Agenda packet — Los Altos City Council, July 14, 2026 (part 1 of 6)

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AGENDA
July 14, 2026 - 7:00 PM
Hybrid
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, remotely using Zoom technology, 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 and will be permitted to provide public comment via Zoom or telephone. Those viewing the meeting via Zoom may use the "Raise Hand" feature to provide public comment on agenda items. Those calling in by telephone over Zoom may use the *9 feature to "raise their hand" to provide public comment. Public comments will also be accepted in person, and members of the public may submit written comments by following the instructions below.
https://losaltosca-gov.zoom.us/j/92913808183?pwd=zrEbG5BjeNjbbQKD3TOpr8ackzG46l.1 Telephone: 1-669-444-9171 / Webinar ID: 929 1380 8183 / Passcode: 766616 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.
07-14-2026 Written Public Comments

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 Meeting of June 23, 2026

2. Designation of Voting Delegates- CalCities 2026 Annual Conference Designate by motion, Vice Mayor Lang to serve as Voting Delegate, and Councilmember Weinberg to serve as Alternate for the General Assembly of the Annual League of California Cities (CalCities) Conference to be held on Friday, September 25, 2026 at the Anaheim Convention Center

3. Adoption of Resolution - Agreement with ADP Workforce Now Authorize the City Manager to execute amendment No. 1 to the ADP Workforce Now Comprehensive Services Agreement extending the agreement three (3) years with a term through April 25, 2029 and related implementation documents necessary to implement Workforce Manager services, in a form approved by the City Attorney and subject to available appropriations

4. Contract Renewal - Orchard Maintenance Agreement
Authorize the City Manager to execute the contract renewal, totaling $75,000 annually, for orchard maintenance with the Los Altos History Museum

5. Adoption of Resolution - Appropriation of Funds
Adopt a resolution appropriating funds as part of annexation into the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District

6. Adoption of Resolution - Amending Joint Volunteer Awards Committee Adopt a resolution reclassifying the Los Altos-Los Altos Hills Joint Volunteer Awards Committee as a non-Brown Act advisory committee

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7. Adoption of Resolution - Amendment for Roadway Landscape Maintenance Authorize the City Manager to execute an amendment to the agreement with Del Conte's Landscaping in the amount not to exceed $277,053 annually for city median and roadway shoulder maintenance

8. Adoption of Resolution - Change Order Approval and Project Acceptance Adopt a resolution:
• Approving Change Order #1 for the Hillview Outdoor Fitness Project in the amount of $4,669 to Greenfields Outdoor Fitness for design and apparatus modifications. • Accepting completion of and directing the Community Services Director to file a Notice of Completion for the Hillview Outdoor Fitness Project (CF-01041)

9. Adoption of Resolution – Agreement for Consultant Services Adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement in the amount not to exceed $160,000 with Cumming Group for temporary project management services to assist in completing CIMMP projects in fiscal year 2026/27

10. Adoption of Resolution – SB1 Project List
Adopt a resolution that identifies a list of projects that will be funded by Senate Bill 1 in the FY 26- 27 budget and find the Council’s action exempt from review under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), and that one of the circumstances in the CEQA Guideline

11. Adoption of Resolution - Weed Abatement Assessment Report Adopt a resolution confirming the report and authorizing collection of the assessment charges

DISCUSSION ITEMS

12. Receive Report - Draft General Plan Vision and Guiding Principles Receive and provide feedback on the Draft General Plan Vision and Guiding Principles

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.

13. FY2026-27 Operating Budget and FY2027-31 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Program Budget Book
Receive and file the FY2026-27 Operating Budget and FY2027-31 Capital Improvement & Major Maintenance Program Budget Book

14. 2026-27 Youth Commission Council Academy Membership Notice

15. Tentative Council Calendar and Housing Element Implementation Schedule

16. 07-14-2026 Council QA

COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS AND DIRECTIONS ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

ADJOURNMENT

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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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1 Melissa Thurman
From: Jim Wing <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 29, 2026 12:15 PM
To: Public Comment
Cc: Gabriel Engeland
Subject: Halsey House CEQA Public Comment Letter
Los Altos Mayor Meadows and Distinguished Council Members Thank you for encouraging public to patriciate in Halsey House CEQA Public Comment process! I am sure you will learn a lot from the public to help make your decision. Hopefully a decision will be made sometime in FY 2026/2027. Los Altos has “punted” before and now it is time to move forward! Enclosed is my CEQA letter sent today.

Thank You! Jim Wing
To: Harun Musaefendic Los Altos Public Works Sr. Engineer June 29, 2026 Subject: Public Comment for June 2026 Redwood Grove Halsey House Project Draft CEQA Environmental Impact Report.

Attachment 6 -Appendix E Geotechnical Investigation
 No evidence of report discussion on active septic tank [never connect to Los Altos Adobe Creek sewer line] or its “drain field” that extends near Adobe Creekbank. In early springtime, I always see Adobe Creek green algae just downstream septic drain field. A soil core sample was drilled April 2024 by consultants in septic tank drain field, but no data is in report. This data is important because it decides if Federal Clean Water Act mitigation is required.  No evidence of Halsey House crawl space soil contamination data or health hazard to public breathing air inside house. I remember seeing Halsey House rats when first moved to Los Altos in 1968. Was able to get my head / one arm / flashlight through crawl space access near front door in 2017. Saw many rats, white / gray soil, piles of feces, and spider cobwebs [scary!] What I saw was similar to Redwood Grove Caretaker house crawl space before it was demolished in 2025.

That project is now in final stage of mitigation that consisted of more than 1 to 2 feet of contaminated soil removal / thick layer of clean soil / planting of “deep root” tall grass like wheat for six months [plant roots breakdown contamination and remove] / now preparing for native plants with cardboard covered with wood chips to stop weed growth  About 5 years ago ground squirrels drove rats away from crawl space and since then have dug several “access tunnels” under Halsy House cement foundation. No report evidence of checking for damage to foundation strength.
 6.1.2 Abandonment of Existing Utilities. Add statement that PG&E has removed all electrical power lines from Halsey House and did disconnect at electrical power pole located at top of Redwood Grove west ridge. If PG&E electrical power is needed in the future, it will require undergrounding [because of fire risk] down an environmentally sensitive west Redwood Grove ridge.
 6.1.2 Impacts of the San Francisco Dusky-Footed Woodrat. Since consultants’ investigation in April 2024, woodrats have abandoned nests near Halsey House and moved to about 108 feet to Redwood Grove south border. This item should be deleted from report.

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2  1.1.2 Demolition Details. Construction / Demolition equipment access would need to cross wood Adobe Creek Bridge that was built over 45 years ago and rated at 8 ton when new. Report states that all equipment / loads would be in the 6 to 7+ ton range. In the past 20 years, the bridge main wood support beams show evidence of “stress dusting” failure at point were ends of beams are supported on cement footing. When heavy loads now cross the bridge, you can measure failure by “stress dusting” with white cotton balls that get dirty. Prior Los Altos Public Works Director, observed and commented on this ever-increasing problem and possible reducing of rated load. Los Altos staƯ needs to review / reduce load rating. County Fire Department has also made the same observation and were going to revise their emergency fire access procedures to route 7.5-ton pump truck to backside of Hasey house via private road Manresa / Manresa Way and use its end of road fire hydrant.

Two mature redwood trees, one on each side of bridge restrict width of truck loads / equipment. If proper space to protect redwood trees from wide truck loads / equipment cannot be maintained, authorization to use private road Manresa / Manresa Way will be needed.  Section 4.10.1.2 Hydrology and Water Quality
In 1976 Adobe Creek had extreme flooding. Both Edith and Burke bridges were closed for three days because of water flooding over bridge. El Camino and Foothill Expressway came very close to flooding over bridges. From Redwood Grove west ridge, I observed flooding of Halsey House. Water level was about 2 feet above bottom door sill for west side entrance and west side cement deck for more than three days. El Camino, Foothill Expressway, and Edith bridges were rebuilt with increased flooding capacity. Burke bridge has not been rebuilt and has had recent over bridge flooding because of low capacity and blocked channel.

I think that Halsey House is still at risk of structural damage because the crawl space has been filled with flood water in the past 10 years. It should be checked for wood structural water damage and “Flood Plain” data needs to be updated. Flood Plain data in report may not be accurate because it does not factor the Burke bridge low capacity and easily blocked.  Section 4.18 Tribal Cultural Resources
In 1970 / 1971 Foothill College Archeological Department Dig was performed on area that is now Creekside Oaks, Morningside, and 604 Milverton [Costello 3 acres]. Report showed that in spring / early summer Ohlone Indian tribe had a camp ground at 604 Milverton. No indication that they were in Redwood Grove area except to fish in Adobe Creek. You can find Archeological Dig report at Foothill College for update of Section 4.18 to reflect accurate conditions.

Thank you for your consideration, Jim Wing Milverton Road Los Altos, CA

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1 Melissa Thurman
From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2026 6:44 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Online Form Submittal: Public Comment Submission to City Council Public Comment Submission to City Council
Submitting Written Comments on Agenda Items
Please note: Personal information, such as email addresses, telephone numbers, home addresses, and other contact information are not required to be included with your comments. If this information is included, they will become part of the public record. Redactions and/or edits will not be made to public comments, and the comments will be posted as they are submitted. Please do not include any information in your communication that you do not want to be made public.

Public comments submitted by 5:00 PM of the meeting date will be included in the agenda packet.

Public comments and any associated attachments are subject to the California Public Records Act.

Your Public Comment This is to Marymeade park tennis couch Wong. He has classes Tuesday 5-7PM.

I feel disrespected by his words, instead of asking us nicely to move to the other court because he has a class he said “you will be kicked out”. I believe this is quite uncomfortable to most people.

It make sense that tennis balls runs everywhere but he never apologizes for it or appreciates when we nicely sent his ball back.

I believe he can have better attitudes instead of having actions or words like that.

Attachments Field not completed.

Name Marymeade tennis couch
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1 Melissa Thurman
From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2026 7:14 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Online Form Submittal: Public Comment Submission to City Council Public Comment Submission to City Council
Submitting Written Comments on Agenda Items
Please note: Personal information, such as email addresses, telephone numbers, home addresses, and other contact information are not required to be included with your comments. If this information is included, they will become part of the public record. Redactions and/or edits will not be made to public comments, and the comments will be posted as they are submitted. Please do not include any information in your communication that you do not want to be made public.

Public comments submitted by 5:00 PM of the meeting date will be included in the agenda packet.

Public comments and any associated attachments are subject to the California Public Records Act.

Your Public Comment I would like to file a complaint regarding the conduct of the tennis coach, Wong, who holds classes at Marymeade Park on Tuesdays from approximately 5:00–7:00 PM.

During a recent visit, I felt disrespected by the way he addressed other court users. Rather than politely asking us to move because he had a scheduled class, he stated, "You will be kicked out." This wording was unnecessarily confrontational and intimidating. A simple, respectful request would have been much more appropriate and would have reflected the
professionalism expected of someone representing a public program.

I also understand that tennis balls will occasionally roll onto neighboring courts during lessons. However, throughout the session, there was never an apology when balls repeatedly interrupted our play, nor any acknowledgment or appreciation when we returned the balls to his class. These may seem like small courtesies, but they contribute significantly to creating a respectful and welcoming environment for everyone using the

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2 public courts.

As someone instructing members of the community in a public park, I believe Coach Wong should be held to a higher
standard of professionalism and sportsmanship. Respectful communication, basic courtesy, and consideration for other park users are reasonable expectations. I hope the City will address this matter and remind instructors to interact with the public in a respectful and professional manner so that everyone can enjoy the facilities without feeling intimidated or disrespected.

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1 Melissa Thurman
From: Catherine Nunes <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, July 10, 2026 2:51 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: [External Sender]Public Comment July 14 2026 - Item#4 Consent Calendar - Contract Renewal Orchard Maintenance Agreement
Attachments: 0 Nunes Public Comment-New Contract Orchard Item 4 Consent Calendar Item 4 July 14 2026.pdf
Re: Public Comment Council Meeting, July 14, 2026 – Item #4 Contract Renewal – Orchard Maintenance Agreement.

Dear Mayor and Council,
I support funding our new orchardist and the continued maintenance of the Heritage Orchard, but am disappointed that it appears on the Consent Calendar without a complete staff report, adequate contract review, or any public study or discussion of the Heritage Orchard's overall condition, long-term needs, or the substantive changes proposed in the Proposed New Agreement.

This seasonal maintenance contract is only one piece of caring for a historic orchard. The agreement itself— and the resources allocated to it—do not reflect the full scope of the Heritage Orchard's needs. It is not a stewardship plan, an adequate budget, or a plan to restore and rehabilitate this living, historic landmark. This historic working orchard deserves more than an extension of the maintenance contract.

Without them, neither the Council nor the public can fully understand the orchard's condition, the care it requires, or the resources needed to care for and restore it.

The Heritage Orchard needs restoration, rehabilitation, replacement planting, ongoing maintenance, and longterm planning. Hundreds of trees and planting sites have been lost, damaged, removed, or remain unrestored due to construction and inconsistent or inadequate care.

Restoring the orchard begins with understanding its current condition.

Residents appreciate that we now have a qualified orchardist. But even the best orchardist can only do what they are directed and resourced to do, and the direction is not clear.

A major hole is that the City has never studied or conducted a review of what this living historic resource needs, nor has it invited the community into that discussion.

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2 Over the past several years, residents have brought forward experienced orchardists, arborists, historians, and advocates who have offered their expertise, advice, and even replacement trees grown specifically for our Heritage Orchard.

That included master orchardist Andy Mariani, who donated disease-resistant Blenheim apricot trees grown specifically for the Los Altos Heritage Orchard following a resident-initiated site visit in 2025. Those trees picked up Los Altos subcontractor were never planted, were ultimately “lost,” and the public has never received an explanation despite repeated requests to the City and LAHM.

While preparing these comments, I compared the proposed new contract with the master agreement approved by the Council in July 2023. Please take the time to review and see that the proposed new contract and agreement is materially different-removing what is needed, and masking what is gone from the scope of work.

The City staff report describes the contract amendment primarily as allowing additional funding to be added if needed, instead of detailing the removal of work and deliverables including the Master Maintenance Plan, Annual Work Plans, and Orchard Health Reports, without explanation for their removal or a needed replacement.

These are fundamental stewardship and accountability tools that help the Council and the public understand the orchard's condition, priorities, and long-term care.

Please keep the orchardist funded—but don't let it end there.

Remove this from the Consent Calendar and discuss how best to continue paying the orchardist until the changes to any new contract and agreement can be understood by all. And review why the core deliverables of the 3-year contract in effect were never met.

Also, direct staff to plan for and fund a real Master Plan with an adequate review and public planning process for the long-term needs of the Heritage Orchard—to determine the resources needed to restore and steward this treasured landmark for future generations.

This remarkable historic landscape deserves nothing less.

Sincerely,
Catherine Nunes
Los Altos
Attached: a copy of the comment letter. Please provide a receipt.

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Public Comment Letter, Nunes. Council Meeting Item #4: Consent Calendar | Subject: Contract RenewalOrchard Maintenance Agreement 1 July 10, 2026
Re: Public Comment Council Meeting, July 14, 2026 – Item #4 Contract Renewal – Orchard Maintenance Agreement.

This seasonal maintenance contract is only one piece of caring for a historic orchard. The agreement itself—and the resources allocated to it—do not reflect the full scope of the Heritage Orchard's needs. It is not a stewardship plan, an adequate budget, or a plan to restore and rehabilitate this living, historic landmark. This historic working orchard deserves more than an extension of the maintenance contract.

The City still has no Master Maintenance Plan, Annual Work Plans, or Orchard Health Reports, even though these were required under the July 2023 agreement and were due more than two and a half years ago. Without them, neither the Council nor the public can fully understand the orchard's condition, the care it requires, or the resources needed to care for and restore it.

The Heritage Orchard needs restoration, rehabilitation, replacement planting, ongoing maintenance, and long-term planning. Hundreds of trees and planting sites have been lost, damaged, removed, or remain unrestored due to construction and inconsistent or inadequate care.

Restoring the orchard begins with understanding its current condition.

Residents appreciate that we now have a qualified orchardist. But even the best orchardist can only do what they are directed and resourced to do, and the direction is not clear.

A major hole is that the City has never studied or conducted a review of what this living historic resource needs, nor has it invited the community into that discussion.

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Public Comment Letter, Nunes. Council Meeting Item #4: Consent Calendar | Subject: Contract RenewalOrchard Maintenance Agreement 2 Over the past several years, residents have brought forward experienced orchardists, arborists, historians, and advocates who have offered their expertise, advice, and even replacement trees grown specifically for our Heritage Orchard.

Although the staff report describes the amendment primarily as allowing additional funding to be added if needed, instead of detailing the removal of work and deliverables including the Master Maintenance Plan, Annual Work Plans, and Orchard Health Reports without explanation or replacement by City staff. These are fundamental stewardship and accountability tools that help the Council and the public understand the orchard's condition, priorities, and long-term care.

Please keep the orchardist funded—but don't let it end there.

Also, direct staff to plan for and fund a real Master Plan with an adequate review and public planning process for the long-term resourcing needs of the Heritage Orchard—determine the resources needed to restore and steward this treasured landmark for future generations.

This remarkable historic landscape deserves nothing less.

Sincerely,
Catherine Nunes
Los Altos

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Public Comment Letter, Nunes. Council Meeting Item #4: Consent Calendar | Subject: Contract RenewalOrchard Maintenance Agreement 3

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1 Melissa Thurman
From: Andrea Wald <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, July 12, 2026 4:55 PM
To: Public Comment
Cc: City Council
Subject: Agenda item #12 - City Council mtg. Tuesday, 7/14 Dear Mayor Meadows, Vice Mayor Lang, and City Council members,

I am writing regarding the “Draft Vision & Guiding Principles” plan that is going to be discussed on Tuesday evening under Agenda #12. See specific text below. I would simply like to point out that if these many statements/principles are ones that Los Altos truly wants to follow and not pure fluff, then artificial turf and PIP rubber surfaces should be ground coverings that Los Altos should not be considering for their parks (including dog parks) and playgrounds. These surfaces run counter to pretty much each of the statements I’ve highlighted below – from a true, small town charm; natural and environmental sustainability framework; and climate resilience.

In many instances staff and city council have been handling city affairs in a manner that is counter to the statement on Collaborative Governance with very little outreach to the community and total disregard for input received. A great example of this is the PIP that was installed in the outside exercise area near the library. Many in the community spoke up against it but their voices were totally ignored.

I hope that projects that are currently being discussed (new dog park at Hillview and renovation of both Shoup and Grant Parks) plus future projects will adhere much more closely to the below cited principles.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my urgent appeal.

Sincerely,

Andrea Wald – advocate for a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

From page 4:

SMALL TOWN CHARM.

Preserve and enhance the qualities that contribute to Los Altos’ enduring small-town character, including its peaceful neighborhoods, walkable downtown, historic architecture, abundant tree canopy, and shared sense of connection across the community.

NATURE FORWARD ETHOS AND ABUNDANT GREENSPACE.

