Agenda packet, regular meeting — Los Altos City Council, March 10, 2026 (part 1 of 2)

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AGENDA
March 10, 2026 - 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/91815962106?pwd=wVJRE5ip63r94nnQie0zq6KcObuhFd.1 Telephone: 1-669-444-9171 / Webinar ID: 918 1596 2106 / Passcode: 520832 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.

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AGENDA

CALL MEETING TO ORDER

ESTABLISH QUORUM

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION

CHANGES TO THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA

PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Members of the audience may bring to the Council's attention any item that is not on the agenda. The Mayor will announce the time speakers will be granted before comments begin. Please be advised that, by law, the City Council is unable to discuss or take action on issues presented during the Public Comment Period.

According to State Law (also known as “The Brown Act”) items must first be noted on the agenda before any discussion or action.

CONSENT CALENDAR
These items will be considered by one motion. Prior to consideration of the Consent Calendar, a Councilmember may remove an item from the Consent Calendar. Any item removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion will be handled at the discretion of the Mayor.

1. Approval of Meeting Minutes - Special and Regular Meetings of February 24, 2026

2. Authorize City Manager to move to approve the Parcel Map for 1485 Fremont Avenue Authorize the City Manager to move to approve the Parcel Map of 1485 Fremont Avenue

3. Housing Element Annual Progress Report
Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Los Altos Accepting the Housing Element Annual Progress Report for Calendar Year 2025 and Authorizing Staff to Submit the Report to the California Department of Housing and Community Development; and find that this action is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5)

4. City Council Strategic Goals
Adopt a Resolution affirming the City Council Strategic Goals

DISCUSSION ITEMS

5. AB481 Military Equipment Use Annual Report for 2025
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 item of military equipment and other changes to the inventory discussed in the Annual Report

6. Fire Protection Services
Adopt a resolution directing staff to submit an application to the Local Agency Formation Commission of Santa Clara County (LAFCO) for annexation into the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District (County Fire) and directing staff to negotiate property tax transfer and potential transfer of both fire stations to County Fire as part of the annexation

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7. Review of City Council Norms and Procedures
Review the City Council Norms and Procedures and provide direction on modifications as needed

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. Independent Intake Official (IIO) Yearly Report for 2025 Accept the Independent Intake Official (IIO) Yearly Report 2025

9. Santa Clara County Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) Letter Letter of Support for the Homestead Road Safe Routes Project

10. Tentative Council Calendar and Housing Element Implementation Schedule

11. 03-10-2026 Council QA

COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS AND DIRECTIONS ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

ADJOURNMENT

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.

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CITY OF LOS ALTOS

CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL

MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2026
5:00 p.m.
1 N. San Antonio Rd. ~ Los Altos, CA
Sally Meadows,, Mayor
Larry Lang, Vice Mayor
Pete Dailey, Councilmember
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember
CALL MEETING TO ORDER – Sally Meadows, Mayor, called the special meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.

ESTABLISH QUORUM – All Councilmembers were present.

STUDY SESSION

1. Receive presentation and provide direction on next steps for Downtown Park & Parking Design Options
Provide direction on the following policy questions:
• What is the City Council’s preferred location and design themes for the park? • What is the City Council’s preferred option for parking? • Does City Council wish to conduct community engagement for the Downtown Park & Parking now, or wait until later this year once there is more information available regarding the Performing Arts Center and Housing on Plazas 7 & 8? Anthony Carnesecca, Assistant to the City Manager, Noe Noyola, Karthik Kumar, MIG Representatives, and Mike Moretto, Watry Designs Representative, presented the report.

The following members of the public spoke regarding the item:
• Jon Baer • Roberta Phillips
• Cindy Andrews • Barbara Loebner
• Catherine Nunes • Nancy Martin
• Steve Daniels • Kim Cranston
• JoAnne Estill • Lou Cartalano
• Steve Katz • Susan Hinton
• Juno Szalay • Alice Mansell
• Anne Paulson • Cat Hung
• Maria Bautista • Beth Perrell
• Hon Ren • Claudia Cilker
• Teresa Morris • Joe Beninato
The City Council discussed the item and provided feedback to city staff.

ADJOURNMENT – The regular meeting adjourned at 7:04 p.m.

The meeting minutes were prepared by Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, for approval at the regular meeting on February 24, 2026.

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City of Los Altos
City Council Special Meeting Minutes
February 10, 2026

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_________________________________ __________________________________ Sally Meadows Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
The February 24, 2026, 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.

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CITY OF LOS ALTOS

CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL

MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2026
6:00 p.m.
1 N. San Antonio Rd. ~ Los Altos, CA
Sally Meadows,, Mayor
Larry Lang, Vice Mayor
Pete Dailey, Councilmember
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember
CALL MEETING TO ORDER – Sally Meadows, Mayor, called the special meeting to order at 7:15 p.m.

ESTABLISH QUORUM – All Councilmembers were present.

STUDY SESSION

1. Review of Commission Work Plans
Meet and Discuss the 2026 Commission Work Plans with the following Commissions:
• Environmental Commission
• Library Commission
• Financial Commission
• Parks, Arts, Recreation & Cultural Commission
The City Council met with Commissioners to discuss their proposed work plans.

There were no speakers regarding this item.

Discussion item only. No motion taken.

ADJOURNMENT – The special meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m.

The meeting minutes were prepared by Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, for approval at the regular meeting on March 10, 2026.
_________________________________ __________________________________ Sally Meadows Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
The February 24, 2026, 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.

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CITY OF LOS ALTOS

CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2026
7:00 p.m.
1 N. San Antonio Rd. ~ Los Altos, CA
Sally Meadows,, Mayor
Larry Lang, Vice Mayor
Pete Dailey, Councilmember
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember
CALL MEETING TO ORDER – Sally Meadows, Mayor, called the meeting to order at 8:30 p.m.

ESTABLISH QUORUM – All Councilmembers were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
There was no Closed Session meeting held prior to the February 24, 2026 meeting.

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

PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
The following members of the public spoke during public comment:
• Clare
• Jon Baer

CONSENT CALENDAR
There were no speakers on the Consent Calendar items.

Motion by Dailey and Second by Lang to approve the Consent Calendar. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

1. Approval of Meeting Minutes – Draft Regular Meeting of February 10, 2026

2. Adoption of Resolution - Calling for Special Election to Fill Council Vacancy Adopt a resolution calling for a special municipal election to fill a vacancy on the City Council and requesting consolidation and election services with Santa Clara County

PUBLIC HEARINGS

3. Public Hearing - Annual Weed Abatement
Conduct a Public Hearing for consideration of any appeal requested for the removal of property identified on the 2026 Weed Abatement Program Commencement Report Stephanie Williams, Development Services Director, and Garik Losilevsky, Santa Clara County Weed Abatement Program Manager, presented the report.

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City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 24, 2026

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Sally Meadows, Mayor, opened the Public Hearing.

The following appellants spoke during the Public Hearing:
• Enrico Schiattarella
Motion by Lang and Second by Dailey to remove appellant Enrico Schiattarella from the abatement list. Motion failed due to a tie vote, with Councilmembers Dailey and Lang in favor and Councilmembers Meadows and Weinberg opposed. Due to the failed motion, Enrico Schiattarella’s property will remain on the abatement list. • Anhua Yu
Motion by Dailey and Second by Lang to remove appellant Anhua Yu from the abatement list.

Motion failed due to a tie vote, with Councilmembers Dailey and Lang in favor and Councilmembers Meadows and Weinberg opposed. Due to the failed motion, Enrico Schiattarella’s property will remain on the abatement list.

The following member of the public spoke during the Public Hearing:
• Jon Baer
Sally Meadows, Mayor, closed the Public Hearing.

4. Adoption of Resolution - Modification to Design Review Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Los Altos approving a modification to an approved Design Review (18-D-01) application for property located at 4846 - 4856 El Camino Real. The modification request is to change the existing below market rate unit mix from six (6) very low-income rental units to ownership condominium units, while retaining three (3) moderate income and one (1) low-income ownership units. The proposed project modification request is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines since there would be no possibility of a significant effect on the environment Sean Gallegos, Senior Planner, presented the report.

Sally Meadows, Mayor, opened the Public Hearing.

The following members of the public spoke during the Public Hearing:
• Clare
• Eric Steinle
Sally Meadows, Mayor, closed the Public Hearing.

Motion by Dailey and Second by Lang to Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Los Altos approving a modification to an approved Design Review (18-D-01) application for property located at 4846 - 4856 El Camino Real. The modification request is to change the existing below market rate unit mix from six (6) very low-income rental units to ownership condominium units, while retaining three (3) moderate income and one (1) low-income

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City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 24, 2026

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ownership units. The proposed project modification request is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines since there would be no possibility of a significant effect on the environment. Motion carried 3-1 by roll call vote, with Councilmember Weinberg opposed.

DISCUSSION ITEMS

5. Create a Council Taskforce for the 75th Anniversary of Los Altos Discuss and create the formation of a Council Taskforce for the 75th Anniversary of Los Altos
Jonathan D. Weinberg, Councilmember, opened the item.

There were no speakers regarding the item.

The City Council provided direction to Councilmember Lang and Councilmember Weinberg to present the item at a future Council meeting with suggestions for the creation of a taskforce.

6. City Council Strategic Goals
Review the City Council's Strategic Goals and provide modifications as needed Jon Maginot, Assistant City Manager, presented the item.

There were no speakers regarding the item.

The City Council provided modifications to the City Council Strategic Goals and directed staff to present the item at a future Council meeting for final adoption.

7. Discuss and Provide Guidance on Environmental Commission Membership Discuss and provide direction on any changes to the Environmental Commission membership, meeting frequency, or responsibilities
Sally Meadows, Mayor, opened the item.

There were no speakers regarding the item.

The City Council provided direction and directed staff to present the item at a future Council meeting for final adoption.

8. Review Los Altos Chamber of Commerce Funding
Discuss and provide direction on funding to the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce Anthony Carnesecca, Assistant to the City Manager, presented the item.

Kim Mosley, Los Altos Chamber of Commerce Director, addressed the City Council.

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City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 24, 2026

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The following members of the public spoke regarding the item:
• Jeanine Valadez • Nicole Kruse
• Eric Steinle • Freddie Wheeler
• Bettina Epp
The City Council discussed the item and provided direction to staff for further research.

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS / COUNCIL Q&A

9. Tentative Council Calendar and Housing Element Implementation

10. 02-24-26 Council Q&A

COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS AND DIRECTIONS ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT – The regular meeting adjourned at 10:46 p.m. and immediately convened to a Special Closed Session meeting:

CLOSED SESSION: CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION – Significant Exposure to Litigation Pursuant to Paragraph (2) of Subdivision (d) of Government Code Section 54956.9 Subdivision (d): Two Cases There were no public speakers regarding the Closed Session item.

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: March 10, 2026
Prepared By: Julia Weinberger
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Authorize City Manager to move to approve the Parcel Map for 1485 Fremont Avenue

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Housing
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the City Manager to move to approve the Parcel Map of 1485 Fremont Avenue

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The approval of a final map is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA guidelines section 15268(b)(3).

FISCAL IMPACT
None

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
January 14th, 2025

BACKGROUND
On January 14th, 2025, Council approved the tentative parcel map to subdivide one lot into two lots at 1485 Fremont Avenue. The recommended action will finalize the parcel map for the project.

A Tentative Parcel Map is a map showing the layout of a proposed Subdivision, including the general description of the associated infrastructure. The approved Tentative Parcel Map also sets conditions such as access, frontage, grading improvements, stormwater protection, and so forth which must be met before the final Parcel Map can be filed. An approved Tentative Parcel Map does not divide the property, rather it sets the conditions under which the division can occur. To divide the property, one must file a final Parcel Map.

The attached final Parcel Map is the instrument that divides the property. It must conform to and incorporate all the Tentative Parcel Map conditions and must also comply with the standards for Parcel Maps as set forth in the State Subdivision Map Act. It must also include plans describing the various improvements to the project site and to all other affected properties, including public roadways and public and private utilities.

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ANALYSIS
Parcel Map for the development at 1485 Fremont Avenue conforms to the Tentative Map approved on January 14th, 2025. The map and survey have been checked and found satisfactory. All conditions of approval have been complied with and appropriate controls to ensure compliance have been established. All required fees and deposits have been received.

The Parcel Map is available in the Engineering Services Department office for inspection.

DISCUSSION

1. Authorize the City Manager to approve the Parcel Map Advantages: Homeowner will be able to continue construction.

Disadvantages: None.

2. Do not authorize the City Manager to approve the Parcel Map Advantages: None.

Disadvantages: Homeowner will not be able to continue construction. Council must provide reasons for disapproval.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Parcel Map

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: March 10, 2026
Prepared By: Monica Gallardo-Melkesian
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Housing Element Annual Progress Report

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Housing

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Los Altos Accepting the Housing Element Annual Progress Report for Calendar Year 2025 and Authorizing Staff to Submit the Report to the California Department of Housing and Community Development; and find that this action is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5)

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5), which excludes organizational or administrative activities of government that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes to the environment. Acceptance of the Housing Element Annual Progress Report is a reporting and informational action required by State law that documents the City’s progress in implementing its adopted Housing Element and meeting its Regional Housing Needs Allocation.

FISCAL IMPACT
Not Applicable.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
March 11, 2025 (2024 Housing Element APR)

BACKGROUND
Every eight years the State requires that each jurisdiction update its Housing Element to address future housing needs. The Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is the agency responsible for tracking and determining compliance with State Housing Law. The City adopted the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update (2023-2031) on January 24, 2023.

Objectives of the Housing Element
• An analysis of housing needs in Los Altos.
• Policies that address the needs of the community.
• Programs that will implement those policies.

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• Programs that are required to comply with State law.

The Housing Element is part of the City’s General Plan, which sets forth guiding policies for future development. The requirement for each city to adopt a General Plan is contained in State law which also lays out specific requirements for each element. The Housing Element provides an overarching statement of City policies and programs to maintain and improve existing housing and accommodate the City’s fair share of population growth needs. The requirements in State law for Housing Elements include the following:
• Ensure adequate sites for new housing for persons of all income levels. • Encourage and facilitate the development of affordable housing. • Conserve and improve the existing affordable housing stock. • Analyze and remove government constraints on new housing development. • Promote equal housing opportunities.
• Preserve assisted housing.

Housing Element Programs
The City of Los Altos must identify specific programs in its Housing Element that will allow it to implement the stated policies and achieve the stated goals and objectives. Programs must include specific action steps the City will take to implement its policies and achieve its goals and objectives. Programs must also include a specific timeframe for implementation, identify the agencies or officials responsible for implementation, describe the City’s specific role in implementation, and (whenever possible) identify specific, measurable outcomes. The programs included within the Los Altos Sixth Cycle Housing Element create the overarching framework and roadmap that will guide the City in meeting its housing needs within the community.

Regional Housing Needs Allocation
The Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) is a State-mandated process that identifies each jurisdiction’s share of the region’s projected housing needs across various income levels for a specified planning period. The RHNA represents a planning target and is not a building quota. The Housing Element must demonstrate how the City of Los Altos will accommodate its RHNA on sites that are realistic for housing development within the eight-year Housing Element planning period (2023–2031), consistent with State law and guidance. The City of Los Altos's allocation is 1,958 units, which are distributed among the following four income categories:
• Very Low Income (Less than 50% of Area Median Income): 501 units • Low Income (50-80% of Area Median Income): 288 units
• Moderate Income (80-120% of Area Median Income): 326 units • Above Moderate Income (More than 120% of Area Median Income): 843 units Housing Element Annual Progress Report (APR)
Government Code Section 65400 requires the planning agency to provide this report to the

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legislative body (City Council) and to HCD by April 1st of each year. The statute does not specify the order in which the report must be provided, and HCD does not require the report to be submitted to the legislative body prior to submission to HCD. However, HCD recommends providing the report to the legislative body before sending it to HCD. Staff is providing the City Council the opportunity to review the APR prior to submission.

HCD requires jurisdictions to submit the APR using prescribed tables, directly to HCD. The report covers activities and accomplishments from the calendar year 2025. Timely submission of the annual report to HCD fulfills statutory requirements to report certain housing information, including the local agency’s progress in meeting its share of regional housing needs and its efforts to remove governmental constraints on housing development. Additionally, the annual report provides the State of California with the opportunity to identify statewide trends in land use decision-making and to evaluate how local planning and development activities relate to statewide planning goals and policies.

ANALYSIS
The Los Altos 2025 APR is attached (Attachment 2). In calendar year 2025, the City issued Building Permits for 247 new dwelling units, all of which will be credited toward the City’s Sixth Cycle RHNA. Since the commencement of the Sixth Cycle Housing Element in 2023, the City has issued building permits for a total of 638 dwelling units, representing approximately 33 percent of the City’s overall RHNA allocation.

The City has six remaining years in the Sixth Cycle Housing Element planning period (2023– 2031), during which time continued housing production is anticipated to further advance progress toward meeting the City’s RHNA. The 2025 APR that will be submitted to HCD provides a comprehensive accounting of the City’s progress toward its RHNA, including units permitted during calendar year 2025 and units credited during the applicable reporting period. A summary of the City of Los Altos RHNA allocation and progress by income category for the Sixth Cycle Housing Element is provided in the table below.

In addition to permitting new housing units that contribute toward the City’s RHNA allocation, the City has made meaningful progress in implementing the programs identified in the Sixth Cycle Housing Element. These programs are intended to facilitate housing production, address community housing needs, and ensure compliance with State housing law. The attached APR provides a detailed summary of the status and progress of each Housing Element program

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during the 2025 reporting year.

DISCUSSION
See Analysis section above.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Resolution

2. Attachment 2 - Los Altos 2025 APR

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RESOLUTION NO. 2026-XX

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

ACCEPTING THE HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2025 AND AUTHORIZING STAFF TO SUBMIT THE REPORT TO

THE CALFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY

DEVELOPMENT
WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 65400(2) requires the planning agency to provide an annual report to the City Council, and the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) regarding progress toward implementation of the housing element of the general plan; and
WHEREAS, planning staff has prepared an annual progress report for the calendar year 2025, utilizing the prescribed forms and instructions provided by the State Department of Housing and Community Development; and
WHEREAS, the City Council held a duly noticed public meeting on March 10, 2026; and NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby receives and accepts the annual progress report on the Housing Element, attached and incorporated by reference herein, and authorizes staff to forward the report to the State Department of Housing and Community Development pursuant to Government Code Section 65400(2).

