CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AGENDA
December 9, 2025 - 7:00 PM
In Person
PARTICIPATION: Members of the public are invited to participate by attending the meeting at the Los Altos Council Chamber, located at Los Altos City Hall, 1 N. San Antonio Rd, Los Altos, CA, during the meeting.
Public comments are accepted in person at the physical meeting location or via email to [email protected] or through the Public Comment forum on the city website: Public Comments Form.
RULES FOR CONDUCT: According to Los Altos Municipal Code, Section 2.05.010 "Interruptions and rules for conduct": Understanding that the purpose of the city council meetings is to conduct the people's business for the benefit of all the people, in the event that any meeting of the city council is willfully interrupted by a person or group of persons so as to render the orderly conduct of the meeting impossible, the mayor, mayor pro tem, or any other member of the city council acting as the chair may order the removal of the person or persons responsible for the disruption and bar them from further attendance at the council meeting, or otherwise proceed pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.0 or any applicable penal statute or city ordinance.
REMOTE MEETING OBSERVATION: Members of the public may view the meeting via the link below, but will not be permitted to provide public comment via Zoom or telephone. Public comments will be accepted in person, and members of the public may submit written comments by following the instructions below. https://losaltosca-gov.zoom.us/j/84286631448?pwd=OnavrneSIbEUZr9IBj5ItVJbXRbIaJ.1 Telephone: 1-669-444-9171 / Webinar ID: 842 8663 1448 / Passcode: 762262 SUBMIT WRITTEN COMMENTS: Before the meeting, comments on matters listed on the agenda may be emailed to [email protected]. Emailed public comments sent directly to the City Council, either as a group or individually, will not be included in the agenda packet but may be disclosable as part of a public records request. Emails sent to [email protected] will be included in the appropriate agenda packet and are also disclosable as part of a public records request.
Please note: Personal information, such as e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, home addresses, and other contact information, is not required to be included with your comments. If this information is included in your written comments, it will become part of the public record. Redactions and/or edits will not be made to public comments, and the comments will be posted as submitted. Please do not include any information in your communication that you do not want to be made public.
Correspondence submitted in hard copy/paper format must be received by 2:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting to ensure distribution prior to the meeting. Hard copy/paper format comments presented during the meeting will be distributed to the City Council the following day. Members of the public may present a copy of their comments or attachments to the City Clerk for distribution to the City Council.
The Mayor will open public comment and will announce the length of time provided for comments during each item.
AGENDA
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
ESTABLISH QUORUM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
CHANGES TO THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA
SPECIAL ITEMS
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Members of the audience may bring to the Council's attention any item that is not on the agenda. The Mayor will announce the time speakers will be granted before comments begin. Please be advised that, by law, the City Council is unable to discuss or take action on issues presented during the Public Comment Period.
According to State Law (also known as “The Brown Act”) items must first be noted on the agenda before any discussion or action.
Written Public Comment
CONSENT CALENDAR
These items will be considered by one motion unless any member of the Council or audience wishes to remove an item for discussion. Any item removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion will be handled at the discretion of the Mayor.
1. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Approve the Draft Regular Meeting Minutes for the Meeting of November 18, 2025
2. Adopt a Resolution - Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection Award the Base Bid for the Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection, Project WW-01011 to AIMS Companies, LLC. in the amount of $386,703.35 and authorize the City Manager to execute a contract in the amount of $386,703.35 and up to 10% contingency funds not-to-exceed $38,670.34 on behalf of the City
3. Adoption of Resolution - North San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project Agreement Adopt a Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the Master Agreement and subsequent Program Supplement between Caltrans and the City of Los Altos for the North San Antonio Road Complete Street Project
4. Adoption of Ordinance - Approving Los Altos Police Policy 709 Adopt Ordinance approving Los Altos Police Policy 709 pertaining to the funding, acquisition, and use of military equipment as mandated by Assembly Bill 481
5. Adoption of Resolution - Supporting Veteran Community Adopt a Resolution Supporting the Prevention of Veteran Suicides
DISCUSSION ITEMS
6. Acceptance of Residential Electrification Rebate Program Authorize the implementation of the proposed residential rebate program to support residential electrification and the City's greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals as outlined in the
adopted Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)
7. City Council Subcommittee Formation - City Attorney Performance Review Approve the formation of a Subcommittee of the City Council for a City Attorney Performance Review
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS / COUNCIL Q&A
There will be no discussion or action on Informational Items. The Council Q&A will be included in the packet the day of the meeting.
8. Tentative Council Calendar and Housing Element Update Implementation Calendar
9. Options for Filling a City Council Vacancy
10. City Council Q/A
COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS AND DIRECTIONS ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
ADJOURNMENT
(Council Norms: It will be the custom to have a recess at approximately 9:00 p.m. Prior to the recess, the Mayor shall announce whether any items will be carried over to the next meeting. The established hour after which no new items will be started is 11:00 p.m. Remaining items, however, may be considered by consensus of the Council.)
SPECIAL NOTICES TO THE PUBLIC
According to the City Council Norms and Procedures: It will be customary to have a recess at approximately 9:00 p.m. Before the recess, the Mayor shall announce whether any items will be carried over to the next meeting. The established hour after which no new items will be started is 11:00 p.m. Remaining items, however, may be considered by consensus of the Council.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Altos will make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please get in touch with the City Clerk at least 72 hours before the meeting.
All public records relating to an open session item on this agenda, which are not exempt from disclosure according to the California Public Records Act, and that are distributed to a majority of the legislative body, will be available for public inspection at the same time that the public records are distributed or made available to the legislative body.
1 Melissa Thurman
From: Roberta Phillips <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, December 5, 2025 12:45 PM
To: City Council; Public Comment
Subject: Consent Calendar North San Antonio Rd Project Item #3 Dec.9,2025 Attachments: Final OBAG3 Application - N San Antonio.docx (1).pdf Dear Council Members
I would appreciate you pulling Item #3 from the consent calendar.There has been no public outreach or discussion on this item by Council and the community.. As you know I have lived on San Antonio Rd for many years and have been following this proposed project that is an incomplete plan described as putting in protected bike lanes on San Antonio Rd. The OBAG application( attached below) does not provide any legitimate reason for reconfiguring the mediums. Such an action would cause trees to be removed. There have been no accidents between cars and bikes since the application was submitted. .
This has been verified by the police department. We don't need to solve problems that don't exist. There is no justification for spending $1,825,000.00 of taxpayer dollars.. The City Council supported protected bike lanes on El Camino. Since the bike lanes were installed , no cyclists ride their bikes on El Camino.
The protected bike lanes only hurt businesses by preventing street parking for their customers.
San Antonio Rd is the major evacuation route in the event of an emergency. The OBAG report suggests narrowing the driving lanes. Fire trucks and ambulances need to have free access in order to save lives.
These vehicles are larger and wider than cars. Any Plan needs to be publicly displayed,so that people can understand any proposed changes.
I strongly suggest you form a committee made up of ,but not limited to , residents who will be directly affected by any bollards or pylons placed in front of their homes. Bollards are unsafe and no one will drive over a pylon for fear that they will damage their car. As you know my husband passed away one and a half years ago. Prior to that , there were many occasions when the quick response by 911 emergency responders was critical in saving his life.
I believe you need to have the community buy in before proceeding. The road probably needs to be paved and the crosswalk lighting maintained. I ask that you make the residents' lives easier, not more challenging and provide proof that any changes would result in increased safety. To date that has not happened.
Sincerely
Roberta Phillips
One Bay Area Grant (OBAG 3) – County & Local Program
Santa Clara County Template Application Form (v1)
Project Information
Project Name: N San Antonio Road Protected Bikeway and Complete Streets Project Project Sponsor: City of Los Altos, CA
Sponsor Single Point
of Contact:
Marisa Lee
650-947-2626
[email protected]
Project Location: N San Antonio Road
Brief Project
Description:
This project consists of protected bikeways along N San Antonio Rd connecting key commercial areas, residential areas, Civic spaces, schools, Community Center, Library, Downtown Los Altos, new high-density housing, Caltrain, and El Camino Real transit lines. This project seeks to create safer, more comfortable streets for all users by implementing complete streets best practices including protected bikeways, better integration between transit and bicycles, enhanced crosswalks, preservation of existing sidewalks, and narrowed vehicle lanes. This corridor is a suggested route to school for two public schools in Los Altos. It is one of the few north-south corridors that traverses the entire city. This project also includes pavement rehabilitation in order to restore and maintain the existing roadway network, as well as streetscape improvements such as streetlights.
Program Eligibility
Federal Fund
Eligibility
Is the project eligible
for federal
transportation funds?
Select the OBAG 3 federal fund source(s) for which the project is eligible:
☒ Surface Transportation Block Grant (STP) Program (See FHWA fact sheet) ☒ Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program (See FHWA fact sheet)
Note: projects eligible for CMAQ funding must provide inputs for air quality improvement calculations, using templates provided on the OBAG 3 webpage.
Eligible Project Type
Is the project an
eligible project type?
Select the eligible project type(s) (refer to MTC Resolution No. 4505 for detailed eligibility guidelines):
Growth Framework Implementation
☐ PDA Planning Grant
☐ Local Planning Grant (for other Plan
Bay Area 2050 Growth Geographies)
Complete Streets & Community Choice
☒ Bicycle/Pedestrian Infrastructure
☐ Bicycle/Pedestrian Program
☐ Safe Routes to School (SRTS)
Non-Infrastructure program
☒ SRTS Infrastructure
☐ Safety project
☐ Safety Planning efforts
☒ Complete Streets improvements
☒ Streetscape improvements
☒ Local Streets and Roads Preservation
☐ Rural Roadway Improvement
☐ Community-Based Transportation Plan
(CBTP) or Participatory Budgeting (PB)
Process in an Equity Priority
Community (EPC)
☐ CBTP/PB Project Implementation
Climate, Conservation, & Resilience
☐ Transportation Demand Management
(TDM) Program
☐ Mobility Hub
☐ Parking/Curb Management
☐ Car/Bike Share Capital
☐ Open Space Preservation and
Enhancement
☐ Bicycle/Pedestrian Access to Open
Space/Parkland
☐ Regional Advance Mitigation Planning
(RAMP)
Multimodal Systems Operations &
Performance
☐ Transit Capital Improvement
☐ Transit Station Improvement
☐ Transit Transformation Action Plan
Project Implementation
☐ Active Operational Management
☐ Mobility Management and coordination
1
One Bay Area Grant (OBAG 3) – County & Local Program
Santa Clara County Template Application Form (v1)
Policy Alignment
Federal Performance
Goals
How does the
project support
federal
performance
measures?
Select the federal performance measures that are supported by the project:
☒ Safety: Significantly reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries for all users on all public roads and improve the safety of all public transportation systems. ☒ Infrastructure Condition: Improve the pavement condition on the Interstate and National Highway System (NHS) and NHS bridges and maintain the condition of public transit assets in a state of good repair.
☐ Congestion Reduction: Significantly reduce congestion on the NHS in urbanized areas. ☐ System Reliability: Improve the reliability of the Interstate system and NHS. ☐ Freight Movement and Economic Vitality: Improve the reliability of the Interstate system for truck travel.
☐ Environmental Sustainability: Maximize emission reductions from CMAQ-funded projects.
Describe how the project supports the selected federal performance measure(s):
Please describe
Plan Bay Area 2050
Strategies
How does the project
align with Plan Bay
Area 2050?
Describe how the project supports Plan Bay Area 2050 Strategies and/or Implementation Plan:
This project supports the following Plan Bay Area 2050 strategies: T1) Restore, operate and maintain the existing system, T8) Build a Complete Streets network and T9) Advance regional Vision Zero policy through street design and reduced speeds.
Complete Streets projects strive to make roads safe and comfortable for all roadway users, of all travel modes. This project will enhance a key corridor in Los Altos to promote walking, biking, and other micro-mobility through the construction of safe, comfortable bikeways and intersections. Because of the specific countermeasures selected for this project, it will also improve the safety of community members, particularly vulnerable users walking or riding bicycles by providing protected bike facilities and more space between travel lanes and sidewalks. The project advances MTC strategies from the Implementation Plan by creating infrastructure towards advancing regional Vision Zero policy through design. Implementing protected bikeways that traverse busy thoroughfares, such as broad avenues, is a proven strategy to reduce cyclist fatalities and encourage more community members to use active modes to access local destinations and transit.
This project maintains the existing corridor along N. San Antonio Road, which currently consists of two vehicle lanes in each direction, a bicycle lane in each direction, and a planted median. This project rehabilitates the pavement along the corridor, which is in need of repair. The route is home to a transit corridor. This project optimizes the route by adding protective buffers and vertical separation to the existing bike lane, while maintaining the other elements. This project would better integrate the bike facility with the transit operations by providing conflict markings and better-designed delineation where the two modes interact. Vehicles are fast-moving on this corridor and although an unprotected bike lane currently exists, it is not utilized to its full potential. The addition of protection for the bike lane is likely to lead to an increase in ridership as this corridor is a major connector between El Camino Real, other adjacent cities, several schools, civic spaces, downtown Los Altos, and Foothill Expressway.
The project contributes to healthy and safe streets. It protects a lane for bicyclists, which would greatly enhance bicycle safety on this corridor. The addition of the vertical element would slow cars by visually narrowing the roadway, and one or both vehicle lanes would be narrowed slightly from the existing width of 11 feet, further reducing vehicle speeds and making the corridor safer for all roadway users. 3
One Bay Area Grant (OBAG 3) – County & Local Program
Santa Clara County Template Application Form (v1)
Regional Policy
Alignment
How does the project
align with other
regional policies and
plans?
Select the regional plans and policies with which the project is aligned:
☒ Regional Safety/Vision Zero Policy
☒ MTC’s Equity Platform
☒ Regional Active Transportation Plan
☒ Transit Oriented Communities Policy
☐ Blue Ribbon Transit Transformation
Action Plan
Describe how the project aligns with the selected regional plans and/or policies:
This project aligns with the Regional Safety/Vision Zero Policy, MTC’s Equity Platform, the Regional Active Transportation Plan, and Transit Oriented Communities Policy.
