an Officer reasonably believes that a suspect may be wearing body armor. vi. When an officer is training at an approved range or other approved facility vii. Other situations not listed here may also be deemed authorized use cases under applicable penal code and case law, and shall reflect necessary, reasonable, and proportional use of this weapon system.
(d) Lifespan:
i. .308 LWRC REPR MKII 7.62 NATO, sniper rifles (quantity 2). Approximately 15 years
ii. .308 Ammunition: No expiration
(e) Training: In addition to patrol rifle and standard SWAT operator training, SWAT snipers must successfully complete a California POST-certified sniper course as well as regular SWAT sniper training and qualifications as required by law and policy. (f) Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $100 per LWRC REPR rifle. (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the sniper rifles and ammunition are subject to the requirements of the SWAT Standard Operating Procedures for Mountain View/Los Altos, Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE), Policy 312.3.2 (PATROL RIFLES), Policy 312 (FIREARMS), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize rifles only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
5. Benelli M3Super90 12-gauge shotgun and ammunition: This firearm is not currently used by the department and is stored in the armory. The Benelli M3 is a dualmode (hybrid pump-action and semi-automatic) shotgun The ammunition for the shotgun is 00 Buck and slug rounds.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. BENELLI M3SUPER90 12 GAUGE SHOTGUN, cost $500, quantity: 1. The Benelli M3 is a combination Pump-Action and Semi-Automatic Shotgun. The shotgun can be chambered for 12 GA shells with a 20 inch barrel.
ii. 00 BUCK AMMUNITION, cost: $1.80 per round, quantity: 600 rounds. A typical 12-gauge, 2 ¾-inch 00 Buckshot shell holds 8 pellets that are 0.33" in diameter. A 3-inch shell most often contains 12 of these same sized pellets. iii. SLUG AMMUNITION, cost: $1.40 per round, quantity: 100. The Foster-type shotgun slug features exterior rifled grooves which contact the shotgun's bore to give it spin; and, the slug's hollow-point design initiates expansion to augment stopping power. (b) Purpose: This shotgun is not currently utilized by the department. The only shotguns used by the Department are the less lethal shotguns. The ammunition is purchased solely for recruits in the police academy, where shotgun instruction occurs. (c) Authorized Use: There is currently no authorized use for the shotgun in our policy.
(d) Lifespan:
i. Benelli M3Super90 12 gauge shotgun: Approximately 15 years ii. OO Buck Ammunition: No expiration
iii. Slug ammunition: No expiration
(e) Training: Officers receive training in shotgun use in the police academy, and have to pass firearm qualifications. There is no further training with the Benelli shotgun or ammunition.
(f) Fiscal Impact: None, the weapon is not utilized. When equipment is being used, yearly maintenance costs are estimated to be $100.
(g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of all firearms fall under the following policies:
Policy 300 (USE OF FORCE) and Policy 312 (FIREARMS). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize firearms only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those regarding the use of force.
6. Remington 870 MCS 12 Gauge Breaching shotgun and breaching rounds:
This firearm/ammunition is not currently used by the department and is stored in the SWAT armory.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. REMINGTON 870 MCS 12 GAUGE BREACHING SHOTGUN, cost:$1,400, quantity: 1. Extremely compact breaching model 12 gauge with a ten inch cylinder bore breaching barrel with parkerized finish, a Knoxx recoil reducing breacher pistol grip stock, and synthetic modular fore-end.
ii. 12 GAUGE BREACHING ROUNDS, cost: $5.00 per round, quantity: 25 rounds.
The 12-Gauge TKO Breaching Round is a 12-Gauge shell loaded with a compressed zinc slug, utilizing smokeless powder as a propellant. The is a widely used method to breach door locks or hinges for entry during tactical operations. (b) Purpose: The breaching shotgun is used to safely gain entry into a structure.
When properly deployed, the TKO breaching round is capable of defeating door lock mechanisms, door knobs, hinges, dead bolts, safety chains, and pad locks on both wooden or hollow core doors. Upon impact with the target, the zinc slug disintegrates in to a fine powder eliminating fragmentation. The Explosive Breaching Program, conducted in conjunction with the Mountain View Police Department, was established to provide the joint SWAT Team the ability to quickly create an opening in a wall or window to quickly enter a building for an emergency rescue of hostages. It is reserved for rescue operations only.
(c) Authorized Use: Subject to subsection (g) below, this equipment would only be deployed during a SWAT incident, and its use would need specific authorization from the Incident Commander. The equipment may only be used by a "tactical breacher" on the SWAT team. We currently do not have any authorized users at the Department. (d) Lifespan:
i. Remington 870 MCS 12 Gauge Breaching shotgun: Approximately 15 years ii. 12-Gauge TKO Breaching Round: Approximately 5 years (e) Training: The training consists of an 80-hour course for a member of the SWAT Team specifically designated as the "breacher." At the conclusion of the course, the breacher must pass a test proctored by CAL/OSHA. The OSHA certification is valid for 5 years. Before the expiration of the certification, the breacher must retake and pass the test.
(f) Fiscal Impact: None, the weapon is not utilized. When equipment is being used, yearly maintenance costs are estimated to be $100.
(g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the breaching shotgun and ammunition are subject to the requirements of the SWAT Standard Operating Procedures for Mountain View/Los Altos. Use is also under Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the LAPD to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
7. Kaiser Precision Vulcan II Munitions Pole: Telescoping tool utilized by SWAT personnel to safely deliver approved noise/diversionary devices. (a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. KAISER PRECISION VULCAN II MUNITIONS POLE, cost: $2,000, quantity: 1.
The munitions pole is a multi-purpose breaching tool, constructed of lightweight
aluminum square tubing used to deploy distraction devices and chemical munitions in order to gain entrance into a building, structure or even a vehicle. (b) Purpose: The munitions pole is used to safely deploy diversionary devices, chemical munitions, or other objects (cell phones, cameras) during SWAT operations. (c) Authorized Use: Subject to subsection (g) below, this equipment would be deployed during primarily during a SWAT incident, but could be utilized to gain entry into a residence during other high-risk operations on patrol. (d) Lifespan: Approximately 10 years
(e) Training: Kaiser Precision provided an instructional video for individual and team training.
(f) Fiscal Impact: None, does not require annual maintenance (g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the munitions pole are subject to the requirements of the SWAT Standard Operating Procedures for Mountain View/Los Altos.
Use is also under Policy 317 (HIGH RISK OPERATIONS PROTOCOL), Policy 322 (SEARCH AND SEIZURE), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS).