I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of a resolution passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Los Altos at a meeting thereof on the 10th day of March 2026 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
___________________________
Sally Meadows, MAYOR
Attest:
_____________________________
Melissa Thurman MMC, CITY CLERK

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Jurisdiction Los Altos
Reporting Year 2025
Housing Element Planning Period 6th Cycle
Current Year
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 47
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 16
Non-Deed
Restricted 27
Deed
Restricted 34
Non-Deed
Restricted 27
Deed
Restricted 3
Non-Deed
Restricted 27
66 247
Units by Structure Type Entitled Permitted Completed
Single-family Attached 0 0 0
Single-family Detached 11 1 2
2 to 4 units per structure 0 0 0
5+ units per structure 32 157 0
Accessory Dwelling Unit 0 89 71
Mobile/Manufactured Home 0 0 0
Total 43 247 73
Infill Housing Developments and Infill Units Permitted # of Projects Units 93 247
0 0
97 263
0 0
0 0
Income Rental Ownership Total
Acutely Low 0 0 0
Extremely Low 0 0 0
Very Low 0 0 0
Low 0 0 0
Moderate 0 0 0
Above Moderate 0 0 0
Total 0 0 0
Streamlining Provisions Used - Permitted Units # of Projects Units SB 9 (2021) - Duplex in SF Zone 0 0
SB 9 (2021) - Residential Lot Split 0 0
AB 2011 (2022) 0 0
SB 6 (2022) 0 0
SB 423 (2023) 0 0
Ministerial and Discretionary Applications # of Units
Ministerial 84 84
Discretionary 0 0
Density Bonus Applications and Units Permitted
Number of Applications Submitted Requesting a Density Bonus 0 Number of Units in Applications Submitted Requesting a Density Bonus 0 Number of Projects Permitted with a Density Bonus 2
Number of Units in Projects Permitted with a Density Bonus 142 Housing Element Programs Implemented and Sites Rezoned Count 59 0
Programs Implemented
Sites Rezoned to Accommodate the RHNA
(Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
01/31/2023 - 01/31/2031
Units Constructed - SB 423 Streamlining Permits
Number of SB 423 Streamlining Applications Approved
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Acutely Low
Extremely Low
Total Housing Applications Submitted:

Number of Proposed Units in All Applications Received:

Total Housing Units Approved:

Total Housing Units Disapproved:

Total Units
Housing Applications Summary
Use of SB 423 Streamlining Provisions - Applications
Number of SB 423 Streamlining Applications
Above Moderate
Indicated as Infill
Not Indicated as Infill
Building Permits Issued by Affordability Summary
Income Level

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Jurisdiction Los Altos ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Reporting Year 2025 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31) Housing Element Implementation Planning Period 6th Cycle 01/31/2023 - 01/31/2031
1 Projection
Period 3 4
RHNA Allocation
by Income Level
Projection
Period -
06/30/2022-
01/30/2023
2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031
Total Units to
Date (all
years)
Total Remaining
RHNA by
Income Level
Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - - - 47 - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - - - 16 - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted 1 5 3 27 - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - 1 29 34 - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted 23 28 19 27 - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - - - 3 - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted 12 54 31 27 - - - - - -
Above Moderate 843 5 17 163 66 - - - - - - 251 592
1,958
41 105 245 247 - - - - - - 638 1,320
Income Level
Very Low
47 -
This table is auto-populated once you enter your jurisdiction name and current year data. Past year information comes from previous APRs.

Please contact HCD if your data is different than the material supplied here 2 Table B
Regional Housing Needs Allocation Progress
Permitted Units Issued by Affordability
402
127 Moderate
501
288
326
161
99 Please note: The APR form can only display data for one planning period. To view progress for a different planning period, you may login to HCD's online APR system, or contact HCD staff at [email protected].

Acutely Low - -
*For years prior to 2025, data on deed-restricted vs. non-deed restricted Extremely Low-Income units is approximated from whether the projects reported any deed-restricted Very Low-Income Units. If you wish to edit this historical data for accuracy or have any questions about the data, you may login to HCD's online APR system, or contact HCD staff at [email protected].

Total Units
*For jurisdictions that received RHNA determinations for the current cycle prior to the passage of AB 3093 (September 19, 2024):
- You were not allocated Acutely Low-Income and Extremely Low-Income RHNA targets, therefore the allocations in Field 1 are listed as "0" - If you wish to set your own targets in these income categories for informational purposes, contact HCD staff at [email protected]. - All Acutely Low-Income and Extremely Low-Income units reported during the cycle are counted towards Very-Low Income RHNA progress 199
Total RHNA
-
127 Low
*For years prior to 2025, Acutely Low-Income units are reported within the Extremely Low-Income category Please Note: Table B does not currently contain data from Table F or Table F2 for prior years. You may login to the APR system to see Table B that contains this data.

Extremely Low -

Page 21 of 139 ends

Jurisdiction Los Altos
Reporting Year 2025 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name of Program Objective
Projected Completion
Date in Housing
Element
Applicable Cycle Status of Program
Implementation
Program
Implementation
Details
Quantified Outcomes:

Category
Quantified Outcomes:

Count Supporting Documents
Program 1.A Rezone for
RHNA Shortfall.

The City will amend the Zoning Map and/or
Zoning Code to create the opportunity for
at least 19 above moderate-income
housing units; proposed rezoning would
accommodate an assumed capacity of 64
above-moderate income housing units.
1/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to create
opportunity for at least 19
above moderate-income
housing units in October and
November 2023.

Units 251 Table B in 2025 APR - 251 above-market
units permits issued.

Program 1.B Facilitate
higher density housing in
the Commercial
Thoroughfare (CT)
District.

Approve housing development projects
along El Camino Real at densities above
38 units per acre anticipating at least 80
total housing units with at least 20
lowincome units.
12/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to facilitate
higher density housing in the
CT District in November
2023.

Units 64 Table B in 2025 APR - 64 low-income deed
restricted units; 22 in CT zoned property.

Program 1.C Allow
housing in the Office
Administrative (OA)
District.

Permit housing on OA District parcels
during the planning period comprising at
least 40 total housing units with at least
eight low-income units in the highest
resource areas of the city.
12/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to allow
housing in the OA District in
November 2023.

Meetings 1 11/28/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
Amendments; Ord. 2023-501
Program 1.D Allow
housing on certain Public
and Community Facilities
Distrct sites and facilitate
housing on religious
institution properties.

Facilitate an application for at least 20 units
of housing for lower income and/or special
needs households on religious institution
site(s) during the planning period.
12/31/2025 6th Cycle In Progress In progress Units
Housing Manager attended SB4/Faith-Based
Development Workshop on 10/8/2025; met
with Church representative to discuss SB4 on
11/17/225
Program 1.E: Update the
Loyola Corners Specific
Plan.

Eliminate restrictive development
standards within Loyola Corners Specific
Plan for density, height, and unit size no
later than December 2024. Also eliminate
any subjective design standards applicable
to residential no later than December 2024.

Permit housing units in the Loyola Corners
Specific Plan above the current 20-unit cap
and with a mixture of unit sizes during the
planning period. Target approval of at least
40 total housing units with at least eight lowincome units. 12/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to update the
Loyola Corners Specific
Plan in November 2023.

Meetings 1 11/28/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
Amendments; Ord. 2023-501

ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Housing Element Implementation
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.

Table D
Program Implementation Status pursuant to GC Section 65583

Page 22 of 139 ends

Program 1.F: Rezone
Village Court parcel.

To facilitate housing, the Village Court
parcel at 4546 El Camino Real (APN
16712042) will be rezoned from R1-10 to
Commercial Thoroughfare (CT), and
modifications made to the Planned 21 | City
of Los Altos 2023-2031 Housing Element
Unit Development (62-PUD/C7), as
necessary for consistency with the CT
District.
12/31/2025 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to rezone the
Village Court parcel in
November 2023.

Meetings1 11/28/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
Amendments; Ord. 2023-501
Program 1.G: Rezone
housing sites from
previous Housing
Elements.

Rezone housing sites from previous
Housing Elements which sites are
indentified in the 6th Cycle Housing
Element.
1/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to rezone
housing sites from previous
Housing Elements in
November 2023.

Meetings1 11/28/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
Amendments; Ord. 2023-501
Program 1.H: Facilitate
housing on City-owned
sites.

The City will enter into a public-private
partnership for development of housing on
at least one of the City’s Downtown parking
plazas.
12/31/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
Commenced Surplus Land
Act process in July 2024 for
developer selection and
conculded in October 2025.

No developer selected
through SLA process.

Units Completed the Surplus Land Act process;
received HCD's closure letter on 10/28/2025.

Program 1.I: Incentivize
Downtown lot
consolidation.

Facilitate at least two Downtown lot
consolidations by January 2031. If by
January 2027, this objective is not on track
to be met (i.e., 50 percent of objective), the
City will offer additional and increased
incentives no later than July 2027.
1/31/2031 6th Cycle In Progress
Adopted complimentary
incentives to further
encourage lot consolidation
in the Downtown through
Zoning Code amendments
in 2024. General Plan
Amendment in progress with
the comprehensive General
Plan update and Policy 3.7
in the Community Design &
Historic Resouces Element
of the General Plan will be
modified for consistency with
this program. City staff will
promote the lot consolidation
incentives on the City's
website, through regular
updates at the Planning
Commission and City
Council public meeting, and
at the developers roundtable
meetings.

Meetings1
2/27/2024 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2024-507.

General Plan Amendment in progress with
the comprehensive General Plan update and
Policy 3.7 in the Community Design & Historic
Resouces Element of the General Plan will be
modified for consistency with this program.

City staff will promote the lot consolidation
incentives on the City's website, through
regular updates at the Planning Commission
and City Council public meeting, and at the
developers roundtable meetings.

Program 1.J: Produce
annual housing status
reports.

Provide an annual status report to the City
Council and California Department of
Housing and Community Development
(HCD) on the status of the General Plan
housing programs and their implementation
as required by State law. This status report
will also address no net loss requirements
as necessary throughout the planning
period.
4/1/2026 6th Cycle Continuous APR to be submitted by April 1, 2026 Units 638 Table B in 205 APR - 638 units permits issued.

Page 23 of 139 ends

Program 1.K: Participate
in regional housing needs
planning efforts.

The City will actively participate in the
Association of Bay Area Governments
(ABAG) Regional Housing Needs
Determination and other regional
discussions about meeting housing needs.

The City will meet with ABAG staff to
provide land use, housing, employment,
and other information related to the RHNA
formula to ensure that the allocation
accurately represents Los Altos’ fair share
of the region’s housing needs.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Meetings7
Housing Manager regulary attends ABAG
meetings providing staff RHNA data and
other affordable housing related matters.

Program 1.L: General Plan
amendments.

To ensure consistency between the City’s
General Plan and the Zoning Code, the
City will amend the General Plan to allow
the uses and densities as proposed in all
Housing Element programs.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle In Progress
Currently preparing General
Plan Update which will
ensure consistentcy with
allowed Zoning Code uses
and density threshholds.

Meetings1 Council review and approval of General Plan
Update in approximately 2 years, or 2028.

Program 1.M: SB 9
implementation.

Approve at least four SB 9 applications by
January 31, 2031. 1/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous
Ongoing; Fifteen (15) SB9
applications were approved
in 2024 and two (2) building
permits; Eleven (11) SB9
applications in 2025 and one
(1) building permit
Units3
Three (3) building permits issued for SB9
sites to date durng the 6th Cycle. Anticipate
another 10 permits to be issued.

Program 1.N: Facilitate
and monitor pipeline
housing projects.

To ensure completion of the entitled or
proposed (i.e., pipeline) projects identified
in Table B-3 of Appendix B of the Housing
Element: Sites Inventory & Methodology
within the planning period (by January 31,
2031), the City will monitor progress of
these projects and will coordinate with
applicants to facilitate remaining approvals
and permits. In addition to not allowing
entitlements to expire, the City will offer
expedited permit review for pipeline
projects and assistance with securing
funding if the project is eligible under
Program 2.C. If a pipeline project is not
approved, the City will ensure adequate
capacity for the remaining RHNA is
provided through monitoring of no net loss
during annual reporting and rezoning if
necessary to comply with State law (see
Program 1.J).
4/1/2026 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Units 386
Permits have been issued for 386 of the 625
pipeline units in Table B-3 of Appendix B; 962
Acacia, 425 First St., 450 First St.,140 Lyell,
330 Distel Circle, 4846-4856 El Camino Real,
5150 El Camino Real, 14 Fourth St., 440
Forst St., and 996 Loraine.

Program 2.A: Continue to
implement and enhance
inclusionary housing
requirements.

Inclusionary housing unit production of at
least 50 moderate-income units, 40 lowincome units, and 10 very low-income units.
12/31/2023 6th Cycle Continuous
Third-party consultant
completed inculsionary
housing feasibiliity study in
December 2023
recommending no changes
to the current inclusionary
housing requirements. City
continuing to monitor and
evaluate the inclusionsary
housing program.

Units 132
Table B in 2025 APR: 3 moderate-income, 55
low-income, and 74 very-low income units;
Ongoing moderate-income units to achieve
50 unit goal.

Page 24 of 139 ends

Program 2.B: Establish an
affordable housing in-lieu
fee and commercial
linkage fee.

The City will conduct a feasibility analysis to
support the establishment of an affordable
housing in-lieu fee for residential
developments and a commercial linkage
fee for affordable housing. Based on this
analysis, the City will adopt such fees. Said
analysis will also ensure that the in-lieu fees
adopted are not a constraint to housing
development. As a part of the
establishment of an affordable housing inlieu fee and commercial linkage fee the City will conduct outreach to all stakeholders
including residents, property owners, and
housing and commercial developers.
12/31/2025 6th Cycle Completed
Third-party consultant
completed inculsionary
housing feasibiliity study in
December 2023
recommending affordable
housing in-lieu fees which
were adopted in January
2024. Commercial linkage
fee adopted by City Council
in June 2024.

Meetings2
1/23/2024 Council approval of housing in-lieu
fees; Resolution No. 2024-04; 6/25/2024
Council approval of commercial linkage fees;
Resolution No. 2024-54.

Program 2.C: Assist in
securing funding for
affordable housing
projects.

Facilitate the development of at least 80
below-marketrate units in Los Altos by
January 2031. If by January 2027, this
objective is not on track to be met (i.e., 50
percent of objective), the City will establish
and offer additional incentives no later than
July 2027.
12/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Ongoing RHNA BMR Units 2023: 1 RHNA BMR Units 2024: 29
RHNA BMR Units 2025: 102
Units 132
Table B in APR 2025: 132 BMR units to date.

Applying for Prohousing Incentive Program
funds in March 2026 to facilitate additional
BMR units.

Program 2.D: Encourage
and streamline Accessory
Dwelling Units (ADUs).

Adopt and provide City Standard Permit
Ready ADU Plans (2024). 322 ADUs by
the end of the planning period with at least
80 percent of ADUs (260 ADUs) located in
the highest resource areas of the city.
1/31/2027 6th Cycle Completed
Completed permit ready
standard ADU plans which
are available on city's
website in January 2025.

Units 146
Table A2 in 2024 APR 57 ADUs permits;
Table A2 in 2025 APR 89 ADUs permits.
4/30/2024 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2024-512
Program 2.E: Conduct
annual ADU rental income
surveys.

The City will conduct annual ADU rental
income surveys whereby each property
owner may voluntarily share the rental
income for the unit for the City to use in its
annual progress reports consistent with
Zoning Code Section 14.14.090. The City
will provide additional staff support by the
onboarding of a Housing Manager or look
to consultant services to provide this
support at the appropriate capacity
needed.
4/1/2026 6th Cycle Continuous
Development Services
Housing Manager staff hired
in November 2023 and first
annual ADU surveys
conducted in January 2024
and March 2025. Tracking
AMI categories in survey.

Households 90
City received 90 ADU surveys to date for
2024 and 2025. 22 ADUs were rented as
BMR units.

Program 2.F: Water and
Sewer Service Providers.

Pursuant to Chapter 727, Statues of 2004
(SB 1087), the City of Los Altos upon
completion of an amended or adopted
housing element, is responsible for
immediately distributing a copy of the
housing element to area water and sewer
providers. The legislation allows for
coordination between the City and water
and sewer providers when considering
approval of new residential projects. Water
and sewer providers must grant priority for
service allocations to proposed
developments that include housing units
affordable to lower-income households.

Chapter 727 was enacted to improve the
effectiveness of the law in facilitating
housing development for lowerincome
families and workers.
12/31/2023 6th Cycle Completed Completed Persons2
The City distributed a copy of the adopted 6th
Cycle Housing Element in September 2023 to
the local water and sewer providers to ensure
they grant prioroity service allocations to
developments that include affordable housing
units to lower-income households.

Page 25 of 139 ends

Program 3.A: Prepare a
Downtown parking plan
and update citywide
parking requirements.

Revise parking standards citywide for
commercial (mixed-use) and multi-family
residential zones to implement a sliding
scale based on unit size (number of
bedrooms). Multi-family parking ratios shall
be reduced to be consistent with State
Density Bonus Law (Government Code
§65915(p)) and Cconsistent with AB 2097,
the City will update its parking regulations
to remove
minimum parking requirements on any
residential, commercial, or other
development projects within one half-mile
of public transit (as defined in AB 2097)
unless required findings are made as
specified in State law. Additionally, the City
will prepare a Downtown parking plan
assessing parking demand, requirements,
and strategies.
12/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Zoning Code amendments
to the citywide parking
requirements were made in
January 2024 and the
Downtown parking plan has
commenced prepartion and
is scheduled to be
completed late 2024.

Meetings1 2/27/2024 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2024-507
Program 3.B: Modify
building height in mixeduse zoning districts
Zoning Code amended to increase allowed
building heights to heights noted in this
Program for both Downtown and CN
zoning districts.
12/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to modify
building height in mixed-use
zoning districts in October
2023.

Meetings1 10/10/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-501
Program 3.C: Remove
floor-to-area ratio (FAR)
restriction at Rancho
Shopping Center and
Woodland Plaza.

Remove site-specific 0.35 floor-to-area
ratio (FAR), and create development
standards that require both commercial
and residential uses for the Rancho
Shopping Center and Woodland Plaza
properties to incorporate needed housing
units and preserve essential shopping
services.
12/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to remove
FAR restriction at Rancho
Shopping Center and
Woodland Plaza in October
2023.

Meetings1 10/10/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-501
Program 3.D: Evaluate and
adjust impact fees.

The City will evaluate applying the park inlieu and traffic impact fees on a per square foot basis rather than per unit to encourage
the development of higher densities and
smaller, more affordable housing units.