Pedestrian and bicyclist safety and transit access are they key components of this project. The proposed protected bikeways would facilitate access from key neighborhoods and new high-density housing developments to Caltrain stations and transit lines along El Camino Real. The project would also vastly improve connectivity for people walking and biking between important commercial and Civic areas, local businesses, neighborhoods, high-density housing, schools, and workplaces.
This project aligns with the Regional Active Transportation Plan by creating and maintaining a safe environment for people walking, rolling, and bike riding. It provides connections to key destinations and corridors such as El Camino Real, downtown Los Altos, Foothill Expressway, several schools, Los Altos City Hall, Community Center, and Library. It would connect with the protected bike lanes along El Camino Real, approved by City Council earlier this year and planned for construction by Caltrans in Summer 2023.
The project aligns with the Vision Zero Policy by creating a space for biking that enhances safety along a major corridor that connects multiple communities, schools, commercial areas, residential areas, and work places. By installing these improvements, Los Altos is actively using a proven, data-driven approach to reduce fatalities and injuries. This aligns with regional vision zero goals to protect all roadway users, particularly vulnerable users such as children and seniors walking or biking, and to engage and incentivize local jurisdictions in prioritizing safety and aligning funding investments with safety goals. This project is evidence-based and equity-focused in alignment with the Regional Safety/Vision Zero Policy.
This project connects isolated communities with the region through human-scale transportation improvements, a huge part of the equity focus of MTC. The project will provide improved bicycle/pedestrian crossings better connecting to additional bicycle/pedestrian facilities across and along El Camino Real. This project centers the most vulnerable road users with the least mobility autonomy, giving access to low- to medium- income community members who may not be able to drive or afford a vehicle.
It aligns with local planning efforts including the Los Altos Complete Streets Master Plan (CSMP), and ranked #1 priority project for bike improvements in the CSMP. It aligns with Los Altos’ Climate Action Plan as well. The project contributes to the regional planning framework by connecting people to areas that will have future growth in housing, jobs and transit.
This project supports Transit-Oriented Development Policy by creating a viable means of traveling from neighborhoods along the corridor, and from many new housing developments planned or under construction in downtown Los Altos, along N San Antonio Rd to the Caltrain Station (connecting to Mountain View’s green bike lanes along the final short stretch of N San Antonio). It would also provide a safe route for these residents to travel to the transit lines along El Camino Real.
Regional Growth
Geographies
Does the project
support PBA
2050 Growth
Geographies?
Indicate the project’s relationship to Plan Bay Area 2050 Growth Geographies:
4
One Bay Area Grant (OBAG 3) – County & Local Program
Santa Clara County Template Application Form (v1)
Priority Development Area (PDA)
☐ Meets the uniform definition of a PDA-supportive project (within one mile or less of a PDA boundary)
☒ Does not meet the uniform definition of a PDA-supportive project, but otherwise has a clear and direct connection to PDA implementation
While this project does not fall in the regional PDA, it does meet those same standards for the City of Los Altos. This is a corridor where the city would like to see increased density and foot traffic, creating a clear network and linking key destinations. This corridor within the city connects retail, residential, downtown, the Community Center, the library, City Hall, restaurants, post office, banks, medical facilities, utilities, schools, gyms, fitness studios, salons, real estate, local markets.
Dense, walkable corridors at the city-scale serve to improve MTC’s broader regional development goals and address the transportation, development, and service issues that have driven this process for the region.
☐ Included in a locally-adopted PDA plan (e.g. Specific Plan, PDA Investment and Growth Strategy)
Locally-adopted PDA plan reference
Transit Rich Area (TRA)
☒ Within a TRA or otherwise supportive of a TRA (see Growth Geographies map) This project corridor is located entirely within the most prominent Growth Geography area in Los Altos, designated a High-Resource Area. It connects the community in the foothills, isolated by the Foothill Expressway with limited crossings, to the transit-rich corridors along El Camino Real and Mountain View with improved bicycle access.
What previously would have been a two-mile drive can be a relatively flat bicycle ride to access local bus routes and regional transportation hubs, like the Mountain View Caltrain stations. This project would provide a last-mile solution for all the neighborhoods along North San Antonio Rd who are trying to access transit on El Camino Real and at the Caltrain stations.
Priority Production Area (PPA)
☐ Supports the preservation of a PPA (see Growth Geographies map) Please describe
Equity Priority
Communities
Does the
project
invest in
historically
underserved
communities?
Indicate how the project invests in historically underserved communities, including Plan Bay Area 2050 Equity Priority Communities (EPCs):
☐ Located within and supportive of an EPC (see Equity Priority Communities map) ☒ Not located within an EPC, but is otherwise supportive of an EPC or other historically underserved community
In Los Altos, much of the workforce does not live in the City. These teachers, artists, retailers, construction workers, medical technicians, food service workers, etc., are still a part of the community. By creating bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure that connects to these broader networks, Los Altos provides access for its workforce commuters, many of whom may not be able to afford a personal vehicle. By opening up transportation opportunities for low- and moderate-income members of the community who travel from all over the Bay Area to participate in the regional economy, Los Altos hopes to give many alternatives to personal vehicle purchases and single-occupancy trips. Additionally, this project serves the public schools in this region of Los Altos, which are attended by elementary and high school students from Mountain View and other Adjacent cities.
Local Housing
Policies
Is the project located in
a jurisdiction with
policies that
support
affordable
housing?
Indicate if the project is locate in a jurisdiction that has adopted policies which support the “3Ps” approach to affordable housing by listing the relevant adopted policies for each element of the 3Ps. Additional guidance and resources on affordable housing policies are provided on the OBAG 3 webpage.
5
One Bay Area Grant (OBAG 3) – County & Local Program
Santa Clara County Template Application Form (v1)
☒ Protect current residents from displacement (with emphasis on policies that have demonstrated effectiveness in community stabilization and anti-displacement).
The City of Los Altos follows all State laws regarding protecting residents from displacement. The current Housing Element of the General Plan includes policy on “Preservation, Conservation, Rehabilitation, and New Construction.” The updated/new Housing Element is currently being drafted with extensive community input and is scheduled for adoption in 2023. It provides more up-to-date and thorough policy on the 3 P’s, including but not limited to: policy on the diversity and density of housing types, rezoning for RHNA shortfall, higher density housing in commercial and office districts, new affordable housing units, inclusionary zoning, affordable housing in-lieu fees, funding assistance, and compliance with current State Law.
City of Los Altos Housing Element 2015-2023:
- Program 1.1.2 – Help secure funding for housing assistance programs. - Program 3.1.1 – Support efforts to fund homeless services. - Program 6.1.1 – Discourage senior-only housing from converting to other uses. - Program 6.1.2 – Assist seniors to maintain and rehabilitate their homes. ☒ Preserve existing affordable housing (with emphasis on policies that have demonstrated effectiveness in community stabilization and anti-displacement).
City of Los Altos Housing Element 2015-2023:
- Program 3.2.2 – Recognize the statutory requirements for transitional and supportive housing.
- Program 3.2.3 – Provide incentives and amend the City’s Zoning Ordinance for compliance with statutory requirements for single-room occupancy residences to address the needs of extremely low-income households.
- Program 4.1.1 – Monitor condominium conversion.
- Program 4.1.2 – Conserve small houses in areas of small lot sizes. ☒ Produce new housing at all income levels.
City of Los Altos Housing Element 2015-2023:
- Program 1.2.1 – Support rezoning from office to medium-density multifamily. - Program 2.1.1 – Encourage diversity of housing.
- Program 2.1.2 – Implement multifamily district development standards. - Program 2.2.1 – Provide development incentives for mixed-use projects in commercial districts.
- Program 2.3.1 – Implement density bonuses.
- Program 4.2.1 – Facilitate new construction of second dwelling units. - Program 4.3.1 – Assist in the development of affordable housing. Includes the following actions:
+ Transfer the City’s annual CDBG allocation to the County for projects that serve the Los Altos community.
+ Provide funding to participate in a multi-jurisdictional housing finance program (such as a Mortgage Revenue Bond or Mortgage Credit Certification Program). + Apply for state and federal funding on behalf of a nonprofit, under a specific program to construct affordable housing including persons with physical disabilities or developmental disabilities.
- Program 4.3.4 – Continue to encourage maximum densities. - Program 6.2.1 – Provide senior housing density bonuses and development incentives.
Community Support
6
One Bay Area Grant (OBAG 3) – County & Local Program
Santa Clara County Template Application Form (v1)
Community Support
Does the
project have
community support,
particularly if it is
located in a historically
underserved
community?
_________________
___
Indicate if the project has demonstrated community support through one or more of the following:
☒ Public outreach responses specific to this project, including comments received at public meetings or hearings, feedback from community workshops, or survey responses.
This project ranks as the #1 prioritized project in the Complete Streets Master Plan, scheduled for adoption this fall. The 2022 Los Altos Complete Streets Master Plan process included a community survey, interactive map, and conceptual design review. Additionally, there were four Complete Streets Master Plan Task Force meetings, eleven Complete Streets Commission meetings, three City Council Study Sessions, and three community workshops.
Specific to this corridor, the City received many requests and wishes to be able to more safely bike and walk to the destinations along N San Antonio Rd, including the library, community center, and local businesses and restaurants. Some comments from residents included:
"The existing Class II bike lanes north and south on high-speed San Antonio Road are inadequate and discourage bicycle commuting.”
“Need safer biking path to / from Caltrain Station alongside San Antonio Rd.” ☒ Project is consistent with an adopted local transportation plan.
This project ranks as the #1 prioritized bicycle infrastructure project in Los Altos’ Complete Street Master Plan, scheduled for adoption this fall. Prioritization was based on the vision and ranking criteria developed through months of community outreach, stakeholder outreach, and Complete Streets Commission discussion. San Antonio Rd is also called out as a priority corridor for bicycle improvements in the Los Altos Bicycle Transportation Plan, adopted in 2012.
Indicate if the project has demonstrated support from communities disproportionately impacted by past discriminatory practices, including redlining, racial covenants, urban renewal, and highway construction that divided low income and communities of color.
Resources for identifying impacted communities are available on the OBAG 3 webpage.
Community support may be demonstrated through one or more of the following:
☒ Prioritization of the project in a Community Based Transportation Plan (CBTP) or Participatory Budgeting (PB) process, or a local plan that includes the proposed project.
The City of Los Altos utilizes a Pavement Management Program (PMP) to maintain its 112 miles of streets. The Los Altos Complete Streets Master Plan recommends the implementation of miles of bicycle improvements and infrastructure recommendations. This project ranked #1 among hundreds of bicycle improvements.
This project would create a safe route for all residents of the community, including residents, workers, and students, to reach key destinations in Los Altos by bicycle. ☐ Endorsements from a Community-Based Organizations representing historically underserved and potentially impacted communities.
Description of CBO endorsement
Deliverability & Readiness
Project Readiness
Is the project ready to
be delivered?
Describe the readiness of the project, including right-of-way impacts and the type of environmental document/clearance required:
The project is ready to move forward and be delivered. All the improvements will be implemented within the public right-of way, therefore there will not be any right-of-way impacts, and there are no anticipated environmental clearance issues.
If the project touches Caltrans right-of-way, include the status and timeline of the necessary Caltrans approvals and documents, the status and timeline of Caltrans requirements, and approvals such as planning documents (PSR or equivalent) environmental approval, encroachment permit.
7
One Bay Area Grant (OBAG 3) – County & Local Program
Santa Clara County Template Application Form (v1)
n/a
Deliverability
Are there any barriers to
on-time delivery?
Describe the project’s timeline and status, as well as the sponsor’s ability to meet the January 31, 2027 obligation deadline:
The City of Los Altos will be able to meet the January 31, 2027 obligation deadline, and it is anticipated that upon design finalization, construction can commence rapidly.
Identify any known risks to the project schedule, and how the CTA and project sponsor will mitigate and respond to those risks:
This project does not anticipate any additional risks, aside from possible COVID or supply chain setbacks that are generally affecting the broader construction industry, and will be working closely with construction contractors and county public health guidance to mitigate that risk. Material and labor sourcing will be included in the timeline, and public health orders will be followed as mandated by the county and state.
Project Cost & Funding
Grant Minimum
Does the project meet
the minimum grant size
requirements?
☒ Project meets the minimum grant size requirements. Projects must be a minimum of $500,000 for counties with a population over 1 million (Alameda, Contra Costa, and Santa Clara counties) and $250,000 for counties with a population under one million (Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Solano, and Sonoma counties).
Exception request to minimum grant size
Local Match
Does the project meet
local match
requirements?
☒ Project sponsor will provide a local match of at least 11.47% of the total project cost.
Los Altos will provide at least a 20% match of the total project cost using a combination of CIP funds, including Annual Bike and Pedestrian Access Improvements, Annual Concrete Repair, Annual ADA Improvements, Annual Street Striping, Annual Transportation Enhancements, and Annual Street Resurfacing.
Additional Criteria
Fix-It First Road
Preservation
Preservation of the local
streets and roads on
federally eligible
arterials and collectors
☐ Project meets the requirements for federal-aid eligible system. Confirmation is required through the Highway Performance Monitoring System and attached to the application prior to award of funds.
Please describe and include location map(s) indicating segment(s).
Project Benefits
What are the merits of
the project beyond
adherence to PBA 2050
policies?
Describe the project’s benefits, such as addressing safety, gap closure or connectivity, VMT reduction, planned housing density with a transportation nexus, transportation to housing and/or jobs.