It is the policy of the LAPD to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
8. Flashbangs: Noise Flash Diversionary Device (NFDD) An NFDD, or flashbang, is a device that creates a bright flash or loud sound to temporarily divert the attention of subjects in the immediate area.
a. Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. 7290-0 Flash-Bang, Aluminum body 9-bang, cost $168.65 each, Authorized quantity: 12. The patented multi-bangs feature top and bottom non-fragmenting, minimal movement devices that perform with high reliability incorporating CTS Superior fuze components with the patented and US Army adopted Confidence Clip and pin shroud.
ii. 7290 Flash-Bang, Steel Body, cost $55.45, authorized quantity 36. The CTS 7290 (single bang) is the standard for diversionary flash-bang devices. The 7290 produces a 165-180db and 6-8 million candela of light output. The patented design of the 7290, incorporates a porting system that eliminates movement of the body at detonation even if the top or bottom of the device should be in contact with a hard surface. In addition, internal adjustments have greatly reduced smoke output. b. Purpose: Flash-bangs are used to distract and temporarily immobilize dangerous suspects by overwhelming their senses of vision and hearing. The distraction gives Officers time to seize a moment and create an opportunity to take control of high-risk or dangerous situations.
c. Authorized Uses: Flashbangs are used to distract and temporarily immobilize dangerous suspects by overwhelming their senses of vision and hearing. The distraction gives Officers time to seize a moment and create an opportunity to take
control of high-risk or dangerous situations. SWAT Operators that have received authorized training shall use Diversionary Devices only under the following:
i. By officers who have been trained in their proper use. ii. In hostage and barricaded subject situations.
iii. In high risk warrant (search/arrest) services where there may be extreme hazards to officers.
iv. During other high-risk situations where their use would enhance officer safety. v. During training exercises.
d. Lifespan: Unknown
e. Training: 8-hour flash diversionary devices instructor school. f. Fiscal Impact: No known annual maintenance cost
g. g. Legal and Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the live flash-bangs are subject to the requirements of the SWAT Standard Operating Procedures for Mountain View/Los Altos. Use is also under Policy 317 (HIGH RISK OPERATIONS PROTOCOL), Policy 322 (SEARCH AND SEIZURE), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the LAPD to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
9. Chemical Agents: Chemical agent munitions can be used as a non-lethal tool to deny a designated area to a suspect, force a suspect to move to a desired area, or to disorient a suspect.
a. Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost:
i. OC Grenades (Purchase Cost $52.10 each, authorized quantity 5): The Defense Technology OC Vapor Aerosol Grenade is for law enforcement and corrections use to deliver a high concentration of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) in a powerful mist. The grenade is designed for indoor-use in confined areas and, once deployed, inflames the mucous membranes and exposed skin resulting in an intense burning sensation. The incapacitating effect of the OC Vapor on the subject is dramatic yet requires minimal decontamination. Removing the subject from the affected area to fresh air will resolve respiratory effects within minutes. The OC Vapor Aerosol Grenade is ideal for cell extractions or barricade situations where the use of pyrotechnic, powder or liquid devices is not practical or desired.
ii. CTS 5230B Baffled CS chemical agent canister munition (purchase cost $52.25 each, authorized quantity 15): Pyrotechnic grenade designed for indoor use delivering a maximum amount of irritant smoke throughout multiple rooms with minimal risk of fire. iii. CTS 5230 CS Chemical agent canister munition (Purchase price $39.70 each, authorized quantity 10): Large diameter burning grenade that discharges a high volume of smoke and chemical agent through multiple emission ports. Specifically for outdoor use and should not be deployed on rooftops, in crawl spaces or indoors due to potential fire hazard. Can be hand thrown or launched.
b. Purpose: Compel an individual to cease their actions when such munitions present a reasonable option; deny a designated area to a suspect, force a suspect to move to a desired area, or to disorient a suspect. Only officers who have received training from POST certified instructors in the use chemical agents are authorized to use chemical agents. To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable.
c. Authorized Uses: Situations for use of the less lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to:
i. Self-destructive, dangerous and/or combative individuals. ii. Circumstances where a tactical advantage can be obtained. iii. Potentially vicious animals.
iv. Training exercises or approved demonstrations.
d. Lifespan: 5 years from manufacturing date.
e. Training: 40-hour chemical agent instructor course.
f. Fiscal Impact: No known annual maintenance cost.
g. Legal and Procedural Rules: Use is established under the Mountain View-Los Altos Regional SWAT SOP. Use is also covered under Policy 300 USE OF FORCE), Policy 317 (HIGH RISK OPERATIONS PROTOCOL), Policy 322 (SEARCH AND SEIZURE), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the MVPD-LAPD Regional SWAT Team to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
10. 12 gauge Shotgun Chemical Munition Launcher: Cup that attaches to 12 gauge less lethal shotgun which allow SWAT operators to launch canisters of chemical agents or smoke.
a. Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost: COMBINED SYSTEMS LC5 12 GAUGE LAUNCHING CUP, cost: $400, authorized quantity: 1. The LC5 Launching Cups are designed for the 5200 series grenades. The cups can be attached to virtually any 12ga shotgun and the munition launched with the model 2600 launching cartridge.
b. Purpose: To limit the escalation of conflict where employment of lethal force is prohibited or undesirable.
c. Authorized Uses: Situations for use of the less-lethal weapon systems may include, but are not limited to:
i. Self-destructive, dangerous, and/or combative individuals ii. Circumstances where a tactical advantage can be obtained iii. Potentially vicious animals
iv. Training exercises or approved demonstrations
d. Lifespan: Combined Systems LC5 40MM Launching Cup- 25 years e. Fiscal Impact: No known annual maintenance cost
f. Training: 24-hour less lethal instructor course and/or 40 hour chemical instructor course.
g. Legal and Procedural Rules: Use is established under the Mountain View-Los Altos Regional SWAT SOP. Use is also covered under Policy 300 USE OF FORCE), Policy 308.9 (KINETIC ENERGY PROJECTILE GUIDELINES), Policy 317 (HIGH RISK OPERATIONS PROTOCOL), Policy 322 (SEARCH AND SEIZURE), and Policy 414 (HOSTAGE AND BARRICADE INCIDENTS). It is the policy of the MVPD-LAPD Regional SWAT Team to utilize diversion devices only for official law enforcement purposes and pursuant to State and Federal law regarding the use of force.
11. UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Drones are utilized by department personnel as a means to search for missing persons more expeditiously and provide information during critical incidents as prescribed in policy 611. a. Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost:
i. DJI Matrice 30T Drone with Thermal Camera, cost: $15,495/each, quantity: 2.
The DJI Matrice 30T drone is a medium-sized UAS weighing approximately 3,770 grams. Capable of recording video and audio with approximately 41 minutes of flight time.
i.ii. Skydio X10 Drone, cost (standalone without DFR service package) $15,000/each, quantity: 2. This drone is certified against water and dust-(IP55) with multiple cameras for varying distances. Skydio X10 is equipped with an infrared thermal camera and a sensor package light with 1000 lumens, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as infrastructure inspections, emergency response, and public safety. When fully charged, Skydio X10 delivers a flight time of 40 minutes depending on payload and environmental conditions.
ii.iii. ii. Loudspeaker Spotlight 2-in-1 Payload, cost: $1,750.00/each, quantity: 2. The DJI M30 drone loudspeaker and spotlight all in one payload is powered by DJI Onboard SDK. It features a fluid design to reduce wind resistance. It packs in high performance in its small size (only 270g) with lighting distance up to 100 meters and effective sound distance up 200 meters.
iii.iv. DJI Avata 2 Drones, including lights and additional controllers, cost: $2,000 each, quantity: 2. The DJI Avata 2 is a small-sized UAS weighing approximately 377 grams and is appropriate for interior use. It has a maximum flight time of 23 minutes and supports fast charging. DJI Avata 2 drones has a maximum range of 10 kilometers and capture 4K video resolution. iv.v. DJI Mini Pro (DJI RC2), cost: $1,300, quantity: 2. The DJI Mini Pro would be utilized as training drone as it uses the same software and controller functions as our larger exterior drones. It in a small-sized UAS weighing 420 grams and supports a flight time of 34 minutes. DJI Mini Pro drones can be used indoors or outdoors, have omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, and capture 4K video. b. Purpose: To be deployed when its view would assist officers or incident commanders with the following situations, which include but are not limited to:
1) Mass casualty incidents (e.g. large structure fires with numerous casualties, mass
shootings involving multiple deaths or injuries);
2) Disaster response and damage assessment;
3) Missing or lost persons;
4) Hazardous material releases;
5) Identifying, locating and apprehending non-compliant, threatening or combative persons who pose a threat of injury or death to themselves, others or officers; 6) Suspected explosive devices;
7) Video/photographic documentation of crime scenes or collision locations; 8) Reconnaissance of incident locations that are inaccessible for fire apparatus; 9) Response to fires or post-fire investigations;
10) Sideshow events where many vehicles and reckless driving is present; 11) Rescue operations;
12) Conduct inspections of the City’s utility infrastructure (e.g. electric, fiber, water, sewer, etc.) to detect leaks or stressed assets.