Based on this evaluation, the City will
modify impact fees in accordance with
Assembly Bill 602 (AB 602) with completion
of the comprehensive fee evaluation.
12/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed Completed Meetings1 6/25/2024 Council approval of development impact fees; Resolution No. 2024-54.

Program 3.E: Ensure that
the density bonus
ordinance remains
consistent with State law.

The City will continue to annually monitor
the effectiveness and appropriateness of
existing adopted policies and update the
ordinance as needed and will ensure that
its local ordinance remains consistent with
State law, but will apply current state law
even before local amendments are
adopted. The City will update its Appendix
to the Affordable Housing Ordinance
(Municipal Code Chapter 14.28, Article 2)
to comply with State law.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Meetings1
City has an adopted density bonus ordinance,
Chapter 14.28, Article 2, and staff ensures
that the density bonus ordinance remains
consistent with State law.

Page 26 of 139 ends

Program 3.F: Reduce
Conditional Use Permit
requirement for residential
mixed-use and multifamily.

By allowing the residential use by-right the
time for City review of and action on
residential mixed-use and multi-family
developments will be shortened compared
to typical processing times of a conditional
use permit (see Appendix C, Table C-8).
9/30/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to reduce
Conditional Use Permit
requirement for residential
mixed-use and multi-family
in October 2023.

Meetings1 10/10/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-501
Program 3.G: Amend
Conditional Use Permits
findings applicable to
housing developments.

CUP findings will be amended so that only
objective findings and standards are
applicable to housing developments,
including single-room occupancy units,
consistent with State law. Additionally, the
City will designate the review and approval
of conditional use permits for housing
developments to the Authority of the
Development Services Director.
3/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to revise
Conditional Use Permits
findings applicable to
housing developments in
October 2023.

Meetings1 10/10/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-501
Program 3.H: Amend
design review process
and requirements
The time for City review of and action on
residential, mixed-use and multifamily
developments will be shortened compared
to typical processing times with the
reduction of discretionary reviews and
commissions.
12/31/2023 6th Cycle Completed
Design Review Commission
duties dismissed and
reassigned to Zoning
Administrator and third-party
independent architect review
removed. Planning
Commission approves all
housing projects and no
longer requires Council or
Complete Street
Commissions approval to
streamline process. Council
approves appeals for
housing projects.

Meetings1 3/28/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-490
Program 3.I: Allow
residential care facilities
consistent with State law.

City will amend the Zoning Code to permit
residential care facilities for six or fewer
persons in all residential zoning districts, as
well as districts where single-family homes
are allowed by-right and treat them as a
residential use. The Zoning Code will also
be amended to allow large residential care
facilities (seven or more persons) in all
residential zones without discretionary
review (i.e., subject only to objective
standards). Residential care facilities will
not be limited to individuals of 60 years of
age or over, and a barrier-free definition of
“family” that encompasses unrelated
individuals living together as a single
residential unit will be added consistent with
State law
3/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to allow
residential care facilities
consistent with State law in
November 2023.

Meetings1 11/14/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-503
Program 3.J: Explicitly
allow manufactured
homes consistent with
State law.

The City will amend the Zoning Code to
explicitly allow manufactured homes on a
permanent foundation, subject to the same
regulations as single-family homes and in
the same zones as single-family homes.
3/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to allow
manufactured homes
consistent with State law in
November 2023.

Meetings1 11/14/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-503

Page 27 of 139 ends

Program 3.K: Standardize
multimodal transportation
requirements.

The City will streamline the Development
Review process for multi-family housing
projects by adoption of Development
Standards for multimodal transportation
such as bicycle, pedestrian, parking traffic
and public transportation issues. The
development of standards will no longer
require housing development projects to be
reviewed by the Complete Streets
Commission.
12/31/2023 6th Cycle Completed
Complete Streets
Commission duties
dismissed and reassigned to
Development Services
Director. Evaluate progress
and take additional action if
improvements in the design
review process have not
resulted by January 2027.

Meetings1 5/9/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-492
Program 3.L: Eliminate the
requirement of story
poles.

The requirement of story poles adds
subjectivity, extends the review process of
all development, and adds to the additional
cost of a project. Existing submittal
requirements include, renderings and 3D
Modeling which effectively provide the
same information story poles would (the
relationship of the proposed building
heights). The requirement of story poles
installations will be eliminated for all
development applications.
3/31/2023 6th Cycle Completed Completed Meetings1 2/14/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-501
Program 3.M: Modify
parking requirements for
emergency shelters
consistent with State law.

The City will amend its Zoning Ordinance to
only require parking necessary for
emergency shelter staff consistent with
Government Code §65583(a)(4)(A).
12/31/2024 6th Cycle Completed
Zoning Code amendments
to the citywide parking
requirements were made in
January 2024.

Meetings1 10/10/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Resolution No. 2023-10
Program 3.N: Modify
standards in the R3
zoning districts.

The City will amend its Zoning Ordinance to
allow building heights of 35 feet and three
stories in all R3 zoning districts (i.e., R3-5,
R3-4.5, R3-3, R3-1.8, and R3-1). The City
will also increase allowed site coverage in
all R3 zoning districts to ensure maximum
densities can be achieved.
12/31/2026 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to modify
standards in the R3 zoning
districts in October 2023.

Meetings1 10/10/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-501
Program 4.A: Support
efforts to fund homeless
services.

The City continues to transfer its CDBG
funds to the County to support local
housing programs, including programs to
support people experiencing
homelessness. In addition, the City will
continue to pursue funding from available
sources for homeless services and will also
assist community groups that provide
homeless services and assist such groups
in applying for funding from other agencies.

Moreover, the City will consider applying for
grants where appropriate or will
encourage/partner with local and regional
nonprofit organizations that wish to apply
for such grants. Lastly, the City will promote
the availability of these services on its
website, social media, by email, and with
handouts.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Other1
The City enterered into a 5-year agreement in
October 2023 with Community Services
Agency, a non-profit agency in Mountain
View, that provides services to support
people experiencing homelessness and also
preventative services. The City has added a
page to it's Housing website to provide
resource services from local agencies that
support individuals experiencing
homelessness, and will promote the
availability of these services through social
media, by email, and with handouts. City
continues to pursue funding from available
sources for homeless services and will also
assist community groups that provide
homeless services and assist such groups in
applying for funding from other agencies.

Page 28 of 139 ends

Program 4.B: Continue to
participate in local and
regional forums for
homelessness,
supportive, and
transitional housing.

Continue to participate in regional efforts as
coordinated with other adjacent cities to
address homeless and emergency and
transitional housing issues and potential
solutions. In addition to transferring its
CDBG funds to the County (see Program

4.A), the City provides funding for the
Community Services Agency (CSA) of
Mountain View and Los Altos that provides
various housing services.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Meetings7
The City's Housing Manager has been
participating in regional efforts to prepare the
new 5-year CoC Action Plan (2026 - 2031) for
the County of Santa Clara in coordination with
other adjacent cities. The City enterered into
a 5-year agreement in October 2023 with
Community Services Agency, a non-profit
agency in Mountain View, that provides
services to support people experiencing
homelessness and also preventative
services.

Program 4.C: Allow Low
Barrier Navigation Centers
consistent with AB 101.

The Zoning Code does not address low
barrier navigation centers (LBNCs), defined
as Housing First, low-barrier, service
enriched shelters focused on moving
people into permanent housing that provide
temporary living facilities while case
managers connect individuals experiencing
homelessness to income, public benefits,
health services, shelter, and housing
(GovernmentCode §65660). State law
requires LBNCs to be permitted by-right in
areas zoned for mixed-use
and nonresidential zones permitting
multifamily uses provided they satisfying
the provisions established by AB 101 (see
Government Code §65662). This would
allow LBNCs in the CD/R3, CN, CD, CRS,
CT, and CRS-OAD districts. The City will
amend its Zoning Code to explicitly allow
LBNCs as provided by State law.
12/31/2023 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to allow Low
Barrier Navigation Centers
consistent with AB 101 in
September 2023.

Meetings1 9/12/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-497
Program 4.D: Allow
transitional and
supportive housing
consistent with State law
Allow transitional and supportive housing
by right in all zones which allow residential
uses, subject only to those restrictions and
standards that apply to other residential
dwellings of the same type in the same
zone, consistent with State law.

Additionally, transitional and supportive
housing that qualifies under AB 2162 will
be allowed by right in zones where multifamily and mixed uses are allowed, including nonresidential zones that allow
multi-family uses, consistent with AB 2162
(Government Code §65651).
12/31/2023 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to allow
transitional and supportive
housing consistent with
State law in September
2023.

Meetings1 9/12/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-497
Program 4.E: Allow
employee/farmworker
housing consistent with
State law.

The City will amend the Zoning Code to
allow employee housing consistent with
Health and Safety Code §17021.5 and
17021.6.
12/31/2023 6th Cycle Completed
Completed amending the
Zoning Code to allow
employee/farmworker
housing consistent with
State law in September
2023.

Meetings1 9/12/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-497
Program 4.F: Reasonably
accommodate disabled
persons’ housing needs.

The City will adopt a reasonable
accommodation ordinance and process
request as submitted with the target of
approving at least three reasonable
accommodation requests by January 31,
2031.
12/31/2023 6th Cycle Completed
Completed adopting
reasonable accommodation
ordinance for disabled
persons' housing in
September 2023.

Meetings1 9/12/2023 Council approval of Zoning Code
amendments; Ordinance No. 2023-497

Page 29 of 139 ends

Program 4.G: Assist
seniors to maintain and
rehabilitate their homes.

Seek, maintain, and publicize a list of
resources or service providers to help
seniors maintain and/or rehabilitate their
homes. Specifically, the City will update (as
needed) and regularly promote the Age
Friendly Design (design that promotes the
mobility and welfare of aging population)
Elements handout and require larger lower
income developments to utilize Universal
Design (allows for equitable use, flexibility
in use, simple and intuitive use, etc.)
standards.
7/31/2026 6th Cycle In Progress In progress Persons2
City Housing Manager assisted in securing
funding from the Office of Supportive Housing
County of Santa Clara for Rebuilding
Together Peninsula to provide grants for lowincome seniors for repairs to their homes supporting their ability to age-in-place in their
homes. Handout prepared to provide to
information to community seniors and
distributed at City's Community Center. City
Council adopted an Age-Friendly Action Plan
on November 12, 2024 to support seniors
within the community.

Program 4.H: Provide
additional density
bonuses and incentives
for housing that
accommodates special
needs groups.

Provide density bonus increases and
incentives beyond that required by State
law for projects that provide senior housing
or housing for extremely low-income
households or people with disabilities,
including developmental disabilities, in multifamily or mixed-use zones. Specifically, the City will codify the additional density bonus
and incentives for senior-only projects.
12/31/2025 6th Cycle In Progress In progress Meetings1 City staff is targeting a fall 2026 Council action.

Program 4.I: Allow senior
housing with extended
care facilities in multifamily and mixeduse
zoning districts.

The City will amend Zoning Code to clearly
allow senior housing under the multi-family
use and residential care facilities consistent
with State law.
12/31/2025 6th Cycle In Progress In progress Meetings1 City staff is targeting a fall 2026 Council action.

Program 4.J: Facilitate
alternate modes of
transportation for
residents.

Adopt VMT policy and transportation
demand management plan (by June 2023)
and provide walkable and safe modes of
transportation to all residents. Funding for
above head pedestrian crossing signals will
be completed no later than December
2027 and installation no later than
December 2028. Funding for Los Altos
Loop improvements in the area northeast
of San Antonio Road and Almond Avenue
secured no later than December 2028 with
improvements underway no later than July
2030.
6/30/2023 6th Cycle Completed
Completed adoption of VMT
policy and transportation
demand management plan
by June 2023 and
continuing to work on
funding for above head
pedestrian crossing signals
to be done by December
2027.

Meetings1 Council meeting February 14, 2023 approved
VMT policy; Resolution No. 2023-08.

Program 5.A: Monitor
condominium
conversions.

Deny condominium conversions unless
compliant with the Ordinance. 12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Households No condominium conversions requested to
date. Staff will continue to implement the
condominium conversion ordinance to protect
against the conversion or demolition of rental
units.

Program 5.B: Continue to
administer the City’s
affordable housing
programs.

Maintain accurate records of the City’s
affordable housing inventory and waitlists,
and report annually to the City Council.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Units 49
Completed funding and hiring of full-time
Housing Manager in November 2023 and
ongoing administration of the City's affordable
housing programs by the Housing Manager
and qualifid entity. Currently, the City has 49
BMR rental units and will be expanding the
BMR rental program by 119 units over the
next couple of years (2027) with projects that
are now under construction. There are
currently 66 BMR for-sale units.

Page 30 of 139 ends

Program 5.C: Restrict
commercial uses from
displacing residential
neighborhoods.

Continue to restrict commercial uses in
residential neighborhoods so as to prevent
potential future displacement of residents,
while continuing to allow home occupations
in residential zones, consistent with the
Zoning Code.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Households
City continues to restrict commercial uses in
residential neighborhoods so as to prevent
potential future displacement of residents,
while continuing to allow home occupations in
residential zones, consistent with the current
Zoning Code requirements.

Program 5.D: Implement
voluntary code inspection
program.

Continue the voluntary code inspection
program encompassing code compliance,
rehabilitation, energy conservation, and
minimum fire safety standards. Use the
code inspection programs to promote
available rehabilitation programs and
services (see Program 5.E).
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Other
City the voluntary code inspection program
encompassing code compliance,
rehabilitation, energy conservation, and
minimum fire safety standards. Use the code
inspection programs to promote available
rehabilitation programs and services (see
Program 5.E).

Program 5.E: Help secure
funding for housing
rehabilitation and
assistance programs.

Rehabilitation of six units for low-income
households during the planning period. 12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Households City to continue to assist in the provision of
housing programs and services for lowincome households with other public agencies and private nonprofit organizations
that offer home repairs, rental assistance,
and first-time homebuyer assistance. City will
create handouts providing program
information regarding rehabilitation programs
to interested individuals available at City Hall,
the Los Altos Senior Center, the Los Altos
Library, and the Woodland Branch Library, as
well as by email, social media, and on the City
website. City staff will contact previous
rehabilitation applicants when new funding
becomes available and post legal notice in
the newspaper, as well as by email, social
media, and on the City's website, when
housing rehabilitation funds become
available. City will continue to transfer CDBG
funds to County to support housing programs
each year.

Program 5.F: Incentivize
the creation of play areas
for multi-family housing
projects.

The City will develop incentives for the
creation of play areas for muti-family
housing projects to help address the needs
of children and families. Incentives could
be a reduction in Park In-Lieu Fees or
waiving the entire fee completely in
connection to the development of
improvements onsite.
12/31/2027 6th Cycle In Progress To be completed by
December 31, 2027. Other
City Staff studying ways to develop incentives
for the creation of play areas for multi-family
housing projects.

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Program 6.A: Assist
residents with housing
discrimination and
landlord-tenant
complaints.

The City will continue to promote fair
housing practices, refer fair housing
complaints appropriately, and raise
awareness of such services. The City will
advertise available services through the
City’s newsletters, website, email blasts,
social media, cable television channel as
well as handouts at City Hall and other
public buildings and facilities. The City will
track awareness of fair housing services
through surveys of the community and
increase awareness of such services over
the planning period, adjusting outreach
methods based on survey results, but will
ensure that outreach is conducted at least
annually starting in May 2023. The City’s
aim is to have 100 survey respondents in
the first year, and to increase survey
participation by five percent with each
survey and show a five percent increase in
awareness of available services by survey
respondents with each survey.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Households
City Housing Manager held a "Know Your
Rights" community event in March 2025 and
will hold outreach events on an ongoing
basis. The event provided information to
promote fair housing awareness and
resources to residents in need of assistance.

City's Housing website also provides
resources for community members. City will
advertise available services through the City's
newsletter, website, email blasts, social
media, cable television channel as well as
handouts at City Hall and other public
buildings and facilities. City will track
awareness of fair housing services through
surveys of the community and increase
awareness of such services over the planning
period, adjusting outreach methods based on
survey results, but to ensure that outreach is
conducted at least annually which was done
in March 2025. City's aim is to have 100
survey respondents the first year, and to
increase survey participation by five percent
with each survey respondents with each
survey.

Program 6.B: Maintain and
expand an inventory of
affordable housing
funding sources.

The City will update and maintain the
inventory of affordable housing funding
sources, make it available to developers,
and apply for, when appropriate, funding
sources to support affordable housing
activities.
12/31/2023 6th Cycle In Progress
Finalized inventory list of
funding sources and
ongoing notifications to
developers regarding
funding sources available
and evaluation of notices of
funding availability.

Submitting Prohousing
Incentive Program
application in March 2025 for
funding to support affordable
housing projects.

Other
HCD will announce Prohousing Incentive
Program awardees in June 2025 to inform the
City if it will receive funds.

Program 6.C: Target
housing development in
highest resource areas.

Support the development of below market
rate housing (i.e., lower or moderateincome housing) in Los Altos; if the City has not received an application for a below
market rate project by December 2026, the
City will enhance efforts under programs
that support funding or partnerships to
achieve affordable housing production. The
City aims to facilitate the approval of 60 lowincome units and 30 moderate-income units in highest resource area(s) (also see
Program 1.H).
9/30/2025 6th Cycle In Progress
To date 55 low-income units
permitted and 3 moderate
income units. Anticipate
additional affordable housing
units in the coming years.

Units 58 Table A2 in 2025 APR shows 55 low-income
units and 3 moderate income units permitted.

Page 32 of 139 ends

Program 6.D: Promote
Housing Choice (Section
8) rental assistance
program.

The City will advertise availability of the
Housing Choice Rental Assistance
Program on its website, newsletters, email
blasts, social media, cable television
channel as well as handouts at City Hall
and other public buildings and facilities.

Since Housing Choice vouchers are
portable, the number of vouchers used in
the city will vary over time, but the City’s
objective is to increase the number of
households participating in the Section 8
program from the current level of six to 18
households.
9/30/2023 6th Cycle Continuous
SCCHA Housing Choice
Rental Assistance Program
link being added on the
City’s website and ongoing
promotion of the Housing
Choice (Section 8) rental
assistance program.

Households6
Continuous effort to increase the number of
households participating on the Section 8
program in coordination with SCCHA Housing
Choice Rental Assistance Program.

Program 6.E: Prepare and
distribute antidisplacement information.