The Los Altos N. San Antonio Complete Streets project will address safety, gap closure/connectivity, and VMT reduction through the construction of safe, comfortable bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. The N. San Antonio corridor currently represents a significant barrier to safe travel by people walking, biking, or rolling from one end of the City to the other, including to key commercial destinations, residential areas, downtown, the library, the community center, city hall, and countless local businesses, restaurants, and stores. The improvements will create defined space, separating pedestrians and cyclists from motor vehicle traffic, eliminating conflicts due to speed differentials, and reducing chances of vulnerable road users being hit. This corridor will be safer for these vulnerable roadways users and will provide a connection where a gap currently exists. Additionally, because these improvements are specifically engineered for people walking or riding bicycles, this creates a new connection currently viewed by the public as not safe for people biking. This new connection could further incentivize travel and time spent without a personal vehicle. The area along the N. San Antonio corridor is currently seeing an influx of high-density housing development, and residents in these new developments may create additional demand for the car-free lifestyle that is convenient and attractive when living near downtown and along a corridor that is well-designed for bike and transit use. 8
One Bay Area Grant (OBAG 3) – County & Local Program
Santa Clara County Template Application Form (v1)
The narrowing of existing vehicle lanes along N. San Antonio is also designed to reduce the speed of motor vehicles in the project area. This project will reduce the frequency and potential severity of injury collisions within the project area by reducing speeding.
The effect of reducing vehicle lane widths from 12+ feet wide to 10 feet can reduce vehicle speeds by 6.6 mph (FHWA-SA-07-011, 2007).
The Complete Streets project will also reduce congestion, as these improvements will likely increase the number of people walking and biking along this corridor between neighborhoods, commercial destinations, transit stops, and civic spaces. More families walking and rolling will reduce the amount of car traffic, thereby reducing related congestion on collectors, arterials, and local streets.
Finally, this project will facilitate Los Altos community members and residents to be more sustainable by making different transportation modes more appealing, which plays a significant role in reducing congestion and encouraging walking/biking. All of these will reduce measured pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, CO, VOC, and NOx, most notably those associated with on-road mobile source emissions.
Program Category(ies) Sponsors: please indicate in which program category(ies) you are applying. □ Fix-it-First ⌧ Complete Streets ⌧ Safe Routes to School □ Planning 9
One Bay Area Grant (OBAG 3) – County & Local Program
Santa Clara County Template Application Form (v1)
Project Cost & Funding
OBAG 3 Grant Request:
Total Grant Request $ 7,298,096
Project Cost & Schedule:
Project Phases Total Cost
Secured Funds Unsecured Funds Schedule
(Start dates: Planned,
Actual)
Amount Fund Sources
OBAG 3 Grant
Request
Remaining Funding
Needed
Planning/
Conceptual
$0 $0 Secured fund sources, notes $ $ Month/Year
Environmental
Studies (PA&ED)
$0 $0 Secured fund sources, notes $ $ September 2022
Design
Engineering
(PS&E)
$ 1,403,480 $280,696 Local City Funds $1,122,784 $ March 2023 Right-of-way $0 $0 Secured fund sources, notes $ $ Month/Year Construction $7,719,140 $1,543,828 Local City Funds $6,175,312 $ July 2024 Total $9,122,620 $1,824,524 $7,298,096 $
Project Investment by Mode:
Mode
Share of project
investment
Auto 35%
Transit 15%
Bicycle/Pedestrian 50%
Other %
Total 100%
10
1 Melissa Thurman
From: David Cain <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 7, 2025 8:55 AM
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT AGENDA ITEM #6 - Dec 9, 2025
Attachments: LA City Council Email Exhibit - Mtg Item 6 12.9.25.pdf Dear City Council Members,
We are gratified . . . more than that . . . we are thrilled to see the staff recommendation concerning an incentive program to replace home appliances with heat pump water heaters and heat pump hvac systems. This program aligns with what our Electrification Collaboration is all about. And we strongly urge the Council to move forward. Not only will this program make meaningful progress on CAAP Goal 2.3, but it is symbolically important as well. It will help shift residents' attitudes towards tackling climate change at ground level across our community.
The success of this program will depend on getting the word out, building on conversations, stoking imaginations, connecting the dots, and praising residents who participate. We would like to partner with the city on this program and work together with our fellow collaborators to make this not just a City program but a Community program. Please call on us for support.
Fyi. pls. see attached exhibit showing water heater installed life cost comparison based on Staff data.
Thank you.
Dave Cain, EC Coordinator
To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.
Exhibit: Total Water Heater Lifetime Ownership Cost
Comparison for Proposed Los Altos Rebate Program
Note: Analysis is warrantee water heater lifetimes using current and projected electricity and gas rates as well as impacts of customer switching. Climate pollution costs are calculated using representative social cost of climate pollution and health impacts cited by Bay Area Air Quality Management District. HPWH is not completely pollution free because this is PG&E and not Silicon Valley Clean Energy. Intergenerational climate pollution cost comparison, e.g., for Los Alto newborns over their lifetimes show much greater cost diƯerential for the gas water heater pollution as compared to that for the heat pump water heater than is shown here.
1 Melissa Thurman
From: Maria Bautista <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 7, 2025 10:17 AM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment City Council 12 09 25: Item #3 North San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project Agreement
Dear City Council,
Please pull from the Consent Calendar Item #3 North San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project Agreement, and provide for the community a clear idea of what a commitment to ~$7 million of federal funding implies, and when the potential transformation of San Antonio Road will be publicly discussed with opportunity for input and extensive review as expected.
Before the City takes steps to alter our beautiful and signature tree-lined boulevard and gateway to town by likely removing mature trees and possibly adding the same plastic traffic devices that we now experience on El Camino Real, the public needs details, alternatives and an opportunity for discussion.
Questions include:
-Traffic speed is a stated concern: Why are we not reducing the speed limit on San Antonio to 25 MPH as most cities would?
-San Antonio is a high-stress street. Why does the 2022 OBAG application form suggest it is the main corridor for safe routes to school? Our Complete Street Master Plan (CSMP) includes a Los Altos Loop that avoids San Antonio. Bike routes are usually on low-stress streets. The City of Palo Alto just abandoned plans to install bike devices on high-stress streets. -Why is the Master Agreement and supplement to which City Council is agreeing not included in the agenda packet?
-To date, there have been no details made public on the San Antonio Road plan unlike other streets within Los Altos (some proposed/some rejected- see Complete Street Master Plan). What’s the plan? And why are we not talking about it in public?
The two prior public meetings Staff references in the Dec 9, 2025, agenda also had this item on the Consent Calendar items with no discussion:
1. On June 13, 2023, when the OBAG Grant Funding was on the Consent Calendar neither a description of the project nor a copy of the complete application was addended to the resolution.
2. The Complete Streets Master Plan (CSMP) adoption on October 25, 2022 was also on the Consent Calendar.
2 In the 2022 CSMP, the three online community meetings that are noted as “community outreach” have no mention of San Antonio Road. The three online community workshops focused on roadways as follow:
1. January 27, 2021: Clark Ave, Covington Road, Gordon Avenue and Miramonte/Berry
2. February 24, 2021: Loyola Corners, El Camino Real, Casita Way, Alvarado and St Joseph Avenue
3. March 31, 2021: Almond Avenue, Jardin Drive, Valencia Drive, Panchita Way, Los Ninos Way and Distel Drive.
Further, the CSMP includes Concept Plan Line Drawings for all of the above, and none for San Antonio Road.
CSMP Community online survey results submitted by approximately 300 respondents spoke only to general use/habits and not specific locations or proposed projects within Los Altos.
In a letter dated April 27, 2022, from Stacy Banerjee the Complete streets Commission Chair:
“This commission would like to emphasize that the Complete Streets Master Plan is not a design document or construction plan. Every individual project will always go through the City’s standard and extensive review process including opportunity for public input, engineering attention and thorough review by the Complete Streets Commission- after the Complete Streets Master Plan is adopted.” Please pull and forward Item #3 to a future agenda when Staff can provide the public with a complete and comprehensive update on potential changes to San Antonio Road.
Thank you,
Maria Bautista
1 Melissa Thurman
From: Pat Marriott <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 7, 2025 11:28 AM
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM #3 CONSENT CALENDAR DECEMBER 9, 2025 Council Members:
Please pull Item #3, North San Antonio Road, from the Consent Calendar. Residents need a clear picture of what the road would look like if the city goes forward with changes.
The staff report says:
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
• Complete Streets Master Plan Unanimous Adoption on October 25, 2022 • OBAG3 Grant Funding for N. San Antonio Rd Complete Street Project on June 13, 2023
Does Council remember what was in the Complete Streets Master Plan for North San Antonio? I do not, so I looked it up. It's full of tables, maps that are difficult to understand, and lots of suggestions. For example, page 94 says:
The Complete Streets Commission identified
Los Altos Avenue as a potential bikeway
corridor that could parallel the much busier
San Antonio Avenue corridor. A study is
needed to evaluate the impact of reallocating
on-street parking for Class II bicycle lanes
or other Complete Streets facilities. The
study should collect parking data at multiple
times of the day and days of the week to
understand current utilization. The study
should also collect input from residents.
Was that done?
Before you vote, I hope you will get answers to some practical common-sense questions residents are asking:
2 - How many cross streets are there along North San Antonio? Would cars be prohibited from making a right turn on red from those streets, as is the case on El Camino?
- How many driveways are on each side?
- How many driveways serve more than one home, e.g., in the case of flag lots?
- How many daily exits and entries are anticipated for each of the driveways? Each crossing of the bike lane presents a risk for drivers and cyclists, particularly with e-bikes and scooters.
- How wide would the bike lanes be? Those on El Camino Real are about 7 feet wide. Old mail delivery trucks are 6.25 feet wide, but new ones are 7 feet. How will trash pickup work? How about deliveries? Delivery vans are about 8 feet wide. If they’re not allowed in the bike lanes, they’ll block a lane of traffic. - What kind of barriers would be used to protect the bike lanes?
- How will bike lanes be kept clear of debris?
- How wide would each traffic lane be? El Camino car lanes were reduced from the standard 11 feet to
10.5 feet. It's nerve-wracking to drive in a lane next to large SUVs and trucks.
- Will there be any changes to sidewalks?
- What would be the posted speed limit?
- If both car lanes are full and an emergency vehicle needs to get through, how will vehicles pull into the bike lane if there are barriers?
- What changes would be made to the median? Width? Plants? Trees?
3 Other relevant questions:
- Why did the former Master Agreement expire?
- What would a new one look like? Why isn’t a draft of the Master Agreement and subsequent Program Supplement included in the packet?
- Would $1.825 M still be an adequate contribution from the city?
We’ve seen the challenges created on El Camino when bike lanes were installed, yet it’s a rare occurrence to see bicyclists using them. I hope Council will not approve an outlay of public funds for the San Antonio Road project until residents have an opportunity to understand proposed changes.
Thanks for listening.
Pat Marriott
1 Melissa Thurman
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, December 8, 2025 1:51 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: San Antonio Road, item #3 consent calendar December 9, 2025 city council meeting I would ask the City Council to pull this item from the consent calendar and delay voting on it until numerous questions can be answered. Others have raised legitimate questions about how this will really work-for residents, mail delivery, garbage collection, emergency access, etc. There is also a question if other, more local streets, better serve bicyclists who go north from the downtown area. These questions need good answers and if the answers aren’t compelling, perhaps this really isn’t a feasible project as envisioned in the funding proposal.
San Antonio Road has high volumes of traffic which travel at 40-45 mph. It simply isn’t a safe road for bicyclists. We should ensure that there are good, safe ways for cyclists to get around Los Altos-but that does not mean every road should have bike lanes on them. There are other roads that are safer for travel which run parallel to San Antonio Road and which are better suited to bicycle traffic, particularly for students going to/from school. In fact, Los Altos Avenue and El Monte (along with neighborhood streets) are good alternate routes between Foothill Expressway and El Caminoand provide more direct access to the Mt. View Caltrain station on Castro.
As a parent who had a child bicycle to both Egan and Los Altos High, I know firsthand that San Antonio Road is not appropriate for student use and further there are many alternate, safer routes that go thru local streets to get from Foothill Expressway to El Camino. Better signage and more education to direct cyclists to these streets will provide a safer experience than encouraging use of a high speed, high volume trafficked road with many driveways and side streets. Furthermore, cutting down mature trees and removing landscape will simply make the road look and feel more like an expressway and will result in cars going faster.
While there is strong support among residents for better and safer bicycle access, there was no specific work done by the Complete Street Commission to conclude there was significant interest in an improved bicycle lane along San Antonio Road. The online community workshops in early 2021 focused on neighborhood streets including Clark, Covington, Gordon, Miramonte Berry, Loyola Corners, El Camino, Casita Way, Alvarado, St. Joseph, Almond, Jardin, Valencia, Panchita, Los Ninos and Distel. The online survey only queried general use and not specific locations. We need to focus our valuable staff resources and limited funds on the roads that will have the impact on the greatest number of cyclists. We should follow the lead of Palo Alto-they recently decided to prioritize their efforts on streets with less stress and fewer cars, instead of adding/improving bike lanes on high volume streets such as University, Middlefield, and Embarcadero Road. The rationale for the change included safety, lower car exhaust fumes and making the ride more enjoyable (information from article in the November 28, 2025 Palo Alto Weekly). Worthy objectives.
I do support improving pedestrian access along San Antonio Road by widening the sidewalks where feasible and adding more and better crosswalks across the busy road. But I ask Council to reconsider this project and get answers before pursuing a project with few benefits and far more undesirable consequences.
Jon Baer
1 Melissa Thurman
From: Terry Barton <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 8, 2025 4:07 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment - Item 3 - Dec 9, 2025 -Supporting Agreement with Caltrans for San Antonio Rd. Improvements
Dear Council Members,
I am in strong support of improving the safety of San Antonio Road for pedestrians and people on bikes, especially students.
Completing the agreement with Caltrans will be an encouraging first step.
As a teacher at Los Altos High School, and a bike commuter, I see how improving safety to encourage more students and workers to make trips by walking and biking reduces car trips and promotes physically and mentally healthy students who are more alert, more independent, and ready to learn.
Thank you for taking this important step to begin this important project which will benefit our youth and the entire community.