Recognize green spaces as fundamental to the physical development of the community and promote wise stewardship of environmental resources. Maintain tree canopy and integrate green spaces equitably throughout the community, recognizing the co-benefits for public health, climate resilience, and environmental quality.

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2 From page 6:

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY.

Treat sustainability as a lens applied to every decision about how the city operates, moves, and evolvesand create a community that functions better bydesign. Pursue a carbon neutral future as a shared responsibility, reduce resource consumption, embrace electrification, and enhance the naturalsystems around us so that Los Altos’ leadership in environmental sustainability is a point of local pride.

COLLABORATIVE GOVERNANCE.

Foster transparency, open dialogue, inclusion, and trust between the City and the community, and provide opportunities for residents and businesses to participate meaningfully in civic life.

MODERN, RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE.

Strategically invest in public infrastructure and community facilities that support daily life, public safety, business vitality, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.

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1 Melissa Thurman
From: Pat Marriott <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, July 12, 2026 11:40 PM
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM #4 JULY 14, 2026
Attachments: 7-14-2026 public comment item 4 orchard maintenance agreement.pdf Please see attached.

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1 PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM #4 JULY 14, 2026 COUNCIL MEETING

LOS ALTOS HERITAGE ORCHARD MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
Council Members:

Please pull this item from the consent calendar.

Staff report says,
RECOMMENDATION Authorize the City Manager to execute the contract renewal, totaling $75,000 annually, for orchard maintenance with the Los Altos History Museum …
And

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
"The proposed contract renewal would extend the contract with LAHM ...” I'm not a lawyer, but it’s my understanding that a contract renewal requires a more comprehensive review than a contract extension. Given the major differences between the two agreements, this item must be given more consideration.

The 2023 contract is not in the packet, limiting Council’s ability to compare it with the proposed renewal. I found a copy of the 2023 contract in my files and have documented the differences below to make it easy for you.

You might wonder why I took the time to do this. I’m not an orchard zealot and I know next to nothing about apricot trees. But I do care a lot about our orchard and I’m fed up with the lack of respect it (and its advocates) gets from some at City Hall, as evidenced by the fact that the proposed contract doesn’t even reference the orchard by its correct name. It’s the “Los Altos Heritage Orchard,” not the Civic Center Apricot Orchard. The sign has been up since 2019.

I’m asking you to treat the orchard as the treasure it is – not just because there are legal aspects associated with a heritage site – but because we’re one of a privileged few cities to still have this bit of the Valley of Hearts Delight. Council should be adamant in fostering its maintenance and preservation and insist Staff and consultants do the same.

Sincerely,
Pat Marriott

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2 Differences between the 2023 Agreement and the proposed 2026 Agreement 2023 Agreement
2026 Agreement
This paragraph is missing from the 2026 document. Why?

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3 Why isn’t it referred to by its official name, the “Los Altos Heritage Orchard”? Is this misnomer a way of excluding the Heritage Orchard Master Plan from the document? Missing from the 2026 document. Again, where’s the Master Plan? Who decided it’s no longer relevant? The HERITAGE Orchard has been designated a Los Altos Historic Landmark numerous times since J. Gilbert Smith’s death in 1966.

Missing in 2026 document.

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4 “As available” not needed at end of second sentence.

HERITAGE Orchard.

Missing from 2026 document. I know the 75th anniversary has passed, but will there no longer be any work plans? Surely, we want to continue to “boost civic pride” in the city during events like the STEM Fair.

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5 The 2026 document says LAHM is the CONTRACTOR:

All clauses in the 2026 document should reference CONTRACTOR, not LAHM.

Again, no mention of a Master Plan. We obviously have one, so it cannot be ignored. Does it need to be updated? Who is responsible for it?
Missing from 2026 document. Master Plan buried again!

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6 HERITAGE Orchard.

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7 HERITAGE Orchard.

Why “gift procedures” vs. HERITAGE Orchard Master Plan? Missing in 2026 document, probably because 75th anniversary has passed. Could reword to “CONTRACTOR will ensure the Heritage Orchard will always showcase the city’s history and boost civic pride.”

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1 Melissa Thurman
From: PALLA <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 13, 2026 3:31 AM
To: Public Comment
Subject: City Council July 14,2026: Item #4 Contract Renewal-Orchard Maintenance Agreement Dear Mayor and Council Members,
On behalf of Preservation Action League Los Altos PALLA, we request that Item #4 Contract Renewal: Orchard Maintenance Agreement be removed from the Consent Calendar and considered as a Discussion item to address the following:
 An estimate and authorization for near-term soil improvement and tree-replacement expenses, outside of general maintenance;
 A comprehensive Heritage Orchard Master Plan per OHP guidelines and Secretary of the Interior Standards;
 A long-term restoration and replanting strategy supported by dedicated funding and clear areas of responsibility of the City and Los Altos History Museum;  A regular public reporting schedule by LAHM to Council on orchard health and restoration progress;
 A commitment to restore the Heritage Orchard to its full designated landmark area following completion of the Library Courtyard project; and
 Correct attributions of the historic landmark and CA State Point of Interest including the name “Los Altos Heritage Orchard.”
We appreciate the decision to engage an experienced professional orchardist to care for the Los Altos Heritage Orchard— an important and encouraging step toward improving stewardship of one of our most significant historic resources. This contract renewal, however, presents an opportunity to do the comprehensive planning and long-term investment strategy that the Heritage Orchard has needed for years.

Instead of renewing the contract under definitions and terms that do not advance required stewardship of the orchard, please direct Staff to draft a bridge agreement that allows for maintenance over a 6-9 month period while contract terms are publicly reviewed and a comprehensive master plan is developed, reviewed in a Study Session and adopted with recommendation from the Historical Commission.

PALLA has consistently urged the City to give greater attention to the Heritage Orchard, a historic landmark and regionally-significant cultural landscape. We’ve met with City staff, LAHM staff, orchard volunteers, and Councilmembers to discuss the orchard's condition and future. We’ve sought input from regional orchardists, historical landscape specialists, preservation professionals, and other

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2 experts who have helped identify the challenges facing the orchard and the standards necessary for its long-term preservation.

Our objective remains the same: to help ensure that this irreplaceable historical and cultural landscape receives the planning, care, and investment necessary to preserve it for future generations.

Also important is educating the broader community about the Heritage Orchard's significance. Many residents see the orchard as a pleasant green space, but fewer understand that it is a designated historic landmark and the last surviving orchard farmstead in the Valley of Heart's Delight. Together with the J. Gilbert Smith House, the orchard tells the story of Los Altos' agricultural origins and remains a unique working example. As public awareness has grown, so too has community appreciation and concern for the orchard as an essential part of Los Altos' identity.

The maintenance contract must be a part of a broader stewardship effort with clear principles and objectives.

The proposed agreement does not establish a dedicated restoration or replanting budget despite the significant loss of apricot trees over recent years. A historic orchard requires more than routine maintenance; it requires restoration planning, replacement planting, soil rehabilitation, irrigation improvements, and long-term resource management if it is to retain the health and historic character envisioned in its landmark designation.

The City should complete the comprehensive Heritage Orchard Master Maintenance Plan originally contemplated under the maintenance agreement and provide regular public reporting on orchard health, restoration progress, and future needs. These planning documents are fundamental to responsible stewardship of a landmark that should include Historical Commission oversight.

Finally, we respectfully ask the Council to reaffirm its commitment to restoring the Heritage Orchard to its full designated landmark area following completion of the Library Courtyard project. Temporary construction impacts should not become permanent reductions to the orchard.

Again, PALLA respectfully requests that the Council remove Item #4 from the Consent Calendar and direct staff to return with the following:
 An estimate and authorization for near-term soil improvement and tree-replacement expenses, outside of general maintenance;
 A comprehensive Heritage Orchard Master Plan per OHP guidelines and Secretary of the Interior Standards;
 A long-term restoration and replanting strategy supported by dedicated funding and clear areas of responsibility of the City and Los Altos History Museum;  A regular public reporting schedule by LAHM to Council on orchard health and restoration progress;
 A commitment to restore the Heritage Orchard to its full designated landmark area following completion of the Library Courtyard project; and

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3  Correct attributions of the historic landmark and CA State Point of Interest including the name “Los Altos Heritage Orchard.”
We commend the City for taking an important first step of bringing professional orchard management to the Heritage Orchard. Please support any maintenance contract by also establishing the planning, transparency, and long-term financial commitment needed to ensure that this extraordinary historic landscape continues to tell the story of Los Altos for generations to come.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Maria Bautista and Catherine Nunes
PALLA, Preservation Action League Los Altos

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1 Melissa Thurman
From: Maria Bautista <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 13, 2026 3:40 AM
To: Public Comment
Subject: [External Sender]City Council July 14, 2026: Item #5 Adoption of Resolution - Appropriation of Funds, SCCFireDistrict Annexation
Dear Mayor and Council Members,
We request that the City Council remove Item#5 Appropriation of Funs Santa Clara County Fire District from the Consent Calendar and defer action until a noticed public discussion takes place.

The proposed appropriation of $1.5 million from General Fund resources to the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District is part of the larger annexation. The Staff Report characterizes the payment as funding deferred maintenance for the City's two fire stations, but provides no information on the financial terms of the entire contract, and no details supporting the amount or explaining how it was determined.

Prior reports and this Staff Report also do not provide an independent assessment of the deferred maintenance costs; discussion of alternatives, including whether the City could complete the work and maintain ownership of the assets; nor any analysis of the long-term fiscal implications for Los Altos taxpayers, including the cost of lost assets for future borrowing.

Consent Calendar items are reserved for routine, noncontroversial matters. The controversial nature of the fire annexation is supported by hundreds of protest forms and public comments received by LAFCO on July 9, numerous posts by City Councilmembers Weinberg and Dailey on social media, and placement of a joint statement of reassurance without supporting data by Los Altos Mayor Sally Meadows and SCCFD Fire Chief Suwanna Kerdkaew across multiple print and online media.

The $1.5 million and permanent transfer of City-owned land is neither routine nor insignificant. This amount and the other terms of the contract were not reviewed by the Financial Commission and run counter to current budget approvals for Fire Station maintenance. Given its magnitude, an additional financial review would enhance transparency and public confidence in a longterm and irreversible decision.

The piecemeal approval of annexation details denies residents and Council an understanding of the full impact of the agreement. Residents deserve the benefit of a full and comprehensive discussion of the justification for annexation and loss of city-owned land.

Please remove Item #5 from the Consent Calendar, and scheduled a future Discussion with documentation supporting the $1.5 million deferred maintenance estimate that explains why this payment is necessary and an equitable as part of the annexation agreement, and specific fire district obligations. Also consider referring the financial aspects of the transaction to the Financial Commission for review and recommendations before final approval.

A decision involving millions of dollars in public funds and the disposition of valuable public assets

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2 deserves the highest level of transparency and public deliberation. We urge the Council to engage in discussion before taking action.

Respectfully,
Maria Bautista and Lynette Lee Eng

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1 Melissa Thurman
From: Maria Bautista <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 13, 2026 3:58 AM
To: Public Comment
Subject: City Council July 14, 2026: Item#8 Adoption of Resolution - Change Order Approval and Project Acceptance
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers,
During planning stages of the Hillview Outdoor Fitness equipment replacement, I had requested that Greenfield logos not be attached to the equipment. Prominent logos are present.

Los Altos has a long tradition of not using our public spaces to advertise for for-profit companies.

Logos spoil our parks, and are no benefit to the City.

Also the Hillview equipment use instructions for individual elements are not consistently placed adjacent to the relevant station. Please request that Staff/Greenfields check placement of instructions.

Please require that the logo panels (which serve no other purpose) on the Hillview equipment be removed and a walk-through for accuracy take place before project acceptance.

Thank you,
Maria Bautista

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1 Melissa Thurman
From: Andrea Hawkins <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 13, 2026 7:37 AM
To: Public Comment
Subject: Historic Apricot Orchard
I think we should fence it in with an attractive enclosure and have a pretty sign made up. Establish it as an Historic Site. 2Sent from my iPad

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From: Catherine Nunes
To: Public Comment
Subject: [External Sender]Fwd: Public Comment July 14 2026 - Item#4 Consent Calendar - Contract Renewal Orchard Maintenance Agreement
Date: Monday, July 13, 2026 4:13:30 PM
Attachments: 0 Nunes Public Comment-New Contract Orchard Item 4 Consent Calendar Item 4 July 14 2026.pdf Dear City of Los Altos Clerk,
Can you provide an acknowledgement of my Public Comment letter sent on Friday, July 10 re: Item#4 Consent Calendar - Contract Renewal Heritage Orchard Maintenance Agreement?
I am unable to make the Council Meeting tomorrow evening and wanted to ensure my individual comment was recorded and provided in advance of the meeting.

Thank you,
Catherine Nunes
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Catherine Nunes <[email protected]>
Date: Fri, Jul 10, 2026 at 2:51 PM
Subject: Public Comment July 14 2026 - Item#4 Consent Calendar - Contract Renewal Orchard Maintenance Agreement
To: <[email protected]>
Re: Public Comment Council Meeting, July 14, 2026 – Item #4 Contract Renewal – Orchard Maintenance Agreement.

This seasonal maintenance contract is only one piece of caring for a historic orchard. The agreement itself—and the resources allocated to it—do not reflect the full scope of the Heritage Orchard's needs. It is not a stewardship plan, an adequate budget, or a plan to restore and rehabilitate this living, historic landmark. This historic working orchard deserves more than an extension of the maintenance contract.

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Restoring the orchard begins with understanding its current condition.

Residents appreciate that we now have a qualified orchardist. But even the best orchardist can only do what they are directed and resourced to do, and the direction is not clear.

A major hole is that the City has never studied or conducted a review of what this living historic resource needs, nor has it invited the community into that discussion.

Over the past several years, residents have brought forward experienced orchardists, arborists, historians, and advocates who have offered their expertise, advice, and even replacement trees grown specifically for our Heritage Orchard.

That included master orchardist Andy Mariani, who donated disease-resistant Blenheim apricot trees grown specifically for the Los Altos Heritage Orchard following a residentinitiated site visit in 2025. Those trees picked up Los Altos subcontractor were never planted, were ultimately “lost,” and the public has never received an explanation despite repeated requests to the City and LAHM.

These are fundamental stewardship and accountability tools that help the Council and the public understand the orchard's condition, priorities, and long-term care.

Please keep the orchardist funded—but don't let it end there.

Remove this from the Consent Calendar and discuss how best to continue paying the orchardist until the changes to any new contract and agreement can be understood by all.

And review why the core deliverables of the 3-year contract in effect were never met.

This remarkable historic landscape deserves nothing less.

Sincerely,
Catherine Nunes

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Los Altos
Attached: a copy of the comment letter. Please provide a receipt.

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This seasonal maintenance contract is only one piece of caring for a historic orchard. The agreement itself—and the resources allocated to it—do not reflect the full scope of the Heritage Orchard's needs. It is not a stewardship plan, an adequate budget, or a plan to restore and rehabilitate this living, historic landmark. This historic working orchard deserves more than an extension of the maintenance contract.

Restoring the orchard begins with understanding its current condition.

Residents appreciate that we now have a qualified orchardist. But even the best orchardist can only do what they are directed and resourced to do, and the direction is not clear.

A major hole is that the City has never studied or conducted a review of what this living historic resource needs, nor has it invited the community into that discussion.

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Please keep the orchardist funded—but don't let it end there.

This remarkable historic landscape deserves nothing less.

Sincerely,
Catherine Nunes
Los Altos

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Public Comment Letter, Nunes. Council Meeting Item #4: Consent Calendar | Subject: Contract RenewalOrchard Maintenance Agreement 3

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From: [email protected]
To: Public Comment
Subject: City Council July 14,2026: Item #12-Draft General Plan Vision Date: Monday, July 13, 2026 5:06:27 PM
My suggested changes to the document are below. In red and all caps are the additions, in gray are the deletions.

1. SMALL TOWN CHARM. Preserve and enhance the qualities that contribute to Los Altos’ enduring AUTHENTIC small-town character, including its peaceful neighborhoods, walkable downtown, historic RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL architecture, abundant tree canopy, and shared
sense of connection across the community.

LET’S KEEP IT REAL. WE SHOULDN’T WANT AND DON’T WANT DISNEYLAND

2. VIBRANT DOWNTOWN. Strengthen the role of downtown as a focal point of community life in Los Altos and a destination for visitors from the region. Downtown ambiance comes from the PEDESTRIAN SCALE, TRADITIONAL BUILDINGS AND STOREFRONTS, SMALL TOWN FEEL OF THE CORE DOWNTOWN SHOPPING DISTRICT, design of the street AND PARKING network and walkable character of the area, as well as from the eclectic mix of locally-owned businesses, varied cultural events and activities, and opportunities for social interaction.

WE NEED TO RECOGIZE WHAT MAKES OUR DOWNTOWN SPECIAL AND BRINGS VISITORS TO OUR DOWNTOWN. MANY TALK ABOUT THE EASE OF PARKING AND ACCESSIBLITY TO NEARBY STORES.

3. NEIGHBORHOOD GATHERING PLACES. Foster a network of gathering places throughout the community that bring residents together and provide authentic, inperson opportunities to socialize. Position Los Altos' commercial centers as hubs of neighborhood activity, anchored by thriving shops and services with complementary housing, entertainment, and recreational opportunities. Reinforce parks and recreational facilities as a core setting for informal public life with a range of programs and services that supports everyday interaction and lifelong learning

ASSUMING WE ADD HOUSING TO OUR COMMERICAL DISTRICTS, WE NEED TO BE

CAREFUL ABOUT ADDING ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION AS WELL SINCE THOSE

MAY DETRACT FROM INTEREST IN LIVING THERE DUE TO NOISE, HOURS OF OPERATION ETC. WE SPECIFICALLY HAVE PARKS TO ADDRESS RECREATION AND IN FACT HAVE 5 PARKS NEARBY OUR DOWNTOWN.

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4. ACTIVITY MOBILITY. Make walking and biking AN EASY OPTION and promote multimodal mobility and independence for all. Recognize this means prioritizing safety and work to create a low stress network of connections that knits neighborhoods together, promotes social interaction, reduces congestion, and enhances quality of life.

DATA SAYS AT LEAST ONE HALF OF LOS ALTOS IS OVER 55. AND MOST PEOPLE WHO MOVE HERE STAY FOR DECADES. MANY OLDER ADULTS DO NOT/CANNOT BICYCLE-OR PERHAPS EVEN WALK LONG DISTANCES SO DON’T SUGGEST THAT WALKING/BIKING IS WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD DO. THE NUMBER OF HANDICAP PARKING SPOTS IN OUR DOWNTOWN IS PATHETICALLY SMALL.

5. COLLABORATIVE GOVERNANCE. Foster transparency, open dialogue, inclusion, and trust between the City and the community, and provide opportunities for residents and businesses to participate meaningfully in civic GOVERNANCE.