13) Training flights as required to meet FAA and Department certification standards; 14) Hazardous situations which present a high risk to officer and/or public safety, to include:
a. Armed suicidal persons;
b. Hostage situations;
c. Barricaded suspects;
15) Arrest of armed and/or dangerous persons
16) Locating suspect(s) who have fled from lawful detention 17) Locating suspects who are attempting to conceal themselves to avoid arrest. 18) Planning for and sService of high risk search and arrest warrants involving armed and/or dangerous persons.
19) UAS product demos for the public at community events for educational and informational purposes
20) Other unforeseen exigent circumstances. 20) Anytime a UAS would enhance public safety, improve operational safety, incident stabilization or incident mitigation on a call for service.
c. Authorized Uses: All use shall be in accordance with local, state, and federal
law. Additionally, use of UAS is subject to the guidelines and requirements of LAPD Policy 611. Only assigned operators who have completed the required training shall be permitted to operate the UASDJI 30T during approved missions d. Lifespan:
i. Expected life of UAS are approximately three to five years. Lifespan varies on operational usage and wear.
ii. Expected life of the loudspeaker spotlight 2-in-1 payload is approximately three to five years.
Lifespan varies on operational usage and wear.
e. Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance and battery replacement are approximately $1500 per year for the DJI Matrice UAS. Batteries for the DJI Mini Pro and Avata 2 are approximately $250 each.
f. Training: All Department UAS operators are licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration for UAS operation. In addition, each operator must attend an online UAS pilot course and attend department trainings.
g. Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the UAS are subject to the requirements of Policy 611 (Unmanned Aerial Systems Operations). It is the policy of the Los Altos Police Department to utilize the UAS only for official law enforcement purposes, in accordance with all requirements under State and Federal law, including those outlined in Policy 611. All data and images gathered by the UAS are for the official use of this department. Such images are not open to public view, as it may contain confidential information. The Los Altos Police Department does not permit the sharing of UAS images gathered by the City for (1) any purpose that violates this policy or any applicable laws and regulations, (2) the purpose of federal immigration enforcement, pursuant to the California Values Act (Government Code 7282.5:
Government Code 7284.2 et seq) - these federal immigration agencies include Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), or (3) any purpose that would assist another state to carry out enforcement actions that violate California laws.
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: November 18, 2025
Prepared By: Katie Krauss
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution- Contract for Drone as First Responder Program
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution to approve a contract with AXON for Drone as a First Reponder Program
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Not applicable.
FISCAL IMPACT
The cost would be $113,877 per year to operate a Drone as First Responder Program, for a total contract amount not to exceed $570,000 over a 5-year contract. The program costs include the FAA licensing, pilot training and dock infrastructure. There is sufficient funding for Year 1 that has been appropriated in the FY25/26 Operating Budget under the Public Safety Department.
No additional appropriation is required at this time for the current fiscal year.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
September 30, 2025: Approval to move forward with the development and implementation of a Drone as First Responder Program
BACKGROUND
An unmanned aerial system (UAS), often referred to as a drone, is an aircraft which is controlled remotely from the ground. UAS may be used to provide an aerial observation platform to enhance the efficiency and safety of police operations. The uses of UAS include, but are not limited to scene documentation, area searches for people and/or evidence, disaster response, tactical operations, and critical incident management. Drone technology has advanced significantly in recent years, making it an increasingly vital tool in modern law enforcement operations. While the current drone program has proven effective in enhancing safety and situational awareness, it does have limitations. At present, officers must physically respond to the scene to launch a drone. This means the ability to deploy a drone is dependent on response time by vehicle, which can often delay critical aerial support when it is needed most.
A Drone as a First Responder program relies on docking stations at strategic locations
throughout the city to house drones that can be remotely deployed. These docking stations allow officers to launch drones from desktop computers and direct them to incident locations in real time. Upon receiving a 911 call for service, a drone can be dispatched immediately – often arriving on scene within minutes, ahead of first responders. Once on scene, the drone provides live overhead video and situational awareness that can be critical for officers, firefighters, and paramedics. This early intelligence helps improve response efficiency, enhances safety for both responders and the public, and supports more informed decision-making during emergencies.
In evaluating which DFR vendor best suited our specific Police Department, personnel did extensive research into three major companies including Paladin, Flock, and AXON. This research included product demonstrations, site visits to agencies that utilized each product, and reference checks with other agencies. The Police Department also took into account the feedback received from City Council members and the public when the DFR program was discussed at the September 30th CIty Council meeting.
ANALYSIS
The Police Department has identified Axon Enterprise, Inc. as providing a comprehensive solution which is the best fit for our agency. Our department currently utilizes Axon Enterprises Inc. for our current Tasers and body-worn cameras, and related software and storage for digital media. Axon Air, a division of Axon Enterprise, Inc., is a UAS program built for law enforcement. The system includes automated tracking of pilot, aircraft, flight logs, and livestreaming for situational awareness, which increases opportunities for de-escalation. The use of Axon Air will allow for integration with the Police Department’s other Axon camera systems.
All video evidence recorded will upload to Axon’s Evidence.com and can easily be transmitted for court discovery purposes. The integration of video storage from Body Worn Cameras and UAS provides a time-efficient and cost-effective solution for data storage. Axon Enterprise Inc. has partnered with Skydio, a U.S. drone manufacturer which specializes in autonomous flight technology to provide Drone as a First Responder services to public safety agencies. The partnership between Axon Enterprise Inc. and Skydio represents the optimal choice for the police department, as it enables seamless integration of Drone as a First Responder technology with the department’s current technological ecosystem. Skydio is a drone manufacturing company located in San Mateo. Their drones are manufactured in Hayward. Other local police agencies that utilize Axon Air for their DFR program include San Mateo, San Francisco, South San Francisco, and Daly City Police Departments.
Skydio data security for captured drone footage includes secure data transmission and validated encryption, is ISO certified for information security management, and ensures chain-of-custody integrity. It is certified for Criminal Justice Information (CJIS) and cloud service cybersecurity, and complies with NDAA Section 889, ensuring there is no use of banned components in drones, docks, or other equipment. They complete regular third-party penetration testing of all equipment, including drones, docks, and cloud, and have continuous vulnerability scanning and remediation. They maintain a strong security posture that aligns with federal cybersecurity standards, including Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) accredited third-party reviews, which are independent security assessments conducted by accredited third party organizations. These reviews are a core requirement of FedRAMP which applies to cloud service providers that handle federal data to ensure they meet strict
cybersecurity standards. They are compliant with CJIS across all data states (in transit, at rest, during processing) including drones, controllers, cloud endpoints, and storage workflows.
Skydio is the only drone manufacturer listed on NIST’s cryptographic module validation program. Skydio’s compliance with cybersecurity standards and protocols is comprehensive and independently validated. There have been no confirmed and no known data breaches of Skydio/Axon involving drones, cloud services, or customer data.