Terry Barton
1 Melissa Thurman
From: Sybil J. Cramer <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 8, 2025 10:03 PM
To: Public Comment
Cc: LAHS Green Team
Subject: Improving Safe Bike Lanes San Antonio Road
To: The Los Altos City Council
From: Sybil Cramer
Parent Liaison
Los Altos High School Green Team
Member, Safer Transportation group
LAHS PTSA Sustainability Committee
Honorable Council Members:
Since over 400 students ride bicycles to and from Los Altos High School and an equal number walk to and from campus and since the City of Los Altos is committed to protecting the safety of bicycle riders and pedestrians, I urge the council to Adopt the Resolution - North San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project.
I understand that the Council has already unanimously adopted the Complete Street Master Plan in 2022. And I understand that this is a council Priority Area for public safety and that accepting this agreement formally secures $7,298,000 in federal funds.
I urge the city to take the necessary steps, perhaps communicating with Caltrans and any other organizations or funding sources to make San Antonio Bike and Pedestrian Safety a reality.
Thank you for your attention.
Respectfully submitted,
Sybil Cramer
1 Melissa Thurman
From: Safe Routes DTLA <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 8, 2025 10:55 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Subject: Adoption of Resolution - North San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project Agreement
Dear City Council Members:
We implore the council to keep the San Antonio Road Project on the consent calendar and support the City staff recommendation.
We are ready for the long awaited design process to begin so that the community can provide feedback on the best design for making San Antonio Road safer for more people.
2 As you know the City received a $7.3 Million dollar grant to look into much needed improvements on San Antonio Road. This should not be a discussion item until a design is produced and there is something to actually comment upon - rejecting monies and a project simply because people don't want change is not reason enough.
If it is pulled off the consent calendar we would like to raise the following points as to the importance of adding bike lanes and improving pedestrian connections on San Antonio Road.
This project will improve safety and further invigorate downtown businesses. It is a great opportunity to connect the Community Center, Library, History Museum, Park and City Hall to the Downtown, and increase pedestrian safety for anyone crossing San Antonio road."
This leg of San Antonio Road is also a key thoroughfare for multiple schools. As many parents consider biking to be unsafe, many parents drive their children to school instead of allowing them to bike or walk. Creating the condition for just 10% more students of LAHS to bike or walk to school would take 220 cars off the road for morning and evening school commutes.
As the adoption of e-bikes and other micro-mobility vehicles on the rise, this is a unique opportunity to be ahead of the curve and to build our infrastructure in a way that embraces
multimodal transportation.
While we understand there is concern with residents with homes on the street having a harder time exiting their drives, this can be
3 designed around and the greater good of a safer and more connected San Antonio should be explored. It would be a shame to lose such significant funding that can improve safety and increase mobility in our City.
Sincerely,
Jill Woodford, Harry Guy, Taylor Robinson, and Marc Sidel Safe Routes to Downtown Los Altos
1 Melissa Thurman
From: Linnea Forslin <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 8, 2025 11:51 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Caltrans Project Remaining on Consent Calendar Hello,
I'm a student at Los Altos High School, and I wanted to share some input on the Caltrans bike safety project, especially since recent concerns may lead to the project being removed from tomorrow's agenda for later discussion.
I am a part of Los Altos High School's environmental club, Green Team, which has been doing monthly bike counts to see how much of our student population bikes. Last month, we counted roughly 350 bikes, which is around 15.7% of the student population—in other words, around 1 in 6 Los Altos High School students bike to school.
While this number may not seem significant, it's important to note that safer bike routes would certainly encourage even more students to bike. I have several friends who are driven to school, or choose to walk instead, because their parents are concerned about the potential for bike accidents. Recently, I've also noticed that the San Antonio bike path (from El Camino Real to Almond Avenue by Los Altos High School) has become more difficult to navigate due to road repairs that have left large chunks of concrete on the bike path.
The key point is that although bikers may not be as frequent as drivers at this time, as a bike-friendly community, making bike paths safer should be a priority. Additionally, I know there were concerns that concrete bollards could damage cars, but from my understanding, that would only occur if a driver actually were to run into them. This is also something that can most likely be addressed in the design process. Perhaps I'm missing something, but it's not completely clear to me why this would be a reason to delay discussion on this project.
For the long-term benefit of students and the community, I think it's important that this project is discussed now rather than postponed any further. While other concerns, like tree removal and cost, are certainly valid, they will not improve with time—in fact, it will only become more difficult to carry out this project the longer we wait.
Thank you for your time!
1 Melissa Thurman
From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, December 9, 2025 10:59 AM
To: Public Comment; City Council
Subject: Support for 12/9/25 Meeting Agenda #6: Heat Pump Rebates Esteemed Mayor, Vice Mayor and Council Members:
GreenTown Los Altos thanks the City Council for furthering decarbonization efforts in our City to promote a safe and healthy environment for our residents.
We support the approval of the $75,000 allocated for $1,000 rebates for replacing gas appliances with heat pump space and water heaters. Administering this program through SVCE has been proven to be efficient by neighboring cities. This extra incentive, that offsets some of the incremental expense in upgrading base gas appliances, is a necessary accelerator to eliminating the harmful gas appliances. It focuses on the two home appliances that contribute about 90% of a home’s nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. In 2019, those home NOx emissions exceeded those produced by the transportation sector. This very important program will also drive the education of the benefits of electrification.
If passed, GreenTown Los Altos looks forward to working with the City to help promote this program.
We offer our support and remain grateful for your efforts.
Thank you,
Connie Miller
Vice President, Clean Air Lead
GreenTown Los Altos
650-279-7074
1 Melissa Thurman
From: caroline horn <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, December 9, 2025 1:41 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Dec 9 Consent Calendar Item 3
Dear Council members,
Please include Item 3 on the consent calendar at tonight's meeting. My understanding is that this is the first step in working with Caltrans to develop San Antonio as a Complete Street from El Camino to Foothill Expressway. Our city has been awarded a multimillion dollar grant for this work and I'd hate to seen that left on the table. I also understand the project is not even in the design phase, so the configurations are to be determined. As you probably know, the cities of Mountain View and Palo Alto are about to start a similar project on their portion of San Antonio, so the timing is very propitious. In my experience, most things get more expensive if they are delayed! Why am I so interested in this topic?
I am part of a parents' group at Los Altos High School that tries to encourage our students to use ABC, anything but a car. However, consistenly, we note the lack of safe bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, both in our city and in the neighboring towns. Fortunately for us, these other towns are starting to implement major changes that will increase the likelihood of students using active transportation.
Even a 10% increase in cycling and walking to the high school would result in 200 fewer cars coming into our neighborhood streets. This will not happen with the current infrastructure.
San Antonio is a major route to schools and downtown, and we should facilitate the flow of bike and pedestrian traffic--not have it stop at the border of Los Altos.
Imagine being able to bike all the way from El Camino to downtown without being afraid of being hit by a car.
Imagine a family with young children biking to the library or the Community Center without worrying about their young riders. A protected path could also be used by seniors with mobility devices. As an added benefit, think of all the parking spaces that would be freed up! Thank you for your kind attention to my letter,
Best,
Caroline Horn
Los Altos Resident
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: December 9, 2025
Prepared By:
Approved By:
Subject: Approval of Meeting Minutes
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the Draft Regular Meeting Minutes for the Meeting of November 18, 2025
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
FISCAL IMPACT
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
BACKGROUND
ANALYSIS
DISCUSSION
ATTACHMENTS
1. 11-18-2025 DRAFT Regular Meeting Minutes
CITY OF LOS ALTOS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2025
7:00 p.m.
1 N. San Antonio Rd. ~ Los Altos, CA
Pete Dailey, Mayor
Neysa Fligor, Vice Mayor
Larry Lang, Councilmember
Sally Meadows, Councilmember
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember
CALL MEETING TO ORDER – Pete Dailey, Mayor, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
ESTABLISH QUORUM – All Councilmembers were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Pete Dailey, Mayor, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
There was no Closed Session meeting held.
CHANGES TO THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA
There were no changes to the order of the agenda.
SPECIAL ITEMS
Issue Proclamation Recognizing November 12 - 18, 2025 as Community Foundation Week Pete Dailey, Mayor, issued the proclamation to Kathy Lera of the Los Altos Community Foundation
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
The following members of the public spoke during Public Comment:
• JoAnne Estill
• Barbara Loebner
• Roberta Phillips
• Nancy Martin
CONSENT CALENDAR
The following members of the public spoke regarding items on the Consent Calendar:
• Roberta Phillips (Item 8)
• Barbara Loebner (Item 8)
• Nancy Martin (Item 8)
Motion by Meadows and Second by Lang to approve the Consent Calendar. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
1. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Approve the Draft Regular Meeting Minutes for the Meeting of October 28, 2025
City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 18, 2025
2. Adopt the Proposed 2026 City Council Meeting Schedule Adopt the Proposed 2026 City Council Meeting Schedule
3. Approval of the 2026 City Council Reorganization Meeting Date Approve the meeting date of January 13, 2026 for the City Council Reorganization Ceremony and cancel the City Council meeting date of December 2, 2025
4. Acceptance of Treasurer's Report
Receive and file the City’s Treasurer’s Report for the quarter ending September 30, 2025
5. Acceptance of Investment Reports
Receive and file the City’s Investment Portfolio Reports for the quarters ending June 30, 2025, and September 30, 2025
6. Adoption of Resolution - Approve a Successor Memorandum of Understanding Adopt a Resolution to approve a successor Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Los Altos and Sanitary Truck Drivers and Helpers Union Local # 350
7. Adoption of Resolution - On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs 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)
8. Adoption of Resolution - Downtown Performing Arts Center MOU Adopt a resolution to extend Downtown Performing Arts Center MOU two additional years through November 18, 2027
9. Adoption of Resolution - Prohousing Incentive Program Adopt a resolution authorizing application to and receipt of HCD Prohousing Incentive Program Funds, in the amount of $580,000
10. Adoption of Resolution - Amendment No. 1 with Los Altos Chamber of Commerce Amend contract with Los Altos Chamber of Commerce
11. Adoption of Resolution - Amendment No. 3 with Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc.
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
PUBLIC HEARING
12. Adoption of Resolution - Vesting Tentative Map for a Multi-Family Project at 4898 El Camino Real
Hold a Public Hearing and adopt a Resolution approving a Vesting Tentative Map
City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 18, 2025
(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)
Jonathan D. Weinberg, announced that his law firm currently represents the engineering firm for the item on a separate matter, but that he does not have a conflict of interest on the item, which he confirmed with the City Attorney.
Sean Gallegos, Senior Planner, presented the report.
The applicant provided a presentation to the City Council.
Pete Dailey, Mayor, opened the Public Hearing.
The following members of the public spoke during the Public Hearing:
• Elizabeth Carter • Yanhou Mou
• Jing Xin • Jeanine Valadez
• Hui Zheng • Roberta Phillips
Pete Dailey, Mayor, closed the Public Hearing.
Motion by Weinberg and Second by Lang to adopt a resolution approving a Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM25-0001) for the creation of eighty-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). Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
13. Adoption of Resolution - Vesting Tentative Map for a New Mixed-Use Project at 996 Loraine Avenue
Hold a Public Hearing and 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 Jonathan D. Weinberg, announced that he had a previous working relationship one year ago with the engineering firm for the item, but that he does not have a conflict of interest, which he confirmed with the City Attorney.
Sean Gallegos, Senior Planner, presented the report.
The applicant provided a presentation to the City Council.
Pete Dailey, Mayor, opened the Public Hearing.
City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 18, 2025
The following members of the public spoke during the Public Hearing:
• William De Lange
• Henry More
Pete Dailey, Mayor, closed the Public Hearing.
Motion by Meadows and Second by Fligor to 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. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
14. Introduction of Ordinance - Review and Renewal of Ordinance No. 2023-489 Approving Los Altos Police Policy 709
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
Katie Krauss, Police Captain, presented the report.
Pete Dailey, Mayor, opened the Public Hearing.
The following members of the public spoke during the Public Hearing:
• Brian Jones
• Jeanine Valadez
Pete Dailey, Mayor, closed the Public Hearing.
Motion by Meadows and Second by Weinberg to introduce and waive 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, and approve the acquisition of the new items of military equipment. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
DISCUSSION ITEM
15. Adoption of Resolution- Contract for Drone as First Responder Program Adopt a Resolution to approve a contract with AXON for Drone as a First Responder Program
Katie Krauss, Police Captain, presented the report.
City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 18, 2025
The following members of the public spoke regarding the item:
• Jeanine Valadez
Motion by Weinberg and Second by Lang to adopt a resolution to approve a contract with AXON for Drone as a First Responder Program. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS ONLY
There will be no discussion or action on Informational Items
16. Tentative Council Calendar and Housing Element Update Implementation Calendar
17. 11-18-2025 Council QA
COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS AND DIRECTIONS ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS • Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember, requested a future agenda item:
o Informational item on the process of filling a vacancy on the City Council (Supported by Dailey and Meadows)
• Neysa Fligor, Vice Mayor, requested future agenda items:
o Formation of a subcommittee for an evaluation of the City Attorney (Supported by Meadows and Weinberg)
o Resolution or Mayoral proclamation recognizing mental health awareness toward the veteran community in Los Altos (Supported by Lang and Weinberg) ADJOURNMENT – The regular meeting adjourned at 9:18 p.m.
The meeting minutes were prepared by Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, for approval at the regular meeting on December 9, 2025.
_________________________________ __________________________________ Pete Dailey Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
The November 18, 2025, City Council meeting recording may be viewed via the following external website: https://www.youtube.com/@CityofLosAltosCA The City of Los Altos does not own or operate YouTube. The video referenced in these minutes was live at the time the minutes were published.
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: December 9, 2025
Prepared By: Jane Hou
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adopt a Resolution - Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Environmental Sustainability
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Award the Base Bid for the Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection, Project WW-01011 to AIMS Companies, LLC. in the amount of $386,703.35 and authorize the City Manager to execute a contract in the amount of $386,703.35 and up to 10% contingency funds not-to-exceed $38,670.34 on behalf of the City
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The proposed 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.