LOS ALTOS HAS ALWAYS BEEN A CITY WITH COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ON COMMISSIONS, COMMITTES, ETC. THIS IS BEING LOST IN THE ZEAL TO PROFESSIONALIZE

OUR CITY

6. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY. Treat sustainability as a lens applied to every decision about how the city operates, moves, and evolves and create a community that functions better by design. Pursue a carbon neutral future as a shared responsibility, reduce resource consumption, embrace electrification WHERE PRACTICAL, and enhance
the natural systems around us so that Los Altos' leadership in environmental sustainability is a point of local pride.

THIS IS AN OVERLY BROAD AND BLANKET MANDATE WITHOUT ANY RECOGNITION OF COST BENEFIT AND PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS. BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR.

Virus-free.www.avg.com

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From: Maria Bautista
To: Public Comment
Subject: City Council July 14, 2026: Item #12 Draft General Plan Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 1:39:28 AM
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers,
The Agenda Item #12 Draft General Plan Staff Report has two drafts of the Vision and Guiding Principles: Attachment 1 and a “redline”Attachment 4. Two drafts establish an odd context for discussion and an inaccurate reflection of Phase 1.

If the draft of the Vision and Guiding Principles has been emergent, there should be only one draft.

The Staff Report explains:
“The Draft Vision and Guiding Principles (Attachment 1) emerged from community and commission input gathered during Phase 1 of the General Plan Update.” But, the Staff Report does not point to the updated Attachment 4 here.

And then:
“Based on the feedback received at the Planning Commission meeting, the project team revised the Draft Vision and Guiding Principles which are included as a redlined document in Attachment 4 for Council consideration.”
Having attended most of the preparatory meetings for these drafts and after a review of all comments in the Outreach Report, Attachment #4 is the more accurate reflection of community input to date.

The “redline” draft sets an odd context for discussion. The original draft in Attachment #1 has no merit if it does not include community input. A document with “redlining” is unwarranted; the draft for consideration should be the most current and accurate draft.

As such, Attachment 4 would stand as the draft for your consideration.

Best,
Maria Bautista

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From: Maria Bautista
To: Public Comment
Subject: City Council July 14, 2026: Item #12 Draft General Plan Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 2:03:38 AM
Attachments: Los Altos GP Introduction-PDF (1).pdf
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers,
Because you are engaged in the great responsibility of an update to the General Plan, considered our “constitution,” it is customary good practice to check against the current General Plan now and along the way.

Los Altos General Plan 2002-2020. Below and attached is the vision of the current General Plan which is an evolution of the 1987 General Plan.

Please consider why certain changes, omissions or additions are being proposed.

Of note, Attachment #1 draft introduced “a truly modern small town,” but it diluted the authentic language of “village” and “semi-rural” and “historic” that continues to define and set apart Los Altos per community input. The draft word choice “enviable” is more appropriate as “authentic.” “Enviable” is not something we parade; we are a “friendly” city. Attachment #4 more accurately reflects how both new and longtime residents see Los Altos per Outreach data.

Los Altos has always prided itself on maintaining independent emergency services that guarantee service levels in perpetuity.

Future vision needs to prioritize maintaining public infrastructure— facilities, parks and other common spaces.

If we are truly “modern,” our environmental ethos will commit to using only natural materials in public projects when possible, and emphasize a commitment to trees, tree canopies and all thing natural on equal or greater grounds as other environmental themes.

We are not only “History in the Everyday,” but rather we are a place that protects history through policy. We recognize that our historic resources and physical evidence of our past are very valuable in differentiating, educating and giving foundation to Los Altos residents and visitors. With our historic character, we already have a sense of place like no other.

Also, please note:

Demographics. Community Pop-Up Events had no demographic control; this should be made clear. For example, the Eater Egg Hunt and Farmers Market have attendees from surrounding cities. While this information may have value, it is not representative of opinions or desires Los Altos residents. A distinction needs to be made and made clear about information gathered from residents versus gathered from non-residents.

Stakeholders. More than once, the Draft packet reports refer to “Stakeholders” and “Stakeholder Meetings,” yet nowhere are the stakeholders identified, nor the meeting dates noted. Please provide the public a list of the Stakeholders and the meeting dates.

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Tech Report

Page 12 ends

the additional 2.84 acres of open space that is the landmark Los Altos (Civic Center) Heritage Orchard.

Section 2-13: The Heritage Orchard is not accurately characterized only as “Public/Institutional” according to that definition. The Heritage Orchard is an agricultural/cultural landscape and landmark that is rightly characterized as “other open space.”
Section 2-25: The 2009 Community Center Master Plan is not in effect or recognized as an “approved plan.” That plan was set aside in 2014. Multiple projects have taken place at the Civic/Community Center since 2009 with no nexus to a master plan. Please remove references to the 2009 plan from the General Plan draft.

I appreciate your careful consideration.

Sincerely,
Maria Bautista
Los Altos General Plan 2002-2020

VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF LOS ALTOS
The Vision for the Future provides the foundation of the General Plan and an expression of what the City of Los Altos wants to maintain or become over the next two decades:

In the year 2020, the City of Los Altos continues to support a community-focused lifestyle for its residents, promoted and celebrated through neighborhood and community activities and involvement. The small town atmosphere, enhanced by the village
character of the Downtown and other
neighborhood commercial centers, also

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contributes to this friendly community spirit.

New development and redevelopment is
compatible with and sensitive to the existing
community. New development reflects the
existing small town, semi-rural character of
the community with its Downtown commercial area and wooded, quiet, low density residential neighborhoods. People feel
safe in their neighborhoods, commercial
districts, and schools. In addition, the quality
of the City’s environmental, open space,
and scenic resources is preserved and enhanced. Recreational opportunities are available to meet the needs of all members
of the community.

The local circulation system meets the
needs of the community while slowing and
reducing the amount of traffic in residential
neighborhoods and near schools. Within
this circulation system, pedestrians and cyclists are able to travel safely and quickly throughout the community.

Appropriate commercial and office uses locate and thrive, providing fiscal stability to the City and a revenue source to finance
community improvements. These beneficial

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businesses operate in harmony with surrounding residential neighborhoods and contribute to the small town atmosphere.

Downtown is the city center for traditional
events and festivals that serve the entire
Los Altos community. Downtown provides
goods and services, restaurants, and entertainment for all age groups in our community. The town is active in the evenings as well as during the weekdays and weekends.

The streets and sidewalks are clean, and
landscaping is attractive. The competition
to locate retail businesses Downtown is
keen.

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INTRODUCTION
over the past 15 years, Los Altos did not
undergo substantial change. Rather, the
City focused its planning efforts toward
managing and enhancing existing character
and land use patterns. Planning will now
focus on stimulating new economic growth,
revitalizing older areas, assuring public
safety, finding new uses for underutilized
land, and enhancing the amenities and environmental resources that define Los Altos.

INTRODUCTION TO THE

GENERAL PLAN
Today, Los Altos is a community grounded
in the unique history of its agricultural and
railroad culture, yet it is also a community of
the 21st century that is prepared to face the
challenges ahead. To meet these challenges, the General Plan for Los Altos is the primary source of long-range planning and
policy direction that will be used to guide
growth and preserve the quality of life within
the community.

The General Plan is founded upon the
community’s vision for the City and expresses the community’s long-term goals.

Implementation of the General Plan will ensure that future development is consistent with the community’s goals and that adequate urban services are available to meet the needs of new development. The General Plan provides a continuum between the City’s unique traditions and the Los Altos of
tomorrow.

Since the last comprehensive update of the
General Plan in 1987, there have been relatively minor changes to the established community of Los Altos, but many significant changes to the surrounding region.

According to the previous General Plan, the
population of Los Altos in 1987 was 27,189
persons. Census data for 2000 shows Los
Altos with a population of 27,693 persons,
representing less than two percent growth
over the 13-year period. Comparatively, the
population of Santa Clara County and surrounding communities grew at a rate between 12 and 18 percent in the same period.

After the economic recession of the early
1990s, Santa Clara County (Silicon Valley)
grew quickly, driven by the new information
technology surrounding the internet. Development trends included large employment centers, regional retail centers, and new
neighborhoods along major transportation
routes. This type of growth commonly required larger, primarily undeveloped land, with infrastructure capacity for this scale of
development. As an established community
with primarily residential use, small
neighborhood commercial areas, and few
undeveloped parcels, Los Altos would not
easily accommodate this type or scale of
employment and housing growth. Thus,
unlike many of the surrounding communities

LOS ALTOS PLANNING AREA
The geographical area addressed by a
General Plan is not limited to a City’s corporate limits. State law requires the City to plan for areas outside of its immediate jurisdiction if the areas have a direct relationship to its planning needs. The Los Altos planning area includes the entire incorporated City and unincorporated land areas within
the City’s Sphere of Influence.

Los Altos General Plan 2002-2020 1 November 2002

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4 ·
·
G5 ·82
85 85
%&280
%&280
Grant Rd
Fremont Ave
Holt Ave
Springer Rd
Miramonte Ave
Castro St
Alma St
Alma St
Bailey Blvd
Stierlin Rd
Rengstorff Ave
San Antonio Rd
Fremont Rd
Burke Rd
Robleda Rd
Elena Rd
STEVENS CREEK FWY Fremont Ave
Remington Dr
Truman Ave
Arastradero Rd
Homestead Rd Homestead Rd
Bernardo Ave
Bernardo Ave
Van Buren Ave
Alma Ct
Mills Ave
Mora Dr
Russel Ave
Oakhurst Ave

EL CAMINO REAL
Hawthorne Ave

JUNIPERO SERRA FWY
Arboretum Dr
Scott Ln
Eva Ave

JUNIPERO SERRA FWY
Oak Ave Mckenzie Ave
Portland Ave
Manor Wy
Berry Ave
Covington Rd
Clark Ave
Covington Rd
Rosita Ave
Cuesta Dr
Benvenue Ave
Mt. Hamilton Ave
Karen Wy
Marich Wy
Alvarado Ave
Raymundo Ave
El Monte Ave
Eleanor Ave
Yerba Santa Ave

FOOTHILL EXWY
Hawthorne Ave
Covington Rd
University Ave
Valley View Dr
Magdalena Ave
Loyola Dr
Fairway Dr
St. Joseph Ave
Windimer Dr
City of
Mountain View
City of
Sunnyvale
Town of
Los Altos Hills
City of
Cupertino
City of
Palo Alto
Panchita Wy
L aurel es Dr
Loucks Ave
Jordan
Ave
Linden Ave Patrick Wy
Guadalupe Dr
Pasa Robles Ave
Los Altos Ave Los Altos Ave
Jardin Dr
Valenc ai Dr
Edith Ave Edith Ave Cherry Ave Sylvian Wy
Los Altos Ave
Alta Vista Ave
Pine Ln Pine Ln
Juanita Wy
Portola Ave Portola Ave
Distel Dr Distel Dr Angela Dr
Solana Dr
Alicia Wy Avalon Dr
Doud Dr
Higgins Ave Jay St
Hollingsworth Dr
Vista Grand Ave
Arroyo Rd
Sunkist Ln
Paco Dr
Springer Terr
Arboleda Dr
Osage Ave
Gordon Wy
Pepper Dr
Hillview Ave
Almond Ave Almond Ave Campbell Ave
Par m a
Wy
University Ave
Palm Ave
Main St
First St
Third St
Milverton Rd Riversid e Dr
Topar Ave
Miramonte Ave Miramonte Ave
Fremont Ave Fremont Ave
Grant Rd
Fallen Leaf Ln
Julie Lane
Wessex Ave
Fallen Leaf Ln Fallen Leaf Ln
Raveswood D
Harwalt Dr
r
Austin Ave
Austin Ave Parkhills Ave
New Castle Dr
Morton Ave
Richardson Ave
Brucito Ave Ben Roe Dr Clay Dr Grant Rd
Lisa Ln
Lisa Ln
Altos Oaks Dr
Seena Ave
Altameda Dr
Carmel Terr
Suffolk Wy
Miravalle Ave
Granger Ave
Fardon Ave
Crist Dr
Churton Ave
Annette Ln
Louise Ln
Juarez Ave
Joseph
Kent Dr
Lundy Ln
Deodora Dr Deodora Dr
Stonehaven Dr Sierra Ve ntura D r
Highlands Circle
Yorkshire Dr
Beachwood Ln
Redwood Dr
Cristo Rey Dr
St Matthe
Terrace Dr
Terrace Dr
Villa Dr
Arbor Ave
Arbor Ave
Whitham AveFairway D r
Quinhill Ave
Country
Club
Dr
Figure I-1
Los Altos Planning Area
Los Altos General Plan 2002-2020 2 November 2002
Source: City of Los Altos GIS.
´ 0 1,000 2,000 4,000 6,000 Feet
City Boundary
Planning Area Boundary Page 47 of 811

INTRODUCTION
character of the Downtown and other
neighborhood commercial centers, also
contributes to this friendly community spirit.

Unincorporated land areas in Santa Clara
County abut the City’s southern and southwestern boundaries.

The Los Altos planning area is located in
the northwest portion of Santa Clara
County, approximately five miles west of
San Francisco Bay at the southern end of
the peninsula. Los Altos is surrounded by
Mountain View and Palo Alto to the north,
Sunnyvale to the east, Cupertino to the
south, and Los Altos Hills to the west. Figure I-1 depicts the planning area for Los Altos.

HISTORY OF THE COMMUNITY
The community of Los Altos can trace its
roots back to the Ohlone and Muwekma Indians, who resided along the area creeks in the early twentieth century. Most of the region was agriculturally based until the development of the railroad. The origins of urban Los Altos began in 1907 with the
creation of the town plan centered around
the Southern Pacific Railway Station in what
is now the Downtown. Several commercial
buildings were developed prior to 1940, surrounded by residential use, ranches, and agriculture.

Appropriate commercial and office uses locate and thrive, providing fiscal stability to the City and a revenue source to finance
community improvements. These beneficial
businesses operate in harmony with surrounding residential neighborhoods and contribute to the small town atmosphere.

The streets and sidewalks are clean, and
landscaping is attractive. The competition
to locate retail businesses Downtown is
keen.

Most of the land within the City’s existing
boundaries was developed in the two decades following City incorporation in 1952.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF LOS
ALTOS
The Vision for the Future provides the foundation of the General Plan and an expression of what the City of Los Altos wants to maintain or become over the next two decades:

Page 48 of 811 ends

INTRODUCTION
A variety of housing options are available to
meet the needs of all segments of the
community, including the local workforce,
residents’ children, and the elderly. Mixeduse housing is available and affordable for workers in Los Altos including teachers, City
employees, and other members of the local
workforce.

Other assets, such as the high quality of the
local education system, as well as the City’s
agricultural past with its historic buildings
and remaining orchards, are important to
the community. Existing development is
well maintained so that Los Altos remains
an attractive and enjoyable place to live,
work, and play.

PURPOSE OF THE GENERAL PLAN
California law requires each city to adopt a
comprehensive, long-term General Plan to
guide the physical development of the incorporated city and land outside city boundaries that bears a relationship to its
planning activities. Fundamentally, the
General Plan serves as a blueprint for future
growth and development. As such, the plan
contains policies and programs designed to
provide decision makers with a solid foundation for land use and development decisions.

The Los Altos General Plan represents the
values and outlines the vision of the community. The Plan organizes the desires of Los Altos residents with respect to the
physical, social, economic, and environmental character of the City. It embodies what the City is now and what it hopes to be
in 2020.

In accordance with California Government
Code Section 65302, a general plan must
address the issues of land use, circulation,
housing, noise, safety, conservation, and
open space. These issues are discussed in
the General Plan to the extent that they apply to Los Altos. The Plan also addresses topics of special and unique interest, including community design, economic development, community facilities, infrastructure, and waste disposal. These topics are optional, but reflect issues that are important to the community.

According to state law, the General Plan is
the primary document the City utilizes to
regulate land use. Consequently, the Zon
ing Ordinance, Specific Plans, and individual public and private development proposals must be consistent with the Plan goals, policies, and standards.

ORGANIZATION AND USE OF THE

GENERAL PLAN
The Los Altos General Plan contains goals,
policies and plans which are intended to
guide land use and development decisions
through the year 2020. There are eight individual elements of this Plan, which fulfill the state requirements for a General Plan.

Table I-1 shows the relationship between
the eight elements of the Los Altos General
Plan and the state-mandated elements.

Plan Organization and Use
The General Plan is comprised of this Introduction and eight elements. Each element is a distinct, but integral part of the General
Plan. The General Plan is accompanied by
a Glossary (Appendix A). Each of the elements is organized according to the following format: (1) Introduction; (2) Plan; (3) Issues, Goals, and Policies; and 4) Implementation Programs Appendix.

Los Altos General Plan 2002-2020 4 November 2002

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INTRODUCTION
TABLE I-1

RELATIONSHIP OF LOS ALTOS GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS TO STATE-MANDATED ELEMENTS Los Altos General
Plan Elements
Land
Use
Housing Circulation Safety Conservation Open
Space
Noise Optional
Community Design & Historic
Resources

Land Use
Housing
Economic Development

Open Space, Conservation, &
Community Facilities

Circulation
Natural Environment & Hazards

Infrastructure &
Waste Disposal

The Introduction of each element describes
the focus and the purpose of the element.

The Introduction also identifies other Related Laws, Plans and Programs outside of the General Plan that may be used to
achieve or relate to specific General Plan
goals. The relationship of the element to
other General Plan elements is also described in the Introduction.

The Issues, Goals, and Policies section of
each element contains a description of identified planning issues, goals and policies related to the element topic. The issues,
goals and policies are based on input received from community workshops; members of the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC); members of the City Council and Planning Commission; and City staff.

The issues represent the opportunities, constraints or concerns that are addressed by the General Plan. The goals are overall
statements of community desires and are
comprised of broad statements of purpose
or direction. The policies serve as guides to
the decision makers in reviewing development proposals and making other decisions that affect the future growth and development of Los Altos.

Each element also contains a Plan section.

The Plan provides background information
regarding existing conditions and an overview of the City’s course of action to implement the identified goals and policies. For example, the Land Use Element contains a
“Land Use Plan” indicating the types and
intensities of land use permitted in Los Altos.

The Implementation Programs Appendix
identifies specific actions to achieve the
goals, policies and plans identified in each
General Plan element. The Implementation
Programs Appendix is reviewed and updated periodically to update specific actions, schedules, responsible parties and measures to ensure that General Plan goals, policies and plans are implemented. The
Glossary (Appendix A of the General Plan)
provides a set of definitions for technical
terms used in the Plan.

Los Altos General Plan 2002-2020 5 November 2002

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INTRODUCTION
Three Community Workshops were
held during the General Plan program.

The first General Plan Community
Workshop was held to discuss the key
community issues and opportunities that
should be reflected in the framework of
the General Plan. At the second Community Workshop, the consultant team solicited input on land use and circulation alternatives. At the final Community Workshop, the Preliminary Draft General Plan was presented to the public for consideration.

The organization of the General Plan allows
users to easily locate issues of interest and
quickly obtain a perspective on the City’s
policies on the subject. However, General
Plan users should realize that the policies in
the various elements are interrelated and
should be examined comprehensively.