The City will produce anti-displacement
materials and conduct outreach to notify
potentially at-risk households of such
resources. The City will hold at least one
inperson event every two years (starting by
December 2023) on fair housing rights and
resources; this event will be hosted in a
location where at-risk households are more
easily reached and will be determined with
local organizations and groups to be most
effective. The goal is to educate at least 40
households or prevent at least 40
households from
displacement.
9/30/2023 6th Cycle Continuous
Materials produced to
provide fair housing rights
and resources information.

City Housing Manager held
Know Your Rights
community event in March
2025 to provide antidisplacement information
and rental tenant rights.

Households 10
City Housing Manager will continue to hold
community educational meetings every two
years and next one is scheduled for March
2027.

Program 6.F: Affirmatively
market physically
accessible units.

Affirmative marketing conducted for 100
percent of affordable housing units
approved and permitted in Los Altos from
2023 to 2031.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Households
There is no City owned land with an
affordable housing project that the City has
entered into an agreement with a housing
developer. If the City disposes of City-owned
land for an affordable housing project, it will
include conditions that requires the housing
developer to impement an affirmative
marketing plan for State-mandated physically
accessible units which, among other
measures, provides disability-serving
organizations adequate prior notice of the
availability of the accessible units and a
process for supporting people with qualifying
disabilites to apply.

Program 6.G: Housing
Mobility
Provide 150 housing opportunities
affordable to lower income households by
January 2031.
12/31/2027 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Units 638
Table A2 in 2025 APR shows a total of 638
units; 4/30/2024 Council approval of Zoning
Code amendments; Ordinance No. 2024-512

Page 33 of 139 ends

Program 7.A: Promote
energy and water
conservation and
greenhouse gas reduction
through education and
awareness campaigns.

Continue to promote residential energy and
water conservation and greenhouse gas
reduction consistent with the City’s adopted
2022 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan,
through consumer information on financial
assistance and rebates for energy-efficient
home improvements published by
governmental agencies, nonprofit
organizations, and utility companies.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Other
The City has promoted residential energy
efficiency and building electrification through
the City's newsletter and Sustainanility
website, which serves as a central hub for
information and for Silicon Valley Clean
Energy (SVCE) and other regional incentives.

Physical outreach materials, such as rebate
flyers, are also available at the City's public
counter. Because over 95% of residents are
SVCE customers, this partnership is our most
effective tool for connecting the community
with financial assistance, specifically their Go
Electric Advisor which is a free live service to
help residents with all questions including
incentives. The City also recently partnered
with our waste-hauler to promote incentives in
their newsletter that goes out to all residents
in the City.

Program 7.B: Monitor and
implement thresholds and
statutory requirements of
climate change legislation.

Monitor the implementation measures of
the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006
(AB 32) and SB 375, which requires
planning organizations to promote
sustainable communities as part of their
regional transportation plans. The City will
implement the measures as guidance for
thresholds and compliance methods are
released by the State, especially as
reflected in its 2022 Climate Action and
Adaptation Plan.
12/31/2031 6th Cycle Continuous Ongoing Other
City continues to monitor the implementation
measures of the Global Warming Solutions
Act of 2006 (AB 32) and SB 375, which
requires planning organizations to promote
sustainable communities as part of their
regional transportation plans. The City will
implement the measures as guidance for
thresholds and compliance methods are
released by the State, especially as reflected
in its 2022 Climate Action and Adaptation
Plan. To further educate the community, the
City launched a free Building Electrification
Speaker Series in 2025. The topics provide
residents with detailed information on how to
electrify their homes and become more
energy efficient and includes guidance on
available financial incentives. Additionally, in
Spring 2026, the City will launch its own new
rebate program to help residents replace gas
furnaces and water heaters with energyefficient heat pumps. Program expansion is planned for the commercial sector in the
summer or fall of 2026 or next year.

Page 34 of 139 ends

City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: March 10, 2026
Prepared By: Jon Maginot
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: City Council Strategic Goals

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

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution affirming the City Council Strategic Goals

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Not applicable

FISCAL IMPACT
Unknown at this time as projects related to the Goals will be included in the FY 2027 Budget

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
February 24, 2026

BACKGROUND
On February 24, 2026, the City Council reviewed its Strategic Goals and provided direction on proposed revisions to the introductory paragraph. Council also directed Councilmember Dailey to work with staff on revisions to the Public Safety goal.

ANALYSIS
The Strategic Goals guide the priorities and work of the City and help shape the annual budgeting process.

DISCUSSION
The proposed goals are included in the attached Resolution and are as follows, with the proposed changes included (additions are underlined, deletions are struck through):

The City Council is committed to managing change according to the values of the City’s Mission Statement. The City Council Strategic Goals highlight those areas identified by the Council for emphasis

Page 35 of 139 ends

and focus. The City Council will accomplish these goals by engaging the community and making decisions which are equitable, sustainable and fiscally prudent. The City Council will ensure that appropriate resources are allocated to maintain Los Altos as a great place to live and work, including providing a work culture and environment that supports recruitment and retention of exceptional employees to provide City services and maintenance and improvement of the City’s assets.

1. Public Safety: The City of Los Altos will continue providing excellent public safety for the community by providing safe, reliable and resilient police and fire facilities and services and by engaging the community in emergency preparedness best practices.

2. Business Communities: The City of Los Altos will support the different business communities including implementing specific projects and/or elements of the Housing Element and Downtown Vision Plan.

3. Circulation Safety and Efficiency: The City of Los Altos will continue implementing the City’s policies as expressed in the Complete Streets Master Plan and other plans which support improving circulation safety and efficiencies, with an emphasis on improving Safe Routes to Schools.

4. Environmental Sustainability: The City of Los Altos strive to lead in environmental sustainability through education, incentives and adaptation initiatives, and practices identified in the City’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.

5. Housing: The City of Los Altos will implement the Housing Element, programs, and policies to facilitate, incentivize and administer the availability of housing that is safe, diverse and affordable for all income levels to meet the needs of the Community and seek to increase and protect its green space.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Draft Resolution

Page 36 of 139 ends

Resolution 2025-23 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS AFFIRMING THE CITY COUNCIL’S 5-YEAR STRATEGIC GOALS
WHEREAS, the Mission of the City of Los Altos is “to be a sustainable, vibrant and inclusive community in which to live, work, visit and play; and
WHEREAS, the City Council is committed to providing essential services to the community; and
WHEREAS, on February 24, 2026, the City Council reviewed its 5-Year Strategic Goals.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby adopt the following as its 5-Year Strategic Goals:

The City Council is committed to managing change according to the values of the City’s Mission Statement.

The City Council Strategic Goals highlight those areas identified by the Council for emphasis and focus.

The City Council will accomplish these goals by engaging the community and making decisions which are equitable, sustainable and fiscally prudent. The City Council will ensure that appropriate resources are allocated to maintain Los Altos as a great place to live and work, including providing a work culture and environment that supports recruitment and retention of exceptional employees to provide City services and maintenance and improvement of the City’s assets.

1. Public Safety: The City of Los Altos will continue providing excellent public safety for the community engaging the community in emergency preparedness best practices.

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 11th day of March 2025, by the following vote:

AYES: Dailey, Fligor, Lang, Meadows, Weinberg
NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Page 37 of 139 ends

Resolution 2025-23 2
__________________________
Pete Dailey
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC
City Clerk

Page 38 of 139 ends

City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: March 10, 2026
Prepared By: Katie Krauss
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: AB481 Military Equipment Use Annual Report for 2025

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Review and renew the Ordinance by introducing and waiving further reading of the Ordinance approving Los Altos Police Policy 709 pertaining to the funding, acquisition, and use of military equipment as mandated by Assembly Bill 481. Staff further recommends Council approve the acquisition of the new item of military equipment and other changes to the inventory discussed in the Annual Report

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Not Applicable.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the General Fund.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
September 20, 2022
March 14, 2023
April 11, 2023
February 27, 2024
March 12, 2024
March 11, 2025
November 18, 2025
December 9, 2026

BACKGROUND
On September 30, 2021, Governor Newsom signed a series of eight (8) policing reform legislation aimed at increasing 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 Assembly Member David Chiu (D-San Francisco) to address the funding, acquisition and use of military equipment.

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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 initial proposed military equipment policy was made available on the department website (Government Code § 7071) and was initially approved by Council on September 20, 2022. Annual Reports, a requirement of AB 481, have been presented to City Council in 2023, 2024, and 2025. The 2025 Annual Report was published on the Department website on February 3, 2026, prior to the scheduled public meeting on February 18, 2026.

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. The bill requires an annual report to the governing board regarding military equipment. If an agency wishes to acquire additional equipment that is defined as military equipment, they must receive Council approval. The policy/ordinance governing military equipment use must be reviewed and renewed annually.

DISCUSSION
California Assembly Bill 481 requires the Los Altos Police Department to report annually on the inventory, procurement, use and misuse of covered military equipment items. The Annual Report also includes a description of new military equipment for which the police department seeks City Council approval for acquisition and funding. These changes are highlighted in the 2025 Annual Report.

We would like Council's authorization to purchase a ReconRobotics Throwbot, a micro-robot platform that provides video and audio reconnaissance within indoor or outdoor environments.

Funding for the robot would come from the Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Fund (COPS Grant). Additional proposed changes to the inventory include the removal of specific equipment items no longer held by the police department, as well as an increase in the quantity of ammunition we are authorized to purchase. We are also proposing removing the specific brand of ammunition to allow for purchasing flexibility depending on available products.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Ordinance

2. Attachment 2 - Annual Report

3. Attachment 3 - Policy 709

4. Attachment 4 - Proposed Inventory

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Ordinance No. 2023-489 Page 1
ORDINANCE NO. 2023-489

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 7.30, ENTITLED “MILITARY EQUIPMENT POLICY,” TO THE LOS ALTOS CITY CODE IN COMPLIANCE WITH ASSEMBLY BILL 481 WHEREAS, on September 30, 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill 481 (“AB 481”) (creating Government Code, Section 7070, et seq.), relating to the use of military equipment by California law enforcement agencies; and
WHEREAS, AB 481 seeks to provide transparency, oversight, and an opportunity for meaningful public input on decisions regarding whether and how military equipment is funded, acquired, or used; and
WHEREAS, the Los Altos Police Department is in possession of certain items of equipment that qualify as “military equipment” under AB 481; and
WHEREAS, AB 481 requires that a law enforcement agency possessing and using such qualifying equipment prepare a publicly released, written military equipment use policy document covering the inventory, description, purpose, use, acquisition, maintenance, fiscal impacts, procedures, training, oversight, and complaint process applicable to the Los Altos Police Department’s use of such equipment; and
WHEREAS, the Policy and supporting information must be approved by the governing body by Ordinance and reviewed annually; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Los Altos, having received the information required under AB 481 regarding the Los Altos Police Department’s use of military equipment as defined in said law, deems it to be in the best interest of the City to approve the Military Equipment Policy as set forth herein.

NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Los Altos does hereby ordain as follows:

SECTION 1. AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 7 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE. Section

7.30.010 is hereby added to the Los Altos Municipal Code to read as follows:
“7.30.010. Military equipment policy.

A. The City Council has made the following determinations:

1. The military equipment inventoried and presented to the City Council is necessary because there is no reasonable alternative that can achieve the same objective of officer and civilian safety.

2. The proposed military equipment use policy (“Policy”) will safeguard the public’s welfare, safety, civil rights and civil liberties (said Policy is attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated by this reference).

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Ordinance No. 2023-489 Page 2

3. The equipment is reasonably cost-effective compared to available alternatives that can achieve the same objective of officer and civilian safety (if any).

4. Prior military equipment use complied with the applicable equipment use policy (which included equipment now defined as military equipment) that was in effect at the time, or if prior uses did not comply with the accompanying military equipment use policy, corrective action has been taken to remedy nonconforming uses and ensure future compliance.

B. The Policy was considered by the City Council as an agenda item in an open session of regular meeting and noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, at which public comment was permitted.

C. The Policy shall be made publicly available on the Los Altos police department’s website for as long as the military equipment is available for use.

D. The Los Altos police department shall submit an annual military equipment report to the city council containing the information required in California Government Code, Section 7072, and the city council shall determine whether each type of military equipment identified in that report has complied with the standards for approval set forth in Paragraphs (a)(1)-(4) above.

E. The City Council shall review this Ordinance and vote on whether to renew it, on an annual basis at a regular meeting, in accordance with California Government Code Section 7071(e)(2).

F. The City Council approves the use of the Policy and finds that it satisfies the requirements of California Government Code Section 7070(d).”
SECTION 2. This Ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) of the CEQA Guidelines (Title 14, Chapter 3 of the California Code of Regulations) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonable foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines because it has no potential for resulting in physical change to environment, directly or indirectly).

SECTION 3. CONSTITUTIONALITY. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.

SECTION 4. PUBLICATION. This Ordinance shall be published as provided in Government Code section 36933.

SECTION 5. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall be effective upon the commencement of the thirty-first day following the adoption date.

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Ordinance No. 2023-489 Page 3
The foregoing Ordinance was duly and properly introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Los Altos held on ____________, 2026 and was thereafter, at a regular meeting held on ___________, 2026 passed and adopted by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
___________________________
Sally Meadows, MAYOR
Attest:
_______________________
Melissa Thurman, CITY CLERK

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AB 481 Annual Report 2025
Reporting Period: January 1, 2025-December 31, 2025
Captain Katie Krauss
Los Altos Police Department
Submitted February 4, 2026

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Military Equipment Use AB 481 Compliance Requirements:
• Approval of the Military Use Policy (Completed 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025; Policy 709) • Publishing the Policy (Completed 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025) • Annual Report (see below)
Annual Report Description:

Assembly Bill 481 requires the police department report annually on the inventory, procurement, use and misuse of covered military equipment items. The annual report also includes a description of new military equipment the police department seeks City Council approval for acquisition and funding.

Per AB 481, the annual report must include the following:
(1) A summary of how the military equipment was used and the purpose of its use. (2) A summary of any complaints or concerns received concerning the military equipment. (3) The results of any internal audits, any information about violations of the military equipment use policy, and any actions taken in response.
(4) The total annual cost for each type of military equipment, including acquisition, personnel, training, transportation, maintenance, storage, upgrade, and other ongoing costs, and from what source funds will be provided for the military equipment in the calendar year following submission of the annual military equipment report.
(5) The quantity possessed for each type of military equipment. (6) If the law enforcement agency intends to acquire additional military equipment in the next year, the quantity sought for each type of military equipment.

LAMC 7.30.010. Military equipment policy (Last reviewed on 12/9/2025) As required by AB 481, the City Council reviewed this section as an ordinance to approve a military equipment use policy. The City Council's approval shall remain effective for a period of one year, which approval may be revoked, extended, renewed, modified or amended by resolution of the City Council. Within a year of the initial approval, and at least annually thereafter, the City Council will review this section and related resolutions. The City Council may, by resolution, make amendments, modifications or revisions to the military equipment use policy adopted by the Los Altos Police Department. The ordinance must be reviewed and renewed annually.

A. The City Council has made the following determinations:

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1. The military equipment inventoried and presented to the City Council is necessary because there is no reasonable alternative that can achieve the same objective of officer and civilian safety.

3. The equipment is reasonably cost-effective compared to available alternatives that can achieve the same objective of officer and civilian safety (if any).

Equipment Usage for 2025:

The UAS (Unmanned Aerial System, or drones) were used a total of 17 times between April and December 2025. The UAS uses included incidents such as an at-risk missing person, burglaries, as well as several outside-agency assists. The table below documents the various usages for the UAS in 2025:

Usage Type/Incident Type Number of times
At-Risk Missing Person 1
Auto Burglary in Progress 1
Burglary in Progress 2
City Inspection/Roof 1
Demo/Public Event 3
Hold-Up Alarm Bank 1
In Progress Trespass 1
Outside Agency Assist 4
Structure Fire 1
Suspect Fled Lawful Detention 1
Vehicle Collision 1
None of the other equipment in the attached military equipment inventory was utilized in 2025, except in training situations including range and SWAT.

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Summary of Complaints for 2025:

The Department did not receive any complaints concerning military equipment in 2025.

Violations of Policy 709:

An internal review revealed no violations of Policy 709.

Annual Cost for Military Equipment:

Maintenance:

The estimated annual cost for the maintenance of the military equipment in the current inventory is $4,800. This includes the cost of replacement parts, cleaning supplies, and the staff time to conduct inspections on the equipment.

Training:

Based on the maximum-cost methodology used, the combined maximum estimated training cost is $318,851.96. The tables in Appendix A provide a breakdown of training costs per AB 481 equipment type. Total training costs are highest for Rifle (223) at $143,925.48, followed by 40mm at $44,745.64, Drones at $34,257.60, Sniper Rifle (308) at $22,118.40, Flashbangs at $19,906.56, Chemical Agents at $19,309.48, Breach Shotgun at $9,953.28, and Chemical Shotgun at $6,635.52. We have also accounted for the cost of the range rental, which is $1,000 per range training session (2 days at $500 each day). We also contribute to the range and various facility rental costs for our joint SWAT team with Mountain View PD.

These figures represent a conservative, upper-bound estimate, as all calculations assume training is conducted at the top-step overtime rate for each employee classification. In practice, not all personnel are paid at top step. In addition, many staff attend training during their regular scheduled shifts and do not incur overtime for every training hour. Therefore, actual training expenditures are likely lower than the amounts shown.

Replacement Military Equipment Inventory List:
• Increase in .223 ammunition from 10,800 rounds to 42,000 rounds. This increase is due to additional rifle training with the deployment of the Daniel Defense rifles that are being individually assigned and “sighted in” to each officer. We also increased our total

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number of rifles from 27 Colt AR rifles to 36 Daniel Defense rifles. Funding for the ammunition comes from the general fund and is already budgeted. • Increase in .308 (sniper rifle) ammunition from 3,040 rounds to 3,300 rounds. In addition, we would like to remove the brand of the ammunition to allow for replacement of the current rounds to an equivalent round without needing Council approval for an inventory change. Funding for the ammunition comes from the general fund and is already budgeted.

New Proposed Items for the Military Equipment Inventory List:
• ReconRobotics Throwbot 2 is a throwable micro-robot platform that enables operators to obtain instantaneous video and audio reconnaissance within indoor or outdoor environments. Once deployed, the robot can be directed to move through a structure or area and transmit real-time video and audio. These reconnaissance features can help to locate and identify subjects, confirm presence of hostages or weapons, and reveal the room layout. The tool would be used primarily for joint SWAT team operations with Mountain View PD. The cost of the Throwbot2 is $19,225. Funds for this item will come from the Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Fund (COPS Grant).

Additional Requests for AB 481 Changes:
• Removal of Less-Lethal Shotguns and Rounds (Currently Item 2) from the Inventory: The Department has traded in 10 of the less-lethal shotguns and only had one remaining in the inventory. This less-lethal shotgun is used exclusively for the deployment of chemical agents via the 12-gauge shotgun chemical munition launcher.