FISCAL IMPACT
Based on the low responsive and responsible bid, the estimated project costs are as follows. Any remaining project funds will be rolled over into next year’s CIP project for Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection.
Project Item Project Budget
Design N/A (in house)
Construction $386,703.35
Inspection and testing services $10,000.00
Printing/Environmental Doc/Misc. $3,000.00
Construction contingency (10%) $38,670.34
Estimated Total Cost $438,373.69
WW-01011 Available Funds Total $439,269.00
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
June 11, 2024; May 13, 2025
BACKGROUND
The City of Los Altos Engineering Division and MSC operate and maintain the sanitary sewer system for the City. As part of ongoing maintenance and replacement efforts, as well as
preparation of revised Sanitary Sewer Master Plan, staff solicits bids for sewer CIP projects to perform cleaning and television inspection of various sanitary sewer lines located throughout the City on an annual or bi-annual basis. Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection, Project WW-01011, for FY 2025/26 includes various sanitary sewer lines located throughout the southeastern part of Los Altos.
ANALYSIS
Staff released the construction documents for public bidding on October 16, 2025, posting the project to PlanetBids. A notice to Contractors was published in the Los Altos Town Crier on October 29 and November 5, 2025. On November 14, 2025, a total of four (4) bids were received for the Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection CIP Project WW-01011. The Bid Summary in Attachment 2 includes the bid results.
The base bid for the project includes inspection of approximately 108,242 linear feet of sewer lines, and the add alternative bid includes inspection of approximately 8,722 linear feet of sewer lines. Sanitary sewer lines included in the project range in size from 6 inches to 24 inches in diameter.
DISCUSSION
Staff reviewed the four submitted bids. The determination of the lowest bid was based on the total bid, not including the alternative bid. The lowest apparent bid was submitted by Mattucci Plumbing Inc.; however, the bid was deemed not responsive due to the lack of original or electronic bid bond submittal.
It is recommended to award the Base Bid to AIMS Companies, LLC., which was determined to be the lowest responsible, responsive bidder in the amount of $386,703.35.
AIMS Companies, LLC., has no deficiencies against its General Contractor’s license. No open violations for AIMS Companies, LLC. are listed in the Federal Government’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) database. The Company has been in business for twenty-five years and has satisfactorily completed similar projects for the City of Piedmont, the City of Mountain View, and PG&E throughout California.
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 AIMS COMPANIES, LLC. FOR THE SANITARY SEWER VIDEO INSPECTION, PROJECT WW-01011 FY 2025-2026 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $386,703.35 AND UP TO 10% CONTINGENCY FUNDS NOTTO-EXCEED $38,670.34 WHEREAS, the project, which consists of performing cleaning and television inspection of an approximate total quantity of 108,242 linear feet of various sanitary sewer lines ranging in size from 6 inches to 24 inches; and
WHEREAS, AIMS Companies, LLC. 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 sewage involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use.
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 $386,703.35 and up to 10% contingency funds notto-exceed $38,670.34 to perform the Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection, Project WW-01011.
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 9th day of December 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:
Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection Project, WW01011
Bid Opening Date:
November 13, 2025
CONTRACTOR BASE BID
ADD
ALTERNATE
BID NO.1
TOTAL BID
Mattucci Plumbing,
Inc. $336,160.26 $25,699.51 $361,859.77
AIMS Companies,
LLC $386,703.35 $33,990.10 $420,693.45
National Plant
Services, Inc.
$439,455.72 $34,021.96 $473,477.68
Pipe and Plant
Solutions, Inc.
$453,832.00 $34,888.00 $488,720.00
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: December 9, 2025
Prepared By: Steven Son
Approved By: Victor Chen, Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - North San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project Agreement
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
Circulation Safety and Efficiency
Environmental Sustainability
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the Master Agreement and subsequent Program Supplement between Caltrans and the City of Los Altos for the North San Antonio Road Complete Street Project
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Not applicable - This action is consistent with Class I Section 15301, Existing Facilities (c) Existing highways and streets, sidewalks, gutters, bicycle and pedestrian trails, and similar facilities, as activities associated with the project will include replacement of existing facilities with negligible or no expansion of capacity
FISCAL IMPACT
Accepting the agreements formally secures the $7,298,000 federal grant award and authorizes the delivery of a Capital Improvement Project totaling $9,123,000. The required local matching funds from the City total $1,825,000. The breakdown of these funds is detailed in the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) for the project.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
• Complete Streets Master Plan Unanimous Adoption on October 25, 2022 • OBAG3 Grant Funding for N. San Antonio Rd Complete Street Project on June 13, 2023
BACKGROUND
The North San Antonio corridor was identified as the #1 priority bicycle infrastructure project in the City's Complete Streets Master Plan, which was unanimously adopted by City Council in 2022. The project removes a significant barrier to safe travel while connecting many key destinations including commercial districts, residential areas, civic spaces, downtown, the
library, the community center, City Hall, local businesses and restaurants, several local schools, Caltrain, and transit corridors along El Camino Real. The project includes Class IV projected bikeways, improved integration between transit and bicycle lanes, high visibility crosswalks, pedestrian enhancements, and median reconstruction aligning with regional plans and policies.
The corridor is a suggested route to school for Almond Elementary School, Egan Junior High School, Los Altos High, and Santa Rita Elementary School. The proposed streetscape improvements would employ best practice street design principles to create designated space for each mode, separating pedestrians and cyclists from motor vehicle traffic, reducing conflicts between vulnerable road users and vehicles.
The current recommendation follows the City Council’s action on June 13, 2023, when a Resolution of Local Support was adopted. That Resolution successfully authorized the City to file an application for, and ultimately secure, the OBAG3 grant funding for the North San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project and committed the required local. Assurance was provided to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) that the City would deliver the project, which addresses the top-ranked bicycle safety improvement from the Complete Streets Master Plan. The Master Agreement now presented for adoption is the mandatory administrative step required by Caltrans to execute the grant and formally establish the terms and conditions necessary for the City to utilize the secured federal funding.
Master Agreement
The Master Agreement Administering Agency-State Agreement for Federal-Aid Projects is a standard requirement from the (Caltrans) for all local agencies receiving federal transportation grants. Prior to utilizing any Federal Funds, a Master Agreement Administering Agency-State that outlines condition of the funds needs to be executed. Per the agreement, to execute this agreement, the Council must adopt by Resolution, which formally execute and obligate the City to follow established terms and conditions under which the City is authorized to administer the federal funds.
Upon execution of the Master Agreement, staff can proceed to finalize a subsequent Program Supplemental Agreement specific to the North San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project.
The Caltrans' Master Agreement is foundational for the City's administration of all future federally funded transportation projects. Key provisions include:
1. The financial commitment of State-administered federal and state funded projects will occur only upon execution of the master agreement and program supplement agreements.
2. City shall conform to state and federal statutes, regulations, and procedures established in the terms and conditions of the agreements.
3. City assures that the contractors and subcontractors shall comply with federal and state administrative procedures.
4. City shall maintain and operate the project for its intended purpose until such time as the parties might amend the agreements.
5. City shall submit a final report of expenditures to Caltrans for each completed program supplement project.
6. City shall award a construction contract by competitive bidding only unless approved otherwise in writing from Caltrans.
Currently, staff received authorization from Caltrans to proceed with the design phase of this project on September 9, 2025. Before staff takes any further action on this project, the Master Agreement must be in place.
ANALYSIS
DISCUSSION
Approval of the Master Agreement is the necessary first step to formally accept the federal grant funds and initiate the North San Antonio Road Complete Streets Project.
The City is obligated to maintain and operate the project for its intended purpose (as detailed in Master Agreement provision #4) once it is complete. Should the Council decide to cancel the project at any point, any federal funds already expended on the project, including planning, design, or construction costs, must be reimbursed to the Federal Government by the City.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment 1 - Resolution
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS AUTHORIZING
THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE MASTER AGREEMENT AND SUBSEQUENT
PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT TO THE AGENCY-STATE AGREEMENT FOR FEDERAL AID
FOR THE SAN ANTONIO ROAD STREETSCAPE PROJECT FROM FOOTHILL
EXPRESSWAY TO EL CAMINO REAL PROJECT
WHEREAS, the Master Agreement between the City of Los Altos and the State of California has expired, and
WHEREAS, prior to utilizing approved Federal Funding for the North San Antonio Road Street scape Project from Foothill Expressway to El Camino Real, the City of Los Altos must execute the Master Agreement and subsequent Program Supplement with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and
WHEREAS, the Master Agreement and subsequent Program Supplement cover the procedures and conditions for the design, construction, and maintenance of a federal aid project, and a mechanism for reimbursement, and
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos has been asked to execute a Program Supplement to the Agency State Agreement for the North San Antonio Road Streetscape Project from Foothill Expressway to El Camino Real Project, and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby authorize the City Manager to execute the Master Agreement and subsequent Program Supplement with the State of California
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 9th day of December 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
__________________________
Peter Dailey
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
CITY CLERK NAME
City Clerk
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: December 9, 2025
Prepared By: Katie Krauss
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Ordinance - Approving Los Altos Police Policy 709
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Ordinance approving Los Altos Police Policy 709 pertaining to the funding, acquisition, and use of military equipment as mandated by Assembly Bill 481
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
November 18, 2025
March 25, 2025
March 11, 2025
March 12, 2024
February 27, 2024
April 11, 2023
March 14, 2023
September 20, 2022
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. Council approved the changes to Policy 709 on November 18, 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
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
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
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
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
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
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
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
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
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
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
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
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
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department ***DRAFT*** Attachments - 7 Attachments
Attachment
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2025/10/22, All Rights Reserved.
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: December 9, 2025
Prepared By: Melissa Thurman
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Supporting Veteran Community
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution Supporting the Prevention of Veteran Suicides
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT
N/A
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
N/A
BACKGROUND
During the meeting of November 18, 2025, Vice Mayor Fligor requested a future agenda item supporting mental health services for veterans in the community. This request was supported by Councilmembers Lang and Weinberg.
ANALYSIS
N/A
DISCUSSION
N/A
ATTACHMENTS
1. Attachment 1 - Resolution
Resolution 2025- Page 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
SUPPORTING THE PREVENTION OF VETERAN SUICIDES
WHEREAS, suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, affecting individuals, families, and communities across all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances; and WHEREAS, research shows that suicide is often preventable through early intervention, access to mental health care, community support, and the reduction of stigma surrounding mental health challenges; and
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos, along with the Town of Los Altos Hills, held its annual Veterans Day celebration on November 11, 2025, and reinforced its continued support and commitment to its Veteran community; and
WHEREAS, in 2021, the City of Los Altos adopted the Santa Clara County Suicide Prevention Policy, which is a comprehensive framework aimed at reducing and preventing suicides within the County; and
WHEREAS, the County’s Veteran Services Office has trained staff to meet with Veterans and assess their needs and provide support and local resources for Veterans and their families, including mental health screenings, peer support, crisis intervention, and a Veterans Crisis Line number 988; and
WHEREAS, by adopting this Resolution, the City Council aims to:
• Increase public awareness about mental health and suicide prevention in the Veteran community.
• Support training for community members, educators, and first responders in recognizing and responding to suicide risk.
• Promote the services and local resources available through the County of Santa Clara’s Veteran Services Office.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos wishes to support the prevention of suicides amongst veterans in the community and beyond.
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 8th day of December, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Resolution 2025- Page 2
___________________________
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
Attest:
___________________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC
City Clerk
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: December 9, 2025
Prepared By: Tania Katbi
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Acceptance of Residential Electrification Rebate Program
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Environmental Sustainability
RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the implementation of the proposed residential rebate program to support residential electrification and the City's greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals as outlined in the adopted Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)
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
No anticipated additional fiscal impact for FY 25–26. The City allocated $75,000 towards this initiative. Should the program prove successful, the City Council will have the option to assess and approve further funding.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
None.
BACKGROUND
The City Council directed the Environmental Commission and staff to establish an incentive program utilizing an initial $75,000 allocation to promote residential building electrification and achieve local climate action, GHG, and pollution reduction goals.
ANALYSIS
Since most of the City's Energy GHG emissions come from methane gas use in residential homes, focusing the incentive on high-impact upgrades provides a path toward meeting the City's climate goals as well as significant air quality and public health benefits. This relates to Strategy 2 in the CAAP - Facilitate Building Decarbonization.
DISCUSSION
The program will offer a local rebate for two high-impact residential upgrades. This targeted incentive is designed to serve as an additional financial encouragement needed for residents to commit to electrification, with the ability to stack with larger existing local, state and federal
rebates.
The goal of the program is to accelerate the adoption of high-efficiency electric heating equipment in existing residential buildings, which will improve local air quality in Los Altos and reduce GHG emissions.
The Commission and staff recommend $1,000 per appliance rebate. The rebate is intentionally positioned to supplement existing incentives, ensuring that the $75,000 budget is used to accelerate purchasing decisions rather than covering the majority of the project cost.
The program will focus on two key home appliances:
• Heat Pump HVAC Systems: For space heating and cooling. • Heat Pump Water Heaters (HPWH): For domestic hot water.
These appliances were selected for their significant impact on a home’s energy use and their ability to replace fossil fuel combustion with a more efficient, all-electric alternative.
To maximize efficiency and convenience for residents, Staff has coordinated with Silicon Valley Clean Energy (SVCE), who will administer the City's rebates. This approach consolidates the process, enabling residents to receive both the municipal and SVCE rebates through a single application submission through SVCE's website.
Appliance Type City Rebate
(per
appliance)
SVCE
Rebate
(per
appliance)
Total
Rebate
Heat Pump
Water Heater
(HPWH)
Replacing
gas water
heater
$1,000 $2,000 $3,000
Heat Pump
Heating
Ventilation, and
Air Conditioning
(HP HVAC)
Replacing
gas furnace
$1,000 $2,500 $3,500
Staff will retain the flexibility to adjust the rebate amount as needed to optimize program delivery and full utilization of the funds.