Policies are presented as written statements, tables, diagrams and maps. All of these policy components must be considered together when making planning decisions. The City Council appointed a General
Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) to
represent stakeholders and provide input and recommendations during the General Plan program. Five meetings
were held with the GPAC. The first
meeting was a program initiation for the
purpose of introducing the General Plan
program and soliciting input regarding
community issues and future vision. The
second meeting was held to review and
discuss preliminary draft goals and policies. At the third and fourth meetings, the GPAC continued review of the goals
and polices and discussed land use and
circulation alternatives. The final GPAC
meeting was held to review the Preliminary Draft General Plan and provide recommendations to the City’s decision
makers.

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN THE

GENERAL PLAN PROGRAM
Public participation played an important role
in updating the Los Altos General Plan. Because the General Plan reflects the community goals and objectives, citizen input is essential to identifying issues, formulating
goals, and creating the City’s vision for
2020. Public participation and education
during the General Plan program occurred
through the following methods:
In the Fall of 1996, prior to project kickoff, the City conducted a community visioning process called the Community Compass. The goal of the visioning
process was to help the community determine what it wants to be in the future (2020) and what is needed to achieve its
vision. Information from the Community
Compass report was used in developing
the preliminary set of issues for the
General Plan.
Two General Plan program newsletters
were prepared during the program.

These newsletters provided the public
updated information on the status of the
General Plan program, upcoming workshop schedules, methods for public comment, and a summary of the proposed General Plan. Newsletters were distributed to all Los Altos residents.
Early in the program, the City hosted a
Transportation Charrette with Dan
Burden and his team from Walkable
Communities, Inc. The purpose of the
workshop series (including a walking
tour) was to educate the community on
key transportation issues and possible
solutions to carry forward to the General
Plan vision and circulation-related goals
and policies.
The City also utilized its website to provide current information on the General Plan program. Both newsletters were
posted on the website.

Los Altos General Plan 2002-2020 6 November 2002

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INTRODUCTION
Los Altos General Plan 2002-2020 7 November 2002
The public had the opportunity to address decision makers directly regarding issues, concerns, and desires at three
joint City Council/Planning Commission Workshops. The first of these workshops was an introduction to the
General Plan program and a review of
the draft vision statement generated
with input from the GPAC. The second
joint workshop allowed decision-makers
the opportunity to provide direction on
the issues, goals and polices to be included in the Draft General Plan, as well as direction on the land use and circulation alternative to be used as the basis of the Draft General Plan. Once the
preliminary Draft General Plan was
completed, the third joint workshop was
held to review that plan and incorporate
City Council and Planning Commission
comments into the Draft General Plan
prior to public hearings.

WAY TO THE FUTURE
The General Plan provides the way to
achieve the future the community has identified for itself. Direction is established in the General Plan to take advantage of opportunities to achieve the community’s goals for the future. The goals and policies in the
elements and the Implementation Program
provide guidance for dealing with changing
conditions and specific actions to optimize
community potential. The path established
in the General Plan is an integrated union of
the enduring historic values responsible for
modern prosperity and innovative approaches to achieve the vision for the future. The Draft General Plan and Initial
Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
were circulated for public review and
comment, before and during the General Plan public hearings held before the City Council and Planning Commission prior to adoption of the updated General Plan.

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From: Tagfam
To: Public Comment
Subject: City Council July 14, 2026: Item #12 Draft General Plan Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 8:45:43 AM
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers,
As you update the General Plan, please ensure our new blueprint/rulebook for our future development remains anchored in what truly defines Los Altos, while strictly maintaining data and historical accuracy.

Please consider the following refinements to the current draft:

Vision Language: Retain our authentic, community-favored descriptors like "village," "semi-rural," and "historic." Replacing these with "truly modern small town" really dilutes our unique identity. As a child driving across the country with my family, it was well known that any motel or hotel that used 'modern' in its billboard description was absolutely not 'modern'. Furthermore, "authentic" or "friendly" far better reflects our community ethos than the word "enviable." Data and Stakeholder Transparency: Public outreach data from regional events (like the Easter Egg Hunt) must distinguish between actual Los Altos residents and non-resident visitors. Additionally, please publicly identify the specific "Stakeholders" and meeting dates referenced in the draft packet.

Technical Report Corrections:

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Orchard to the "other open space" inventory. Characterizing it strictly as "Public/Institutional" ignores its true status as an agricultural and cultural landscape.

Section 2-25: Please remove all references to the 2009 Community Center Master Plan. That plan was set aside in 2014 and is, as I understand, no longer an approved or active framework.

Infrastructure and Environment: Future policies must prioritize independent emergency services, public infrastructure maintenance, and a robust commitment to our tree canopy and natural building materials.

Thank you for protecting the historical foundation and structural integrity of Los Altos.

Sincerely,
Valerie Taglio, Los Altos Resident

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From: Cindy Andrews
To: Public Comment
Subject: City Council July 14, 2026: Item #12--Draft General Plan Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 10:09:54 AM
July 14, 2026
Mayor Meadows and City Councilmembers,
The General Plan is a document created by hours of
residents’ collective collaboration. It is a document that should be modified for current times and not tossed
aside.

I was honored to serve on the General Plan Review
Committee in 1987. There were three major focuses of
the General Plan: The Community Design & Historic
Resources, Land Use and Economic Development.

My committee, the Historic Resources, was composed of
community notables, such as Penny Lave, Kris Casto,
Mark Sandoval, Abby Ahrens, Julie Rose, Jan Meyer,
Mark Srebnik, Catherine Burk, Chris Graham, and more,
who revered the history and character of our Los
Altos home. The General Plan was created by our
residents who loved our town, and had an actual interest, not by consultants who do not have a buy in.

Our goals, as stated in the General Plan Summary, were:
*Preserve and enhance the identity and unique character of Los Altos.
*Preserve archaeological artifacts found in Los Altos or mitigate disturbances to them, consistent with their
intrinsic value.

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*Preserve and enhance historic and cultural structures or sites
*Maintain and enhance the attractiveness of
neighborhood shopping centers and businesses along
Foothill Expressway.
*Increase the attractiveness of Downtown to shoppers
and pedestrians
*Retain the character and natural appearance of the
constructed environment.

Preserving the character and history of our hometown is what makes Los Altos unique and desirable. The words
character, soul, heritage, historic, small town atmosphere should be reiterated throughout our plan, as they have
been for decades. I hope we never lose sight of our
identity; it should be located at the forefront of our new plan, and not "sprinkled throughout" this document, as
the consultants are suggesting.

Thank you for considering my input.

Cindy Langley Andrews

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From: Catherine Nunes
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment Item #12 Council Meeting Jul 14 2026: General Plan Update Vision and Framework Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 2:01:01 PM
Attachments: 00 Plan Commission Nunes Public Comment Jun 18 2026 General Plan.pdf Re: Item 12, July 14 2026 – General Plan Update 2050 Vision and Framework
Dear Mayor and Council,
Attached are the public comments submitted to the Planning Commission on June 18, 2026, regarding the draft General Plan 2050 Vision, Guiding Principles, and Framework. They remain directly relevant to tonight's discussion because they address the Vision, Framework, and recommendations for dedicated Historic Resources & Community Character and Natural Resources & Conservation elements, and were not included in the Council packet.

There is growing concern that this General Plan update is beginning with a new vision rather than building upon the long-standing vision that has guided Los Altos for decades. Previous General Plan updates, including 2000-2020, preserved and strengthened the community's established vision and planning framework from the previous Plan while thoughtfully addressing new opportunities and challenges—not replace the planning foundation that has successfully guided Los Altos for generations.

The Vision and Framework for this Update have not yet been clearly established, making it difficult to understand what kind of community this General Plan is intended to create or how meaningful public participation can occur.

The strongest General Plans begin with a clear vision of what makes a community unique and organize the Plan around those defining qualities rather than a checklist of State-required elements.

Los Altos has followed that planning tradition for decades. Our General Plans have consistently begun with a vision centered on village character, distinctive neighborhoods, excellent schools, historic resources, natural and scenic resources, remaining orchards, Downtown, and neighborhood business districts, with that vision guiding the policies, land use decisions, and implementation measures that followed.

At the last Historic Commission meeting to gain input on the General Plan 2050, City staff advised the public that the Planning Commission would direct recommendations on the General Plan framework and provide direction on the proposed framework Elements before the process moved forward. At that time, they stated emphatically that no Historic Preservation element would be included in the Plan, and the policies for preservation would be addressed within the minimum State elements.

The Planning Commission discussion reflected many thoughtful individual perspectives, but it did not produce findings or recommendations, did not review community engagement reports, did not result in motions, and did not establish clear direction on either the Vision or the Framework.

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The public process remains fragmented. Residents have been asked to generally comment on individual pieces of the General Plan before the organizing Vision and Framework have been clearly established, making meaningful community participation and informed feedback unnecessarily difficult.

California establishes the minimum required elements of every General Plan. Los Altos has never been defined by minimum standards, and this update should not be either.

Our General Plans have always reflected the community's own vision, values, and priorities, and this update should continue that tradition.

That is why the recommendations contained in the attached Planning Commission Public comments remain worth qualified consideration by the consultants and the public, particularly preserving Historic Resources & Community Character and Natural Resources & Conservation as foundational components of the General Plan framework.

The issue is not whether Los Altos should be ready to change. The issue is whether the Vision and Framework begin with the community residents know and value today and provide a clear, durable foundation for the community Los Altos values.

Respectfully,
Catherine Nunes
Attached: Planning Commission Public Comment Letter
Please provide acknowledgement of receipt of both this letter and attachment for the discussion packet.

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#2 Public Comment, June 18 2026 Planning Commission Meeting - General Plan 2050 Draft Vision and Framework
Catherine Nunes <[email protected]> Thu, Jun 18, 2026 at 1:58 PM To: [email protected], [email protected] Dear Planning Commission:

I am writing regarding the draft General Plan 2050 Vision, Guiding Principles, and Framework before the Commission. While this may be presented to the public as the first phase of the General Plan update, it sets the stage for all other decisions.

Decisions made at this stage will direct priorities and policies Los Altos planning for decades to come.

As a resident, I believe Los Altos should continue planning based on the qualities that have made this community special for generations. The ones that have held true as a vision statement in all of our other General Plans.

A clear vision of who we are as a community and what we value: village character, distinctive neighborhoods, excellent schools, environmental and scenic resources, historic resources, remaining orchards, and vibrant Downtown and neighborhood business districts.

The draft framework before you captures many positive ideas and checklists, but it disperses our existing vision and moves away from the planning framework that has guided Los Altos for decades.

As a Certified Local Government with significant historic, cultural, scenic, and environmental resources, Los Altos should continue to treat these subjects as foundational planning priorities and "Elements" within the plan's framework.

Accordingly, the Planning Commission can direct staff to:

1. Incorporate a Historic Resources & Community Character Element into the General Plan framework.

Addressing historic preservation, cultural landscapes, heritage groves, remaining orchards, village character, scenic resources, and community identity.

2. Incorporate a Natural Resources, Environmental Stewardship & Conservation Element into the General Plan framework.

Addressing creek corridors, landmark trees, heritage groves, open space, conservation, biodiversity, scenic resources, and long-term environmental stewardship.

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3. Ask for a reconciliation of how existing historic resource, community character, and natural resource environmental policies will be carried forward into the new General Plan framework before it is finalized.

Historic Resources and Natural Environment elements may be optional under State law, but they are foundational to Los Altos.

The State's required elements establish a minimum framework; they do not define a community's identity, vision, or priorities.

Los Altos should maintain dedicated Historic Resources & Community Character and Natural Resources & Conservation elements because they address the very vision and values that define our town.

The issue is not whether Los Altos should grow or change. The issue is what is foundational to guide our land use decisions and what should be preserved and thoughtfully be carried forward as we evolve.

I respectfully urge the Commission to take action tonight by directing staff to incorporate these elements into the General Plan framework and affirm that the next General Plan will be built upon the qualities that have long defined Los Altos—its village character, neighborhoods, schools, heritage, natural landscapes, and quality of life. These are not simply amenities; they are the foundation of Los Altos' identity, livability, and sense of hometown that residents are proud to call home.

Sincerely,
Catherine Nunes

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From: ForLosAltos
To: Public Comment
Subject: July 14, 2026 City Council Meeting: Item #12 Draft General Plan Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 2:20:18 PM
Dear Mayor and City Council,
Considering both the current General Plan and community input to date, it is clear that Los Altos residents still value similar aspects and elements of the General Plan that have held true over time.

All outreach reports support that Los Altos residents hold in highest regard our small town/village with a semi-rural character, distinctive neighborhoods, excellent schools, natural and scenic resources, historic resources, cultural landscapes such as the heritage orchard and redwood grove, and our welcoming Downtown and neighborhood business districts that support independent businesses. FORLosAltos is concerned that the draft General Plan Vision and Guiding Principles drive a framework that updates the General Plan, and does not abandon the priorities and objectives that have shaped Los Altos and ensure its longterm development and preservation.

State law establishes the minimum required General Plan Elements, but it doesn’t dictate the identity, vision, planning priorities, or organizational framework of a community. Those are choices made by each city to reflect the resources, history, and character that make it unique.

ForLos Altos encourages City Council to maintain the historic resources and natural resources elements of the General Plan.

While these two elements may be optional under State law, they are foundational to Los Altos. Likewise, the stewardship of the City's public lands deserves its own planning framework because these public resources represent some of our most significant historic, environmental, recreational, and civic assets.

The Los Altos General Plan update should build upon decades of successful community planning, and not begin from scratch.

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The update should strengthen what has worked rather than replace the planning framework that has served Los Altos for generations.

Communities comparable to Los Altos—including Woodside, Saratoga, Sausalito, Napa, Berkeley, and Redwood City, have chosen to elevate historic preservation, community character, conservation, and natural resources through dedicated General Plan elements or comprehensive planning frameworks that reflect defining resources and identity of their communities.

Larger cities, including San Jose and San Francisco, have likewise adopted comprehensive historic preservation and natural resource planning programs. Los Altos has a long tradition of the same and should continue building its General Plan around the qualities that make our community unique.

FORLosAltos respectfully requests that Council direct the consultant to establish a nexus between the Vision and Guiding Principles and the General Plan framework that:
·
Incorporates a Historic Resources & Community Character Elements into the General Plan framework.
·
Incorporates a Natural Resources, Conservation &
Environmental Stewardship Element focused on stewardship of Los Altos' natural resources including heritage landscapes and trees, creek corridors, biodiversity and open space, and not simply sustainability, transportation, green building, or electrification initiatives.
·
Establishes a planning framework for the stewardship and governance of the City's public lands and natural resources. ·
Demonstrates how the vision, goals, policies, and priorities of the current General Plan will be retained, strengthened, and carried forward into the updated General Plan.
·
Reaffirms a community vision that begins with the defining qualities that have guided Los Altos for generations.

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Before proceeding to the next phase of the General Plan, we respectfully ask City Council to ensure the Vision and Guiding Principles do not preclude the retention of Historic and Natural Resources elements.

Los Altos will evolve and change over time, but its foundational guiding principles remain the same. Please continue to protect and strengthen the neighborhoods, landscapes, and quality of life that define Los Altos and make it unique.

Sincerely,
FORLosAltos

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From: Pat Marriott
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM #12 JULY 14, 2026
Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 3:19:50 PM
Council Members,
Regarding the General Plan Update, the staff report says:

Several commissioners reflected on the ongoing tension between preserving the qualities people appreciate about Los Altos and recognizing that the City will need to evolve over time. They noted that concepts like “community character” and the “village atmosphere” will need to be examined as the City plans for the future, particularly as Los Altos responds to state housing requirements and navigates an evolving legislative landscape where local discretion is more limited than in the past.

I’m glad the commissioners made this comment.

It’s impossible to define “village character.” The downtown triangle may have had a village vibe 20 years ago, but the Safeway and Thoits building changed that. Parklets changed it further and 40 Main represents the future. We can’t fight Sacramento. A three-story garage will certainly not contribute to a village atmosphere.

Instead of indefinable concepts, we should focus on specific things that make Los Altos unique and ensure their preservation in the General Plan.

For starters, I suggest:
-Redwood Grove
-Lincoln Park: the “village green”
-Heritage Orchard
-Tree-lined streets everywhere
-No sidewalks in neighborhoods (this is controversial, but IMO sidewalks change streets from rural to urban)
-Neighborhood parks similar to Heritage, Marymeade and
Village Park throughout the city
-Branding could go a long way to establish the city’s identity.

Currently, it’s schizophrenic. Street signs on San Antonio Road say “small town.” The new metal sign at City Hall says “New York City.” I’m sure there are many more items residents want to preserve. Whether they add up to “village character” or “unique Los Altos” remains to be seen.

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Pat Marriott

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CITY OF LOS ALTOS

CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL

MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 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. Halsey House Project Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) Study Session Direct staff to work with David J. Powers & Associates, Inc. (Consultant) to prepare Final EIR (FEIR). If the FEIR is certified and the project is approved, the City shall file a Notice of Determination
Akoni Danielsen, David J. Powers & Associates Representative, presented the report.

The following members of the public spoke regarding the item:
• Maria Bautista • JoAnne Estill
• Jon Baer • Claudia Cilker
• Cindy Andrews • Valerie Taglio
Discussion item only. No motion taken.

ADJOURNMENT – The special meeting adjourned at 5:36 p.m.

The meeting minutes were prepared by Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, for approval at the regular meeting on July 13, 2026.
_________________________________ __________________________________ Sally Meadows Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
The June 23, 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, JUNE 23, 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 7:00 p.m.

ESTABLISH QUORUM – All Councilmembers were present.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Pete Dailey, Councilmember, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
No reportable action was taken during the Closed Session meeting on June 23, 2026.

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

SPECIAL ITEMS
Issue Proclamation Recognizing July as Parks & Recreation Month Sally Meadows, Mayor, presented the proclamation to Manuel Hernandez, Director of Community Services, and Jaime Chew, Deputy Director of Community Services

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

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

1. Approval of Meeting Minutes – Draft Regular Meeting of June 9, 2026

2. Adoption of Resolution - Project Acceptance of Structural Reach Replacement Adopt resolution and accept completion of the Structural Reach Replacement, Project WW-01002; and authorize the Public Works Engineering Department Director to record a Notice of Completion as required by law

3. Adoption of Resolution - Project Acceptance of Intersection Access Barrier Removal Adopt resolution and accept completion of the Intersection Access Barrier Removal, Project TS-01058; and authorize the Public Works Engineering Department Director to record a Notice of Completion as required by law

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City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2026

Page 2 of 4 ends

4. Adoption of Resolution - Project Acceptance of the Los Altos Community Center Emergency Operations Center
Adopt a resolution accepting completion of the Los Altos Community Center Emergency Operations Center Project CF-01021; authorize the Park & Recreation Director to record a Notice of Completion as required by law; and find that acceptance of the completed work is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301

5. Adoption of Ordinance - Amending Commissions and Commission Membership Adopt the ordinance that will amend the Commission membership to 5 members for Complete Streets, Environmental, Financial, and Planning through a natural attrition process, meaning that no current Commissioners will be removed from their membership as a result of this action; transition the Youth Commission to a Youth Council Academy that will no longer serve in an advisory capacity to the City Council and will not be subject to the Brown Act; and, transition the Senior Commission to a Senior Committee that will serve in an advisory capacity to City staff and will not be subject to the Brown Act

6. Acceptance of Treasurer's Report
Receive and file the City’s Treasurer’s Report for the quarter ending March 31, 2026

7. Approval of the Updated Purchasing Policy (June 2026) Approve the updated Purchasing Policy (June 2026), superseding the June 2025 Purchasing Policy

8. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement for the Urban Forest Assessment
Adopt a Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a professional services agreement with Dudek to conduct an updated public tree inventory, perform a land cover assessment, and develop both a city operational and maintenance guide and a residential guide in a total amount not to exceed $199,808

9. Adoption of Ordinance - Sidewalk Maintenance and Repair Adopt an ordinance adding a new Chapter 9.32 of the Municipal Code entitled "Maintenance and repair of sidewalks"

DISCUSSION ITEMS

10. Adoption of Resolution - SB707 Disruption Policy
Adopt a Resolution approving the Senate Bill 707 (SB707) Disruption Policy and Approve the use of Zoom Technologies for Remote Public Participation Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, presented the report.