The less-lethal shotgun has been moved in the inventory, as its usage has shifted to chemical agents. We no longer have the 12-gauge super-sock beanbag rounds previously described in Item #2, ii.
• Removal of Benelli M3Super90 12-gauge shotgun (Item 5) from the Inventory: This firearm is no longer in our armory and should be removed from the inventory. The ammunition (12-gauge) is used for recruits in the Academy only. The inventory numbers should be 2,000 rounds.

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Employee Class Top Step OT Rate Number of Officers
New Hire Officer $115.34 7Patrol Officer $138.24 28SWAT Operator $138.24 4SWAT Sniper $138.24 2Drone Operator III $138.24 4Drone Operator II $117.20 2Drone Operator I $69.08 1 Employee Class 40mm Rifle (223) Rifle (308) Chemical Shotgun Breach Shotgun Flashbangs Chemical Agents Drones New Hire Officer 2 18 N/A N/A N/A N/A 2 N/APatrol Officer 6 12 N/A N/A N/A N/A 2 N/ASWAT Operator 24 100 N/A 8 12 24 12 N/ASWAT Sniper 24 100 80 8 12 24 12 N/ADrone Operator III N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 40Drone Operator II N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 40Drone Operator I N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 40 Employee Training Costs 40mm Rifle (223) Rifle (308) Chemical Shotgun Breach Shotgun Flashbangs Chemical Agents Drones New Hire Officer $ 1,614.76 $ 14,532.84 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 1,614.76 $ - Patrol Officer $ 23,224.32 $ 46,448.64 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 7,741.44 $ - SWAT Operator $ 13,271.04 $ 55,296.00 $ - $ 4,423.68 $ 6,635.52 $ 13,271.04 $ 6,635.52 $ - SWAT Sniper $ 6,635.52 $ 27,648.00 $ 22,118.40 $ 2,211.84 $ 3,317.76 $ 6,635.52 $ 3,317.76 $ - Drone Operator III $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 22,118.40 Drone Operator II $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 9,376.00 Drone Operator I $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 2,763.20 TOTAL HOURS COSTS $ 44,745.64 $ 143,925.48 $ 22,118.40 $ 6,635.52 $ 9,953.28 $ 19,906.56 $ 19,309.48 $ 34,257.60 TOTAL RANGE COSTS (All Staff & Equiptment) $ 18,000.00SUM TOTAL $ 318,851.96 Rate Per Employee Classification
Training Hours Per Equiptment Type Per Employee Classification Total Training Costs Per Equiptment Type
Appendix A: Training Cost Summary by Equipment

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Policy
709
Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department 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.

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Los Altos Police Department
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Military Equipment
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(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)

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Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Military Equipment
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department Military Equipment - 3
• Los Altos Police Department Policy 414 (Hostage and Barricade Incidents) • Los Altos Police Department Policy 611 (Unmanned Aerial Systems Operations) • California Assembly Bill No. 48 (Use of Kinetic Energy Projectiles and Chemical Agents-Assemblies, Protests, and Demonstrations)
• California Penal Code Section 13652 (Use of Kinetic Energy Projectiles and Chemical Agents)
This policy expressly prohibits the use of "military equipment" on individuals or groups solely based on actual or perceived characteristics, such as race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, economic status, age, cultural group, or disability. 709.3 APPROVAL
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall obtain approval from the governing body by way of an ordinance adopting the military equipment policy. As part of the approval process, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall ensure the proposed military equipment policy is submitted to the governing body and is available on the department website at least 30 days prior to any public hearing concerning the military equipment at issue (Government Code § 7071).

The military equipment policy must be approved by the governing body before the Department engages in any of the following (Government Code § 7071):
(a) Requests military equipment made available pursuant to 10 USC § 2576a. (b) Seeks funds for military equipment, including but not limited to applying for a grant, soliciting or accepting private, local, state, or federal funds, in-kind donations, or other donations or transfers.
(c) Acquires military equipment either permanently or temporarily, including by borrowing or leasing.
(d) Collaborates with another law enforcement agency in the deployment or other use of military equipment within the jurisdiction of this department. (e) Uses any new or existing military equipment for a purpose, in a manner, or by a person not previously approved by the governing body.
(f) Solicits or responds to a proposal for, or enters into an agreement with, any other person or entity to seek funds for, apply to receive, acquire, use, or collaborate in the use of military equipment.
(g) Acquires military equipment through any means not provided above. 709.3.1 EXIGENCY- PROCUREMENT AND USE
Subject to this paragraph, nothing in this policy shall prohibit the procurement or use of controlled equipment when exigent circumstances exist. In rare circumstances, exigent circumstances may occur where the immediate procurement and use of controlled equipment may be necessary to preserve life, prevent physical harm to officers or other persons, prevent the destruction of relevant

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Military Equipment
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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.

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Los Altos Police Department
Los Altos Police Department Policy Manual
Military Equipment
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department 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.

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Military Equipment
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(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: Inventory approved 11.18.2025.pdf

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Attachments

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Attachment
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Published with permission by Los Altos Police Department Inventory approved 11.18.2025.pdf - 8
Inventory approved 11.18.2025.pdf
Inventory approved 11.18.2025.pdf

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709.9 MILITARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY (approved on 11/18/2025) 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.

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(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.

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(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

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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

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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;

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 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.
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.
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. 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

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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 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
c. 20) Anytime a UAS would enhance public safety, improve operational safety, incident stabilization or incident mitigation on a call for service.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

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to operate the UAS
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.

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709.9 MILITARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY (Proposed 2/18/26)
The following constitutes a list and description of qualifying equipment for the Department:

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2. 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

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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: 42,000rounds. 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.

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3. .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: 3,300 rounds. (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;

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4. 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

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i. 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. (In inventory only for academy participants)
ii. 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. . (In inventory only for academy participants)
(b) Purpose: 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 or ammunition in our policy.
(d) Lifespan:
i. OO Buck Ammunition: No expiration
ii. Slug ammunition: No expiration
(e) Training: Officers receive training in shotgun use in the police academy, and have to pass firearm qualifications.
(f) Fiscal Impact: None
(g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of all firearms fall under the following policies:

5. Remington 870 MCS 12 Gauge Breaching shotgun and breaching rounds:

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ii. 12 GAUGE BREACHING ROUNDS, cost: $5.00 per round, quantity: 25 rounds.

6. 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

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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.

7. 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

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8. Less Lethal Shotgun: Less Lethal Shotgun is used to deploy chemical agents. (a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost i. REMINGTON 870 LESS LETHAL SHOTGUN, cost: $950, quantity: 1. The Remington 870 Less Lethal Shotgun is used to deploy chemical agent munitions. 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. (b) Purpose: Used in conjunction with chemical munitions, the purpose of the equipment is to 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 Use - Subject to subsection (g) below, situations for use of the less lethal weapon systems with chemical agents may include, but are not limited to the following:
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: Remington 970 Less Lethal Shotgun-25 years (e) Training: All personnel who are authorized to carry a control device or chemical munition launcher must be properly trained and certified to carry the specific control device and are retrained or re- certified as necessary. (f) Fiscal Impact: Annual maintenance is approximately $100 per shotgun (quantity (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), 308 (CONTROL DEVICES AND TECHNIQUES), 308.9 (KINETIC ENERGY PROJECTILE UIDELINES), 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.

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.

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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.

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12. Robot/Recon Robotics Throwbot 2: The Throwbot is a throwable microrobot platform that enables operators to obtain instantaneous video and audio reconnaissance within indoor or outdoor environments.
(a) Description, quantity, capabilities, and purchase cost: RECON ROBOTICS THROWBOT 2, cost: $19,225, quantity: 1. This equipment is a battery powered, remote operated device equipped with cameras and communication capabilities. This equipment is for (potential) use during high-risk incidents and use is authorized for all members of the department who have been trained in its use. Incidents that may qualify for its use include, but are not limited to, high-risk warrant services, barricaded subjects, and hostage negotiation/rescue operations. Before entering a structure, particularly in a tactically compromised and dangerous situation, knowledge of a subject's location is very important, and the robot can provide that without placing anyone at risk. Cameras can also help determine if a subject is armed and if there are other subjects inside that need assistance. The two-way speakers can be used to communicate, de-escalate, and determine resistance level.

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(b) Purpose: To be used to remotely gain visual/audio information during high-risk incidents, deliver Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) phone, open doors, and clear buildings.
(c) Authorized Use: Only assigned operators who have completed the required training shall be permitted to operate the robot. On S.W.A.T. callouts, use is established by the S.W.A.T. Commander. Use by patrol teams is established by the Watch Commander. The robot may be deployed when they enhance safety during an operation. This may include incidents involving barricaded subjects, execution of search warrants, or clearing unknown but potentially dangerous environments.
(d) Lifespan: Approximately 10 years
(e) Training: Only members of the department who have been trained in the use of the robot shall be permitted to operate the robot. There is no POST certifications required.
(f) Fiscal Impact: No known annual maintenance cost.
(g) Legal and Procedural Rules: Use of the Throwbot as part of Law Enforcement Operations shall conform to all relevant Los Altos Police policies, including but not limited to Los Altos SWAT and Crisis Negotiation Teams (Policy 408), Hostage and Barricade Incident Response (Policy 414), High Risk Operations Protocol (Policy 317) and Response to Bomb Calls (Policy 318) policies.

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: March 10, 2026
Prepared By: Jon Maginot
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Fire Protection Services

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution directing staff to submit an application to the Local Agency Formation Commission of Santa Clara County (LAFCO) for annexation into the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District (County Fire) and directing staff to negotiate property tax transfer and potential transfer of both fire stations to County Fire as part of the annexation

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The proposed annexation is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15320 of the CEQA Guidelines

FISCAL IMPACT
The fiscal impact of this action is unknown at this time. Based on this action, City staff will negotiate with County Fire regarding the amount of Property Tax revenue to be shifted to County Fire as well as the potential transfer of the City-owned fire stations. The City will see a loss in revenue, but will see an equal reduction in expenditures.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
June 24, 2025, October 28, 2025

BACKGROUND
The City of Los Altos contracts with Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District (County Fire) for fire protection services. This contract began in 1997 and has been approved in 10-year increments. The contract also includes Los Altos Hills County Fire District (LAHCFD).

The current contract with County Fire will expire on December 31, 2026. The current contract contains a provision that the agreement will automatically renew for successive ten-year terms unless one of the parties provides notice of non-renewal to the other parties at least one year prior to the expiration of the agreement. The City Council approved non-renewal of the contract on October 28, 2025 and notice was provided to all parties.

ANALYSIS
On June 24, 2025, City Council adopted a Resolution directing staff to explore all options for

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fire protection services in the City of Los Altos. This included evaluating extension of the current contract, negotiation of a new contract and annexation of the City into the Fire District.

Staff has continued discussions with County Fire staff.

As part of the discussions with County Fire staff, staff from both agencies have reached the point where an application for annexation must be submitted to LAFCO. The attached resolution will authorize staff to submit that application.

Staff is targeting the June 2026 LAFCO meeting for the application. As such, the application is due April 2, 2026. For more information on the LAFCO process, please see below. The application will include a number of documents that staff will work with County Fire to compile and submit these documents. As part of the application, the County Board of Supervisors will consider a resolution supporting the annexation on March 10, 2026.

As part of the annexation, the City will transfer a portion of the City’s property tax share to County Fire. The attached Resolution directs staff to negotiate with County staff the amount to be transferred. Once an agreement has been reached, both the City Council and the County Board of Supervisors will pass resolutions memorializing the agreement. These resolutions will specify the effective date of the reallocation. The proposed annexation will not raise or change property tax rates for residents.

In addition, the resolution directs staff to negotiate the transfer of the two City-owned fire stations to the Fire District. This will allow the Fire District to effect repairs and/or replacement of the stations and will remove the liability for the maintenance and/or replacement of the buildings from the City.

Should Council approve the proposed Resolution, staff will return with additional actions necessary to complete the proposed annexation, including the transfer of property tax revenue and transfer of the two fire stations.

DISCUSSION
The City has seen costs for fire protection services increase significantly over the last ten years.

In FY20/21 the City paid $7.6 million for fire services and in FY25/26 it is anticipated the City will pay $9.2 million. Annexing into the Fire District will remove these increases from the City’s budget. The City will see a reduction in property tax revenue, however, the City will also see an equal reduction in expenditures.

Should the annexation be approved, the Los Altos community will not see any change in fire protection or emergency medical services.

LAFCO process
The LAFCO Board meets every two months. As indicated, staff is targeting the June 3, 2026 LAFCO meeting for the annexation hearing. LAFCO requires applications to be submitted two months prior to the hearing date, so the application will be due on April 2, 2026.

The LAFCO application will include two parts: one for annexation and the other to change

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County Fire’s Sphere of Influence to include the City of Los Altos. The application will request that both be effective January 1, 2027.

Generally, LAFCO’s consideration of a change of organization requires multiple steps as follows:

1. Initiation of LAFCO proceedings by: (1) LAFCO; or (2) a resolution of application; or (3) landowner or registered voter petition. In this case, the City is the applicant.

2. Submission of a formal application to LAFCO.

3. LAFCO consideration and approval or denial.

4. A 30-day reconsideration period.

5. A protest period and, if applicable, protest proceedings.

6. Filing a certificate of completion to close LAFCO proceedings.

Because County Fire would be submitting a resolution supporting the proposed annexation, the District’s Board (County Board of Supervisors) will eliminate a required 60-day notice period, which will help to streamline the process. Staff anticipates that the entire LAFCO process from date of application to closing of LAFCO proceedings will take six to eight months.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Draft Resolution

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Resolution 2026-xxx Page 1
DRAFT
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-

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

INITIATING APPLICATION BY THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS FOR ANNEXATION OF

INTO THE SANTA CLARA COUNTY CENTRAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos (“City”) is committed to ensuring the community receive high quality fire protection services; and
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos first contracted with Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District (“County Fire”) for fire protection services in 1996 and the current contract expires on December 31, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Los Altos (“City”) desires to initiate proceedings pursuant to the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000, concurrently with County Fire, a dependent special district of the County of Santa Clara, for annexation of the territory of the City into County Fire; and WHEREAS, the Santa Clara County Local Agency Formation Commission (“LAFCO”) may adjust County Fire’s sphere of influence, as necessary, to make it consistent with the proposed reorganization; and
WHEREAS, the territories of County Fire and the City are depicted in Exhibit A; and WHEREAS, the annexation of the City into County Fire furthers, and is consistent with, the 2024 LAFCO Countywide Fire Service Review; and
WHEREAS, annexation into County Fire will provide the Los Altos community continual fire protection services and will be an ongoing public benefit; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to initiate proceedings pursuant to the Cortese-KnoxHertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000, as supported by County Fire, for the annexation of the territory of the City into County Fire, subject to the following terms and conditions, among others:

1. The effective date of the change or organization shall be set by LAFCO action, but is requested to be January 1, 2027;

2. The proposed annexation will expand County Fire’s boundaries to include the City of Los Altos, and County Fire shall assume responsibility for fire and emergency medical services within the annexed territory;

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Resolution 2026-xxx Page 1

3. County Fire shall have authority to exercise all powers authorized by the Fire Protection District Law of 1987 (Health and Safety Code section 13800 et seq.), within the annexed territory;

4. The City and County Fire shall negotiate a property tax transfer consistent with Revenue and Taxation Code section 99, which shall be memorialized in resolutions adopted by the City of Los Altos City Council and the County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors;

5. County Fire’s sphere of influence shall be updated by LAFCO in a manner consistent with the proposed annexation;

6. The Fire Chief, or designee, and the City Manager, or designee, shall approve the Plan of Service presented to LAFCO;

7. The City and County Fire shall negotiate and execute an agreement for the transfer of the Loyola Fire Station (765 Fremont Avenue) and the Los Altos Fire Station (10 Almond Avenue) to County Fire, subject to standard representations, warranties, and due diligence, and shall mutually agree upon terms for related capital and facility needs; and

8. Such other provisions as required by applicable law or as may be agreed by County Fire and the City.

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

1. Santa Clara County LAFCO is requested to initiate proceedings for the annexation of the territory of the City of Los Altos into County Fire; and

2. Directs the City Manager, or his designee, to submit an application to Santa Clara County LAFCO initiating the annexation and to act as chief petitioner. The City Manager’s address is:

Gabriel Engeland
City Manager
1 N. San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022; and

3. Directs City staff to request Santa Clara County LAFCO for concurrent amendment of the Sphere of Influence of County Fire to support consenting of the proposed annexation; and

4. Directs City staff to prepare all necessary documents or responses during LAFCO proceedings for both the requested annexation of the City into County Fire and the concurrent amendment of the Sphere of Influence of County Fire.

I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of a Resolution passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Los Altos at a meeting thereof on the 10th day of March, 2026 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

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Resolution 2026-xxx Page 1
__________________________
Sally Meadows, MAYOR
Attest:
_____________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC

CITY CLERK

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: March 10, 2026
Prepared By: Jon Maginot
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Review of City Council Norms and Procedures

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Review the City Council Norms and Procedures and provide direction on modifications as needed

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Not applicable

FISCAL IMPACT
None

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
February 10, 2026

BACKGROUND
The Council Norms and Procedures (Norms) are reviewed periodically by City Council. On February 10, 2026, the Council reviewed the Norms and provided direction on modifications to the Norms.

ANALYSIS
Staff has prepared revisions to the Norms based on Council discussion and direction from the February 10, 2026 meeting.