Average Appliance Costs and Potential Savings: The upfront cost for converting these two appliances typically ranges from $5,000 to $7,000 for a Heat Pump Water Heater installation and $15,000 to $25,000 for a complete Heat Pump HVAC system. By stacking the City’s $1,000 bonus with available local, state (SVCE, Golden State, TECH, etc.), and federal tax credits, residents can achieve substantial savings—reducing the total net cost of the HPWH by over 70% and the Heat Pump HVAC system by more than 30%.
Application Process: The program is designed to be a streamlined process for residents to replace a gas appliance with an electric one. Eligibility is open to residential buildings (single-family up to four units) provided the applicant has an active SVCE account and is replacing an existing gas furnace or water heater.
Participants must submit an online application through the SVCE website to reserve funds for 120 days before installation begins. After reservation, the resident hires a licensed contractor (or proceeds with a DIY project via proper permitting) to select the compliant heat pump appliance, apply for the required building permit, and complete the installation, which must include the removal of the gas meter. Once the project is complete and inspected, the resident can request the combined City and SVCE rebate payment.
Future Outreach and Program Planning: To inform future program development, Staff plan to create and distribute a survey to residents to understand obstacles to electrification and solicit input on future incentive programs.
Next Steps: Upon Council's acceptance of this informational report, staff will finalize the administrative and operational procedures with SVCE. Concurrently, staff will begin developing a local marketing campaign to promote the program.
ATTACHMENTS
None
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: December 9, 2025
Prepared By: Melissa Thurman
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: City Council Subcommittee Formation - City Attorney Performance Review
COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the formation of a Subcommittee of the City Council for a City Attorney Performance Review
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT
N/A
PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
BACKGROUND
At the regular City Council meeting of November 18, 2025, Vice Mayor Fligor suggested a future agenda item to create a subcommittee for a performance review of the City Attorney. The item was supported by Councilmembers Meadows and Weinberg.
ANALYSIS
N/A
DISCUSSION
N/A
ATTACHMENTS
None
City of Los Altos 2026 Tentative Council Agenda Calendar All items and dates are tentative and subject to change unless a specific date has been noticed for a legally required Public Hearing.
Items may be added or removed from the shown date at any time and for any reason prior to the publication of the agenda.
January 13, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
SPECIAL ITEM:
• City Council Reorganization Event
January 27, 2026 – 7:00 p.m.
CONSENT:
• Weed Abatement Declaration of Public Nuisance
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
• 81 Pepper Drive Appeal
• 4898 El Camino Real Appeal
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
• 1633 Dallas Ct. Tree Removal Appeal
• Number of Commissioners on Commissions
• Review of Council Norms
The remaining 2026 City Council agenda calendar items are pending and will be published at a later date.
PROGRAM SUB PROJECT INITIATION DATE HEU COMPLETION DATE STATUS Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
Budget & Hire Planning
Technician December 31, 2022 COMPLETED
Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
Amend ADU Ordinance
based upon HCD's letter 6 months or less COMPLETED
Program 6.G: Housing mobility
Allow more than one
JADU (at least two per
site)
with ADU Ordinance
Update COMPLETED
Program 3.H: Amend design review process and
requirements.
Eliminate 3rd Party
Architectural Review February 28, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 3.H: Amend design review process and
requirements.
Dismiss Design Review
Commission February 28, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 3.L: Eliminate the requirement of story poles. March 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 2.E: Conduct annual ADU rental income surveys.
Budget & Hire Housing
Program 4.J: Facilitate alternate modes of transportation for Manager March 31, 2023 COMPLETED residents.
Adopt VMT Policy &
Transportation Demand June 30, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
RFP-Permit Ready ADU
Plans July 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 1.H: Facilitate housing on City-owned sites. Financial Analysis July 1, 2023 December 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 3.D: Evaluate and adjust impact fees. August 1, 2023 December 31, 2024 COMPLETED Program 1.H: Facilitate housing on City-owned sites. Release RFP December 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 6.C: Target housing development in highest
resource areas. Initial Outreach September 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 6.D: Promote Housing Choice (Section 8) rental
assistance program. September 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 2.A: Continue to implement and enhance
inclusionary housing requirements. December 31, 2023 ONGOING Program 2.B: Establish an affordable housing in-lieu fee and commercial linkage fee. Housing in-lieu fee. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 2.F: Water and Sewer Service Providers. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 3.B: Modify building height in mixed-use zoning districts. Downtown Districts December 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 3.E: Ensure that the density bonus ordinance
remains consistent with State law. December 31, 2023 ONGOING
Program 3.H: Amend design review process and
requirements. Code Amendments December 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 3.K: Standardize multimodal transportation
requirements.
Bicycle Storage and
Charging Regulations December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 3.K: Standardize multimodal transportation
requirements.
Remove CSC Review of
Housing Developments December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 4.C: Allow Low Barrier Navigation Centers
consistent with AB 101. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 4.D: Allow transitional and supportive housing
consistent with State law. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 4.E: Allow employee/farmworker housing
consistent with State law. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 4.F: Reasonably accommodate disabled persons’
housing needs. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 6.B: Maintain and expand an inventory of affordable housing funding sources. Prepare Inventory. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED Program 6.E: Prepare and distribute anti-displacement
information. December 31, 2023 COMPLETED
Program 1.A: Rezone for RHNA shortfall. January 31, 2024 COMPLETED Program 1.G: Rezone housing sites from previous Housing Elements. January 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 3.G: Amend Conditional Use Permits findings
applicable to housing developments. March 31, 2024 COMPLETED Program 3.I: Allow residential care facilities consistent with State law. January 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 3.J: Explicitly allow manufactured homes consistent with State law. January 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 3.F: Reduce Conditional Use Permit requirement for residential mixed-use and
multi-family. September 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 1.B: Facilitate higher density housing in the
Commercial Thoroughfare (CT) District. January 31, 2024 COMPLETED Program 1.C: Allow housing in the Office Administrative (OA) District. January 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 1.E: Update the Loyola Corners Specific Plan. January 31, 2024 COMPLETED Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
Adopt-Permit Ready ADU
Plans December 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 3.A: Prepare a Downtown parking plan and update citywide parking requirements. Downtown Parking Plan December 31, 2024 COMPLETED Program 3.A: Prepare a Downtown parking plan and update citywide parking requirements.
Comprehensive Parking
Ordinance Update December 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 3.B: Modify building height in mixed-use zoning districts.
Commercial
Neighborhood (CN)
District December 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 3.C: Remove floor-to-area ratio (FAR) restriction at Rancho Shopping Center and
Woodland Plaza. December 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 3.M: Modify parking requirements for emergency
shelters consistent with State
law. December 31, 2024 COMPLETED
Program 2.B: Establish an affordable housing in-lieu fee and commercial linkage fee. Commercial linkage fee. December 31, 2025 COMPLETED Program 1.D: Allow housing on certain Public and
Community Facilities District sites and
facilitate housing on religious institution properties. December 31, 2025 IN-PROGRESS Program 6.G: Housing mobility
Allow housing on all
religious sites within the
City December 31, 2025 IN-PROGRESS
Program 1.F: Rezone Village Court parcel. December 31, 2025 COMPLETED Program 4.H: Provide additional density bonuses and
incentives for housing that accommodates special needs
groups. December 31, 2025 IN-PROGRESS
Program 4.I: Allow senior housing with extended care
facilities in multi-family and mixed-use zoning districts. December 31, 2025 IN-PROGRESS Program 1.I: Incentivize Downtown lot consolidation. July 31, 2026 Program 4.G: Assist seniors to maintain and rehabilitate their homes. July 31, 2026 ONGOING
Program 6.C: Target housing development in highest
resource areas. Follow-up Outreach September 31, 2026
Program 1.H: Facilitate housing on City-owned sites. Entitlement Review December 31, 2026 Program 3.N: Modify standards in the R3 zoning districts. December 31, 2026 COMPLETED Program 4.J: Facilitate alternate modes of transportation for residents.
Capital Improvement
Project for above head
pedestrian crossing
signals on San Antonio
Road near Downtown Los
Altos December 31, 2027
Program 5.F: Incentivize the creation of play areas for multifamily housing projects. December 31, 2027 Program 1.K: Participate in regional housing needs planning efforts. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 1.L: General Plan amendments. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 1.M: SB 9 implementation. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 1.N: Facilitate and monitor pipeline housing
projects. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 2.C: Assist in securing funding for affordable
housing projects. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 2.D: Encourage and streamline Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Ongoing ONGOING
Program 2.E: Conduct annual ADU rental income surveys. Annual Survey Annually ONGOING Program 4.A: Support efforts to fund homeless services. Ongoing ONGOING Program 4.B: Continue to participate in local and regional forums for homelessness,
supportive, and transitional housing. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 5.A: Monitor condominium conversions. Ongoing ONGOING Program 5.B: Continue to administer the City’s affordable housing programs. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 5.C: Restrict commercial uses from displacing
residential neighborhoods. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 5.D: Implement voluntary code inspection program. Ongoing ONGOING Program 5.E: Help secure funding for housing rehabilitation and assistance programs. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 6.A: Assist residents with housing discrimination and landlord-tenant
complaints. Ongoing ONGOING
Program 6.B: Maintain and expand an inventory of affordable housing funding sources.
Inform, Evaluate
Apply/Submit Ongoing ONGOING
Program 6.F: Affirmatively market physically accessible units. Ongoing ONGOING Program 7.A: Promote energy and water conservation and
greenhouse gas reduction
through education and awareness campaigns. Ongoing ONGOING Program 7.B: Monitor and implement thresholds and
statutory requirements of climate change legislation. Ongoing ONGOING
City of Los Altos
1 North San Antonio Road
Los Altos, California 94022-3087
MEMORANDUM
DATE: December 4, 2025
TO: City Council, City of Los Altos
FROM: Jolie Houston, City Attorney
SUBJECT: OPTIONS FOR FILLING A CITY COUNCIL VACANCY
The purpose of this public memorandum is to provide general information on the City Council’s options to fill a vacancy.
Controlling Law - Government Code Section 36512
When a City Councilmember resigns that office/position becomes “vacant.” As a general law city, the City of Los Altos (City) must follow the procedures for filling City Council vacancies set forth in Government Code Section 36512 (Section 36512). (See attached).
The City does not have an ordinance governing vacancies; however, the City has its adopted Norms and Procedures (Norms), which follow state law. Both Section 36512 and the Norms provide that the City Council must either fill the vacant position by appointment or call a special election within 60 days. (Section 36521(b)) See the attached November 11, 2006, City Council Special Meeting Agenda and staff report regarding a former City Councilmember’s resignation and City Council Resolution No. 06-33.
If the City Council chooses to hold a special election, the election must be held on the next regularly established election date not less than 114 days from the call of the special election, and the successful candidate holds office for the unexpired term of the former City Councilmember. (Section 36512(b)(1))
When the City Council decides to appoint the following applies:
• the appointment process must be completed within the 60 days of the vacancy (Section 36512(b));
• the appointment cannot result in a majority of the members serving on the Council having been appointed (Section 36512(d)(1));
• whether it will select an appointee internally or if it will solicit applications for the position;
• if it solicits applications, then those candidate appointee interviews must be held in a City Council meeting open session; and
• the candidate appointee must meet the state law requirements for the position, including residency and voter registration in the City.
1 North San Antonio Road
Los Altos, California 94022-3087
The length of an appointee’s term depends on when the vacancy arises. • If the vacancy occurs in the first half of the term of office and at least 130 days prior to the next general municipal election, then the appointee will only serve until that election that is schedule 130 days or more after the vacancy, and thereafter until the person is elected at that election to fill the vacancy has been qualified. The person elected to fill the vacancy shall hold office for the unexpired balance of the term of office. (Section 36521(b)(2)(A))
• If the vacancy occurs in the first half of the term of office, but less than 130 days prior to the next municipal general election, or if the vacancy occurs in the second half of a term of office, then the appointee will only serve for the unexpired term the former City Councilmember’s term. (Section 36512(b)(2)(B))
State law does not provide guidance on how to fill a vacancy that arises less than 114 days before the end of the term and next scheduled election. (Section 36512(d)(2)) I understand that some cities have decided not to appoint a person or hold a special election when the regularly scheduled election for the vacant seat will occur less than 114 days later.
The City Council Norms and Procedures were last adopted on January 28, 2025.
SECTION 2.
2.5 Appointment of Vacancy.
In the event of a vacancy of office by the death or resignation of any Councilmember, the Council shall appoint a new Councilmember within sixty (60) days after a vacancy becomes effective in compliance with the California Elections Code, unless the Council, by resolution, decides to instead call a special election. In the event of appointment, the Council shall determine the process for appointment prior to the application process and in accordance with State law.
Cai Gov Code § 36512
Current through Oh. 790 of the legislation from the 2025-2026 Regular Session, effective as of October 13.2025 Deering's California
Codes Annotated >
GOVERNMENT CODE (§§ 1 — 500000^0049) >
TMe 4 Government of Cities (Divs. 1 — 5) >
Division 3 Officers (Pts. 1 — 3) >
Part 1 General (§§ 36500 — 36630)
§ 36512. Filling vacancies; Tenure of office; Resigning city councii member casting vote on the appointment of successor city council member (a) If a vacancy occurs in an appointive office provided for in this chapter, the councii shali fill the vacancy by appointment. A person appointed to fill a vacancy holds office for the unexpired term of the former incumbent.
(b) If a vacancy occurs In an elective office provided for In this chapter, the council shall, within 60 days fiom the commencement of the vacancy, either fill the vacancy by appointment or call a special election to fill the vacancy.
(1) If the council calls a special election, the special election shall be held on the next regularly established election date not less than 114 days from the call of the special election. A person elected to fill a vacancy holds office for the unexpired term of the former Incumbent. (2) If the council fills the vacancy by appointment, the person appointed to fill the vacancy shall hold office pursuant to one of the following:
(A) If the vacancy occurs in the first half of a term of office and at least 130 days prior to the next general municipal election, the person appointed to fill the vacancy shall hold office until the next general municipal election that is scheduled 130 or more days after the date the council is notified of the vacancy, and thereafter until the person who Is elected at that election to fill the vacancy has been qualified. The person elected to fill the vacancy shall hold office for the unexpired balance of the term of office.