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City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2026

Page 3 of 4 ends

There were no speakers regarding the item.

Motion by Weinberg and Second by Lang to adopt a resolution and policy addressing the disruption of telephonic or internet service during public meetings, in accordance with Senate Bill 707 (SB707). Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

11. Receive Report - Elections Code Section 9212
Staff recommends the City Council receive the Elections Code Section 9212 Report for the proposed Measure entitled “Los Altos Downtown Parking Plazas Ordinance.” Geoff Bradley, M Group Representative, and Stephanie Hagar, BAE Representative, presented the report.

The following members of the public spoke regarding the item:
• Jon Baer • Maria Bautista
• Barbara Loebner • Jeanine Valadez
Motion by Lang and Second by Meadows to receive the Elections Code Section 9212 Report for the proposed Measure entitled “Los Altos Downtown Parking Plazas Ordinance”. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

12. Determination of Action - Proposed Initiative Measure Select one of the following actions, pursuant to Elections Code Section 9215:
o Adopt the proposed "Los Altos Downtown Parking Plaza Ordinance" without alteration at the June 23, 2026 meeting (or within 10 days); or o Submit the proposed "Los Altos Downtown Parking Plaza Ordinance" without alteration to the voters at the next general municipal and statewide election of November 3, 2026
Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, presented the report.

The following members of the public spoke regarding the item:
• JoAnne Estill • Roberta Phillips
• Curtis Cole • Jon Baer
• Barbara Loebner • Jeanine Valadez
Motion by Weinberg and Second by Lang to submit to the qualified electors of the City a citizensponsored initiative measure prohibiting the city from selling, leasing, conveying, or declaring as surplus land the ten city-owned downtown parking plazas without voter approval; calling a special election for that purpose to be consolidated with the November 3, 2026 General Election; setting the rules for ballot arguments; and authorizing and requesting the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters to conduct the election. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

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City of Los Altos
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2026

Page 4 of 4 ends

The City Council took a recess at 8:37 p.m.

The City Council reconvened at 8:49 p.m.

13. Consideration of an Advisory Ballot Measure Regarding the Los Altos Downtown Parking Plaza Ordinance
Provide direction to staff on whether to draft a resolution placing an advisory measure or measures on the upcoming municipal ballot
Gabriel Engeland, City Manager, presented the item.

The following members of the public spoke regarding the item:
• John Fennell • Cindy Andrews
• Roberta Phillips • Maria Bautista
• Jon Baer • Barbara Loebner
• Kim Cranston • Jeanine Valadez
The City Council declined to draft a resolution that would place an advisory measure on the upcoming municipal ballot.

COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS AND DIRECTIONS ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS • Pete Dailey, Councilmember – Requested a future agenda item:
o Study Session to discuss potential implications pertaining to housing related to the outcome of the ballot initiative (Supported unanimously) • Larry Lang, Vice Mayor – Requested a future agenda item:
o Renaming of Lee Street in Los Altos (Supported by Meadows and Weinberg) ADJOURNMENT – The regular meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.

The meeting minutes were prepared by Melissa Thurman, City Clerk, for approval at the regular meeting on July 14, 2026.
_________________________________ __________________________________ Sally Meadows Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
The June 23, 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 Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Melissa Thurman
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Designation of Voting Delegates- CalCities 2026 Annual Conference

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Designate by motion, Vice Mayor Lang to serve as Voting Delegate, and Councilmember Weinberg to serve as Alternate for the General Assembly of the Annual League of California Cities (CalCities) Conference to be held on Friday, September 25, 2026 at the Anaheim Convention Center

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
There are no identifiable environmental effects or climate impacts associated with the recommendation of this report.

FISCAL IMPACT
Registration to the full conference for member cities is $725 per attendee. Lodging and transportation costs are separate.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
This is an annual event, and delegates are chosen for each conference.

BACKGROUND
CalCities laws allow for any official of a member city, with the approval of the City Council, to be designated the city's voting delegate or alternate at the annual General Assembly meeting.

This year's conference is being held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA, beginning on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 and concluding on Friday, September 25, 2026.

The General Assembly portion of the conference is scheduled on Friday, September 25, 2026. If any resolutions are presented to CalCities for a vote, the General Assembly will convene.

At the time this report was created, CalCities did not have resolutions for the General Assembly.

If any resolutions are submitted in a timely manner, staff will present them to the City Council for a discussion and guidance for the delegate and alternate.

ANALYSIS
N/A

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DISCUSSION
Vice Mayor Larry Lang and Councilmember Jonathan Weinberg are scheduled to attend the CalCities Annual Conference in September 2026. It is recommended that staff designate Vice Mayor Lang as the Voting Delegate, and Councilmember Weinberg as the Alternate Voting Delegate.

ATTACHMENTS
None

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Scott Gerdes
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Agreement with ADP Workforce Now

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the City Manager to execute amendment No. 1 to the ADP Workforce Now Comprehensive Services Agreement extending the agreement three (3) years with a term through April 25, 2029 and related implementation documents necessary to implement Workforce Manager services, in a form approved by the City Attorney and subject to available appropriations

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
This action is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378 because it involves organizational and administrative activities that will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.

FISCAL IMPACT
Costs associated with the proposed agreement have been incorporated into the adopted FY 2026/27 budget. Therefore, approval of the proposed amendment will not require any additional budget appropriations for the upcoming fiscal year.

The FY 2026/2027 annual cost of ADP is approximately $172.5K. The proposed amendment provides additional cost certainty by limiting annual increases to recurring service fees to no more than five percent (5%) during the term of the agreement.

Staff intends to implement ADP Workforce Manager following approval of the amendment. The estimated first-year cost, including implementation services and annual subscription fees, is approximately $51K after application of the 25% implementation discount included in the amendment. The majority of this cost is attributable to one-time implementation services, with ongoing recurring costs estimated at approximately $20K annually thereafter. Funding for the implementation is available within existing appropriations and will not require additional budget authority.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
None

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BACKGROUND
The City has utilized ADP Workforce Now for payroll processing, human resources administration, benefits administration, and workforce management services since 2015. The platform serves as the City's primary payroll and human resources information system and supports over 200 employees across all departments.

ANALYSIS
ADP Workforce Now serves as the City's primary payroll and human resources information system and supports payroll processing, benefits administration, workforce management, and related human resources operations.

As part of renewal discussions, ADP proposed an amendment to the existing agreement that would:
• Extend the agreement term through April 25, 2029;
• Establish a cap limiting annual increases to recurring service fees to no more than five percent (5%) during the term;
• Add ADP Data Cloud Analytics at no additional cost during the term; and • Provide a 25% discount on implementation costs for system enhancements.

The addition of ADP Data Cloud Analytics will provide enhanced workforce reporting and analytical capabilities at no additional cost during the term of the agreement.

DISCUSSION
In addition to extending the existing agreement, the proposed amendment positions the City to implement ADP Workforce Manager, an enhanced workforce management platform that integrates with the City's existing payroll system.

Staff intends to implement Workforce Manager following approval of the amendment.

Workforce Manager is expected to improve payroll administration, strengthen compliance controls, and reduce manual administrative processes by automating and streamlining leave management, compensatory time administration, overtime monitoring, meal and rest break attestations, and payroll-related notifications and alerts.

The system will provide supervisors and department managers with greater visibility into employee schedules, leave balances, and overtime usage, allowing departments to proactively manage staffing levels and labor costs. These enhancements are expected to be particularly beneficial within the Police Department, where overtime management and scheduling are significant operational considerations.

In addition, Workforce Manager will reduce reliance on spreadsheets and manual processes currently used for leave tracking, compensatory time thresholds, retroactive payroll calculations, and other workforce management functions. The platform also provides greater flexibility to adapt to future payroll, labor, and compliance requirements through configurable workflows, automated alerts, and enhanced reporting capabilities.

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Approval of the proposed amendment will allow the City to continue utilizing its existing payroll and human resources information system while providing pricing protections, enhanced workforce management functionality, and additional analytical capabilities. Staff believes the amendment represents the most cost-effective and operationally efficient option at this time and recommends approval.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Resolution

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ATTACHMENT 1
Resolution No. 2026-XX Page 1 of 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-___

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO

THE ADP WORKFORCE NOW COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES AGREEMENT AND

RELATED IMPLEMENTATION DOCUMENTS
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos utilizes ADP Workforce Now for payroll processing, human resources administration, benefits administration, and workforce management services; and WHEREAS, the City has utilized ADP Workforce Now since 2015; and WHEREAS, staff evaluated alternative payroll and human resources information systems and determined that continuing with the City's existing ADP platform is the most cost-effective and operationally efficient option at this time; and
WHEREAS, ADP has proposed the existing agreement extends the agreement term through April 25, 2029, adds ADP Data Cloud Analytics at no additional cost during the term, limits annual increases to recurring service fees to no more than five percent (5%) during the term, and provides discounted implementation pricing for ADP Workforce Manager services; and WHEREAS, sufficient funding for Fiscal Year 2026/2027 has been incorporated into the adopted budget;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby:

1. Authorizes the City Manager to execute an amendment to the ADP Workforce Now Comprehensive Services Agreement extending the agreement term through April 25, 2029; and

2. Authorizes the City Manager to execute associated statements of work and implementation documents necessary to implement ADP Workforce Manager services, subject to available appropriations; and

3. Authorizes the City Manager to take such further actions as may be necessary to carry out the intent of this Resolution.

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 23rd day of June, 2026 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

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

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Gabe Engeland
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Contract Renewal - Orchard Maintenance Agreement

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Environmental Sustainability
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the City Manager to execute the contract renewal, totaling $75,000 annually, for orchard maintenance with the Los Altos History Museum

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The approval of the maintenance agreement with the Los Altos History Museum is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) in that the only work required under the agreement is limited to the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use, and none of the circumstances identified in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 applies.

FISCAL IMPACT
The proposed contract will pay LAHM $75,000 annually until the contract is terminated. The updated contract allows LAHM to request additional funds as appropriate.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
June 27, 2023

BACKGROUND
Maintenance of the orchard includes tree care such as planting, pruning, fertilizing, rototilling, and irrigation. The orchardist is also responsible for the annual harvest of the apricots. This includes all labor and materials required for harvesting. As part of the agreement, the maintenance contractor retains the harvest. The orchardist also removes and replaces trees as needed. The Los Altos History Museum has been contracted to provide maintenance in the orchard since July 1, 2023.

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ANALYSIS
The City maintains the apricot orchard through the use of a contractor due to the specialized nature of the work. The orchard contractor has the expertise, personnel and equipment to maintain an orchard in accordance with the scope of services created by the City. The Maintenance Department works with the orchardist to ensure the orchard is maintained as expected.

On July 1, 2023 the City entered into a contract with the Los Altos History Museum (LAHM) for the care and maintenance of the Orchard. LAHM initially utilized a volunteer committee, the Orchard Commons Committee, under the direction of a paid orchardist to care for and maintain the orchard. Recently, LAHM switched to Gachina Landscape Management to provide the care and maintenance of the Orchard.

The proposed contract renewal would extend the contract with LAHM to a contract the renews annually unless canceled pursuant to the terms in the agreement. The amount paid to the Los Altos History Museum under this agreement includes the expected annual costs necessary for the Orchard and also allows LAHM to request additional funds as necessary. The annual amount of $75,000 remains in place from the initial 2023 agreement.

DISCUSSION

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - LAHM Orchard Contract Renewal

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ATTACHMENT 1

MAINTENANCE SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY

OF LOS ALTOS,

CALIFORNIA AND ASSOCIATION OF THE LOS ALTOS

HISTORICAL MUSEUM FOR MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION

OF THE CIVIC CENTER APRICOT ORCHARD
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of the 14th day of July, 2026, effective the 1st of July, 2026, by and between the CITY OF LOS ALTOS, a municipal corporation, hereinafter referred to as “CITY,” and

ASSOCIATION OF THE LOS ALTOS HISTORICAL MUSEUM, DBA
LOS ALTOS HISTORY MUSEUM (hereinafter LAHM), a California Corporation, hereinafter referred to as “CONTRACTOR.”

RECITALS
WHEREAS, CITY, desires to retain a qualified CONTRACTOR for maintenance and operation of the Civic Center Apricot Orchard (the “Project”); and
WHEREAS, in 1954, the City of Los Altos purchased the J. Gilbert Smith property as the site of a future civic center. The Smiths retained the right to reside on the property for the remainder of their lives, after which the house and property reverted to City ownership; and
WHEREAS, in 1981, the City Council designated the History House, also known as the J. Gilbert Smith Residence, together with the surrounding garden and apricot orchard on the property conveyed to the City, as a historic landmark by Resolution No. 81-23. The Resolution specifically excluded all other structures on the property, as well as a then-undefined portion of the orchard necessary to accommodate the future City Council Chambers; and
WHEREAS, in 1991, the City Council modified the landmark boundaries of the Civic Center Apricot Orchard by Resolution No. 91-31, as shown in Exhibit A to that resolution; and
WHEREAS, the Civic Center Apricot Orchard has been managed under a contractual agreement between the City and a series of orchardists (J.

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Gilbert Smith, Don Speciale, Phil Doetsch, LAHM), with the agreement that the orchardist has the right to market the fruit; and WHEREAS, the City owns the land on which the Civic Center Apricot Orchard and the LAHM are located, with an agreement that LAHM manages the J. Gilbert Smith residence, surrounding landscape with outdoor agricultural exhibits, and the museum building that displays indoor exhibits; and
WHEREAS, the LAHM has a mission to contribute to the stewardship and appreciation of the historical assets of Los Altos by providing engaging educational programs and exhibits; and
WHEREAS, by means of public/private funding supporting contractual agreements, LAHM provides oversight services to the CITY and manages the Civic Center Apricot Orchard in a manner that provides an appealing, working landscape, facilitating a sense of place and civic pride in connecting the downtown, the Civic Center and the Community Center; and
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the covenants, conditions and promises hereinafter contained, to be kept and performed by the parties hereto, it is agreed as follows:

1. SCOPE OF SERVICES.

A. CONTRACTOR. CONTRACTOR shall assist the CITY by
executing the following scope
of services in a satisfactory and proper manner in accordance with requirements provided by the City Manager, or designee. Services will include, but not be limited to, the items noted in CONTRACTOR’S proposal, identified as “LAHM
RESPONSIBILITIES” attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A.

B. CITY. CITY will provide all services identified as “CITY RESPONSIBILITIES” attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A.

2. SCHEDULE. The CONTRACTOR shall begin work July 1, 2023.

3. TERM. If renewed by both parties, the Agreement shall continue in successive one (1) year terms unless terminated by either party upon

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ninety (90) days’ prior written notice. Notice of termination is sufficient to end the contracted relationship, no cause needs to be given.

4. COMPENSATION. CONTRACTOR’S total compensation for the services set forth for the Contract shall not exceed $75,000 annually as specified in Exhibit B. Additional requests for funding may be submitted to the City Manager for review and consideration. The City Manager may approve if it is within the authority of the position or schedule at a City Council meeting if budget approval is required.

5. INSURANCE. CONTRACTOR shall procure and maintain for the duration of the Agreement insurance as described in Exhibit C against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work hereunder and the results of that work by the CONTRACTOR, its agents, representatives, employees or subcontractors.

6. OWNERSHIP OF DOCUMENTS. Not applicable.

7. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW. CONTRACTOR shall comply with
all applicable federal, state and local laws, codes, ordinances and regulations, including Cal/OSHA requirements. CONTRACTOR represents to CITY that it has, and will maintain through the term of the Agreement, all licenses, permits, qualifications, insurance and approvals of whatsoever nature which are legally required for CONTRACTOR to provide contracted services. CONTRACTOR
shall maintain a City of Los Altos Business License.

8. STATUS OF CONTRACTOR. The parties intend that
CONTRACTOR, in performing the services herein specified, shall act as an independent contractor, and shall have control of the work and the manner in which it is performed. CONTRACTOR is not to be considered to be
an agent or employee of CITY, and is not entitled to participate in any pension, insurance, bonus, or other similar benefit plan CITY provides its employees. In the event that CITY exercises its right to terminate this Agreement as provided herein, CONTRACTOR expressly agrees that CONTRACTOR shall have no recourse of right of appeal under rules, regulations, ordinances, or laws applicable to CITY employees.

9. STANDARD OF CARE; PERFORMANCE OF EMPLOYEES.

CONTRACTOR’S services will be performed in accordance with

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generally accepted professional practices and principles and in a manner consistent with the level of care and skill ordinarily exercised by members of the profession currently practicing under similar conditions.

10. INDEMNIFICATION. To the fullest extent permitted by law, CONTRACTOR shall defend (with counsel reasonably approved by CITY), indemnify and hold CITY, the City Council, members of the City Council, its employees, representatives, agents and volunteers harmless from any and all suits, damages, costs, fees, claims, demands, causes of action, liabilities, losses expenses, damage or injury of any kind, in law or equity, to property or persons, including wrongful death (collectively, “Claims”) in any manner arising out of, pertaining to, or incident to any alleged acts, errors or omissions, or willful misconduct of CONTRACTOR or CONTRACTOR’S
officers, assistants, subcontractors, employees or agents in connection with the performance of CONTRACTOR’S services or this
Agreement, including without limitation the payment of all consequential damages, expert witness fees and attorneys’ fees and other related costs and expenses. Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent CONTRACTOR’S services are subject to Civil Code Section 2782.8, the above indemnity shall be limited, to the extent required by Civil Code Section 2782.8, to Claims that arise out of, pertain to, or relate to the negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of CONTRACTOR. CONTRACTOR’S obligation to
indemnify shall not be restricted to insurance proceeds, if any, received by CITY, the City Council, members of the City Council, its employees, or authorized volunteers.

CALIFORNIA LABOR CODE REQUIREMENTS.

CONTRACTOR is aware of the requirements of California Labor Code Sections 1720 et seq. and 1770 et seq., which require the payment of prevailing wage rates and the performance of other requirements on certain “public works” or “maintenance” projects.