Skydio drone footage is automatically uploaded to Axon Evidece.com when the drone is connected to power at the dock. This integration allows for seamless transfer and management of media captured from the drone, ensuring that the footage is securely stored and can be shared within digital evidence management systems. Evidence.com has robust encryption, access controls, comprehensive audit trails, and is compliant with CJIS, ISO 27001, and FedRAMP.
The data is managed by City policies (similar to body worn cameras) and would be deleted after 30 days unless it is part of an active investigation. The security posture of this platform has an excellent rating (924) from UpGuard which is a cybersecurity platform that specializes in risk management, security ratings, and monitoring of digital assets and third-party vendors. To put the rating into context, most organizations fall between 600-850, with scores above 900 reserved for entities with mature cybersecurity programs most often found in security-focused tech companies and financial institutions. The highest rating possible is 950. The CJIS compliance ensures data confidentiality and integrity, prevents unauthorized access, maintains the legal admissibility of evidence, and aligns with local, state, and federal regulations. There have been no confirmed and no known data breaches of evidence.com, and no known exploited vulnerabilities.
DISCUSSION
Approving the resolution for a contract with Axon for DFR will equip the department with the following:
• Two Skydio X10 drones and docking stations. Docking stations are weatherproof charging stations which keep drones in a ready-to-fly state 24/7. Two docking stations provide optimal drone coverage of the city based on call volume. • An end-to-end solution for collecting and recording pilot data, flight data, autonomous flight controls, web-based flight capability, and digital media evidence collection and storage.
The five-year contract also includes a refresh at year 2.5, which includes a replacement of the Skydio X10 drones with the newest technology available at that time. Axon Air is a sole-source vendor, as it is the only DFR technology that is integrated with the Body Worn Cameras worn by officers and the current evidence storage solution, Evidence.com. Axon Air also integrates with our pending CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch) vendor, Sunridge, allowing for immediate deployment of the drone to designated calls for service.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment 1 - Resolution
2. Attachment 2 - Quote
3. Attachment 3 - DFR Booklet
4. Attachment 4 - Data Sheet
5. Attachment 5 - DFR Dock
6. Attachment 6 - Proposed Policy 611
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH AXON ENTERPRISE, INC. IN THE AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $570,000 FOR THE ADDITION OF THE DRONE AS FIRST RESPONDER
PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos currently contracts with Axon Enterprise, Inc. (“Axon”) for various public safety technologies that enhance the operational efficiency and transparency of the Police Department; and
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos seeks to expand its use of Axon technology to include implementation of a Drone as First Responder (DFR) Program, which will provide rapid aerial response capabilities, improve situational awareness, and enhance public and officer safety; and WHEREAS, the proposed amendment to the existing agreement with Axon will include necessary equipment, software, licensing and support services to operate the DFR Program; and WHEREAS, the total cost for the addition of the Drone as First Responder Program shall not exceed Five Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($570,000) over a five-year contract term; and WHEREAS, City staff has reviewed the proposed amendment and determined that the inclusion of the DFR Program under the existing Axon agreement represents the most efficient and costeffective approach to implement the program; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Los Altos adopt a resolution to authorize the City Manager to execute an amendment to the existing agreement with Axon Enterprise, Inc. to include the Drone as First Responder Program in an amount not to exceed $570,000 over five years.
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 18th day of November, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
______________________________
Mayor Pete Dailey
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Los Altos City Clerk
Q-759079-45933AS
Issued: 10/03/2025
Quote Expiration: 12/12/2025
Estimated Contract Start Date: 03/01/2026
Account Number: 133563
Payment Terms: N30
Mode of Delivery: UPS-GND
Credit/Debit Amount: $0.00
SHIP TO BILL TO SALES REPRESENTATIVE PRIMARY CONTACT
Los Altos Police Dept. - CA
1 N San Antonio Rd
Los Altos,
CA
94022-3000
USA
Los Altos Police Dept. - CA
1 N San Antonio Rd
Los Altos
CA
94022-3000
USA
Email:
94-6004056
Adam Smith
Phone: 602-751-1798
Email: [email protected]
Fax: (480) 463-2201
Kathryn Krauss
Phone: (650) 947-2770
Email: [email protected]
Fax:
Quote Summary Discount Summary
Program Length 60 Months Average Savings Per Year $10,567.23 TOTAL COST $553,425.84
ESTIMATED TOTAL W/ TAX $569,382.03 TOTAL SAVINGS $52,836.16 Axon Enterprise, Inc.
17800 N 85th St
Scottsdale, Arizona 85255
United States
VAT: 86-0741227
Domestic:(800) 978-2737
International: +1.800.978.2737
Payment Summary
Date Subtotal Tax Total
Feb 2026 $110,685.16 $3,191.23 $113,876.39
Feb 2027 $110,685.17 $3,191.23 $113,876.40
Feb 2028 $110,685.17 $3,191.23 $113,876.40
Feb 2029 $110,685.17 $3,191.23 $113,876.40
Feb 2030 $110,685.17 $3,191.27 $113,876.44
Total $553,425.84 $15,956.19 $569,382.03
Quote Unbundled Price: $365,356.32
Quote List Price: $365,356.32
Quote Subtotal: $553,425.84
Pricing
All deliverables are detailed in Delivery Schedules section lower in proposal Item Description Qty Term Unbundled List Price Net Price Subtotal Tax Total A la Carte Hardware
101526 AXON AIR - SKYDIO - ASSURED FUTURE EQPMNT
PARACHUTE REFRESH 2 $4,000.00 $3,720.00 $7,440.00 $678.90 $8,118.90 101250 AXON AIR - SKYDIO PARACHUTE FOR X10 2 $4,000.00 $3,720.00 $7,440.00 $678.90 $8,118.90 101968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO ASSURED FUTURE EQUIPMENT
DFR KIT 2 $28,268.00 $26,289.24 $52,578.48 $4,797.77 $57,376.25 A00008 BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 2 60 $113,805.76 $3,631.01 $435,721.20 $9,800.62 $445,521.82 A la Carte Software
100112 AXON AIR - EVIDENCE.COM LICENSE - PILOT DATA 23 60 $32.76 $22.93 $31,646.16 $0.00 $31,646.16 A la Carte Services
100968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO WAIVER APPLICATION - REMOTE
OPS ESSENTIAL 1 $20,000.00 $18,600.00 $18,600.00 $0.00 $18,600.00 Total $553,425.84 $15,956.19 $569,382.03
Delivery Schedule
Hardware
Bundle Item Description QTY Shipping Location Estimated Delivery Date BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 101736 AXON AIR - SKYDIO X10 DOCK HW KIT 2 1 02/01/2026 A la Carte 101250 AXON AIR - SKYDIO PARACHUTE FOR X10 2 1 02/01/2026 A la Carte 101526 AXON AIR - SKYDIO - ASSURED FUTURE EQPMNT PARACHUTE REFRESH 2 1 02/01/2026
A la Carte 101968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO ASSURED FUTURE EQUIPMENT DFR KIT 2 1 02/01/2026 Software
Bundle Item Description QTY Estimated Start Date Estimated End Date BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 100112 AXON AIR - EVIDENCE.COM LICENSE - PILOT DATA 2 03/01/2026 02/28/2031 BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 101199 AXON AIR - SKYDIO DFR COMMAND 2 03/01/2026 02/28/2031 A la Carte 100112 AXON AIR - EVIDENCE.COM LICENSE - PILOT DATA 23 03/01/2026 02/28/2031 Services