(B) If the vacancy occurs in the first half of a term of office, but less than 130 days prior to the next general municipal election, or if the vacancy occurs in the second half of a term of office, the person appointed to fill the vacancy shall hold office for the unexpired term of the former incumbent.
(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b) and Section 34902, a city may enact an ordinance that does any of the following:
(1) Requires that a special election be called Immediately to fill every city council vacancy and the office of mayor designated pursuant to Section 34902. The ordinance shall provide that the special election shall be held on the next regularly established election date not less than 114 days from the call of the special election.
(2) Requires that a special election be held to fill a city council vacancy and the office of mayor designated pursuant to Section 34902 when petitions bearing a specified number of verified signatures are filed. The ordinance shali provide that the special election shall be held on the next regularly established election date not less than 114 days from the filing of the petition. A goveming body that
§ 36512. Filling vacancies; Tenure of office; Resigning city council member casting vote on the appointment of successor city council member
has enacted such an ordinance may also call a special election pursuant to subdivision (b) without waiting for the filing of a petition.
(3) Provides that a person appointed to fill a vacancy on the city council holds office only until the date of a special election which shall immediately be called to fill the remainder of the term. The special election may be held on the date of the next regularly established election or regularly scheduled municipal election to be held throughout tiie city not less than 114 days fix)m the call of the special election.
(d)
(e)
(1) Notwithstanding subdivision (b) and Section 34902. an appointment shall not be made to fill a vacancy on a city council if the appointment would result in a majority of the members serving on the council having been appointed. The vacancy shall be filled in the manner provided by this subdivision. (2) The cify council may call an election to fill the vacancy, to be held on the next regularly established election date not less than 114 days after the call.
(3) If the city council does not call an election pursuant to paragraph (2), the vacancy shall be filled at the next regularly established election date.
(1) If the city council of a city that elects city council members by or from districts elects to fill a vacancy on the city council by appointment as a result of a city council member resigning from office, the resigning city council member may cast a vote on the appointment if the resignation will go into effect upon the appointment of a successor. A city council member shall not cast a vote for a family member or any other person with whom the city council member has a relationship that may create a potential conflict of interest.
(2) If a city council member elects to cast a vote under this subdivision, the city council member shall be prohibited from the following actions for a period of two years after the appointment of a successor:
(A) Advocating on any measure or issue coming before the dty council in which the city council member may have a personal benefit
(B) Entering into a contract of any kind with the city or a city vendor. (C) Accepting a position of employment with the city or a city vendor. (D) Applying for a permit that is subject to the approval of the city council. (3) This subdivision shall not apply to any city council member who is resigning from the city council due to charges of, or conviction for, corruption or criminal behavior, or who Is subject to a recall election.
History
Added Stats 1949 ch 79 § 1. Amended Stats 1975 ch 283 § 1; Stats 1977 ch 1205 § 89; Stats 1992 ch 136 § 1 (AB 2295); Stats 1993 ch 229 § 12 (AB 1282), effective July 29.1993; Stats 2010 ch 38 § 10 (AB 1668), effective January 1,2011; Stats 2014 ch 725 § 2 (AB 1795), effective January 1,2015; Stats 2015 ch 185 § 1 (AB 952), effective January 1,2016.
Annotations
Notes
NOTICE OF ADJOURNMENT
THIS MEETING WAS ADJOURNED TO 7:00 P.M., TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2006 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2006
2:00 P.M. - SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Community Meeting Chambers, Los Altos City Hall
One North San Antonio Road, Los Altos, California
ROLL CALL
DISCUSSION ITEM
1. Resignarion of Councilmember Kurt Colehower
Recommendation to:
A. Accept a letter of resignation from the City Council from Councilmember Kurt Colehower, effective November 8, 2006
B. Adopt a Resolution Declaring a vacancy on the Los Altos City Council and directing the City Clerk to post a "Notice of Intention to Fill a Vacancy on the Los Altos City CouncU and Advertise for Applications for the Vacancy"
C. Approve a schedule for accepting applications, interviewing candidates and appointing to fill the vacancy
2. Council Assignments
Recommendation that Mayor Packard assign intergovernmental positions formerly held by Councilmember Colehower
ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk 72 hours prior to the meeting at (650) 947-2720. A sound enhancement system is available in the City Council Chambers. You may check out headsets, which boost the public address signal during the meeting. Please ask for assistance from the City Clerk's office 24 hours PRIOR to the start of the meeting.
If you challenge any planning or land use decision made at this meeting in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing held at this meeting, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.
Kurt Colehower 650 947 0265 p.2
JSrURT COLEHOWER
1084PARMA WAY
LOS ALTOS, CA 94024
Honotable Mayor Ron Packard
Gty of Los Altos
Los Altos, CA
Dear Mr. Mayor,
I am fortunate to have had the oppottuiu^ for the last year to serve our community. It has been my pleasure to work with h^bfy committed and capable Council members and a Qty staff that is made up of real professionals.
Last year at this tim^ die citizens of Los Altos elected me to the Gty Council and I was looking forward to serving our community for four years. My commitment was made possible with the support of my £unily and a professional life which allowed me the appropriate amount of flexibility.
As happens in life, even the best plans have a way of changing.
Recendy, I was presented an opportuni^ which offers new and exciting challenges fbr me pzofessionalfy and is a career choice with long term implications. I have accepted a new job and win need to resign my position as a member of the Los Altos Gty Council, effective immediately.
This decision was not an easy c»ie and it has come after careful consideration. Given the travel requirements of die new job, I will not be in a position to serve die community and perform the duties of an effective Coundl member. I am happy to support you and the Gty during this transition.
I want to thank my fiunOy, fliends. Council members and Staff. I am also de^Iy sqipredative of those who supported my campaigin and gave me a chance to serve the people of Los Altos.
BCindr^ards,
Kurt Colehower
Attachment
RESOLUTION NO. 06-33
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
DECLARING A VACANT SEAT ON THE LOS ALTOS CITY COUNCIL,
DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO POST A NOTICE OF INTENTION TO FILL
A VACANCY ON THE LOS ALTOS CITY COUNCIL AND ADVERTISE FOR
APPLICATIONS TO FILL THE VACANCY
WHEREAS, Kurt Colchowcr wns elected to the Git)' Council of the Cit)- of Los Altos at a duly called and ordered General Municipal Election held in the Git)* on Tuesday, November 8, 2005, and assumed the office of Councilmember on December 6, 2005; and WHEREAS, a vacancy on the Council of the City of Los Altos now exists as a result of Mr.
Colehowers resigning his seat on the City Council, effective November 8, 2006; and WHEREAS, California Government Section 36512 provides for a manner to fill vacancies on City Councils; and
WHEREAS, Los Altos City Council Norms and Procedures Section 2.4 sets forth a process to fill a vacancy through the appointment process; and
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Council of Los Altos to the fill the vacancy on the Council in a manner provided by law as soon as practicable;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY' OF LOS ALTOS, CALIFORNIA:
1. That the Cit)' Council hereby declares that there exists a vacancy on the Cit^• Council
2. That it is in the best interest of the City of Los Altos to fill the vacancy by appointment to assure continuity in our local government
3. That the City Council hereby directs the City Clerk to post a Notice of Intention to Fill a Vacancy' on the Los Altos Cit\" Council and advertise for applications to fill the vacancy. 1 HEREBY CERTIFY that this resolution was duly introduced and adopted at a Special Meeting of the Los Altos Cit\' Council on the —day of November 2006, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Ronald D. Packard, MAYOR
Susan Kitchens, CITY CLERK
2006 COUNCIL ASSIGNMENTS
Mayor Ron Packard
Chamber of Commerce - Economic Development Committee
Communit\- Volunteer Awards Committee
Santa Clara Count\^ Cities Association - Board
Santa Clara Count)- Cities Association - Selection Committee Santa Clara Count)* Cides Association — Joint Policy Collaborative Mayor Pro Tern Curtis Cole
Cit)*/Schools Issues Task Force/ LASD Cidzens Advisory Committee for Finance Fire Ser\'ice Review
Personnel Committee
Count)- Librar)* JPA
Count)* Solid Waste Management Committee
North Count)' Libran' Authorit)'
Santa Clara Valley Water Commission
Communit)' Health Awareness Coundl
Councilmember David Casas
Santa Clara Count)* Cides Associadon — Director-at-large Citizens Financial Advisor)' Committee
City/Schools Task Force/LASD Cidzens Advisor)' Committee for Finance Community* Swimming Pool Task Force
Personnel Committee
Associadon of Bay Area Governments
VaUey Transportadon Authorit)' - Policy Advisory Committee Councilmember Val Carpenter
Los Altos Sister Cides
Community Swimming Pool Task Force
Fire Ser\dce Review
Santa Clara Count)* Cides Associadon - Legislative Action Committee Count)* Housing and Community Development Council
League of Cabfornia Cides - Peninsula Division
Councilmember Kurt Colehower
Citizens Financial Advisor)' Committee
Chamber of Commerce - Economic Development Committee
County Emergency Preparedness Council
North Count)* Libran* Authorit)*
Santa Clara Count)' Cities Associadon — joint Policy Collaborative (Alternate)
MEMORANDUM
DATE: November 14,2006
TO: Mayor Packard and Council
FROM: Susan Kitchens, City Clerk
SUBJECT: MAIL BALLOT ELECTION COST
I have received two estimates for the cost to hold a special mail ballot election. One is from the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters and the second is from Martin and Chapman Company, a private elections services company.
The estimates came as follows:
Santa Clara County:
$212,254 (includes all services including postage and signature verification) Martin &c Chapman Company:
$30,000 - for sample ballots and official ballots
8,200 - estimated cost for postage for baUots with a 50% return of voted ballots
40.000 - estimated cost for signature verification on returned ballots with 50% return ($4 per sig) $78,200 — very rough estimate with uncertainties
aul eslimi hf4-06.doc
RESOLUTION NO. 06-33
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
DECLARING A VACANT SEAT ON THE LOS ALTOS CITY COUNCIL,
DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO POST A NOTICE OF INTENTION TO FILL
A VACANCY ON THE LOS ALTOS CITY COUNCIL AND ADVERTISE FOR
APPLICATIONS TO FILL THE VACANCY
WHEREAS, Kurt Colehower was elected to the City Council of the City of Los Altos at a duly called and ordered General Municipal Election held in the City on Tuesday, November 8, 2005, and assumed the office of Councilmember on December 6, 2005; and WHEREAS, a vacancy on the Council of the City of Los Altos now exists as a result of Mr.
Colehower's resigning his seat on the City Council; and WHEREAS, California Government Section 36512 provides for a manner to fill vacancies on City Councils; and
WHEREAS, Los Altos City Council Norms and Procedures Section 2.4 sets forth a process to fill a vacancy through the appointment process; and
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Council of Los Altos to the fill the vacancy on the Council in a manner provided by law as soon as practicable;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS, CALIFORNIA:
1. That the City Council hereby declares that there exists a vacancy on the City Council
2. That it is in the best interest of the City of Los Altos to fill the vacancy by appointment or Special Election as soon as feasible to assure continuity in our local government
3. That the City Council hereby directs the City Clerk to post a Notice of Intention to Fill a Vacancy on the Los Altos City Council and advertise for applications to fill the vacancy, and to also explore options for holding a Special Mail Ballot Election I HEREBY CERTIFY that this resolution was duly introduced and adopted at a Special Meeting of the Los Altos City Council on the 11th day of November 2006, by the following vote:
AYES: CARPENTER, COLE, CASAS, PACKARD
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
Ronald D. Packard, MAYOR -
DATE: 12/09/2025
TO: COUNCILMEMBERS
FROM: CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE
SUBJECT: COUNCIL Q&A FOR DECEMBER 9, 2025 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR
MEETING
Agenda Item 1 (Minutes):
• Special Item, the proclamation was presented to “… Kathy Lera and Eileen Eng of the Los Altos Community Foundation”.
Answer: The minutes have been updated.
• Items 12 and 13: Add “Councilmember” after Jonathan D. Weinberg’s name.
Answer: The minutes have been updated.
Agenda Item 2 (Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection):
• According to the staff report, Mattucci’s bid was deemed nonresponsive “due to the lack of original or electronic bid bond submittal.” Isn’t this merely pro forma? If they can prove that they qualify for a bond, the City can save $50,000 on this project.
Answer: The requirement for an original or electronic bid bond is not merely pro forma; it is a material requirement under California Public Contract Code and the City’s procurement policies. A bid bond ensures that the bidder will enter into the contract and provide performance and payment bonds if awarded. Without a valid bid bond at the time of bid opening, the City has no financial guarantee that the bidder will honor its bid, which exposes the City to risk if the bidder defaults. Allowing a bidder to submit a bond after the deadline would compromise the integrity of the competitive bidding process and could be considered a violation of public contracting laws. It could also open the City to bid protests and potential legal challenges from other bidders who complied with the requirements. While cost savings are important, compliance with statutory and procedural requirements is mandatory to ensure fairness, transparency, and legal defensibility. Therefore, staff correctly deemed the bid nonresponsive.
Quotation from the specification language is provided below. “All bonds are to be secured from a surety that meets all of the State of California bonding requirements, as defined in Code of Civil Procedure Section 995.120, and is admitted by the State of California.”
• If Mattucci’s bid can’t be accepted, can the City reject all bids and send it out for another RFP? This would seem wise given that it will save the City $50,000.
Answer: Yes, the City Council has the authority to reject all bids and re-advertise the project; however, this decision must be made carefully. Under California Public Contract Code, rejecting all bids is permissible when it is in the City’s best interest, but it cannot be done solely to favor a particular bidder or to circumvent established procurement rules. Doing so could expose the City to claims of bid manipulation or unfair practices. Additionally, re-bidding will likely delay the project, increase administrative costs, and there is no guarantee that Mattucci—or any bidder—will submit the same pricing in the next round. Market conditions or material costs could change, potentially eliminating the anticipated $50,000 savings. • What is the total amount of sewer line in Los Altos? In other words, what proportion is covered by the 108,242 linear feet of sewer line in this contract? Answer: The City of Los Altos has an estimated 739,200 linear feet of sewer lines in its system (about 140 miles). The 108,242 linear feet included in this contract represents approximately 14.64% of the total sewer network.