The services are being performed as part of an applicable “public works” or “maintenance” project, as defined by the Prevailing Wage Laws. Unless CONTRACTOR provides the CITY with a letter representing and warranting that CONTRACTOR satisfies the criteria in Section Labor Code 1720.4 and explaining the manner in which those criteria are met, CONTRACTOR agrees to fully comply with such Prevailing Wage Laws, if applicable. CONTRACTOR shall defend, indemnify and hold the CITY, its elected officials, officers,

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employees and agents free and harmless from any claims, liabilities, costs, penalties or interest arising out of any failure or alleged failure to comply with the Prevailing Wage Laws. It shall be mandatory upon the CONTRACTOR and all subcontractors to comply with all California Labor Code provisions, which include but are not limited to prevailing wages (Labor Code Sections 1771,1774 and 1775), employment of apprentices (Labor Code Section 1777.5), certified payroll records (Labor Code Section 1776), hours of labor (Labor Code Sections 1813 and 1815) and debarment of contractors and subcontractors (Labor Code Section 1777.1).

Except as otherwise set forth above, pursuant to Labor Code Sections 1725.5 and 1771.1, CONTRACTOR and all subcontractors
performing such services must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations. CONTRACTOR shall maintain registration for the duration of the Project and require the same of any subcontractors, as applicable. This Project may also be subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations. It shall be CONTRACTOR’S sole responsibility to comply with all applicable registration and labor compliance requirements.

11. TERMINATION. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the CITY may terminate this Agreement at any time by giving Ninety (90) days written notice to CONTRACTOR. In said event, CONTRACTOR shall be paid for services performed as of the date of notice of termination.

12. MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS. Books, documents, papers,
accounting records, and other evidence pertaining to costs incurred shall be maintained by CONTRACTOR and made available at all reasonable times during the contract period and for four (4) years from the date of final payment under this Agreement for inspection by CITY.

13. NOTICES. Any notice, demand, request, consent, approval, or communications that either party desires or is required to give to the other party shall be in writing and either served personally or sent by prepaid, first class mail. Any such notice, demand, etc., shall be addressed to the other part at the address set forth herein below. Either party may change its address by notifying the other party of the change of address. Notice shall be deemed communicated within 48 hours from the time of mailing it mailed as provided in this section. Notice

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may also be given by electronic means but shall be deemed given only if receipt is acknowledged in writing by the receiving party.

CITY:

City of Los Altos
Gabe Engeland, City Manager
1 N. San Antonio Road Los Altos, CA 94022
CONTRACTOR:

Los Altos History Museum
Anna Toledano, Executive Director
51 S. San Antonio Road Los Altos, CA 94022

14. CLAIMS RESOLUTION. Notwithstanding any other provision herein, all public works claims that may arise between
CONTRACTOR and CITY shall be resolved pursuant to the claims resolution process set forth in Public Contract Code section 9204.

Furthermore, the resolution of claims of $375,000 or less shall also comply with the claims resolution procedures set forth in Public Contract Code section 20104 et seq.

15. PARTIAL INVALIDITY. If any provision of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will nevertheless continue in full force without being impaired or invalidated in any way.

16. BINDING. This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors, administrators, assigns and successors-in-interest to the parties hereto.

17. NO IMPLIED WAIVERS. The failure of either party at any time to require performance by the other party of any provisions hereof shall not affect in any way the full right to require such performance at any time thereafter. Nor shall the waiver by either party of a breach of any provision hereof be taken or held to be a waiver of the provision itself.

18. ASSIGNMENT. CONTRACTOR shall not assign, delegate, nor transfer any interest in or duty under this Agreement without the prior written consent of CITY, and no transfer shall be of any force or effect whatsoever unless and until CITY has so consented.

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19. TAXES. CONTRACTOR agrees to file tax returns and pay all applicable taxes on amounts paid pursuant to this Agreement and shall be solely Liable and responsible to pay such taxes and other obligations, including, but not limited to, state and federal income and FICA taxes. CONTRACTOR agrees to indemnify and hold CITY harmless from any liability which it may incur to the United States of America or the State of California as a consequence of
CONTRACTOR’S failure to pay, when due, all such taxes and obligations. In the event CITY is audited for compliance regarding withholding or other applicable taxes, CONTRACTOR agrees to furnish CITY with proof of payment of taxes on these earnings.

20. DEFAULT. In the event CONTRACTOR fails to provide the services set forth in this Agreement due to the fault of CONTRACTOR, CITY shall have the right to either do the work itself or hire an outside CONTRACTOR to perform those services.

21. TIME OF ESSENCE. Time is of the essence for each and every provision of this Agreement.

22. CITY’S RIGHT TO EMPLOY OTHER CONTRACTORS. CITY
reserves its right to employ other contractors in connection with this Project or other projects.

23. APPLICABLE LAW AND FORUM. This Agreement shall be
construed and interpreted according to the laws of the State of California in any action to enforce the terms of this Agreement or for the breach thereof and shall be brought and tried in the County of Santa Clara, California, notwithstanding Code of Civil Procedure Section 394, or any other law.

24. NONDISCRIMINATION. CONTRACTOR shall not discriminate against applicants, employees, or volunteers, on any basis prohibited applicable law.

25. CONSTRUCTION. To the fullest extent allowed by law, the provisions of this Agreement shall be construed and given effect in the manner that avoids any violation of statute, ordinance, regulation or law.

26. INTEGRATION. This Agreement supersedes any and all
agreements, either oral or written, between the parties hereto with respect to the rendering of services by CONTRACTOR for CITY and

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contains all the covenants and agreements between the parties with respect to the rendering of such services in any manner whatsoever.

Each party to this Agreement acknowledges that no representations, inducements, promises or agreements, orally or otherwise, have been made by any party or anyone acting on behalf of any party, which are not embodied herein, and that no other agreement, statement, or promise not contained in this Agreement shall be valid or binding.

Any modification of this Agreement shall be effective only if it is in writing, signed by the party to be charged. If there is any conflict in the terms of this Agreement with the exhibits or attachments, then the provisions of this Agreement shall control.
[SIGNATURES ON FOLLOWING PAGE]

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[Insert Signature Page]

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EXHIBIT A

RESPONSIBILITIES
CITY

1. CITY shall communicate with CONTRACTOR on operations, projects, and construction that impact the immediate Civic Center Apricot Orchard area, and to set up systems to enhance the efficient flow of information on a need-to-know basis. CITY shall clarify the channels of communication between staff at the CITY, Library and CONTRACTOR, such that there is timely exchange of information about all activities that might affect utilities buried in the Civic Center Apricot Orchard, maintenance or expansion of the footprint of existing buildings or landscaping features.

2. CITY authorizes CONTRACTOR to make decisions that maintain and upgrade the quality of care for the living resources within the Civic Center Apricot Orchard, with regards to (a) irrigation, (b) pruning and stump removal, (c) cover crop and soil enhancement, (d) tree replacement, (e) apricot harvest, (f) integrated pest management, (g) esthetic appearance, and (h) renovations to support, accessibility and visitor enjoyment.

3. CITY authorizes contractors hired by CONTRACTOR and volunteers certified by CONTRACTOR to have access to the Civic Center Apricot Orchard to complete care and maintenance as outlined in this agreement. City requires all persons working on the Civic Center properties to be covered by liability insurance.

4. CITY shall provide utilities including water and collection of garbage and organic matter. As available, CITY shall provide wood chips for use in mulching irrigation lines along rows of trees, as available.

5. CITY shall provide CONTRACTOR a fixed annual contribution of Seventy-five thousand dollars ($75,000) to complete the care and maintenance of the Civic Center Apricot Orchard as outlined in this agreement. Additional requests for funding may be submitted to the City Manager for review and consideration, as outlined in this contract.

6. CITY shall collaborate with CONTRACTOR in attaining matching funds from municipal sources such as, but not limited to, the Parks in Lieu Fund, and Capital Outlay.

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LAHM and/or CONTRACTOR

1. LAHM shall provide the leadership in regard to: (a) irrigation, (b) pruning and stump removal, (c) cover crop and soil enhancement, (d) tree replacement, (e) apricot harvest, (f) integrated pest management, (g) esthetic appearance, and (h) renovations to support, accessibility and visitor enjoyment.

2. LAHM shall design and implement a plan for equitable distribution of the harvest in a manner that cultivates the goodwill of residents while considering personal safety, structural integrity of trees and financial sustainability.

3. LAHM shall be responsible for utilizing the established channels of communication to minimize the burden on City staff time, while keeping the CITY informed of all changes in activities on CITY property.

4. LAHM shall provide administrative personnel to arrange for all aspects of contracting services as needed to arrange for qualified persons to implement, monitor, and review for the care and maintenance of the Civic Center Apricot Orchard as outlined in this agreement.

5. LAHM shall be responsible for ensuring that all contracts meet the standards of the CITY, including provisions for liability insurance, compliance with state and federal labor laws, purchases (i.e. trees, supplies) and availability of equipment.

6. LAHM shall be responsible for recruitment, training, supervision and scheduling of all volunteers, docents and interns engaged in Civic Center Apricot Orchard care.

7. LAHM shall be responsible for ensuring that all people engaged in Civic Center Apricot Orchard care shall be covered by liability insurance and/or liability waivers.

8. LAHM shall be responsible for collaborating with CITY departments that also use, or potentially use, the Civic Center Apricot Orchard, including the Library, Recreation and Community Services, Maintenance, Police and those with offices in City Hall.

9. LAHM is authorized to undertake fundraising drives for optional renovations and programs as appropriate. Fundraising activities should be discussed with the City in advance and all appropriate approvals or permits received prior to starting any fundraising drives that take place in the Civic Center Apricot Orchard .

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10. LAHM shall cover the Civic Center Apricot Orchard in the financial report to the CITY due ninety (90) days after the close of LAHM fiscal year. LAHM shall provide information to the CITY upon request related to activities conducted under this Agreement.

11. LAHM shall account for such funds in accordance with designated gift procedures, and all funds received under this contract must go towards the care and maintenance of the Civic Center Apricot Orchard as outlined in this agreement.

12. LAHM shall seek prior written approval from the CITY before installing any permanent structures (e.g. fence, barrier, sign).

13. LAHM shall extend to include Civic Center Apricot Orchard activities its existing liability insurance policy, covering CITY and its officers, agents, and employees as additional insureds.

CITY shall be provided with a contractual liability endorsement.

14. The boundaries of the Civic Center Apricot Orchard Historical Landmark to be as designated in the following figure that was included in Resolution 91-31 as Exhibit A.

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EXHIBIT B
VENDOR FEES and PAYMENT MILESTONES
Total Annual Contract Services: $75,000
Itemized Fees: As approved per contract
Project Payment Schedule: $75,000 annually, paid quarterly with invoice.

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EXHIBIT C

INSURANCE
CONTRACTOR shall provide its insurance broker(s) /agent(s) with a copy of these requirements and request that they provide Certificates of Insurance complete with copies of all required endorsements to: Project Manager, City of Los Altos, 1N. San Antonio Road, Los Altos, CA 94022
Minimum Scope of Insurance
Coverage shall be at least as broad as:

1. Commercial General Liability (CGL): Insurance Services Office Form CG 00 01 covering CGL on an “occurrence” basis, with limits no less than $1,000,000 or $2,000,000 aggregate per occurrence.

If a general aggregate limit applies, either the general aggregate limit shall apply separately to this project/location or the general aggregate limit shall be twice the required occurrence limit. CGL insurance must include coverage for the following:
a. Bodily Injury and Property Damage
b. Personal Injury/Advertising Injury
c. Premises/Operations Liability
d. Products/Completed Operations Liability
e. Aggregate Limits that Apply per Project
f. Explosion, Collapse and Underground (UCX) exclusion
deleted
g. Contractual Liability with respect to this Agreement h. Broad Form Property Damage
i. Independent CONTRACTORS Coverage
The policy shall contain no endorsements or provisions limiting coverage for (1) contractual liability; (2) cross liability exclusion for claims or suits by one insured against another; (3) products/completed operations liability; or (4) contain any other exclusion contrary to the Agreement.

2. Automobile Liability: Insurance Services Office Form Number CA 00 01 covering, Code 1 (any auto), or if CONTRACTOR has no owned autos, Code 8 (hired) and 9 (non-owned), with limit no

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less than $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury and property damage.

3. Workers’ Compensation/Employer’s Liability:

CONTRACTOR certifies that it is aware of the provisions of Section 3700 of the California Labor Code which requires every employer to be insured against liability for workers’ compensation or to undertake self-insurance in accordance with the provisions of that code, and it will comply with such provisions before commencing work under this Agreement. To the extent

CONTRACTOR
has employees at any time during the term of this Agreement, at all times during the performance of the work under this Agreement CONTRACTOR shall maintain insurance as required by the State of California, with Statutory Limits, and Employer’s Liability Insurance with limit of no less than $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury or disease.

4. Professional Liability (Errors and Omissions) Insurance appropriate to the CONTRACTOR’S profession, with limit no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence or claim This insurance shall be endorsed to include contractual liability applicable to this Agreement and shall be written on a policy form coverage specifically designed to protect against acts, errors or omissions of the CONTRACTOR. “Covered Professional Services” as designed in the policy must specifically include work performed under this Agreement.

5. Umbrella or Excess Liability: Umbrella or Excess Insurance. If umbrella or an excess liability insurance policy is used to satisfy the minimum requirements for CGL or Automobile Liability insurance coverage listed above, the umbrella or excess liability policies shall provide coverage at least as broad as specified for the underlying coverages and covering those insured in the underlying policies.

Coverage shall be “pay on behalf,” with defense costs payable in addition to policy limits. CONTRACTOR shall provide a “follow form” endorsement or schedule of underlying coverage satisfactory to the CITY indicating that such coverage is subject to the same terms and conditions as the underlying liability policy.

6. The CITY, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers are to be covered as additional insureds on the umbrella or excess policy

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with respect to liability arising out of work or operations performed by or on behalf of the CONTRACTOR including materials, parts or equipment furnished in connection with such work or operations. If CONTRACTOR maintains broader coverage, umbrella or excess coverage and/or higher limits than the minimums shown above, the CITY requires and shall be entitled to the broader coverage, umbrella or excess coverage and/or the higher limits maintained by CONTRACTOR. Any available insurance proceeds in excess of the specified minimum limits of insurance and any other coverages shall be available to the CITY.

Other Insurance Provisions. The insurance policies are to contain, or be endorsed to contain, the following provisions:

Additional Insured Status. The CITY, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers are to be covered as additional insureds on the CGL policy and the Automobile Liability policy, with endorsements under CG 20 10 10 01 and 20 37 10 01, or endorsements providing the exact same coverage, with respect to liability arising out of work or operations performed by or on behalf of the CONTRACTOR including materials, parts or equipment furnished in connection with such work or operations.

Primary Coverage. For any claims related to this contract, the CONTRACTOR’S insurance
coverage shall be primary insurance as respect to the CITY, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers. Any insurance or self-insurance maintained by the CITY, its officers, officials, employees, or volunteers shall be excess of the CONTRACTOR’S insurance and shall not contribute with it.

Notice of Cancellation. Each insurance policy required above shall be endorsed to state that coverage shall not be canceled except after thirty (30) days’ prior written notice (10 days for nonpayment) has been given to the CITY.

Waiver of Subrogation. CONTRACTOR hereby grants to CITY a waiver of any right to subrogation which any insurer of said CONTRACTOR may acquire against the CITY by virtue of the payment of any loss under such insurance. CONTRACTOR agrees to obtain any endorsement that may be necessary to affect this waiver of subrogation, but this provision applies regardless of whether or not the

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CITY has received a waiver of subrogation endorsement from the insurer.

Deductibles and Self-Insured Retentions. Any deductibles or selfinsured retentions must be declared to and approved by the CITY. The CITY may require the CONTRACTOR to provide proof of ability to pay losses and related investigations, claim administration, and defense expenses within the retention.

Acceptability of Insurers. Insurance is to be placed with insurers with a current A.M. Best’s rating of no less than A:VII, unless otherwise acceptable to the CITY.

Claims Made Policies. If any of the required policies provide claimsmade coverage:

7. The Retroactive Date must be shown, and must be before the date of the contract or the beginning of contract work.

8. Insurance must be maintained and evidence of insurance must be provided for atleast three (3) years after completion of the contract work.

9. If coverage is canceled or non-renewed, and not replaced with another claims-made policy form with a Retroactive Date prior to the contract effective date, the CONTRACTOR must purchase “extended reporting” coverage for a minimum of three (3) years after completion of contract work.

Verification of Coverage. CONTRACTOR shall furnish the CITY with original certificates and amendatory endorsements effecting coverage required by this clause. All certificates and endorsements are to be received and approved by the CITY before work commences.

However failure to obtain the required documents prior to the work beginning shall not waive the
CONTRACTOR’S obligation to provide them. The CITY reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all required insurance policies, including endorsements required by these specifications, at any time.

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Special Risks or Circumstances. CITY reserves the right to modify these requirements, including limits, based on the nature of the risk, prior experience, insurer, coverage, or other special circumstances.

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Certificate of Liability to be provide prior to execution.

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Jon Maginot
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Appropriation of Funds

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution appropriating funds as part of annexation into the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The proposed action is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines

FISCAL IMPACT
The recommended action will result in the transfer of $1.5 million from the City's General Fund to County Fire to help offset the deferred maintenance on the two fire stations.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
June 24, 2025; October 28, 2025; March 10, 2026; April 14, 2026; April 28, 2026

BACKGROUND
On April 2, 2026, the City of Los Altos submitted 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). On June 3, 2026, LAFCO approved the application for annexation subject to a required protest period.

ANALYSIS
As part of the annexation process, the City and County Fire have agreed to the transfer of the two city-owned fire stations located at 765 Fremont Avenue and 10 Almond Avenue in Los Altos. In addition, the agreement included a one-time payment of $1.5 million from the City to County Fire to cover the cost of deferred maintenance of the two fire stations.

DISCUSSION
The attached resolution will appropriate the $1.5 million from the General Fund for the agreedupon payment. The payment will only be made upon receiving final approval from LAFCO and the successful conclusion of all other required administrative steps for the annexation.

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ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Draft Resolution

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Resolution 2026-xxx Page 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-

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

APPROPRIATING FUNDS AS PART OF ANNEXATION INTO THE SANTA CLARA

COUNTY CENTRAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
WHEREAS, on March 10, 2026, the City Council of the City of Los Altos (“City”) adopted a Resolution to initiate proceedings pursuant to the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 for the annexation of the City of Los Altos into the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District (“County Fire”) (“Proposed Annexation”); and WHEREAS, on April 2, 2026, the City submitted the required application materials for the Proposed Annexation to the Local Agency Formation Commission of Santa Clara County (LAFCO); and
WHEREAS, on June 3, 2026, the LAFCO Commission approved the application for annexation; and
WHEREAS, as part of the annexation, the City and County Fire agreed to a transfer of the two, City-owned fire stations to County Fire and a one-time payment of $1.5 million from the City to County Fire for deferred maintenance on the two fire stations.