Bundle Item Description QTY
BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 101502 AXON AIR - SKYDIO - DEPLOYMENT AND TRAINING - DOCK FOR X10 2 BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 102294 AXON AIR - SKYDIO DOCK FOR X10 - MAINT. AND REPAIR - PREMIUM 2 BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 12021 AXON AIR - PROFESSIONAL IMPLEMENTATION 1 A la Carte 100968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO WAIVER APPLICATION - REMOTE OPS ESSENTIAL 1
Warranties
Bundle Item Description QTY Estimated Start Date Estimated End Date BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 101508 AXON AIR - SKYDIO - CARE FOR X10 CELLULAR 5G + VT300-Z 3YR 2
Shipping Locations
Location Number Street City State Zip Country
1 1 N San Antonio Rd Los Altos CA 94022-3000 USA
Payment Details
Feb 2026
Invoice Plan Item Description Qty Subtotal Tax Total
Year 1 100112 AXON AIR - EVIDENCE.COM LICENSE - PILOT DATA 23 $6,329.23 $0.00 $6,329.23 Year 1 100968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO WAIVER APPLICATION - REMOTE OPS ESSENTIAL 1 $3,720.00 $0.00 $3,720.00 Year 1 101250 AXON AIR - SKYDIO PARACHUTE FOR X10 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 1 101526 AXON AIR - SKYDIO - ASSURED FUTURE EQPMNT PARACHUTE REFRESH 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 1 101968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO ASSURED FUTURE EQUIPMENT DFR KIT 2 $10,515.70 $959.55 $11,475.25 Year 1 A00008 BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 2 $87,144.23 $1,960.12 $89,104.35 Total $110,685.16 $3,191.23 $113,876.39
Feb 2027
Invoice Plan Item Description Qty Subtotal Tax Total
Year 2 100112 AXON AIR - EVIDENCE.COM LICENSE - PILOT DATA 23 $6,329.23 $0.00 $6,329.23 Year 2 100968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO WAIVER APPLICATION - REMOTE OPS ESSENTIAL 1 $3,720.00 $0.00 $3,720.00 Year 2 101250 AXON AIR - SKYDIO PARACHUTE FOR X10 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 2 101526 AXON AIR - SKYDIO - ASSURED FUTURE EQPMNT PARACHUTE REFRESH 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 2 101968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO ASSURED FUTURE EQUIPMENT DFR KIT 2 $10,515.70 $959.55 $11,475.25 Year 2 A00008 BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 2 $87,144.24 $1,960.12 $89,104.36 Total $110,685.17 $3,191.23 $113,876.40
Feb 2028
Invoice Plan Item Description Qty Subtotal Tax Total
Year 3 100112 AXON AIR - EVIDENCE.COM LICENSE - PILOT DATA 23 $6,329.23 $0.00 $6,329.23 Year 3 100968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO WAIVER APPLICATION - REMOTE OPS ESSENTIAL 1 $3,720.00 $0.00 $3,720.00 Year 3 101250 AXON AIR - SKYDIO PARACHUTE FOR X10 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 3 101526 AXON AIR - SKYDIO - ASSURED FUTURE EQPMNT PARACHUTE REFRESH 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 3 101968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO ASSURED FUTURE EQUIPMENT DFR KIT 2 $10,515.70 $959.55 $11,475.25 Year 3 A00008 BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 2 $87,144.24 $1,960.12 $89,104.36 Total $110,685.17 $3,191.23 $113,876.40
Feb 2029
Invoice Plan Item Description Qty Subtotal Tax Total
Year 4 100112 AXON AIR - EVIDENCE.COM LICENSE - PILOT DATA 23 $6,329.23 $0.00 $6,329.23 Year 4 100968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO WAIVER APPLICATION - REMOTE OPS ESSENTIAL 1 $3,720.00 $0.00 $3,720.00 Year 4 101250 AXON AIR - SKYDIO PARACHUTE FOR X10 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 4 101526 AXON AIR - SKYDIO - ASSURED FUTURE EQPMNT PARACHUTE REFRESH 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 4 101968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO ASSURED FUTURE EQUIPMENT DFR KIT 2 $10,515.70 $959.55 $11,475.25 Year 4 A00008 BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 2 $87,144.24 $1,960.12 $89,104.36 Total $110,685.17 $3,191.23 $113,876.40
Feb 2030
Invoice Plan Item Description Qty Subtotal Tax Total
Year 5 100112 AXON AIR - EVIDENCE.COM LICENSE - PILOT DATA 23 $6,329.23 $0.00 $6,329.23 Year 5 100968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO WAIVER APPLICATION - REMOTE OPS ESSENTIAL 1 $3,720.00 $0.00 $3,720.00 Year 5 101250 AXON AIR - SKYDIO PARACHUTE FOR X10 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 5 101526 AXON AIR - SKYDIO - ASSURED FUTURE EQPMNT PARACHUTE REFRESH 2 $1,488.00 $135.78 $1,623.78 Year 5 101968 AXON AIR - SKYDIO ASSURED FUTURE EQUIPMENT DFR KIT 2 $10,515.70 $959.57 $11,475.27 Year 5 A00008 BUNDLE - AXON AIR DFR SINGLE DOCK 2 $87,144.24 $1,960.14 $89,104.38 Total $110,685.17 $3,191.27 $113,876.44
Tax is estimated based on rates applicable at date of quote and subject to change at time of invoicing. If a tax exemption certificate should be applied, please submit prior to invoicing.
Standard Terms and Conditions
Axon Enterprise Inc. Sales Terms and Conditions
Axon Master Services and Purchasing Agreement:
This Quote is limited to and conditional upon your acceptance of the provisions set forth herein and Axon’s Master Services and Purchasing Agreement (posted at https://www.axon.com/sales-terms-and-conditions), as well as the attached Statement of Work (SOW) for Axon Fleet and/or Axon Interview Room purchase, if applicable. In the event you and Axon have entered into a prior agreement to govern all future purchases, that agreement shall govern to the extent it includes the products and services being purchased and does not conflict with the Axon Customer Experience Improvement Program Appendix as described below.
ACEIP:
The Axon Customer Experience Improvement Program Appendix, which includes the sharing of de-identified segments of Agency Content with Axon to develop new products and improve your product experience (posted at www.axon.com/legal/sales-terms-and-conditions), is incorporated herein by reference. By signing below, you agree to the terms of the Axon Customer Experience Improvement Program.
Acceptance of Terms:
Any purchase order issued in response to this Quote is subject solely to the above referenced terms and conditions. By signing below, you represent that you are lawfully able to enter into contracts. If you are signing on behalf of an entity (including but not limited to the company, municipality, or government agency for whom you work), you represent to Axon that you have legal authority to bind that entity. If you do not have this authority, please do not sign this Quote.
\s1\ \d1\
Signature Date Signed
10/3/2025
Drone as First
Responder in action:
Real results
Skydio DFR Resource Guide VOL. 1
skydio.com/DFR
Law enforcement leaders across the country are facing a shared challenge: how to maintain (and improve) public safety with diminishing resources. Chronic staffing shortages, often in the hundreds of officers, have stretched departments thin, forcing difficult decisions about where and how to deploy personnel.
Amid these constraints, more agencies are deploying a solution that doesn’t depend solely on putting more officers on the streets.
They’re turning to Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs and Real-Time Investigation Centers (RTICs) to make existing personnel more effective.
The outcome? Data that’s hard to ignore.
01
SFPD’s RTIC:
Data-driven results
In San Francisco, where the department is short 500 officers, the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) has responded with a strategy centered on DFR and real-time intelligence.
Since launching in 2024, SFPD’s Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC) & DFR program have helped deliver:
These aren’t just crime statistics—they reflect a fundamental shift in how the SFPD addresses crime in progress.