DISCUSSION
It is recommended that the City Council review the proposed revisions to the Norms and provide further direction on changes, if needed. The revised Norms will be presented to Council on March 10, 2026 for approval.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Revised Council Norms and Procedures

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Council Norms and Procedures
Last Amended/Adopted – January 28, 2025
456

CITY COUNCIL

NORMS AND PROCEDURES

COUNCILMEMBERS
Pete Dailey
Larry Lang
Sally Meadows
Jonathan Weinberg

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2 COUNCIL NORMS AND PROCEDURES

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1: GENERAL

1.1 Purpose

1.2 Values

1.3 Review

1.4 Compliance with Applicable Laws

1.41.5 Applicability of Accountability Policy of the City Council SECTION 2: MAYOR AND VICE MAYOR SELECTION PROCESS

2.1 Reorganization

2.2 Election of Mayor

2.3 Election of Vice Mayor

2.4 Councilmembers Serving After a Break in Service

2.5 Appointment of Vacancy
SECTION 3: COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEES

3.1 Responsibility

3.2 Instructions and Expectations

3.3 Reporting

3.4 Standing Subcommittees
SECTION 4: COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES

4.1 Responsibility

4.2 Governing

4.3 Commission Liaisons

4.4 Attendance Requirement for Commissioners

4.5 Discipline or Removal of a Commissioner
SECTION 5: AD HOC COMMITTEES AND TASK FORCES

5.1 Instructions and Expectations

5.2 Reports

5.3 Redirection

5.4 Noticing
SECTION 6: ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

6.1 Attendance

6.2 Correspondence

6.3 Regional Boards

6.4 Response to Public

6.5 Proclamations

6.6 Reimbursement

6.7 Training

6.8 Limited Use of Electronic Devices during Council meetings

6.9 City Mission and City Seal

6.10 Use of email

6.106.11 Use of Social Media
SECTION 7: COUNCIL RELATIONSHIP WITH STAFF

7.1 City Manager

7.17.2 Professional conduct toward City Attorney and City Manager

7.27.3 Agenda Item Questions

7.37.4 Complaints

7.47.5 Staff

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3 SECTION 8: MEETINGS

8.1 Open to Public

8.2 Broadcasting of City Council Meetings

8.3 Regular Meetings

8.4 Cancelling Meetings

8.5 Special Meetings

8.6 Virtual Meetings

8.7 Closed Sessions

8.8 Annual RetreatCouncil Goals

8.9 Quorum

8.10 Minutes

8.11 Adjourned Meetings

8.118.12 Technology Disruption Policy
SECTION 9: POSTING NOTICE AND AGENDA

9.1 Posting of Notice and Agenda

9.2 Location of Posting

9.29.3 Language access and translation
SECTION 10: AGENDA CONTENTS

10.1 Setting the Agenda

10.2 Description of Matters

10.3 Availability to the Public

10.4 Limitation to Act Only on Items on the Agenda

10.5 Order of Agenda

10.6 Change in Order of the Agenda

10.7 Consent Calendar

10.8 Tentative Council Calendar

10.9 Placing items on a future agenda

10.1010.9 Council questions

10.1110.10 Emergency Meetings
SECTION 11: PROCEDURES FOR THE CONDUCT OF PUBLIC MEETINGS

11.1 Role of Mayor

11.2 Rules of Order

11.3 Appeal Procedures

11.4 Public Hearing Procedures

11.5 Staff and Consultant Reports

11.6 Public Comment

11.7 Motions

11.8 Reconsideration of a Council Action

11.9 Council Discussions and Deliberations

11.10 Councilmember Respect

11.11 Council and Staff Reports and Directions on Future Agenda Items

11.12 Conflict of Interest

11.13 Teleconferencing
SECTION 12: CLOSED SESSIONS

12.1 Purpose

12.2 Rule of Confidentiality

12.3 Breach of Rule of Confidentiality

12.4 Agenda

12.5 Permissible Topics

12.6 Rules of Decorum

12.7 Conduct of Meeting

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4 12.8 Public Disclosure After Final Action
SECTION 13: DECORUM

13.1 Councilmembers

13.2 City Employees

13.3 Public

13.4 Noise in the Chambers

13.413.5 Remote disruptions
SECTION 14: VIOLATIONS OF PROCEDURES
APPENDIX A: ROSENBERG’S RULES OF ORDER (SIMPLE PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURES FOR THE 21st CENTURY)

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5 SECTION 1. GENERAL

1.1 Purpose. The purpose of these Norms and Procedures is to promote communication, understanding, fairness, and trust among the members of the City Council, staff, and members of the public concerning their roles, responsibilities, and expectations for management of the business of the City of Los Altos. The Norms also inform the public about what to expect from their elected representatives while performing their duties. These Norms do not remove the City’s obligations under State and Federal law, especially with regards to ADA compliance. Council members seeking accommodation through the ADA work with the City Manager and Human Resources Department through the accommodation process.

1.2 Values. Councilmembers shall represent the best interests of the City and community at large. Councilmembers shall treat fellow Councilmembers, members of the public, Commission and Committee members, and staff and consultants with respect, civility, and courtesy. All Councilmembers shall respect each other’s individual points of view and right to disagree. When addressing the public in any way, all Councilmembers shall make certain their opinions are expressed solely as their own, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any other Councilmember. Councilmembers shall respect and abide by the decisions of the majority of the Council at all times.

1.3 Review. The City Council shall conduct a review of this document biennially, or whenever a new Councilmember has been seated or Council deems necessary, to assist Councilmembers in being more productive in management of the business of the City. A new Council will consider the document within three months of its first regular meeting.

1.4 Compliance with Applicable Laws. All conduct of the City Council, Commissions, Committees and Subcommittees shall be in full compliance with all applicable laws, including but not limited to State laws such as the Ralph M. Brown Act, the California Public Records Act, and the Political Reform Act, as amended. If there is a conflict between the Norms and Procedures and an applicable law, the applicable law shall govern.

In addition, all conduct of the City Council, Commissions, Committees and Subcommittees shall be in compliance with applicable City policies, including but not limited to: Personnel Rules and Regulations and the Public Records Policy.

1.5 Applicability of Accountability Policy of the City Council. Violation of these Norms and Procedures may result in a council member or members being subject to the Accountability Policy of the City Council.

SECTION 2. MAYOR AND VICE MAYOR SELECTION PROCESS

2.1 Reorganization. The reorganization of the Council and the seating of new Councilmembers shall occur at a special meeting held on the earliest available Tuesday following the

CITY OF LOS ALTOS

CITY COUNCIL NORMS AND PROCEDURES

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6 certification of election results, which is typically on the first or second Tuesday of December. If the certification is delayed because of a recount or other reason, the Council will wait until the certification is final before holding its reorganization special meeting.

Seating preferences on the dais shall be made by the Mayor, Vice Mayor and then by seniority of the rest of the members, in that order. If two members have equal seniority based on year elected, then the member with the higher vote count in their most recent election is considered to have higher seniorityrepresenting the district with the longest amount of time since its representative served as Mayor is considered to have higher seniority.

A community reception honoring the incoming and outgoing Mayor and Councilmembers will be held immediately following the reorganization meeting.

2.2 Election of Mayor. Only Councilmembers elected by the voters or appointed to the City Council due to the cancelation of an election may serve as Mayor.

The term of office shall be one year. The Councilmember must have served at least 23 months to be eligible for Mayor. A majority vote of the Council is necessary to designate the Mayor. If there is at least one elected Councilmember with a minimum of 23 months of service who has not served as Mayor, he or she shall be designated Mayor before those who have already served as Mayor.

If there are two or more such members who have served more than 23 months and have never served as Mayor, the one having served the longest time on the Council shall be designated as Mayor.

In the event there are two or more members who have never served as Mayor, and have served the same length of time and were elected in different districts, the member representing the district with the longest amount of time since its representative served as Mayor shall become Mayorone who received the greatest number of votes at his/her/their election or re-election to the Council shall become Mayor.

In the event there are two or more members who have served as Mayor, who have served the same continuous length of time, and who have been re-elected to the Council and were elected in different districts, the member representing the district with the longest amount of time since its representative served as Mayor shall become Mayorone who received the greatest number of votes at his/her/their re-election to the Council shall become Mayor.

A member of the Council must receive a majority of votes of the Council to be designated as Mayor. Nothing in these Norms precludes a majority of the Council from selecting any member of the Council to serve as Mayor or Vice Mayor.

In the event three new members are elected to the Council, then an exception to Sections 2.2 and 2.3 will apply, allowing the immediate appointment of a Vice Mayor without the normal 11 months of prior service, and the following year such person may be appointed as the Mayor without the normal 23 months of prior service. Any member re-elected to the Council after a break in service will be treated in the normal sequence for appointment as Vice Mayor and Mayor, without regard to such person’s service prior to the break in service (See Norm

2.4).

The Mayor may be removed from office, for cause, by a 4/5ths affirmative vote of the members. The person is to be advised of the proposed cause for removal at least 72 hours

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7 before the action is taken. Requests for an agenda item to consider removal of the Mayor should be made to the City Manager. If one or more vacancies exist on the Council, the Mayor may be removed from office by a unanimous vote of the other remaining Council members.

2.3 Election of Vice Mayor. Only Councilmembers elected by the voters or appointed to the City Council due to the cancelation of an election may serve as Vice Mayor.

The selection process for determining who shall serve as Vice Mayor will follow that of Mayor, except the Councilmember must have served at least 11 months to be eligible to serve as Vice Mayor.

The Vice Mayor may be removed from office, for cause, by a 4/5ths affirmative vote of the members. The person is to be advised of the proposed cause for removal at least 72 hours before the action is taken. Requests for an agenda item to consider removal of the Vice Mayor should be made to the City Manager. If one or more vacancies exist on the Council, the Vice Mayor may be removed from office by a unanimous vote of the other remaining Council members.

2.4 Councilmembers Serving After a Break in Service. The time of continuous service for any elected member of the Council who previously served on the Council prior to a break in service shall be considered to have started at his/her/their election after their break in service.

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.

SECTION 3. COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEES

3.1 Responsibility. The Mayor shall appoint Councilmembers to standing and ad hoc subcommittees as required to accomplish the work of the Council, subject to affirmation by the Council at its next regular meeting. It will be the responsibility of these subcommittees to inform and make recommendations to the Council and submit them to the Council for a vote. Staff shall work with, and support, Council subcommittees as required.

3.2 Instructions and Expectations. The Council shall make certain that all Council subcommittees are properly instructed in their assigned scope of work and responsibilities.

The expected outcome of the committee’s efforts shall be defined in writing and approved by a majority of the City Council.

3.3 Reporting. Council subcommittee members are to keep the Council informed of the work and progress of their subcommittee. These reports or minutes shall be made in writing whenever a recommendation is made to the Council.

3.4 Standing Subcommittees. From time to time, the City Council may vote to establish standing subcommittees. These include: the Council Youth Commission Interview Committee and joint committees with the different school districts that serve Los Altos residents.

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8 The Council Youth Commission Interview Committee consists of two members of the City Council and is responsible for conducting interviews of applicants for the Youth Commission and making recommendations to the City Council regarding the appointments. The Committee meets as needed.

The City/ School District Committees consist of two members of the City Council and two members of the Board of Trustees of the applicable School District(s). The purpose of the subcommittee is to facilitate communication between the two bodies on issues of mutual concern by both legislative bodies, as directed by the City Council and/or School Board.

Meetings are open to the public, are subject to the Brown Act and are generally held at least bi-annually.

SECTION 4. COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES

4.1 Responsibility. The Council may appoint residents of the community to the City’s nonCouncil standing commissions and committees. Commission and committee members shall represent the interests of the community at-large when serving on these bodies. These commissions and committees will respect the public and staff and shall take seriously their responsibility for reporting to the Council. Each commission is to keep a rotation schedule for representation at City Council meetings by one of its members. Attendance is required encouraged when a commission has an item of interest on the Council agenda, so as to be available to answer Council questions.

4.2 Governing. The City’s Commissions and Committees are governed by the Commission Handbook as adopted and amended by the City Council. If there is a conflict between the Commission Handbook and the Norms and Procedures, the Commission Handbook shall control as to the Commissions and Committees.

4.3 Commission Liaisons. To facilitate the exchange of information between the Council and its Commissions, the Mayor will at least annually make liaison appointments to the Commissions. These appointments shall be ratified by the Council. Councilmembers shall respect the separation between policy making and advisory Commissions by: A) not attempting to lobby or influence Commissions on any item under their consideration; B) attending meetings of assigned Commissions, but not taking a position on an item before the Commission; C) not voting at the Commission’s meeting on any item; and D) assisting the Commission in scheduling recommendations to be heard by the Council.

Council liaisons are not required to attend all commission meetings, however, liaisons shall remain aware of what happens at each commission meeting and be available to the Chair, individual commissioners and/or staff to discuss matters of the commission.

If an issue arises regarding a member of any Commission, staff may work with the assigned Council Liaison to resolve the issue.

4.4 Attendance Requirement for Commissioners. Commissioners are expected to attend meetings in accordance with the Commissioner Handbook. If a Commissioner is not meeting the attendance requirement, the Commission Chair will first address the issue by talking with the Commissioner and will give the Commissioner an opportunity to meet the requirements. If the Commissioner continues to not meet the attendance requirement, the Chair can give the Commissioner an opportunity to resign from the Commission. If the

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9 Commissioner does not want to resign and continues to not meet the attendance requirement, the Chair should discuss with the staff liaison and Council liaison the appropriate action to address it.

4.5 Discipline or Removal of a Commissioner. Commissioners serve at the pleasure of the City Council. The City Council may discipline or remove a Commissioner at any time solely at the discretion of the Council. Any proposed removal can be with or without cause. A Councilmember who wishes to discipline or remove a Commissioner shall indicate their desire to place the discipline or removal on a future agenda at the end of a regular Council meeting. If three or more Councilmembers wish to agendize the discipline or removal of a certain Commissioner, the item will be placed on a Council agenda.

SECTION 5. AD HOC COMMITTEES AND TASK FORCES

5.1 Instructions and Expectations. The Council shall make certain that all Council-appointed Ad Hoc Committees and Task Forces are properly instructed in their assigned scope of work and responsibilities. The expected outcome of the Committee’s or Task Force’s efforts shall be defined in writing and formally approved by a majority of the City Council.

5.2 Reports. Ad Hoc Committees and Task Forces are responsible for keeping the Council informed about issues being considered, and their progress. This is to be accomplished by meeting minutes distributed in the Council meeting packets or through oral reports to Council. Ad Hoc Committees and Task Forces are responsible for advising the Council of any need for information or more specific instructions.

5.3 Redirection. Ad Hoc Committees and Task Forces shall obtain Council concurrence before they proceed in any direction different from the original instructions of the Council.

5.4 Noticing. Per Resolution No. 2015-09, Ad Hoc Committees and Task Forces that are created by the City Council and are composed of less than a quorum of the Council and have members of City Commissions and/or members of the public on the committee are subject to the provisions of State Law.

SECTION 6. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

6.1 Attendance. City Councilmembers acknowledge that attendance at lawful meetings of the City Council is part of their official duty. Councilmembers shall make a good faith effort to attend all such meetings unless unable. Councilmembers will notify the Mayor or the City Clerk if they will be absent from a meeting.

6.2 Correspondence. Council members should use care when sending correspondence to ensure that recipients are clear whether the communication is from the individual Council member or from the entire Council. When advocating or taking a position on a topic, Council members should identify that they are representing their own position and not representing the Council, unless the Council has directed the individual Council member to send the correspondence. With some exceptions, proposed correspondence (including electronic) from individual Councilmembers/Mayor on City stationery shall be reviewed by the Council in draft form prior to release. On occasion, there are urgent requests for correspondence concerning legislation directly affecting municipalities. The Mayor may send a letter without first obtaining Council review if the content of the letter aligns with the Council’s position on the subject issue. A copy of the letter should be sent to all Councilmembers.

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10 City letterhead will be made available for routine, discretionary correspondence (i.e., thank you notes, etc.), or such correspondence will be prepared by staff for signature, without prior consent of the Council. E-mails from Councilmembers should be respectful, professional, and consistent with the City’s Electronic Use Policy.

6.3 Regional Boards. The Mayor shall appoint Councilmembers to Regional Committees/Commissions/Boards as required by the governing bodies. These appointments are subject to affirmation by the Council. The role of the Council on regional boards will vary depending on the nature of the appointment. Representing the interests of Los Altos is appropriate on some boards; this is generally the case when other local governments have their own representation.

The positions taken by the appointed representatives are to be in alignment with the positions that the Council has taken on issues that directly impact the City of Los Altos. If an issue should arise that is specific to Los Altos, and the Council has not taken a position, the issue should be discussed by the Council prior to taking a formal position at a regional board meeting, to assure that it is in alignment with the Council’s position.

Council representatives to such boards shall keep the Council informed of ongoing business through brief oral or written reports to the Council.

Councilmembers shall make a good faith effort to attend all regional meetings that require a quorum of the appointed members to convene a meeting. If a Councilmember is unable to attend, he/she should notify his/her/their alternate as far in advance of the meeting as possible so as to allow the alternate to attend.

Appointments to regional boards shall terminate upon the expiration of Councilmember’s term unless: 1) the Councilmember is reelected and can serve the full term on the regional board; or 2) action is taken by the Council to reappoint the individual to the regional board, and such appointment is consistent with the regional board’s policies.

6.4 Response to Public. It will be the responsibility of the City Manager to ensure a response is provided to all public correspondence for informational requests addressed to the Council.

Staff shall respond to all requests for services and provide a copy of such correspondence to the City Council, as appropriate.

6.5 Proclamations. Proclamations are discretionary public announcements directing attention to a local resident, organization, or event. The Mayor, without formal action of the Council, may issue proclamations. Requests for proclamations should be submitted through the City’s website at least one two weeks in advance of the desired proclamation date. This allows the Mayor to decide if a proclamation should be issued. Alternatively, the Mayor, at his/her/their discretion, may refer a request to Council.

6.6 Reimbursement. City Councilmembers may be reimbursed for personal expenses for travel to and lodging at conferences or meetings related to their role as a Councilmember.

Reimbursements shall be subject to the City’s Travel and Expense Policy.

Brief reports must be given on any outside meeting attended at the expense of the City at the next regular Council meeting. Reimbursement is conditioned on the submission of this report to the City Council.

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11 6.7 Training.

Ethics: Members of the City Council and commissions shall receive at least two hours of ethics training in general ethics principles and ethics laws relevant to his/her/their public service every two years. New members must receive this training within their first year of service. Members shall attend training sessions that are offered locally in the immediate vicinity of Santa Clara County, offered by CalCities or by completing online a state-approved public service ethics education program.

An individual who serves on multiple legislative bodies need only receive two hours of ethics training every two years to satisfy this requirement for all applicable public service positions.

Sexual Harassment: In addition, Councilmembers shall receive two hours of sexual harassment prevention training every two years, per State law. New members must receive this training within their first six months of service.

Brown Act: Members of the City Council and those individuals appointed by the City Council to serve on a commission or advisory committee will receive training on the requirements of the Brown Act at the time they begin their service and again when there is a scheduled Commission training. The City Clerk shall provide a copy of the Brown Act to each person elected or appointed to serve as a member of any legislative body of the City at the time of their swearing-in or appointment, consistent with State law. The Clerk shall maintain records of such distribution.

Anti-Bias: At least every 2 years, Councilmembers and Commissioners will receive anti-bias training organized by the City.

Other Training. From time to time, the City Council may direct that Members of the City Council and Commissions receive training on different topics.