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

1. Appropriates $1.5 million from the General Fund to be transferred to the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District for a one-time payment for deferred maintenance of the two, City-owned fire stations to be transferred to County Fire; and

2. Conditions the payment upon the successful completion of all other administrative tasks necessary for completion of the annexation of the City into Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District.

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 14th day of July, 2026 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
__________________________
Sally Meadows, MAYOR
Attest:
_____________________________

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Resolution 2026-xxx Page 1
Melissa Thurman, MMC

CITY CLERK

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Anthony Carnesecca
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Amending Joint Volunteer Awards Committee

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution reclassifying the Los Altos-Los Altos Hills Joint Volunteer Awards Committee as a non-Brown Act advisory committee

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The resolution is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State Guidelines implementing the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970.

FISCAL IMPACT

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
February 10, 2026

BACKGROUND
Per their Bylaws, "the Los Altos - Los Altos Hills Joint Volunteer Awards Committee is organized jointly by the City of Los Altos and the Town of Los Altos Hills as a non-profit effort to recognize volunteers who have benefited these two communities." The Committee was created in the early 1980s through a partnership between both the City of Los Altos Council and Town of Los Altos Hills Council. In 1983, this Committee first presented awards to volunteers.

In 2009, the City Council approved the new amended Bylaws by an action of the Los Altos City Council and then it was approved by the Town of Los Altos Hills Council.

ANALYSIS
On June 18, 2026, the Town of Los Altos Hills Council adopted a resolution that reclassifies the Los Altos - Los Altos Hills Joint Volunteer Awards Committee as a non-Brown Act advisory committee.

This action means the Los Altos - Los Altos Hills Joint Volunteer Awards Committee would no longer be required to follow Brown Act provisions so they could meet whenever would be

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convenient and retain more flexibility in their efforts to coordinate and plan their annual awards event.

Following Council action, the existing Brown Act committee structure would be dissolved and the committee would be reconstituted as non-Brown Act advisory bodies. The members of the newly constituted committees would be responsible for establishing their own operating procedures and governance documents as appropriate.

DISCUSSION

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Resolution

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ATTACHMENT 1
Resolution No. 2026-XX Page 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-___

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS RECLASSIFYING THE LOS ALTOS–LOS ALTOS HILLS JOINT VOLUNTEER

AWARDS COMMITTEE AS A NON-BROWN ACT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos and the Town of Los Altos Hills jointly participate in the Los Altos–Los Altos Hills Joint Volunteer Awards Committee; and WHEREAS, the Joint Volunteer Awards Committee supports volunteer recognition and community engagement activities within the Los Altos and Los Altos Hills communities; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the functions of the Joint Volunteer Awards Committee are advisory, informational, and programmatic in nature and do not involve the exercise of decision-making authority on behalf of the City; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to provide greater flexibility for the operation of the Joint Volunteer Awards Committee and reduce administrative requirements associated with the Ralph M. Brown Act while continuing to support its important community functions; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Los Altos Hills has taken action to similarly reclassify the Joint Volunteer Awards Committee as a non-Brown Act advisory committee; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby reclassifies the Los Altos–Los Altos Hills Joint Volunteer Awards Committee as a non-Brown Act advisory committee effective immediately; that following the effective date of this Resolution, the Committee shall no longer be subject to the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act unless otherwise required by law; that any existing bylaws, rules, and procedures governing the Committee shall remain in effect only to the extent necessary to facilitate an orderly transition and may be revised or replaced as appropriate; and, that the City Manager, or designee, is authorized to take such administrative actions as are necessary to implement this Resolution and coordinate with the Town of Los Altos Hills regarding the transition of the Committee.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

ATTEST:

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ATTACHMENT 1
Resolution No. 2026-XX Page 2
_________________________ ________________________
Sally Meadows Melissa Thurman, MMC
Mayor City Clerk

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Manny Hernandez
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Amendment for Roadway Landscape Maintenance

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
Business Communities
Circulation Safety and Efficiency

RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the City Manager to execute an amendment to the agreement with Del Conte's Landscaping in the amount not to exceed $277,053 annually for city median and roadway shoulder maintenance

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Categorically Exempt pursuant to CEQA section 15301 – Existing Facilities consisting of the operation, or minor alteration of existing public structures and facilities involving negligible or expansion of existing or former use.

FISCAL IMPACT
The following action is budgeted for in the Community Services Department 2026/27 operating budget. The amount of the contract will not exceed $277,053 annually for city median and roadway shoulder maintenance.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
September 9, 2024 – Original Agreement Award

BACKGROUND
City Maintenance staff maintains roadway medians and shoulders on Los Altos roadways and County of Santa Clara owned Foothill Expressway. The Parks Maintenance Division deploys a four-person crew to handle landscape on medians, shoulders, pathways, easements and all downtown landscaping. Maintaining road adjacent landscaping is time consuming and challenging with the limited hours allowed for lane closures, proper lane closure procedure and

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the precautions that need to be adhered to when working adjacent to vehicular traffic.

In 2024 an evaluation of the 4-person boulevard crew was done and the department moved to a contract model for certain road adjacent landscape locations. This move has allowed the boulevard crew to focus on areas that have more intricate planting schedules, such as San Antonio Road, or that see rapid weed growth like the many resident-adjacent easements.

ANALYSIS
Using a combination of staff and professional contracts to maintain city landscape is common among public agencies. The City of Los Altos Community Services Department staff evaluated the roadway median and shoulders that have proved to be challenging to keep at a high level of maintenance and selected six (6) areas to maintain under a maintenance contract. The roadway median and shoulder areas that are being proposed for contracted maintenance are the following. • Foothill Expressway (Blue Oak Lane to Cristo Rey Drive) • Medians and City of Los Altos side shoulder on Homestead Rd and Grant Rd • Medians on South El Monte Ave. (Viola Place and Voorhees Dr.) • Hetch Hetchy pedestrian path shoulders (Via Del Pozo to Adobe Creek bridge) • Medians and shoulders on Fremont Ave. (Grant Rd. to Stevens Creek crossing) • Downtown Triangle
Foothill expressway is County of Santa Clara property that is City-maintained under an ongoing landscape agreement between the City of Los Altos and the County. This work is very time consuming and takes a large number of crew hours to control the weeds, maintain irrigation and prune the oleanders and trees in a regular manner with the current staffing numbers. Being a large and highly visible area, having a contractor maintain Foothill has kept the medians and shoulders better maintained year-round due to the attention it will receive.

The Homestead median area is a high traffic location where crews spent a lot of time repairing and re-planting as vehicles regularly damage the landscape. Landscaping repairs are needed in that location due to gopher damage as well. South El Monte medians have also seen a lot of crew hours for weed control, trash pick-up and plant maintenance.

Hetch Hetchy pedestrian pathway is at the far north end of Los Altos and has ample open space for weeds to grow quickly, many times encroaching on the pathway before crews are scheduled to deploy to that area. Foxtail weeds are prevalent on the Hetch Hetchy pathway and are troublesome to pathway users and their pets. Non-chemical control of these weeds is important in this well-traveled pathway through Los Altos.

Fremont Avenue is a two-lane road between Grant and the 85 highway that sees high traffic at times. There are trees, irrigation and mixed landscaping to maintain in that area.

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This amendment will add the downtown triangle to the contractor responsibilities. The contractor will handle regular and ongoing maintenance of plantings in shrub and tree wells, flowerpots, irrigation systems and trash in landscape areas. Staff will still oversee new plantings and larger tree pruning in the downtown. This additional contracted service will help keep downtown looking in top condition at all times.

DISCUSSION
In the budget submitted by Community Services for contracted maintenance of roadway medians and shoulders for fiscal year 2026/27, staff budgeted funding for this agreement. The use of contracted landscape maintenance in the proposed areas is expected to provide a higher level of maintenance in those areas and allow the Boulevard Crew to continue to maintain all other medians, shoulders and easements in Los Altos at the highest levels without the need to hire additional maintenance staff or purchase additional vehicles and equipment.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Resolution

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ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-___

AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AMENDMENT ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY WITH DEL CONTE’S LANDSCAPING IN THE
AMOUNT OF $277,053 ANNUALLY FOR ROADWAY MEDIAN AND

SHOULDER MAINTENANCE
WHEREAS, the City utilizes contract services as part of the city-wide maintenance plan for parks, trees, easements and roadway medians; and
WHEREAS, proper roadway median and shoulder landscape maintenance is important for vehicular safety and general aesthetics of the City; and WHEREAS, the medians and shoulder areas recommended for contractual maintenance are areas that will have the most positive impact on overall city maintenance and maintenance crews; and
WHEREAS, the Del Conte’s Landscaping has provided good quality landscape maintenance services for Los Altos and other public agencies and private companies under similar agreements; and
WHEREAS, on September 26, 2024, the City of Los Altos entered into an agreement with Del Conte’s Landscaping for median and roadway shoulder maintenance; and WHEREAS, Del Conte’s Landscaping has performed satisfactory service in maintaining median and roadway shoulder maintenance over the two-year period of their original agreement; and
WHEREAS, the proposed work is exempt from environmental review pursuant to section 15301 of the state guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as the proposed Existing Facilities consisting of the operation, or minor alteration of existing public structures and facilities involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby authorizes the City Manager to execute an amendment to the original agreement dated September 26, 2024, on behalf of the City, with Del Conte’s Landscaping for roadway median and shoulder maintenance services totaling $277,053 annually for a full agreement term of up to 5 years.

AYES:

NOES:

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ATTACHMENT 1
ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
___________________________

SALLY MEADOWS
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________

MELISSA THURMAN, MMC
City Clerk

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Manny Hernandez
Approved By:

Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Change Order Approval and Project Acceptance

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution:
• Approving Change Order #1 for the Hillview Outdoor Fitness Project in the amount of $4,669 to Greenfields Outdoor Fitness for design and apparatus modifications. • Accepting completion of and directing the Community Services Director to file a Notice of Completion for the Hillview Outdoor Fitness Project (CF-01041)

FISCAL IMPACT
Change Order #1 - $4,669 from the 2025/26 CIMMP budget

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
September 30, 2025 – Award of original contract for outdoor fitness project

BACKGROUND
Hillview Park recently replaced outdoor fitness equipment on the west side of the youth baseball field. This area now has updated commercial rated outdoor fitness equipment that replaced older equipment that dated back to sometime in the late 1990s.

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ANALYSIS
In the process of designing the equipment layout to be installed, staff received input from the public through Parks, Arts, Recreation and Culture Commission meetings and direct contact through phone, email or in-person. After the project design was completed and the contract with Greenfields was executed, staff received late public input that was determined to be beneficial to incorporate into the design. Change Order #1 was created and is the sole change order on the project.

The outdoor fitness equipment for this project has now been purchased and installed in accordance with the updated design and specifications that include CO#1.

DISCUSSION
Staff requests City Council adopt a resolution approving Change Order #1 in the amount of $4,669 for project changes that were not included in the original project budget. These changes were made based on input from public users and staff determined that they were beneficial to the project.

With the old equipment being removed and disposed of and the new equipment now installed, staff inspected the site and determined that the project is complete in accordance with the design and specifications of the project. Staff requests City Council adopt a resolution accepting completion of and directing the Community Services Director to file a notice of completion for the project (CF-01041).

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Resolution

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ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALTOS APPROVING CHANGE ORDER #1 IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,669 TO GREENFIELDS

OUTDOOR FITNESS FOR THE HILLVIEW OUTDOOR FITNESS EQUIPMENT

PROJECT

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

ACCEPTING COMPLETION OF AND DIRECTING THE COMMUNITY SERVICES

DIRECTOR TO FILE A NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR THE HILLVIEW OUTDOOR FITNESS EQUIPMENT PROJECT (CF-01041)
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos and Greenfields Outdoor Fitness entered into a contract on November 26, 2025, for the Hillview Outdoor Fitness Project; and WHEREAS, staff requested changes to the original design after receiving public feedback that was implemented by Greenfields Outdoor Fitness. These changes totaled $4,669; and WHEREAS, Change Order #1 for this project exceeds the budgeted amount for this project and the original agreement with Greenfields Outdoor Fitness; and WHEREAS, there is savings available in the 2025/26 Capital Improvements and Major Maintenance Program budget to cover Change Order #1; and WHEREAS, the work performed by Greenfields Outdoor Fitness and their sub-contractors is satisfactory to the City Council and said work has been fully completed and done as provided in the contract, and the plans and specifications; and
WHEREAS, the proposed work is exempt from environmental review pursuant to section 15301 of the state guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as the proposed Existing Facilities consisting of the operation, or minor alteration of existing public structures and facilities involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use.

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

1. Approval of Greenfields Outdoor Fitness Change Order #1 for project design modifications requested by staff.

2. Accept completion of the Hillview Outdoor Fitness Equipment Project (CF-01041).

3. Direct the Park & Recreation Director to execute and file for record with the County Recorder of the County of Santa Clara a Notice of Completion, as required by law.

4. Confirm that acceptance of the work is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, and that none of the circumstances in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply.

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ATTACHMENT 1
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of a resolution passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Los Altos at a meeting thereof on the 14th day of July 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
__________________________

SALLY MEADOWS
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________

MELISSA THURMAN, MMC
City Clerk

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Manny Hernandez
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution – Agreement for Consultant Services

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
Environmental Sustainability

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement in the amount not to exceed $160,000 with Cumming Group for temporary project management services to assist in completing CIMMP projects in fiscal year 2026/27

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
None

FISCAL IMPACT
No additional fiscal impact. Consultant services cost for the four (4) projects Cumming Group is working on was factored into each project of the recently approved CIMMP 2026/27 general fund.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
None

BACKGROUND
In mid-fiscal year 2025/26 the Community Services Department, Project Management Division, lost the Capital Improvement Project Manager to another agency. During the recruitment period for this position the sole Project Manager in the division went on extended leave. As a result, staff fell behind the project schedules. Staff brought in Cumming Group to pick up four (4) vital projects and move forward.

Cumming Group picked up these vital projects and is currently in the middle stages.

ANALYSIS

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The Cumming Group is currently overseeing four (4) CIMMP projects.

1. History Museum Roof Replacement

2. Police Security Camera System Replacement

3. Municipal Service Center (MSC) Fleet EV Infrastructure Installation

4. City Hall/PD/MSC Emergency Back-up Generator Replacement The History Museum roof is scheduled to be completed before the upcoming rainy season. It is important to have a new roof installed to avoid having the current 27-year-old roof in place through another rainy season. Maintenance crews have been dealing with various leaks and falling roof tiles in recent years.

Security cameras on the Police Department building are outdated. The system used by PD to monitor the exterior and interior of the facility needs to be up to date for proper safety and security of the facility and staff.

California agency’s are being mandated to move in the direction of 100% non-emissions vehicles in the upcoming years. Like many agencies in California, Los Altos is purchasing electric vehicles but has limited infrastructure. Through a PG&E program for funded infrastructure design, the City is moving forward in installing fleet EV chargers at MSC for maintenance vehicles.

Back-up generators at Building A (City Hall), PD and MSC are vital when power is cut. The current generators are functioning but have passed their recommended useful life.

DISCUSSION
Although now fully staffed, the Project Management Division is preparing for the new fiscal year’s projects and hopes to keep them on schedule for completion in 2026/27. Staff worked out a schedule for completion or hand-off of the four Cumming Group managed projects by the beginning of calendar year 2027 if they are not complete. It is anticipated that two (possibly three) of the four projects will be completed by January 2027, while the other two will be handed off at that time. With the Cumming Group in the middle of dealing with these projects it is more cohesive to the other parties involved (PG&E, Air Quality, roofing contractors, etc.) in these intricate projects if they continue to manage them until the designated hand-off point created by staff.

Staff requests City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Cumming Group for project management services in the amount not to exceed $160,000.

ATTACHMENTS

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1. Attachment 1 - Resolution

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ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-___

AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN SGREEMENT ON

BEHALF OF THE CITY WITH CUMMING GROUP IN THE AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $160,000 FOR PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICES
WHEREAS, the City utilizes consultant services as needed as part of project management for the annual CIMMP; and
WHEREAS, maintaining timely schedules for completion on vital projects is important; and
WHEREAS, the Cumming Group has managed four vital FY 2025/26 projects and are best suited to continue management of these projects into FY 2026/27; and WHEREAS, Cummings Group has done a satisfactory job managing the four programs currently in their charge; and
WHEREAS, funding for project management services is budgeted and will be available in the 2026/27 CIMMP project budgets.; and
WHEREAS, staff has determined a hand-off point for Cumming Group managed projects that may not be completed by the end of 2026 calendar year.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos hereby authorizes the City Manager to execute an agreement on behalf of the City, with Cumming Group for project management services not to exceed $160,000.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
___________________________

SALLY MEADOWS
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________

MELISSA THURMAN, MMC
City Clerk

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Steven Son
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution – SB1 Project List

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
Public Safety
Circulation Safety and Efficiency
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution that identifies a list of projects that will be funded by Senate Bill 1 in the FY 26-27 budget and find the Council’s action exempt from review under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), and that one of the circumstances in the CEQA Guideline

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The adoption of the resolution is exempt pursuant to CEQA Section 15061(b)(3)

FISCAL IMPACT
The Senate Bill 1 (SB1), the Road Repair and Accountability Act, provides revenue for funding projects in the City of Los Altos to improve local streets, roads, and bridges and increase mobility options through walking, biking, and transit infrastructure. These funds are allocated to the City of Los Altos for a local transportation project. The current projected amount for the City of Los Altos apportionment of SB1 for FY 26-27 is estimated at $732,840.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
On June 10, 2025, the Council adopted Resolution No. 2025-57 FY 25-30 Capital Improvement and Major Maintenance Program (CIMMP). The adoption of this resolution allocated SB1 to various projects.

BACKGROUND
SB 1 dedicated approximately $1.5 billion per year in new formula revenues, apportioned by the State Controller (Controller), to cities and counties for basic road maintenance, rehabilitation, and critical safety projects on the local street and road system. To be eligible to receive funding from the Controller, each year, cities and counties must submit a proposed project list adopted at a regular meeting by their board or council that is then submitted to the California Transportation Commission (CTC). Once the list has been reviewed and adopted by the CTC, the eligible cities and counties to receive funding are sent to the State Controller to begin

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apportionment for that fiscal year. The list of roads in this staff report has been reported to the State for SB1 funding allocation. These roads will be treated either by mill and overlay or microsurfacing, which will extend the life of the road approximately 10 to 15 years.

ANALYSIS
n/a

DISCUSSION
SB 1 was passed in early 2017 by the state legislature to provide funding to fix and maintain our local streets, roads, and bridges. This legislation requires local agencies, prior to receiving funds, to annually submit a list of projects proposed to be funded with Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA) funds to the California Transportation Commission (CTC).

July 1, 2024, is the due date for agencies to submit a report on planned expenditures in Fiscal year 26-27. The CTC will review the project lists to ensure they include statutorily required information to establish eligibility for funding.