500+
arrests, including:
166
stolen vehicle recoveries
80 robbery arrests
30%
drop in overall crime
in 2025
42%
reduction in
auto theft
02 DFR in action: Real results
I think we’re just
scratching the surface.
This is probably one
of the most significant
paradigm shifts in
policing that I’ve seen
in my police career.”
Commander Thomas Maguire
San Francisco Police Department
“
03
Faster, smarter
response
From the moment a 911 call is placed, it can take 5–10 minutes for ground units to arrive, depending on traffic, time of day, and call volume. In those minutes, the crime may no longer be in progress, suspects may flee, and the opportunity for a timely resolution can slip away.
With DFR, that gap closes quickly.
In many deployments, drones are overhead in less than 90 seconds, often before an officer has been assigned to the call.
Over the last year, Redmond (WA) Police Department’s DFR program average time to scene with a drone for Priority 1 calls is 88 seconds, 48% faster than the average officer response.
And for Priority 2 calls, drones arrive in 1/3rd the time of an officer. 88seconds
time to get drone
deployed and overhead
48%
faster avg. time to scene
for drones vs. officers
responding to Priority 1 calls
04 DFR in action: Real results 05
Since implementing
our DFR program, we’ve
reduced ground response
by 25%, giving officers
more time for proactive
patrol and emergency calls.
It’s become a city-wide
asset, now supporting Fire
Department calls as well.”
Chief Darrell Lowe
Redmond Police Department
Watch video
06 DFR in action: Real results 07
This accelerated time of arrival provides dispatchers,
responding officers, and command staff with immediate
situational awareness, enabling them to observe suspects in the act, track their movements in real time, and direct officers safely to the scene, as seen in a recent organized retail theft apprehension in San Francisco.
In this case, when you’re
able to solve something
within the first 5 minutes,
recover all the property,
your case is that much
stronger.”
Commander Thomas Maguire
San Francisco Police Department
Watch video
In March 2025, Lakewood Police Department (CO) launched the first phase of it’s DFR program with one drone on one rooftop. The program goals include faster response to highpriority calls, improved officer safety, and more efficient resource allocation.
The results came quickly. In just 11 weeks:
590
DFR flights–153% of
their total drone flights
from all of 2024
38%
of those calls for service
were cleared without
any patrol response
47%
of calls for service in the
coverage area received
a DFR response
77%
of the time, the drone
was first on scene
59 arrests directly linked
to DFR–averaging
five per week
Lakewood’s results reinforce the value of DFR as a force multiplier, not only for arrests but for freeing up patrol officers and allowing smarter prioritization of resources.
Reducing risk
and increasing efficiency
DFR doesn’t just support arrests. It improves officer availability and strengthens cases with real-time evidence capture.
In one notable case, a drone followed a stolen vehicle throughout city streets while the suspect cold-plated the vehicle and tinted the windows. Officers used spike strips to deflate the tires and effected an arrest within an hour of the original call. The drone captured the suspect’s movements in real time, providing investigators and prosecutors with high-quality video to support the case. 08 DFR in action: Real results
Watch video
DFR reduces unnecessary officer dispatches. Chief Darrell Lowe of the Redmond Police Department reports that drones arriving on scene allow them to cancel officer response 25% of the time, freeing units for higher-priority incidents or proactive community engagement.
Other real-world stories include:
Drone helps officers avoid vehicle pursuit
The drone located a subject who fled a scene,
maintaining visual and avoiding a vehicle pursuit with
ground units, before he crashed into another vehicle
and fled on foot. The suspect was quickly apprehended.
Officers guided to missing man by drone
Officers were unable to locate a missing 80-year-old man with dementia in a wooded area. A drone was deployed
and quickly guided them to his location. He was found
safe and reunited with his family.
Subject quickly located and safely apprehended
A drone was deployed from a dock to locate a subject
in a battery. The operator was able to quickly identify the female subject and direct officers to her location, where she was apprehended without incident.
Man in crisis located on rooftop
A man in crisis on a rooftop was safely located by the
drone, allowing Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officers to engage and de-escalate the situation.
09
It also allows us to get the right resources
there so if they see something that’s critical,
that needs special units that go there to help
with mental health, to go help with medical,
or help with fire, now we’re going to be able
to send the right resources to take care of
the problem the right way.
Captain Jason Bussert
Oklahoma City Police Department
Broader applications:
A tool for the entire public
safety ecosystem
DFR isn’t just for police. Fire and law enforcement often respond to the same calls, whether it’s a traffic collision, hazardous situation, or medical emergency. However, they usually arrive with different information, sourced from various callers and routed through separate dispatch systems. Disconnected information can result in delays, miscommunication, or missed opportunities to coordinate a more effective response.
With DFR arriving on the scene, the real-time information is streamlined and shared across all first responders. Everyone, whether in a patrol vehicle, fire engine, or command center, has access to the same view and situational context. In Oklahoma City, approximately 40% of their DFR deployments are for fire-related calls, with either police or fire personnel operating the drone.
Thermal sensors on drones
can assess structural
integrity before sending
firefighters to perform
vertical ventilation
10 DFR in action: Real results
A recent OKCPD deployment involved a call from a train engineer who believed he had struck someone but was unsure where the incident occurred. The Real-Time Information Center (RTIC) immediately launched a drone from a Dock atop a nearby fire station.
Within minutes, the operator located the injured person and guided fire and medical personnel to the scene, where they were able to render lifesaving aid. This multi-agency response demonstrates how DFR expands operational impact beyond law enforcement.
Watch video
11
This technology is the future of policing for
SFPD officers, using their training and judgment,
supported by the best tools available to keep our
communities safe. As we continue to fully staff
the RTIC, and using drones and first responders
will be a force multiplier. It will give officers
more support, and it will help ensure that every
neighborhood benefits from smarter, faster,
and more coordinated public safety.”
Mayor Daniel Lurie
San Francisco, CA
“ Better outcomes,
restored trust
The success of DFR and RTIC demonstrates what’s possible when agencies prioritize real-time data and rapid response. These tools don’t replace first responders. They multiply their impact.
In New York City, the NYPD reports making 200 arrests related to subway surfing and estimates that 200 lives may have been saved because of the DFR program. In addition to enforcement, the department shares drone footage with families as part of a broader strategy to raise awareness and prevent future incidents.
NYC Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry describes the city’s strategy as rooted in interagency coordination, real-time intelligence, and cutting-edge technology. Drones are seen as a force multiplier—saving lives, protecting infrastructure, and keeping first responders safe.
10 DFR in action: Real results 11
Watch video
13
14 DFR in action: Real results
Contact us today to learn more
Run a customized DFR Simulation using your
agency’s real call data and see how deployment
would work in your jurisdiction.
As law enforcement leaders look toward the future, the question isn’t whether departments can afford to invest in these capabilities— it’s whether they can afford not to, in a time when every second, every officer, and every resource counts. Smarter policing starts with smarter tools.
The promise of DFR is not just in the lives it saves,
but in what it delivers: better outcomes, stronger communities, and a safer tomorrow.
Skydio Dock for X10
Program Installation Guide
Welcome to the Skydio Dock for X10 Program! This guide outlines product specifications for the Dock and External Radio and site requirements to help ensure a successful deployment.