• Are there recent examples of problems uncovered by such video inspections? Answer: Yes. The City conducts regular CCTV inspections as part of its Sewer Master Plan and annual maintenance program. These inspections often identify issues such as structural defects, root intrusions, cracks, and pipe sags that are not visible from the surface. For example, our current Structural Reach Project is directly based on findings from recent CCTV inspections combined with the Sewer Master Plan priorities. These inspections allow us to proactively address problems before they lead to failures, backups, or costly emergency repairs.
Agenda Item 3 (North San Antonio):
• Improving bicycle safety along San Antonio is important, but the road is also one of the main evacuation routes if there were wildfires in the hills. Are the project planners confident that two full auto lanes in each direction can be maintained with the contemplated bicycle improvements?
Answer: As a part of the study, we will be conducting an extensive traffic study to determine what is the ultimate build-out of the downtown area and the traffic circulation/pattern. Based on the layout provided as a part of the grant application, it did not show any reduction of lanes. Until a traffic study is completed, it is difficult to determine if there is any traffic lane reduction at this time. • A high voltage three-phase distribution line appears to travel along the median of San Antonio. Will PG&E potentially have to get involved with any re-engineering of the thoroughfare?
Answer: Staff will be working with the designer to ensure the new design will not have a impact on the PG&E line that currently exists along San Antonio.
• Would the project potentially include improvements to the awkward multi-point intersection at San Antonio, Main, and Edith? For example, could a traffic circle be considered as an alternative to the lengthy traffic light cycle? Answer: Staff will be looking at all options for this intersection. As a part of the project an extensive study will be conducted and all intersection along San Antonio will be evaluated.
• Is it accurate to say that this is merely an administrative action to effectuate the Council’s 2023 decision to make N. San Antonio a complete street? Answer: Yes
• What is the development timeline for this project?
Answer: Staff is still working through the process of ensuring we are in full compliance with the grant requirements. Staff anticipates awarding a Professional Contract to a team of consultants in early 2026. Staff anticipates that the design, and public outreach will take a full year to complete. Staff hopes to have constructed the construction contract awarded by mid-2027 early 2028.
• Will there be future public outreach on the design of the improvements to N. San Antonio? Answer: Staff will be conducting numerous public outreach events. Most of the public outreach will occur through the Complete Street Commission meetings. • Resolution: The first Whereas says that our existing Master Agreement has “expired.” Is that accurate, or are we planning to enter into our first Master Agreement with the State? If the prior agreement expired, then please provide a copy of the expired agreement.
Answer: The prior Master Agreement with the State has expired and each project has a unique Master Agreement. A copy of the last Master Agreement executed by the City is an attachment to the QA.
• Please provide copies of the proposed Master Agreement and Program Supplement.
Answer: Staff has not received the new Master Agreement at this time.
Agenda Item 5 (Veteran Support):
• In the future, for staff reports concerning suicide and related issues, please include the standard alert notice, along the lines of:
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. In life-threatening situations, call 911.
Good communications resources are available for veterans (and others).
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/docs/ safe_messaging_best_practices.pdf
• The first two Whereas clauses seem to be duplicates.
Answer: Thank you, this has been noted, and the resolution has been updated.
Agenda Item 6 (Residential Electrification):
• In the discussion section of the staff report, it says that the process for replacing a gas appliance with an electric appliance (HPWH or HPHVAC) and be eligible for an incentive requires the removal of the gas meter. How can we require this removal if only one or two appliances are being replaced and there may still be other gas appliances or uses in the home, such as a gas stove, fireplace, clothes dryer or outdoor equipment such as a gasplumbed barbecue or a pool heater? If this language stays in, then in reality aren’t the incentives only available to those who are going fully electric and can therefore cap off their gas?
Answer: Staff apologizes for the misunderstanding in the staff report. The correct technical procedure is capping the gas line in that specific location after the gas appliance has been removed. The gas meter for the entire home does not need to be removed when switching a single appliance from gas to electric. This discrepancy arose from ambiguous language on the SVCE rebate page; however, staff have verified the correct process that will be implemented by SVCE as part of this rebate program.
City staff will make this distinction clear in the presentation to City Council at the meeting. • Based on permitting activity, does the city have insight into the ongoing installation rate of electric heat pump HVAC and water heating systems? (Useful for measuring potential impact of the rebate program.)
Answer: Since the beginning of the year, 232 Mechanical permits have been issued, and 182 of those (78%) were for Electric Heat Pump HVAC systems. This means the majority of HVAC systems are being replaced with Electric Heat Pumps rather than Gas Furnaces or traditional Air-Conditioning Systems. The monthly breakdown is shown below:
Month Heat Pump Furnace Replacement (N) Air Conditioner Other 2025-01 11 2 2 0
2025-02 5 1 0 0
2025-03 7 1 0 0
2025-04 14 0 2 0
2025-05 11 2 1 0
2025-06 22 2 3 0
2025-07 19 2 2 1
2025-08 16 2 2 1
2025-09 20 3 5 1
2025-10 19 5 2 1
2025-11 25 5 0 1
2025-12 13 1 0 0
Permitting data shows a strong and steadily growing adoption of Electric Heat Pump Water Heaters.
Month Heat Pump Water Heaters Gas Water Heaters
2025-01 5 3
2025-02 1 5
2025-04 1 5
2025-05 3 3
2025-06 3 0
2025-07 8 8
2025-08 6 2
2025-09 4 10
2025-10 6 5
2025-11 5 5
2025-12 3 1
It is important to note that these figures do not capture heat pumps installed as part of larger alteration or remodel permits, which totaled 239 issued permits. This means actual electrification levels may be even higher.
• Has the building division noted any recurring troublespots or obstacles regarding permits for electric heat pump HVAC and water heating systems? Any suggested streamlining? Answer: No. The Building Division has not encountered any recurring challenges or obstacles related to permitting electric heat pump HVAC systems or heat pump water heaters. In fact, these permit types tend to be among the simplest and quickest permits we issue.
CITY OF LOS ALTOS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2025
7:00 p.m.
1 N. San Antonio Rd. ~ Los Altos, CA
Pete Dailey, Mayor
Neysa Fligor, Vice Mayor
Larry Lang, Councilmember
Sally Meadows, Councilmember
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember
CALL MEETING TO ORDER – Pete Dailey, Mayor, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
ESTABLISH QUORUM – All Councilmembers were present.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Pete Dailey, Mayor, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
There was no Closed Session meeting held.
CHANGES TO THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA
There were no changes to the order of the agenda.
SPECIAL ITEMS
Issue Proclamation Recognizing November 12 - 18, 2025 as Community Foundation Week Pete Dailey, Mayor, issued the proclamation to Kathy Lera and Eileen Eng of the Los Altos Community Foundation
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
The following members of the public spoke during Public Comment:
• JoAnne Estill
• Barbara Loebner
• Roberta Phillips
• Nancy Martin
CONSENT CALENDAR
The following members of the public spoke regarding items on the Consent Calendar:
• Roberta Phillips (Item 8)
• Barbara Loebner (Item 8)
• Nancy Martin (Item 8)
Motion by Meadows and Second by Lang to approve the Consent Calendar. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
1. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Approve the Draft Regular Meeting Minutes for the Meeting of October 28, 2025
City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 18, 2025
2. Adopt the Proposed 2026 City Council Meeting Schedule Adopt the Proposed 2026 City Council Meeting Schedule
3. Approval of the 2026 City Council Reorganization Meeting Date Approve the meeting date of January 13, 2026 for the City Council Reorganization Ceremony and cancel the City Council meeting date of December 2, 2025
4. Acceptance of Treasurer's Report
Receive and file the City’s Treasurer’s Report for the quarter ending September 30, 2025
5. Acceptance of Investment Reports
Receive and file the City’s Investment Portfolio Reports for the quarters ending June 30, 2025, and September 30, 2025
6. Adoption of Resolution - Approve a Successor Memorandum of Understanding Adopt a Resolution to approve a successor Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Los Altos and Sanitary Truck Drivers and Helpers Union Local # 350
7. Adoption of Resolution - On-Call Sanitary Sewer Spot Repairs 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)
8. Adoption of Resolution - Downtown Performing Arts Center MOU Adopt a resolution to extend Downtown Performing Arts Center MOU two additional years through November 18, 2027
9. Adoption of Resolution - Prohousing Incentive Program Adopt a resolution authorizing application to and receipt of HCD Prohousing Incentive Program Funds, in the amount of $580,000
10. Adoption of Resolution - Amendment No. 1 with Los Altos Chamber of Commerce Amend contract with Los Altos Chamber of Commerce
11. Adoption of Resolution - Amendment No. 3 with Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc.
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
PUBLIC HEARING
12. Adoption of Resolution - Vesting Tentative Map for a Multi-Family Project at 4898 El Camino Real
Hold a Public Hearing and adopt a Resolution approving a Vesting Tentative Map
City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 18, 2025
(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)
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember, announced that his law firm currently represents the engineering firm for the item on a separate matter, but that he does not have a conflict of interest on the item, which he confirmed with the City Attorney.
Sean Gallegos, Senior Planner, presented the report.
The applicant provided a presentation to the City Council.
Pete Dailey, Mayor, opened the Public Hearing.
The following members of the public spoke during the Public Hearing:
• Elizabeth Carter • Yanhou Mou
• Jing Xin • Jeanine Valadez
• Hui Zheng • Roberta Phillips
Pete Dailey, Mayor, closed the Public Hearing.
Motion by Weinberg and Second by Lang to adopt a resolution approving a Vesting Tentative Map (Application No. TM25-0001) for the creation of eighty-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). Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
13. Adoption of Resolution - Vesting Tentative Map for a New Mixed-Use Project at 996 Loraine Avenue
Hold a Public Hearing and 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 Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember, announced that he had a previous working relationship one year ago with the engineering firm for the item, but that he does not have a conflict of interest, which he confirmed with the City Attorney.
Sean Gallegos, Senior Planner, presented the report.
The applicant provided a presentation to the City Council.
Pete Dailey, Mayor, opened the Public Hearing.
City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 18, 2025
The following members of the public spoke during the Public Hearing:
• William De Lange
• Henry More
Pete Dailey, Mayor, closed the Public Hearing.
Motion by Meadows and Second by Fligor to 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. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
14. Introduction of Ordinance - Review and Renewal of Ordinance No. 2023-489 Approving Los Altos Police Policy 709
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
Katie Krauss, Police Captain, presented the report.
Pete Dailey, Mayor, opened the Public Hearing.
The following members of the public spoke during the Public Hearing:
• Brian Jones
• Jeanine Valadez
Pete Dailey, Mayor, closed the Public Hearing.
Motion by Meadows and Second by Weinberg to introduce and waive 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, and approve the acquisition of the new items of military equipment. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
DISCUSSION ITEM
15. Adoption of Resolution- Contract for Drone as First Responder Program Adopt a Resolution to approve a contract with AXON for Drone as a First Responder Program
Katie Krauss, Police Captain, presented the report.
City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 18, 2025
The following members of the public spoke regarding the item:
• Jeanine Valadez
Motion by Weinberg and Second by Lang to adopt a resolution to approve a contract with AXON for Drone as a First Responder Program. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS ONLY
There will be no discussion or action on Informational Items
16. Tentative Council Calendar and Housing Element Update Implementation Calendar
17. 11-18-2025 Council QA
COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS AND DIRECTIONS ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS • Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember, requested a future agenda item:
o Informational item on the process of filling a vacancy on the City Council (Supported by Dailey and Meadows)
• Neysa Fligor, Vice Mayor, requested future agenda items:
o Formation of a subcommittee for an evaluation of the City Attorney (Supported by Meadows and Weinberg)
o Resolution or Mayoral proclamation recognizing mental health awareness toward the veteran community in Los Altos (Supported by Lang and Weinberg) ADJOURNMENT – The regular meeting adjourned at 9:18 p.m.
The meeting minutes were prepared by Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, for approval at the regular meeting on December 9, 2025.
_________________________________ __________________________________ Pete Dailey Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
The November 18, 2025, City Council meeting recording may be viewed via the following external website: https://www.youtube.com/@CityofLosAltosCA The City of Los Altos does not own or operate YouTube. The video referenced in these minutes was live at the time the minutes were published.
Resolution 2025- Page 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS
SUPPORTING THE PREVENTION OF VETERAN SUICIDES
WHEREAS, suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, affecting individuals, families, and communities across all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances; and WHEREAS, research shows that suicide is often preventable through early intervention, access to mental health care, community support, and the reduction of stigma surrounding mental health challenges; and
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos, along with the Town of Los Altos Hills, held its annual Veterans Day celebration on November 11, 2025, and reinforced its continued support and commitment to its Veteran community; and
WHEREAS, in 2021, the City of Los Altos adopted the Santa Clara County Suicide Prevention Policy, which is a comprehensive framework aimed at reducing and preventing suicides within the County; and
WHEREAS, the County’s Veteran Services Office has trained staff to meet with Veterans and assess their needs and provide support and local resources for Veterans and their families, including mental health screenings, peer support, crisis intervention, and a Veterans Crisis Line number 988; and
WHEREAS, by adopting this Resolution, the City Council aims to:
• Increase public awareness about mental health and suicide prevention in the Veteran community.
• Support training for community members, educators, and first responders in recognizing and responding to suicide risk.
• Promote the services and local resources available through the County of Santa Clara’s Veteran Services Office.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos wishes to support the prevention of suicides amongst veterans in the community and beyond.
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 8 th
day of December, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Resolution 2025- Page 2
___________________________
Pete Dailey, MAYOR
Attest:
___________________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC
City Clerk