The City Clerk is required to keep training records for five years to document and prove that these continuing education requirements have been satisfied. These documents are public records subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act.

6.8 Use of Electronic Devices during Council Meetings. The City Council permits and promotes the utilization of technology to ensure efficient and effective conduct of the people’s business, in accordance with applicable open meetings and records laws, due process rights of interested parties, and other applicable law and city policies. i. Councilmembers’ use of electronic communications and data devices (including – but not limited to – laptop computers, cell phones, tablet computers, pagers, wearable technology, and similar devices), at a meeting during which the Councilmember is subject to the provisions of State Law shall be limited to personal use (note taking, etc.) and to access documents only available to the member (e.g., personal files stored on the cloud) or documents available to the public (e.g. documents on the City’s website, websites available to the public, etc.).
ii. At a meeting during which a Councilmember is subject to the provisions of State Law, the Councilmember may not use electronic devices to read electronic communications from, or send electronic communications to, members of the public, other Councilmembers, and parties to city

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12 proceedings. If a Councilmember receives an electronic communication which the member believes to be a family emergency, the Councilmember should ask the Mayor to take a break so the Councilmember may address the issue. The Councilmember should not read the electronic communication during the meeting.
ii.iii. Violation of this section may be subject to the Accountability Policy.

6.9 City Mission and City Seal. The Mission of the City of Los Altos is a statement that reflects the values of our residentscommunity. The City Seal is an important symbol of the City of Los Altos. No change to the City Mission and/or City Seal shall be made without Council approval. Use of the City Seal shall be by permission of the City Clerk.

6.10 Use of email. City Councilmembers shall strive to use only their City email account for City business.

6.11 Use of Social Media. Councilmember may use internet-based social media platforms to engage with the public on matters within the Council’s jurisdiction, provided they do not directly respond to, like, share or otherwise react to posts made by another Councilmember about City business in a manner that would constitute discussion among a majority of the body, consistent with State law. Councilmembers shall be expected to maintain decorum in social media posts and interactions. Violations of decorum may be subject to the Accountability Policy.

SECTION 7. COUNCIL RELATIONSHIP WITH STAFF

7.1 City Manager. The City of Los Altos operates under the Council-Manager form of government. City Councilmembers are always free to go to the City Manager to discuss any subject. Issues concerning the performance of a Department, or any employee must be directed to the City Manager. City Councilmembers shall not meet with groups of management employees for the purpose of discussing terms of employment or establishing employee policy. Direction to City employees, other than the City Manager or City Attorney, is the prerogative of the City Manager. In passing along critical information, the City Manager will be responsible for contacting all Councilmembers. The City Manager may delegate this responsibility to Department Heads.

7.2 Professional conduct toward the City Attorney and City Manager. Councilmembers shall treat the City Attorney and City Manager with professionalism, respect, and civility at all times.

The City Attorney serves as the Council’s legal advisor and is obligated to provide candid, independent, and sometimes difficult legal guidance. Councilmembers may engage in frank discussions, ask challenging questions, and offer constructive feedback; however, such interactions must remain focused on issues and performance, not personal criticism.

Councilmembers shall not engage in behavior that demeans, intimidates, or publicly embarrasses the City Attorney and City Manager. Disagreements with legal advice or strategy should be expressed in a manner that upholds the integrity of the Council’s deliberative process and maintains public confidence in the City’s governance.

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13 Nothing in this norm restricts a Councilmember’s ability to seek clarification, request alternative legal options, or raise concerns through appropriate channels. It is intended to ensure that all interactions with the City Attorney and City Manager support a professional, safe, and effective working environment.

Any Councilmember who violates this norm is subject to the City Council’s Accountability Policy and may be stripped of their appointments to serve on interagency boards, serve as liaisons to City Commissions, or any other redress that a majority of the Councilmembers believe is appropriate under the circumstances.

7.32 Agenda Item Questions. The Council shall not abuse, embarrass, or harass staff. If a Councilmember has a question on a subject, the Councilmember should contact the City Manager prior to any meeting at which the subject may be discussed. This does not restrict Councilmembers from asking questions during a Council meeting.

7.34 Complaints. Councilmembers shall encourage people members of the public to file all complaints related to work or services provided by City staff directly with the City Manager and the appropriate staff member. The City manager and staff shall ensure that all people members of the public receive a response. If a Councilmember receives a complaint directly, the Councilmember should forward the complaint to the City Manager. If all Councilmembers are copied on the same complaint and the City Manager is not copied, the Mayor is responsible for forwarding the complaint to the City Manager.

7.54 Staff. Councilmembers may ask Department Heads for information. This informal system of direct communication is not to be abused.

SECTION 8. MEETINGS

8.1 Open to Public. All meetings of the City Council, except for closed sessions as authorized by law, shall be open to the public. All meetings shall be noticed as required to allow action to be taken by the Council. All meetings of the City Council, with the exception of Closed Sessions, shall be held in a hybrid manner in which members of the public may participate in person or observe via videoconference. Should the City Council be required to hold meetings entirely via videoconference (e.g., natural disaster, State or County health orders), such meetings shall be held in a manner in which members of the public may participate remotelyAll meeting of the City Council, except for closed sessions as authorized by law, shall be open to the public and noticed as required. As an eligible legislative body, the City Council will provide, for all open and public meetings, an opportunity for members of the public to attend and participate via a two-way telephonic service or a two-way audiovisual platform, except where an exemption in State law applies. When service is operational for only a portion of a meeting, two-way access will be provided for that portion. In-person attendance will be available at a physical location open to the public.

Council members, staff, consultants and members of the public participating in meetings via teleconference shall maintain respect and decorum at all times. A member of public’s right to participate via teleconference does not override the City’s responsibility to provide a safe environment for Council, staff and other members of the public.

8.2 Broadcasting of City Council Meetings. All regular Council meetings and study sessions shall be scheduled in the Community Meeting Chambers unless there is a compelling reason

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14 to move the meeting to another location to allow for web streaming, unless the number of participants exceeds room capacity. The final decision shall be the responsibility of the Mayor. For all open and public meetings, the City will provide a contemporaneous live webcast that allows the public both to see and hear the proceedings. Recordings will be posted consistent with the City’s retention practices and applicable law.All regular City Council meetings and study sessions shall be video-recorded, unless the City is unable to do so due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond the City’s control in which case the meeting shall be audio-recorded. All other public meetings of the City Council shall be audio recorded as practical. Each such video and audio recording shall be a public record subject to inspection pursuant to State Law. The video recording of meetings of the City Council shall be made available within one week of the meeting by webcast on the City’s website and shall remain on the City’s website permanently. The audio and video record of all meetings under this section shall be kept permanently.

8.3 Regular Meetings. The City Council shall conduct its regular meetings at the time and place established by ordinance. At the first regular meeting in December, the City Council will approve the schedule of meetings for the next calendar year, which shall be the Council’s adopted regular meeting schedule. This practice does not, however, preclude the Mayor or a majority of the members of the City Council from calling additional meetings pursuant to Section 8.5, if necessary. If the Council schedules a meeting that is not part of the adopted regular meeting schedule, that meeting shall be a special meeting or a study session.

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.

8.4 Cancelling Meetings. Any meeting of the City Council may be cancelled in advance by majority vote of the Council. The Mayor may cancel a meeting in the case of an emergency or when a majority of members have confirmed in writing to the City Manager their unavailability to attend a meeting or agreement to cancel a meeting.

8.5 Special Meetings. A special meeting may be called at any time by the Mayor or by a majority of the City Council in accordance with State Law. Written notice of any such meeting must specify the purpose of the meeting and the identities of members making the call. Notice of the meeting must be given in accordance with law. Public comments at special meetings shall be limited to only those items described on the special meeting notice/agenda.

The City Council may hold study sessions or joint meetings with other boards, commissions, committees, or agencies as deemed necessary to attend to City business. These meetings will be coordinated by the City Clerk. Study sessions, which are special meetings, are scheduled to provide Councilmembers the opportunity to better understand a particular item.

While Council may legally take action at any noticed meeting, generally no formal action is taken at study sessions. If action is to be taken at a study session, then the agenda will state that action may be taken.

8.6 Virtual Meetings. If, pursuant to applicable laws or orders, the City Council holds a virtual special or regular meeting, the requirements set forth in the Norms and Procedures shall still apply, to the extent these requirements are feasible. Any feature on the platform hosting the virtual meeting that allows members of the public and/or Councilmembers to communicate

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15 outside of the approved methods of communication for the meeting, for example a “chat” feature, shall be disabled during the meeting.

8.7 Closed Sessions. The City Council may hold closed sessions at any time authorized by law (and in consultation with the City Attorney), to consider or hear any matter, which is authorized by law. The Mayor or a majority of the City Council may call closed session meetings at any time. Requests for a closed session should be made to the City Manager.

8.8 Annual RetreatCouncil Goals. The City Council shall hold an annual retreat following the reorganization of the Council (typically in December or January). The primary purpose of the retreat shall be to review accomplishments for the past calendar year and to discuss and set priorities for the City Council for the following calendar year. The Mayor may also work with the City Manager to organize other activities for the annual retreat such as team building exercises and having guest speaker(s). The retreat may be held over multiple days. The City Council adopts strategic goals that guide the work of the City and the priorities of the annual budget. These goals are generally long-term in nature. Annually, the Council reviews, updates and affirms the goals. This review can take place at a special meeting or during a regular meeting of the City Council, at the discretion of the Mayor.

8.9 Quorum. Three (3) members of the City Council shall constitute a quorum and shall be sufficient to transact business. If less than three Councilmembers appear at a regular meeting, the Mayor, Vice Mayor in the absence of the Mayor, any Councilmember in the absence of the Mayor and Vice Mayor, or in the absence of all Councilmembers, the City Clerk or Deputy City Clerk, shall adjourn the meeting to a stated day and hour.

Business of the City Council may be conducted with a minimum of three members being present; however, pursuant to the California Government Code, matters requiring the expenditure of City funds and all resolutions and non-urgency ordinances must receive three affirmative votes for approval.

8.10 Minutes. Staff shall prepare minutes of all public meetings of the City Council. Copies shall be distributed to each Councilmember. Closed session minutes, if any, shall be approved by all Councilmembers and kept in strict confidence.

8.11 Adjourned Meetings. The City Council may adjourn any regular, adjourned regular, special, or closed session meeting to a time and place specified in the order of adjournment and permitted by law. Similar to all sections in the Norms and Procedures, this section is subject to section 14 of the Norms and Procedures.

8.12 Technology Disruption Policy. If a disruption prevents the public from attending or observing a Council meeting through two-way telephonic or audio-visual service, the City will recess the meeting and make a good-faith effort to restore service according to State law.

Upon resuming, the Council shall, by roll-call vote, adopt findings that good-faith efforts were made and that resuming serves the public interest more than further delay. Otherwise, the meeting shall be adjourned to a future date.

SECTION 9. POSTING NOTICE AND AGENDA

9.1 Posting of Notice and Agenda. For every regular, special, or study session meeting, the City Clerk or other authorized person shall post a notice of the meeting, specifying the time and place at which the meeting will be held, and an agenda containing a brief description of all items of business to be discussed at the meeting. This notice and agenda may be combined

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16 in a single document. Posting is to be in accordance with State law. The policy of the City shall be that the notice and agenda for regular meetings will be posted by 5:00 p.m. on the Thursday prior to the meeting.

Website posting: Notices and agendas for all City Council meetings shall be posted on the City’s website according to State law.

Agenda materials and packets will be distributed to City Council members electronically.

9.2 Location of Posting. The notice and agenda shall be posted in accordance with State law.

9.3 Language access and translation. For meetings of the City Council, the City will translate meeting agendas and the City’s public meeting webpage into applicable languages as defined by State law (generally, languages jointly spoken by 20% or more of residents who speak English less than “very well,” using the American Community Survey). Instructions for participation will be included in translated materials. The City will accept electronic requests for agendas and documents and will make reasonable efforts to provide interpretation services upon request.

SECTION 10. AGENDA CONTENTS

10.1 Setting the Agenda. The Mayor, in consultation with the City Manager or his/her/their designee, and the City Clerk shall organize the agenda.

10.2 Description of Matters. All items of business to be discussed at a meeting of the City Council shall be briefly described on the agenda. The description should set forth the proposed action to be considered so that members of the public will know the nature of the action under review and consideration.

10.3 Availability to the Public. The agenda for any regular, special, or study session meeting, shall be made available to the general public as required by law.

10.4 Limitation to Act Only on Items on the Agenda. No action shall be taken by the City Council on any item not on the posted agenda, subject only to the exceptions listed below:

A. Upon a majority determination that an “emergency exception” (as defined by State Law) exists; or
B. Upon determination by a 4/5 vote of the full City Council, or a unanimous vote if less than a full Council, that an “urgency exception” (as defined by State Law) exists and the Council needs to take immediate action and that the need to take the action came to the attention of the City Council subsequent to posting of the agenda.

C. Two Councilmembers are required to request an item be placed on the agenda for the full Council to determine if the item meets the urgency or emergency exception. This determination is done in accordance with Section 10.4A or 10.4B above and occurs soon after the Council meeting begins. If the Council votes to hear the emergency or urgency item, the item would then be placed as a discussion item on that Council meeting’s agenda.

10.5 Order of Agenda. The prescribed order of the agenda for Regular Meetings of the Council will be as follows: Establish Quorum, Pledge of Allegiance, Closed Session Announcement (if needed), Changes to the Order of the Agenda, Special Items, Public Comments on Items

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17 not on the Agenda, Consent Calendar, Public Hearings, Discussion Items, Informational Items, City Council Reports, Future Agenda Items, and Adjournment.

10.6 Changes to the Order of the Agenda. “Changes to the Order of the Agenda” will be an agenda item that is heard soon after the Council meeting begins whereby the Mayor, Councilmembers and/or City staff may request a change to the order in which agenda items are to be considered. The Mayor will ask if there are any changes to the order of the agenda.

Any requested changes will be made in the form of a motion and a vote will be taken. If there are no requests for changes, the agenda will be taken in the prescribed order.

10.7 Consent Calendar. Prior to consideration of the Consent Calendar, a Councilmember may remove an item from the Consent Calendar. At the Mayor’s discretion, items removed from the Consent Calendar may be considered immediately after approval of the balance of the Consent Calendar or elsewhere in the agenda. Councilmembers shall be given the opportunity to ask a clarifying question about a consent item or make a brief comment about an item without having to remove the item from the Consent Calendar. Members of the public will be given the opportunity to provide comments prior to a motion being made. If an item is pulled from the Consent Calendar, public comments on the item that is pulled shall be heard when the Council considers that item.

10.8 Tentative Council Calendar. The Tentative Council Calendar shall list items pending to come before Council within the next 12 months period and will be included as part of each Council Meeting’s Agenda Packet. City Staff will post the Tentative Council Calendar on the City’s website and make updates to the Tentative Council Calendar, as necessary.

The Tentative Council Calendar shall be included in each City Council regular meeting agenda packet as an Informational Item.

10.9 Placing items on a future agenda. Members of the City Council may have any matter that can be legally agendized placed on the agenda of the City Council by indicating their desire to do so under that portion of the City Council agenda designated, “Future City Council Agenda Items.” Placing an item on a future agenda requires two Councilmembers to support the item if no staff work is required and three Councilmembers if staff work is required.

Unless an item is deemed an urgency exception or emergency exception, as defined in the Norms, Councilmembers shall request the placement of items on future agendas at a public Council meeting.

10.10 Council questions. As much as possible, Council members are expected to do their inquiries and research for a Council meeting before the meeting so that they are prepared to deliberate about policy at the Council meeting. As part of the this process, Council members may ask questions of staff. Councilmembers shall strive to provide questions to city staff on agenda items as early as possible before a council meeting to allow adequate time to respond to the questions, generally no later than the Sunday evening before a Council meeting. Staff will provide all questions and answers to Council questions to all Councilmembers prior to the subject Council meeting, and, excepting attorney-client communications, to the public as soon as possible. The purpose of the Council Q&A process is to ask questions and get answers from staff. The Council Q&A is not to include information that Council members find during their own research or receive from members of the public.

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18 Councilmembers shall strive to notify staff if they plan to raise a specific question at the Council meeting. If a Councilmember feels they need additional information to make a decision on an item, and the item is not time sensitive, the Councilmember may request the item be continued to a future meeting during Changes to the Order of the Agenda.

10.11 Emergency Meetings. The City Council may hold an emergency meeting (as defined in State Law) without complying with either the 24-hour notice requirement, or the 24-hour posting requirement, or both of the notice and posting requirements.

SECTION 11. PROCEDURES FOR THE CONDUCT OF PUBLIC MEETINGS

11.1 Role of Mayor.

A. The Mayor is responsible for running the meeting. If the Mayor is unavailable to run a Council meeting, the Vice Mayor shall run the meeting. The Mayor shall be responsible for maintaining the order and decorum of meetings. It shall be the duty and responsibility of the Mayor to ensure that the rules of operation and decorum contained herein are observed. The Mayor shall maintain control of communication between Councilmembers and among Council, staff and public. The Mayor has the prerogative to be the last Councilmember to vote on an item. The Mayor and Councilmembers are responsible to self-monitor their own conduct and speaking time to ensure a timely meeting.

B. Communication with Councilmembers

1. Councilmembers shall request the floor from the Mayor before speaking.

2. When one member of the Council has the floor and is speaking, other Councilmembers shall not interrupt or otherwise disturb the speaker.

C. Communication with Members of the Public Addressing the Council

1. The Mayor shall open the floor for public comment as appropriate.

2. Councilmembers may question a person addressing the Council at the conclusion of the person’s comments or upon expiration of the person’s time to speak.

3. Any staff member with an item on the agenda will be available to the City Council to answer questions arising during discussions between Councilmembers and among Councilmembers and members of the public.

4. Members of the public shall direct their questions and comments to the CouncilMayor.

11.2 Rules of Order. The City Council adopts no specific rules of order except those listed herein.

The City Council shall refer to Rosenberg’s Rules of Order, as a guide for the conduct of meetings, with the following modifications:

A. Although permitted, a motion is not required prior to a general discussion on an agenda item. A pre-motion discussion allows the members to share their thoughts on the agendized item so that a motion can more easily be made that takes into account what appears to be the majority position.

B. All motions, except nominations, require a second.

C. A motion may be amended at the request of the maker and the consent of the person who seconded the motion. Such a procedure is often used to accommodate concerns expressed by other members.