Skydio Dock for X10 1
Skydio Dock for X10 2
Technical Specification 2
Skydio Dock Dimensions 2
Skydio Dock Assembly Weights 3
Skydio Connect External Radio 4
Technical Specification 4
Installation Specifications 5
Dock for X10 5
Skydio Connect External Radio 6
Placement of Dock and External Radio 6
Transport & Delivery 7
Secure Mounting Guidelines 7
Power Requirements 8
Wiring Configuration 9
Networking 10
Skydio Client Workstation Firewall Rules 10
Skydio Dock & Skydio Access Point Firewall Rules 11
Skydio Dock for X10
Technical Specification
Characteristic Limit
Launch / Land Winds Up to 12 m/s (27 mph)
Standby Wind Rating Non-Bolted: 35MPH, Bolted: specs pending Operational Temperature -20* to 50* C / -4* to -122* F
Standby Temperature -40* to 60* C / -40* to 140* F
Ingress Protection (Roof Open) IP 54
Ingress Protection (Roof Closed) IP 56
Battery Charge Time 15% to 95% within 35 minutes at 25C (cooling or heating will increase overall charge time to
max of 73 minutes)
Service Life 5 years with minor service conducted every 3 months and major service conducted every 2
years (@ 3 flights/day avg)
Corrosion Resistance Designed to operate in humid environments, outside of direct saltwater splash zone
Rain and Snow Limitations Limited by X10 Operational Capability: .25”/hr (light-moderate), Standby: 4”/hr (Heavy)
Input/Output 2x PoE (30W, 48V), 1xEth , 2xUSB 3.0
220V Power Requirement Recommended below 0* C
Onboard Storage 512GB (Non-removable, for media sync
purposes only)
Launch Time 15 Seconds
Skydio Dock Dimensions
2 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
Skydio Dock Assembly Weights
Dock Roof: ~36 lbs
Dock Base: ~140 lbs
Dock Stand: 49 lbs
Fully Assembled: ~240 lbs
Shipping Weight: ~300 lbs
3 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
Skydio Connect External Radio
Technical Specification
Characteristic Limit
Dimensions 240 x 120 x 65 mm / 9.5 x 4.75 x 2.6 in
Weight 1.2 kg / 2.65 lbs
Power Nominal: 11-13W
USB-C: 5V3A, 9V3A, 12V3A, 15V3A, 20V3A
PoE: 44-57V (IEEE 802.3af compliant)
Input/Output 1x Ethernet, 1x USB-C 3.0
Wind Resistance Up to 160 kmh / 100 mph
Operational Temperature -20* to 50* C / -4* to -122* F
Storage Temperature -40* to 80* C / -40* to 176* F
Ingress Protection IP 67
Operating Frequency Connect SL: 2400-2483.5 MHz & 5150-5850 MHz
Connect MH: 1625-1725 MHz, 1790-1850
MHz, 2040-2110 MHz, 2200-2300 MHz,
2300-2390 MHz, 2400-2500MHz
Service Life 5 years of continual service with Dock
3 years when vehicle-mounted
2 years when human-carried
Corrosion Resistance Designed to operate in humid environments, outside of direct saltwater splash zone
ADS-B In Included
GNSS GPS + Galileo + GLONASS + BeiDou
Dimensions 240 x 120 x 65 mm / 9.5 x 4.75 x 2.6 in
4 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
Installation Specifications
Dock for X10
Install Layout:
● Final locations & install recommendations to be determined with Skydio Pre-Site Survey for every install location, including connectivity & RF mapping ● Minimum 12 feet around each set of docks (ex, 3 to 4 Skydio docks grouped in a line on each roof)
● Avoid tall obstacles immediately outside the 12 ft radius ● Minimum 6 feet between each dock side to side
● Clear line of sight above and around the dock
● Ensure area clear behind the Skydio Dock to allow for roof rotation - roof rotates 6” above the base of the Skydio Dock
Dock Mounting:
● Freestanding or bolted into permanent structure
● Recommendation: Bolts inset into permanent structure
● Minimum 25mm/1" above grade, max 60mm/2 3/8"
● Alternate option - for roofs with soft materials (many precincts) - Build standing platform 40 x 36 x 4” for Dock mounting
5 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
Skydio Connect External Radio
One External Radio is Required for each Dock
● External Radio mounted to pole (provided by client) or freestanding mount provided by Skydio
● Located at highest point of the roof for optimal line of sight ○ If elevated location is not available, then pole must be mounted to clear highest structure with at minimum
+10 ft above all roof structures to allow for line of sight to surrounding areas.
○ Skydio Mount can accommodate pipe ODs of 2 to 5”.
Pipe should be permanently mounted to structure and
sized to ensure a stable platform in all weather
conditions
● Client provided Cat 6A ethernet cable run from base of External Radio directly to Dock accessory port (or to open internet)
○ Cat 6a Outdoor rated cable (recommended encased
in conduit)
○ Cable length from Skydio Connect External Radio to X10 dock must be less than 100 meters
● Final locations to be determined with Skydio Pre-Site Survey Placement of Dock and External
Radio
● Skydio Dock for X10
○ Minimum 12 feet around each set of
docks (3 to 4 Skydio docks grouped in a
line on each roof)*
○ Avoid tall obstacles immediately outside
the 12 ft radius*
○ Minimum 5 feet between each dock side
to side*
● Skydio Connect External Radios (one for
each dock)
○ Minimum 17 feet between each External
Radio and between External Radio to
Dock
○ Ensure Line of sight from External Radio
mount location to surrounding area
6 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
Transport & Delivery
Client is responsible for the transport of shipment location to final install location, which may include crane of the pallet to install location roof.
● System should be delivered still fully palletized to the final install location. The Skydio Dock ships on a 40x48” pallet and weights 300lbs
Skydio Deployment Services will assemble & install the Skydio Dock along with performing all validation testing, RF analysis, connectivity mapping, and system stand-up.
Secure Mounting Guidelines
● Preferred: Bolted to permanent structure (layout provided) ○ Minimum 25mm/1" of
thread above grade,
maximum 60mm/2-3/8" of
thread above grade
○ 3/8" diameter bolt
recommended
○ For roofs with soft
materials (many
precincts) - Build standing
platform 40 x 36 x 4” to
mount to (like current Pct
71 & 48 X2 dock installs
on the left)
● Optional: Non-bolted (4 leveling
feet provided)
● Landing surface must be within +/- 1° of level
● Grounding recommended
● It is the client's responsibility to provide permanent mounting of the Skydio Dock System & Skydio Access Point.
7 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
Bolting Layout
Power Requirements
Skydio will provide Skydio Dock & External Antenna Hardware. It is the client's responsibility to provide all power, network, wiring between devices and conduit to encase runs.
Power: 220V, 2200W each dock
● Option to hardwire with conduit or power with external cable(c19 to L6-20 cable provided)
8 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
● Recommendation: Conduit with power run to left side of the dock, 1” conduit punch out
6.5” on center from ground level
○ Local switched disconnect on roof accessible by Skydio/Client personnel ○ 4’ tail required at dock location (to transit up the dock to internal junction box & landing inside the Skydio Dock)
Wiring Configuration
Hardwire
● Manual disconnect accessible to Skydio Field Service to be placed within line of sight of Skydio Dock
● Hardwire power landing in Wago connectors inside Skydio Dock ● 220V setup required for cold weather (L, L, G)
● 110V Setup (L,N,G)
Conduit
● Hard conduit run between knife disconnect to flex conduit beside Dock ● Flex conduit to 1” knock out (6.5” above ground level) on right side of dock (Dock perspective)
● 4’ wire required at dock location for terminal connection inside Dock (Hardwire) (Conduit)
9 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
Networking
Skydio will provide Skydio Dock & External Antenna Hardware. It is the client's responsibility to provide all power, network, wiring between devices and conduit, and permanent mounting of the Skydio Dock System.
Network
● WAN Network - Min Cat 6a, run to the right side of dock ● Recommendation: Conduit with network run to left side of dock, 1” conduit punch out
6.5” on center from ground level
○ 4’ tail required at dock location (to transit up to internal junction box) ● Direct accessory Cat 6 runs from External Antenna to X10 Dock, not through internal network (one Antenna per Dock)
● Skydio Network requirements & Firewall endpoints to be provided ● Min 20mbps upload (1080p), recommended 100mbps (4k) upload per dock ● Min 100ms latency, recommended 20ms latency
Total Conduit runs for each Skydio Dock
● Right side: 2 Cat 6a outdoor rated cables:
○ 1 from WAN
○ 1 from Skydio External Radio
● Left side: 220V power
Skydio Client Workstation Firewall Rules
10 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
Skydio Dock & Skydio Access Point Firewall Rules
11 © 2024 Skydio, Inc. Proprietary & Confidential
Policy
611
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations -
1 Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations
611.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the use of an unmanned aerial system (UAS) and for the storage, retrieval and dissemination of images and data captured by the UAS. 611.1.1 DEFINITIONS
Definitions related to this policy include:
Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) - An unmanned aircraft of any type that is capable of sustaining directed flight, whether preprogrammed or remotely controlled (commonly referred to as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)), and all of the supporting or attached systems designed for gathering information through imaging, recording or any other means. 611.2 POLICY
Unmanned aerial systems may be utilized to enhance the department's mission of protecting lives and property when other means and resources are not available or are less effective. Any use of a UAS will be in strict accordance with constitutional and privacy rights and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
All data and images gathered by the UAS are for the official use of this department. Such data is not open to public view, as it may contain confidential information. The Los Altos Police Department does not permit the sharing of UAS data gathered by the City, vendors or subcontractors, as defined below, for (1) any purpose that violates this policy or any applicable laws and regulations, (2) the purpose of federal immigration enforcement, pursuant to the California Values Act (Government Code 7282.5: Government Code 7284.2 et seq) - these federal immigration agencies include Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), or (3) any purpose that would assist another state to carry out enforcement actions that violate California laws.
611.3 PRIVACY
The use of the UAS potentially involves privacy considerations. Absent a warrant or exigent circumstances, operators and observers shall adhere to FAA altitude regulations and shall not intentionally record or transmit images of any location where a person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g., residence, yard, enclosure). Operators and observers shall take reasonable precautions to avoid inadvertently recording or transmitting images of areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy. Reasonable precautions can include, for example, deactivating or turning imaging devices away from such areas or persons during UAS operations. 611.4 PROHIBITED USES
The UAS system, and all footage collected, is the property of the Los Altos Police Department.
Department personnel shall only access and use the UAS system for official and legitimate law enforcement or public safety purposes consistent with this policy. Any official legitimate law
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations - 2 enforcement or public safety purposes referenced in this policy shall be limited to purposes that comply with this policy and any applicable laws, including California Civil Code 1798.90.5 et seq (as amended). The following uses of the UAS system are specifically prohibited:
The UAS video surveillance equipment shall not be used:
• To conduct random surveillance activities.
• To target a person based solely on actual or perceived characteristics, such as race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, economic status, age, cultural group, or disability. • To harass, intimidate, or discriminate against any individual or group. • Use based on a protected characteristic: It is prohibited to use the UAS system files or Hot Lists solely based on a person's or group's race, gender, gender identity, religion, political affiliation, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, age, or other classification protected by law.
• To conduct personal business of any type.
The UAS shall not be weaponized.
611.5 AUTHORIZED USE
UAS may only be utilized for the following specified situations:
1. Mass casualty incidents (e.g. large structure fires with numerous casualties, mass shootings involving multiple deaths or injuries);
2. Disaster response and damage assessment;
3. Missing or lost persons;
4. Hazardous material releases;
5. Identifying, locating and apprehending non-compliant, threatening or combative persons who pose a thereat of injury or death to themselves, others or officers;
6. Suspected explosive devices;
7. Video/photographic documentation of crime scenes or collision locations;
8. Reconnaissance of incident locations that are inaccessible for fire apparatus;
9. Response to fires or post-fire investigations;
10. Sideshow events where many vehicles and reckless driving is present;
11. Rescue operations;
12. Conduct inspections of the City's utility infrastructure (e.g. electric, fiber, water, sewer, etc.) to detect leaks or stressed assets.
13. Training flights as required to meet FAA and Department certification standards;
14. Hazardous situations which present a high risk to officer and/or public safety, to include:
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations - 3 (a) Armed suicidal persons;
(b) Hostage situations;
(c) Barricaded suspects;
15. Arrest of armed and/or dangerous persons
16. Locating suspect(s) who have fled from lawful detention;
17. Locating suspects attempting to conceal themselves to avoid arrest
18. Planning for and s Service of high risk search and arrest warrants involving armed and/or dangerous persons
19. UAS product demos for the public at community events for educational and informational purposes
20. Other unforeseen exigent circumstances. Anytime a UAS would enhance public safety, improve operational safety, incident stabilization or incident mitigation on a call for service.
Unmanned Aerial Systems shall only be used for legitimate law enforcement purposes or to aid in other City divisions as guided by the above permissions. 611.6 REQUEST PROCESS
(a) All requests shall be routed to the Watch Commander, if they are not available, the Officer In Charge (OIC)
(b) The Watch Commander should contact the Captain of Operations, or their designee in their absence for reporting purposes, at the earliest opportunity. (c) The Captain of Operations, or their designee, is responsible for updating the UAS activity log within 14 days of use.
611.7 RETENTION OF UAS DATA
If available, any data collected by the use of a UAS should be purged by LAPD within 30 days if it doesn't contain any data of evidentiary value. If the data has evidentiary value, it should be uploaded into LAPD's evidence database and kept pursuant to the established retention guidelines set forth in policy 810-Records Maintenance and Release. 611.8 DATA SHARING
Los Altos Police may only share data collected from the use of a UAS under the following circumstances:
• The District Attorney's Office for use as evidence to aid in prosecution, in accordance with laws governing evidence;
• Other law enforcement personnel as part of an active criminal investigation; • Other City divisions as it directly relates to the prescribed in 611.5 Authorized Uses;
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations - 4 • Other third parties, pursuant to a Court Order or Search Warrant. 611.9 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The roles and responsibilities for UAS Program members are as follows:
(a) Program Coordinator—a Los Altos Police Sergeant who manages the UAS Program and ensures the program operates in accordance with all Federal, State and local laws, and within department policy and guidelines. In addition, the Program Coordinator will:
1. Maintain all training flight and maintenance records for each operator and observer, as well as individual airframes.
2. Remain up to date with current UAS case law, best practices, and industry standards.
3. Develop and maintain the UAS Operational Guidelines Manual
4. Evaluate airframes based on mission needs.
5. Maintain contact with the FAA and familiarity with the pertinent FAA regulations.
6. Ensure operators and observers stay current with their training and certifications. (b) Operator—the operator's role is to safely operate the UAS in accordance with all applicable law and policy.
1. The operator may reject a flight based on personnel safety or violation of FAA regulations.
2. The operator shall be responsive to requests and input from the observer in order to accomplish the safe and effective deployment of the UAS.
3. Operators are responsible for mission documentation and updating the flight book.
(c) Observer—the Observer's role is to assist in the safe and effective operation of the UAS. The observer shall:
1. Assist the operator in avoiding obstacles
2. Operate any attachments to the UAS
3. Remain alert for safety issues surrounding the operator and observer
4. Handle radio communications.