D. A motion to amend may still be used.

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19 The Mayor has the discretion to impose reasonable rules at any particular meeting based upon facts and circumstances found at any particular meeting. These latter rules will be followed unless objected to by a majority of the City Councilmembers present.

11.3 Appeal Procedures. Appellants shall be given the opportunity to speak first. Appellants and applicants responding to appeals may shall be given a total of up to 10 minutes each to present their positions to the City Council prior to hearing public comments. Appellants and applicants shall be given up to 5 minutes of rebuttal time each after public comments are heard.

11.4 Public Hearing Procedures. All land use public hearing items shall follow the following procedures:

A. Staff presentation and/or report followed by clarifying questions from the Council B. Disclosure of communications: Councilmembers shall disclose all personal communications with any individual, including, but not limited to, the project applicant, prospective project applicants, neighboring property owners, residents, or any other party regarding development projects. These disclosures shall include a full description of the nature of the discussion, and in particular, any information not presented as part of the public record
C. The Mayor shall open the public hearing
a. Applicant presentation; the applicant shall be given a total of up to 10 minutes to present to the City Council
b. The Council shall take public comments
c. Applicant rebuttal period; the applicant shall be given a total of up to 5 minutes rebuttal time. If there are no public comments, the applicant shall not be given time for rebuttal
D. The Mayor shall close the public hearing
E. Council discussion, consideration, and decision

11.5 Staff and Consultant Reports. Staff and consultant reports will be given a limit of up to 10 minutes. Staff is to assume that the Council has read all materials submitted. Council shall be given an opportunity to ask questions of staff prior to hearing public comments.

11.6 Public Comment.

A. Persons present at meetings of the City CouncilMembers of the public may comment on individual items on the agenda of a City Council meeting according to State law.

During Regular City Council meetings, comments may be offered on items not on the agenda under that portion of the agenda identified for Public Comment.

B. The limit for speakers is at the discretion of the Mayor, who may allow speakers to speak for up to will be 1 to 3 minutes, depending on the number of speakers, and the number of items that the Council is discussing at that meeting. Members of the public may not cede time to other speakers.

A single speaker may cede their time to one other speaker. The designated speaker will be given the time which would have been allocated to the other speaker (to a maximum of five minutes). Individuals wanting to delegate time to another must be present at the meeting and must indicate their desire to cede time to a single individual by noting on a speaker card they are doing so. Persons who have ceded their time will

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20 not be permitted to speak on the topic at that meeting. Members of the public are not permitted to cede their time during quasi-judicial proceedings.

C. In order to facilitate an orderly meeting, anyone wishing to address the City Council is asked to fill out a Request to Speak cardSpeaker Card, indicating their name, address, and agenda item number/topic. A separate card is requested for each item.

Speaker Cards The request to speak cards shall be turned into the City Clerk before the item is heard by the City Council. Members of the public attending online are shall use the Raise Hand feature to indicate they wish to speak on an item.

D. Upon addressing the Council, each speaker is requested, but not required, to first state his/her/their/their name, whom they represent and/or city of residence.

E. After the speaker has completed their remarks, Councilmembers may ask questions of the speaker after being acknowledged by the Mayor. Councilmembers shall be respectful of the speakers and shall not enter into a debate with any member of the public.

F. Upon conclusion of the Public Comment section for any item, the Mayor may provide Councilmembers and/or staff with an opportunity to respond to statements made by the public.

G. All Councilmembers shall listen to all public discussion as part of the Council’s community responsibility. Individual Councilmembers should remain open-minded to comments made by the public.

H. The Mayor has the right to ask a member of the public to step down if over the allotted time or if comments are not germane.

I. Remote participation parity: Members of the public attending via two-way telephonic or audiovisual platforms shall be afforded the same opportunity to offer public comment as in-person attendees, including equivalent time limits, opportunities to speak on items on and off the agenda as permitted by law for the meeting type, and clear instructions for joining the speaker queue.

11.7 Motions. It will be the practice of the City Council for the Mayor to provide Councilmembers an opportunity to ask questions of staff, comment on, and discuss any agendized item in order to help form a consensus before a motion is offered. After such discussion, the Mayor or any Councilmember may make a motion. Before the motion can be considered or discussed, it must be seconded. Once a motion has been properly made and seconded, the Mayor shall open the matter to full discussion offering the first opportunity to speak to the moving party, and thereafter, to any Councilmember recognized by the Mayor. Customarily, the Mayor will take the floor after all other Councilmembers have been given the opportunity to speak.

If a motion clearly contains divisible parts, any Councilmember may request the Mayor or moving party divide the motion into separate motions to provide Councilmembers an opportunity for more specific consideration.

Tie Votes: Tie votes shall be lost motions. When all Councilmembers are present, aA tie vote on whether to grant an appeal from official action shall be considered a denial of such appeal, unless the Council takes other action to further consider the matter.

If a tie vote results at a time when less than all members of the Council, who may legally participate in the matter, are present, the matter shall be automatically continued to the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Council, unless otherwise ordered by the Council.

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21 If a tie vote is for a motion that clearly contains divisible parts, the motion may be divided so that Council members may vote on the individual parts of the motion.

Substitute motion: A substitute motion may be provided by any member of the Council prior to voting on a motion. If a substitute motion is made and seconded, the substitute motion shall be considered prior to the original motion.

Abstaining from a vote: Council members are expected to participate in each item in which they legally may participate in. This includes voting on each item on the agenda. A council member may abstain from a vote but shall inform the Council the reason why they will be abstaining prior to the vote being taken. Abstaining from a vote shall not be used simply to avoid taking a position on an item.

Voting: During Council meetings in which all members of the Council are physically present in the designated meeting location, the Council shall conduct voting at the discretion of the Mayor. This may include roll-call votes, voice votes or electronic voting. When a Council member is participating in a meeting via teleconference, the Council shall conduct roll-call voting in accordance with State law. When called upon to vote, a Council member shall submit their vote and may not “pass” on voting.

11.8 Reconsideration of a Council Action.

A. Request for Reconsideration by a Councilmember

1. Request by a member of the City Council.

Only a member of the City Council who voted in the majority may request reconsideration. The request may be made at the same meeting, or 144 hours in advance of the next regular meeting. The request needs to be supported by two (2)one additional Councilmembers, including the requesting Councilmember, for it to be added to the agenda. A request added to an agenda shall be structured in a manner that a motion for reconsideration may be considered immediately following approval of the request for reconsideration.

In presenting a request for reconsideration, the City Councilmember making the request should state orally or in writing the reason for the request, without dwelling on the specific details or setting forth various arguments. A member of the public may ask a Council member who voted in the majority to request reconsideration.

2. Motion for Reconsideration.

A motion to reconsider an action taken by the City Council may be made at the same meeting at which the action was taken (including an adjourned or continued meeting), or in accordance with Section 11.8A1. A motion to reconsider an action may be made only by a Councilmember who voted in the majority but may be seconded by any Councilmember and is debatable.

The motion must be approved by a majority of the entire City Council. At the time such motion for reconsideration is heard, testimony shall be limited to the facts giving rise to the motion.

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22 B. Effect of Approval of Motion.

Upon approval of a motion to reconsider, and at such time as the matter is heard, the City Council shall only consider any new evidence or facts not presented previously with regard to the item or a claim of error in applying the facts.

If the motion to reconsider is made and approved at the same meeting at which the initial action was taken and all interested persons (including applicants, owners, supporters, and opponents) are still present, the matter may be reconsidered at that meeting or at the next regular meeting or intervening special meeting (subject to the discretion of the maker of the motion) and no further public notice is required.

If the motion to reconsider is made and approved at the same meeting at which the initial action was taken but all interested persons are not still present, or if the motion is made and approved at the next regular meeting or intervening special meeting, the item shall be scheduled for consideration at the earliest feasible City Council meeting and shall be re-noticed in accordance with the Government Code, the City Municipal Code and the Council Norms and Procedures. The Clerk shall provide notice to all interested parties as soon as possible when a matter becomes the subject of a motion to reconsider.

11.9 Council Discussions and Deliberations.

A. The discussion and deliberations at meetings of the City Council are to secure the mature educated judgment of Councilmembers on proposals submitted for decision.

This purpose is best served by the exchange of thought through discussion and debate.

To the extent possible, Councilmembers should disclose any ex parte communication prior to discussion on an item.

Discussion and deliberation are regulated by these rules in order to assure every member a reasonable and equal opportunity to be heard.

B. Obtaining the Floor for Discussion.

After the Council has commented on an issue, and a motion has been stated to the Council and seconded, any member of the Council has a right to discuss it after obtaining the floor. The member obtains the floor by seeking recognition from the Mayor. A member who has been recognized should limit his/her/their time to 3 minutesbe cognizant of the duration of their time holding the floor.

C. Speaking More Than Once.

To encourage the full participation of all members of the Council, no member or members shall be permitted to monopolize the discussion of the question. If a Councilmember has already spoken, other Councilmembers wishing to speak shall then be recognized. No Councilmember shall be allowed to speak a second time until after all other Councilmembers have had an opportunity to speak.

D. Relevancy of Discussion.

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23 All discussion must be relevant to the issue before the City Council. A Councilmember is given the floor only for the purpose of discussing the pending question; discussion which departs is out of order. Councilmembers shall avoid repetition and strive to move the discussion along. Arguments, for or against a measure, should be stated as concisely as possible.

A motion, its nature, or consequences, may be debated vigorously. It is never permissible to attack the motives, character, or personality of a member either directly or by innuendo or implication. It is the duty of the Mayor to instantly rule out of order any Councilmember who engages in personal attacks. It is the motion, not its proposer, that is subject to debate.

It is the responsibility of each Councilmember to maintain an open mind on all issues during discussion and deliberation. It is not necessary for all City Councilmembers to speak or give their viewpoints if another Councilmember has already addressed their concerns.

E. Mayor’s Duties During Discussion.

The Mayor has the responsibility of controlling and expediting the discussion. A Councilmember who has been recognized to speak on a question has a right to the undivided attention of the Council.

It is the duty of the Mayor to keep the subject clearly before the members, to rule out irrelevant discussion, and to restate the question whenever necessary.

F. After the Vote.

Once a majority of the Council has approved a motion, no further discussion shall be made unless the item is brought for reconsideration as described previously.

11.10 Councilmember Respect. Councilmembers shall abide by the majority decision of the Council, even if in the minority. Councilmembers appointed to serve on regional boards and committees shall maintain the Council’s position on an item, even if the Councilmember disagrees with that position.

11.11 Council and Staff Reports and Directions on Future Agenda Items. Council and staff reports at the end of Council meetings shall be limited to announcing Council, Regional Board activities on which Councilmembers serve, City and City-sponsored activities.

Community groups may announce their activities during Public Comments at the beginning of Council meetings.

Members of the City Council may have any matter that can be legally agendized placed on the agenda of the City Council by indicating their desire to do so under that portion of the City Council agenda designated, “Future City Council Agenda Items.” Placing an item on a future agenda requires two Councilmembers to support the item if no staff work is required and three Councilmembers if staff work is required. Unless an item is deemed an urgency exception or emergency exception, as defined in the Norms, Councilmembers shall request the placement of items on future agendas at a public Council meeting. Per State law, Council members shall not discuss the merits of a potential future agenda item until that item is legally noticed.

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24 11.12 Conflict of Interest. If a Councilmember becomes aware of a potential conflict of interest that would require the Councilmember to not participate in a discussion or vote on an agenda item before the City Council, the Councilmember should discuss with the City Attorney prior to agenda item being heard by the City Council. The Councilmember is expected to follow the direction of the City Attorney. If the Councilmember decides to request an opinion from the California Fair Political Practices Commission (“FPPC”), the Councilmember shall disclose at the next scheduled Council Meeting that such a request has been made. If the Councilmember is still waiting for the FPPC opinion at the time the agenda item will be heard by the City Council, the Councilmember may abstain from participating until the FPPC opinion is received. Upon receiving the FPPC opinion, the Councilmember shall share the opinion with the City Council and public at the next scheduled Council meeting.

11.13 Teleconferencing. City Council members may participate in meetings via teleconference in accordance with State law and relevant Attorney General opinions. Members participating via teleconferencing must fulfill all requirements under State law. All meetings of the City Council must have a majority of members present in the physical meeting location within the CityCity Council members may participate in meetings via teleconference in accordance with State law. (a) Traditional teleconferencing under Government Code section 54953(b) remains available. (b) Members may also participate under Government Code sections 54953.8–54953.8.7, subject to the conditions applicable to the legislative body type. (c) A member may participate remotely as a reasonable accommodation for a disability under Government Code section 54953(c); such participation counts as in-person for quorum, the member shall use audio and video unless their disability requires an exception, and shall disclose whether any individual aged 18 or older is present in the room at the remote location and the general nature of that relationship. The City will maintain at least one physical location open to the public for all meetings. The minutes shall record the name of each member participating remotely and the statutory authority for such participation.

At the beginning of a meeting in which a member is participating via noticed teleconference, the Mayor, or the Vice Mayor if the Mayor is participating remotely, will ask the member(s) participating via teleconference to confirm the teleconference location was properly noticed according to State Law, the teleconference location is accessible to members of the public and whether anyone is present in the teleconference location besides the member. At a meeting in which a member is participating under AB 2449, the Mayor will ask the member to confirm whether a member of the public aged 18 or older is present in the room at the remote location with the member and the general nature of the relationship with any such individual.

SECTION 12. CLOSED SESSIONS

12.1 Purpose. It is the policy of the City Council to conduct its business in public to the greatest extent possible. However, state law recognizes that, in certain circumstances, public discussion could potentially jeopardize the public interest, compromise the City’s position, and could cost the taxpayers of Los Altos financially. Therefore, closed sessions shall be held from time to time as allowed by law. The procedures for the conduct of these meetings shall be the same as for public meetings, except that the public will be excluded for the closed session portion of the meeting.

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25 Prior to convening the closed session portion of the meeting, the Mayor or City Clerk shall publicly announce the closed session items and ask for public input regarding any items on the closed session agenda.

City Councilmembers shall keep all written materials and verbal information provided to them in closed session in complete confidence to ensure that the City’s position is not compromised. No mention of information in these materials shall be made to anyone other than Councilmembers, the City Attorney or City Manager, except where authorized by a majority of the City Council.

12.2 Rule of Confidentiality. The City Council recognizes that breaches in confidentiality can severely prejudice the City’s position in litigation, labor relations and real estate negotiations. Further, breaches of confidentiality can create a climate of distrust among Councilmembers and can harm the Council’s ability to communicate openly in closed sessions, thereby impairing the Council’s ability to perform its official duties.

The City Council further recognizes that confidentiality of discussions and documents are at the core of a closed session. Confidentiality is essential if the closed session is to serve its purpose. Therefore, the City Council will adhere to a strict policy of confidentiality for closed sessions.

12.3 Breach of Rule of Confidentiality. No person who attends a closed session may disclose any statements, discussions, or documents used in a closed session except where specifically authorized by State law. Any authorized disclosure shall be in strict compliance with these rules and State Law. Violation of this rule shall be considered a breach of this rule of confidentiality.

12.4 Agenda. The agenda for a closed session will contain that information required to be disclosed pursuant to State Law.

12.5 Permissible Topics. All closed sessions will be held in strict compliance with the State Law.

The City Attorney, or his/her/their designee, will advise in advance on topics that may be discussed in a closed session.

12.6 Rules of Decorum.

A. The same high standard of respect and decorum as apply to public meetings shall apply to closed sessions. There shall be courtesy, respect and tolerance for all viewpoints and for the right of Councilmembers to disagree. Councilmembers shall strive to make each other feel comfortable and safe to express their points of view. All Councilmembers have the right to insist upon strict adherence to this rule.

B. Prior to a vote, the Mayor shall ensure that the motion is clearly stated and clearly understood by all Councilmembers.

C. The Mayor shall keep the discussion moving forward so that debate and a vote can occur in the time allotted for the closed session. The Mayor will determine the order of debate in a fair manner.

12.7 Conduct of Meeting.

A. The Mayor will call the closed session to order promptly at its scheduled time.

B. The Mayor will keep discussion focused on the permissible topics.

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26 C. The use of handouts and visual aids such as charts is encouraged to focus debate and promote understanding of the topic. All such materials are strictly confidential.

D. If the City Council in closed session has provided direction to City staff on proposed terms and conditions for any type of negotiations, whether it be related to property acquisitions or disposal, a proposed or pending claim or litigation, or employee negotiations, all contact with the other party will be through the designated City person(s) representing the City in the handling of the matter. A Councilmember, not so designated by the Council, will not under any circumstances have any contact or discussion with the other party or its representative concerning the matter, which was discussed in the closed session, and will not communicate any discussions conducted in closed session to such party.

12.8 Public Disclosure After Final Action.

A. State Law requires that, as a body, the City Council make certain public disclosure of closed session decisions when those actions have become final. Accordingly, the Mayor or the City Attorney shall publicly report any final action taken in closed session, and the vote, including abstentions, as directed by State Law.

B. The report may be oral or written. The report will state any reportable action taken by the Council and how each Councilmember voted, if applicable. All other closed session discussions will remain confidential. Unless authorized by the majority of the City Council and if permitted under applicable law, the report will not state the debate or discussion that occurred.

SECTION 13. DECORUM

13.1 Councilmembers. Members of the City Council value and recognize the importance of the trust invested in them by the public to accomplish the business of the City. Councilmembers shall accord the utmost courtesy to each other, City employees, and the public appearing before the City Council. When speaking, a Councilmember’s tone should remain neutral and non-verbal communication aspects should be considerate and polite. Formal business attire is required only when Council meetings, workshops, or study sessions are held in Community Meeting Chambers and/or televised.

13.2 City Employees. Members of the City staff shall observe the same rules of order and decorum applicable to the City Council. City staff shall act at all times in a business and professional manner towards Councilmembers and members of the public.

13.3 Public. Members of the public attending City Council meetings shall observe the same rules of order and decorum applicable to the City Council. City Code Chapter 2.05, Public Meeting Rules for Conduct, shall apply to all City Council Meetings.

13.4 Noise in the Chambers. Noise emanating from the audience, whether expressing opposition or support within the Community Meeting Chambers or lobby area, which disrupts City Council meetings, shall not be permitted. All cellular phones and other consumer electronic devices shall be muted while in the chambers. Refusal is grounds for removal.

13.5 Remote Disruptions: In addition to in-person decorum rules, the presiding officer may remove or limit participation by individuals engaging in disruptive behavior on two-way or telephonic or audiovisual platforms, consistent with State law.

SECTION 14. VIOLATIONS OF PROCEDURES

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Los Altos City CouncilMarch 10, 2026

Los Altos City Council
March 10, 2026