In the FY 26-27 budget, the following project will utilize the SB1 funding:

Mill & Overlay
No. Street Name From To
1 Oakhurst Ave Fremont Ave Portland
2 Formway Ct End Almond Ave
3 Gabilan St Cuesta Dr Lyell St
4 Hawthorne Ave Eleanor Ave El Monte Ave
5 Larnel Pl End Granger Ave
6 Solana Dr End Almond Ave
7 St Charles Ct St Matthew Wy End
8 Traverso Ct End Traverso Ave
9 Carvo Ct End Portland Ave
10 Casita Ct Casita Wy End
11 Otis Wy End Mills Ave
12 Springer Rd 905 Springer Rd Rosita
13 S Clark Ave Cuesta Dr El Monte Ave
14 Grant Park Ln Holt Ave End
Microsurfacing
No. Street Name From To
1 Oakhurst Ave Fremont Ave Portland
2 Formway Ct End Almond Ave
3 Gabilan St Cuesta Dr Lyell St
4 Hawthorne Ave Eleanor Ave El Monte Ave

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5 Larnel Pl End Granger Ave
6 Solana Dr End Almond Ave
7 St Charles Ct St Matthew Wy End
8 Traverso Ct End Traverso Ave
9 Carvo Ct End Portland Ave
10 Casita Ct Casita Wy End
11 Otis Wy End Mills Ave
12 Springer Rd 905 Springer Rd Rosita
13 S Clark Ave Cuesta Dr El Monte Ave
14 Grant Park Ln Holt Ave End
The mill & overlay as well as microsurfacing of the road for 10 to 15 years.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Resolution

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ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-_______

RESOLUTION ADOPTING A LIST OF PROJECTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 FUNDED BY SB 1: THE ROAD REPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2017

WHEREAS, Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (Chapter 5, Statutes of 2017) was passed by the Legislature and Signed into law by the Governor in April 2017 to address the significant multi-modal transportation funding shortfalls statewide; and WHEREAS, SB 1 includes accountability and transparency provisions that will ensure the residents of our City of Los Altos are aware of the projects proposed for funding in our community and which projects have been completed each fiscal year; and WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos must adopt by resolution a list of projects proposed to receive fiscal year funding from the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA), created by SB 1, which must include a description and the location of each proposed project, a proposed schedule for the project’s completion, and the estimated useful life of the improvement; and WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos, will receive an estimated $732,840 in RMRA funding in Fiscal Year 2026-27 from SB 1; and

WHEREAS, this is the tenth year in which the City of Los Altos is receiving SB 1 funding and will enable the City of Los Altos to continue essential road maintenance and rehabilitation projects, safety improvements, repairing and replacing aging bridges, and increasing access and mobility options for the traveling public that would not have otherwise been possible without SB 1; and
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos has undergone a robust public process to ensure public input into our community’s transportation priorities/the project list; and WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos used a Pavement Management System to develop the SB 1 project list to ensure revenues are being used on the most high-priority and cost-effective projects that also meet the communities priorities for transportation investment; and WHEREAS, the funding from SB 1 will help the City of Los Altos maintain and rehabilitate 24 roads,, add active transportation infrastructure throughout the City of Los Altos this year and numerous similar projects into the future; and
WHEREAS, the 2023 California Statewide Local Streets and Roads Needs Assessment found that the City of Los Altos’s streets and roads are in an at-risk condition and this revenue will help us increase the overall quality of our road system and over the next decade will bring our streets and roads into a good condition; and

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ATTACHMENT 1
WHEREAS, the SB 1 project list and overall investment in our local streets and roads infrastructure with a focus on basic maintenance and safety, investing in complete streets infrastructure, and using cutting-edge technology, materials and practices, will have significant positive co-benefits statewide and increase the road longevity and increase public safety of our residents.

NOW, THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, ORDERED AND FOUND by the City Council of the City of Los Altos, State of California, as follows:

1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct.

2. The following list of newly proposed projects will be funded in-part or solely with Fiscal Year 2026-27 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account revenues:

Project Title: FY 25-26 Annual Streets Project
Project Description: Mill and overlay various roads, installation of bicycle lanes, and upgrade ADA ramps
Project Location:

Mill and Overlay
No. Street Name Start End
1 Oakhurst Ave Fremont Ave Portland
2 Formway Ct End Almond Ave
3 Gabilan St Cuesta Dr Lyell St
4 Hawthorne Ave Eleanor Ave El Monte Ave
5 Larnel Pl End Granger Ave
6 Solana Dr End Almond Ave
7 St Charles Ct St Matthew Wy End
8 Traverso Ct End Traverso Ave
9 Carvo Ct End Portland Ave
10 Casita Ct Casita Wy End
11 Otis Wy End Mills Ave
12 Springer Rd 905 Springer Rd Rosita
13 S Clark Ave Cuesta Dr El Monte Ave
14 Grant Park Ln Holt Ave End

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ATTACHMENT 1

Microsurfacing
1 Oakhurst Ave Fremont Ave Portland
2 Formway Ct End Almond Ave
3 Gabilan St Cuesta Dr Lyell St
4 Hawthorne Ave Eleanor Ave El Monte Ave
5 Larnel Pl End Granger Ave
6 Solana Dr End Almond Ave
7 St Charles Ct St Matthew Wy End
8 Traverso Ct End Traverso Ave
9 Carvo Ct End Portland Ave
10 Casita Ct Casita Wy End
11 Otis Wy End Mills Ave
12 Springer Rd 905 Springer Rd Rosita
13 S Clark Ave Cuesta Dr El Monte Ave
14 Grant Park Ln Holt Ave End

Estimated Project Schedule: Start 08/26– Completion 06/27, based on the component being funded with RMRA funds
Estimated Project Useful Life: 10 to 15 years
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Los Altos, State of California this 14 day of July, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Sally Meadows, MAYOR
Attest:
__________________________________
Melissa Thurman, MMC

CITY CLERK

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Stephanie Williams
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Adoption of Resolution - Weed Abatement Assessment Report

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government
Public Safety

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution confirming the report and authorizing collection of the assessment charges

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
This is not a project defined under CEQA, and no further action is required.

FISCAL IMPACT
No financial impact will be incurred by the City as the weed abatement program is funded by fees payable directly to the County. The County will assess a total of $5,460 in fees from 51 property owners.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
January 27, 2026, February 24, 2026, and March 24, 2026

BACKGROUND
Abatement of hazardous vegetation, or weeds, is administered by the Weed Abatement Division of the Santa Clara County Consumer and Environmental Protection Agency, following City action to notice and authorize abatement. On January 27, 2026, the City Council declared weeds to be a public nuisance, authorizing the County to notify property owners whose properties were overgrown with weeds. The notice informed property owners that weeds must be removed voluntarily, or the County would remove them at the owner’s expense. On February 24, 2026, the City Council held a public hearing to receive protests from affected property owners. On March 24, 2026, the City Council directed the County to proceed with abatement on properties where weeds were not voluntarily removed.

ANALYSIS
See Discussion section below.

DISCUSSION

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The final assessment report prepared by County Weed Abatement staff is included as Exhibit A to the attached draft Resolution. The report identifies 51 properties subject to assessment. Of these, 50 properties passed the initial inspection and are subject to a $105 fee, while one property failed the initial inspection and required a reinspection, resulting in a $210 fee. The assessments will be placed on the property tax roll as liens and collected in the same manner as other property taxes.

On June 29, 2026, the City of Los Altos staff mailed affected property owners a notice to inform them of the July 14, 2026 hearing and a notice was placed in the newspaper twice per Ordinance requirements. The notice provided information on the assessment charges and contact information for potential questions pertaining to the assessments. This hearing is an opportunity to allow property owners who are on the assessment report to object to the assessment.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Resolution

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Page 1 ends

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-

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

PLACING THE COST OF ABATING HAZARDOUS VEGETATION ON THE

PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT ROLL
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos began participation in the Santa Clara County Weed Abatement Program on June 25, 2024; and
WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos declared weeds, brush and/or rubbish on certain described properties to be a public nuisance at a public meeting on January 27, 2026; and WHEREAS, the City of Los Altos considered any appeals from the requirements of being placed on the Santa Clara County Weed Abatement Program list at a public meeting on February 24, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Los Altos orders the abatement of all hazardous vegetation growing on certain property within the City limits at a public meeting on March 24, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the Santa Clara County Consumer and Environmental Protection Agency, as the City’s authorized agent, filed a written report and assessment list with the City accounting for the cost of abating the nuisance on each affected property, identifying each separate lot or parcel of land by a description sufficient to identify the property, and setting forth the amount of the charge proposed to be assessed against and collected on the secured property tax roll for each parcel, including any additional charges necessary to pay for the costs of administering the program; and
WHEREAS, at the public meeting on July 14, 2026, all persons desiring to be heard were given an opportunity to do so, and all matters and issues pertaining to the report were fully heard and considered by the City Council.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Los Altos authorizes as follows:

1. The report and assessment list attached hereto and incorporated as Exhibit A is hereby confirmed.

2. The Santa Clara County Consumer and Environmental Protection Agency shall cause the assessment for each identified property in the assessment list to be entered on the applicable assessment roll, and such amounts shall be collected with all other taxes levied upon the property.

ATTACHMENT 1

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Page 2 ends

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Sally Meadows, MAYOR
Attest:

Melissa Thurman, MMC, CITY CLERK

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Situs APN Tax Roll Amount
1 1183 LAURELES DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1008 167-10-026 105.00 2 410 TRAVERSO AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1134 167-14-056 105.00 3 900 SANTA RITA AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1109 167-14-061 105.00 4 107 DEL MONTE AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1205 167-17-026 105.00 5 465 W PORTOLA AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1125 167-19-027 105.00 6 638 TOMI LEA ST, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1656 167-23-013 105.00 7 17 ALMA CT, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1743 167-28-027 105.00 8 394 N SAN ANTONIO RD, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-2247 167-29-062 105.00 9 110 LOS ALTOS AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-2124 167-35-043 105.00 10 987 ACACIA AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1303 170-01-043 105.00 11 4848 EL CAMINO REAL, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1405 170-02-055 105.00 12 4898 EL CAMINO REAL, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1409 170-03-085 105.00 13 706 CASITA WY, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-1520 170-04-020 105.00 14 226 SOLANA DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-2328 170-21-025 105.00 15 241 SUNKIST LN, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-2338 170-22-020 105.00 16 215 ANGELA DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-3012 170-24-041 105.00 17 245 HAWTHORNE AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-3747 170-26-076 105.00 18 136 PEPPER DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-3716 170-40-054 105.00 19 175 BEVERLY LN, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-2207 170-43-009 105.00 20 562 PALM AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-3530 175-16-008 105.00 21 655 WASHINGTON ST, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-3955 175-17-035 105.00 22 782 UNIVERSITY AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-3931 175-18-031 105.00 23 604 MILVERTON RD, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-3930 175-19-042 105.00 24 1169 GOLDEN WY, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-5058 189-10-027 105.00 25 968 LINDA VISTA WY, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-5537 189-12-018 105.00 26 1540 MIRAMONTE AV, Unit 100, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-6001 189-15-085 210.00 27 718 RONALD CT, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-4920 189-19-003 105.00 28 16 OTIS WY, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-3119 189-35-038 105.00 29 675 PACO DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-3835 189-37-036 105.00 30 645 PACO DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-3835 189-37-039 105.00 31 629 BENVENUE AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-4003 189-38-079 105.00 32 674 TERESI LN, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-4161 189-40-039 105.00 33 847 RIVERSIDE DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-4824 189-43-020 105.00 34 1065 ECHO DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-4822 189-46-019 105.00 35 960 ECHO DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-4820 189-46-028 105.00 36 571 S EL MONTE AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94022-4057 189-51-056 105.00 37 562 BENVENUE AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-4009 189-52-064 105.00 38 924 O'DELL WY, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-5032 193-27-012 105.00 39 1225 CARMEL TR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-5509 193-43-014 105.00 40 1375 RANCHITA DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-5752 197-18-012 105.00 41 1347 RICHARDSON AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024 318-07-008 105.00 42 1925 CHURTON AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-6906 318-15-033 105.00 43 1948 CHURTON AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-6907 318-15-070 105.00 44 1561 LANDELL CT, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-6220 318-17-018 105.00 45 2011 CRIST DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-7228 318-23-033 105.00 46 2005 CRIST DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-7228 318-23-035 105.00 47 849 STARLITE LN, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-4632 336-02-053 105.00 48 1590 VINEYARD DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-7260 342-02-046 105.00 49 510 SEQUOIA DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-7148 342-03-049 105.00 50 1816 GRANGER AV, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-6715 342-07-063 105.00 51 1964 DEODARA DR, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024-7056 342-25-010 105.00 TOTAL 5,460.00
2026 WEED ABATEMENT PROGRAM

CITY OF LOS ALTOS

ASSESSMENT REPORT

EXHIBIT A

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City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Prepared By: Brittany Whitehill
Approved By: Gabe Engeland
Subject: Receive Report - Draft General Plan Vision and Guiding Principles

COUNCIL PRIORITY AREA
General Government

RECOMMENDATION
Receive and provide feedback on the Draft General Plan Vision and Guiding Principles

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) will be prepared for the comprehensive General Plan Update in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The current action is limited to City Council review of, and feedback on, the Draft General Plan Vision and Guiding Principles before preparation of the Draft General Plan. This action does not approve the General Plan Update, commit the City to a specific land use or policy outcome, or authorize any physical development. Accordingly, the action is not subject to CEQA because it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment and constitutes an administrative and informational activity under CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), 15378(b)(2), and 15378(b)(5). Therefore, no CEQA review is required for this action.

FISCAL IMPACT
The total approved budgeted cost for the General Plan Update and Environmental Impact Report process is $1,874,485.

PREVIOUS COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
September 30, 2025 – Consultant Contract Authorization

BACKGROUND
General Plan Update Overview
The General Plan is the City’s primary long-range planning document and serves as a comprehensive policy framework for future growth, development, conservation, infrastructure, and public investment. It establishes the community’s long-term vision and guides future

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decisions related to land use, housing, transportation, environmental sustainability, public facilities, safety, and quality of life. While the General Plan sets the City's overall vision and policy direction, it does not approve specific projects or dictate detailed designs. Instead, it provides the framework for future plans, regulations, programs, and development decisions.

The current Los Altos General Plan was adopted in 2002 with a planning horizon through 2020.

While the Housing and Safety Elements have been updated, the remaining elements have not undergone a comprehensive review. Updating the General Plan is an important next step to ensure that all elements are current, coordinated, and aligned with the community's vision and priorities. A General Plan update does not discard the foundation established by the existing plan; rather, it builds upon that foundation by refreshing the community's long-term vision, incorporating new information and emerging trends, addressing evolving state requirements, and engaging the community in shaping the City's future.

The General Plan Update is grounded in community input and a shared long-term vision, but the General Plan is not solely a summary of community preferences. It is a State-required planning document that must include mandatory elements, technical analysis, legally required goals and policies, and consistency with State Law. Community input helps shape the plan’s direction and priorities, while the technical background work, environmental review, State requirements, and policy development process ensure that the final General Plan functions as a legally adequate and implementable framework for future City decision-making.

Project Team and Timeline
The General Plan Update is led by the Planning Division, in partnership with the consultant team of Dyett & Bhatia, with support and input from the community, subject-matter experts across City departments, partner agencies, City Commissions, and the City Council. The project began in January 2026 and is expected to take approximately two years to complete. The update is organized generally into the following four phases, with the project currently in Phase 1. • Phase 1 – Issues, Opportunities and Visioning: Identify key issues and opportunities, culminating in a Vision Statement and Guiding Principles that articulate shared community values and aspirations
• Phase 2 – Alternatives Exploration: Develop and evaluate land use and circulation alternatives and select a set of scenarios informed by community engagement and the Vision and Guiding Principles established in Phase 1.
• Phase 3 – Draft Plan Preparation: Prepare the draft General Plan based on the preferred strategy, vision statement and guiding principles, along with the EIR analyzing potential environmental impacts and mitigation strategies. • Phase 4 – Adoption and Finalization: Conduct public review and hearings leading to adoption of the updated General Plan and EIR.

ANALYSIS
See Discussion section.

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DISCUSSION
Draft Vision and Guiding Principles
The Draft Vision and Guiding Principles (Attachment 1) emerged from community and commission input gathered during Phase 1 of the General Plan Update. They are intentionally broad and aspirational, capturing the major themes shared by the community and establishing a common foundation for the next phases of work. They are not intended to serve as an introduction to the general plan or as a preliminary draft of the document; rather, the Vision and Guiding Principles express broad community values that will be refined and translated into more specific goals, policies, and implementation measures as the project progresses into preparation of the General Plan.

Because the Draft Vision and Guiding Principles are based on the full body of input received during Phase 1, they are not expected to reflect any one person’s individual views, preferences, or priorities in their entirety. Instead, they represent a synthesis of community and commission input, with emphasis on the themes, values, and aspirations that appeared most consistently across the outreach process. Through that synthesis, strong commonalities emerged and helped shape the proposed Vision and Guiding Principles as a shared foundation for the next phases of the General Plan Update.

During Phase 2, a range of alternative land use and circulation scenarios will be evaluated that could achieve the community’s long-term vision, including a review of the opportunities, constraints, and tradeoffs associated with each. The Vision and Guiding Principles will guide the development of land use and circulation alternatives in Phase 2. Once a preferred approach is identified, the project will move into Phase 3, which will focus on drafting the general plan, including the elements, goals, policies, and implementation measures.

Technical Background Report
The Technical Background Report (TBR) provides the technical basis for the General Plan Update, documenting baseline conditions as of March 2026 and summarizing State requirements, the update process, and the regional/local planning context (Attachment 2). The TBR will also help inform the environmental analysis prepared as part of the EIR for the General Plan Update. It was prepared by the consultant team’s technical specialists and reviewed by City staff across all departments and partner agencies. The TBR is organized into the following eight chapters:
• Chapter 1: Introduction: summarizes the purpose of the TBR, the role of the General Plan, the Planning Area, and the report structure.
• Chapter 2: Land Use and Development Trends: describes existing land uses, current planning efforts, recent development activity, potential focus areas, and historic resources.
• Chapter 3: Market Study: evaluates residential, retail, office, and industrial market

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conditions and outlook.
• Chapter 4: Transportation and Multi-Modality: reviews roadway, bicycle, pedestrian, and transit networks, along with truck routes and traffic patterns. • Chapter 5: Parks and Public Facilities: covers parks, recreation, trails, open space, public safety services, schools, libraries, and civic facilities. • Chapter 6: Community Health and Environmental Justice: documents community health trends and introduces environmental justice considerations. • Chapter 7: Environmental Resources: outlines environmental conditions including air quality, biological resources, geology, hazardous materials, hydrology, noise, and wildfire risk.
• Chapter 8: Water, Sewer, and Stormwater Infrastructure: summarizes the capacity of existing wet utilities.

Community Engagement
Consistent with State guidance emphasizing broad and inclusive community engagement, outreach for the General Plan Update is intentionally designed to extend beyond public meetings and to meet people where they are. A diverse outreach strategy helps reach residents and community members who may not regularly participate in civic activities; have work, family, or other time constraints; or prefer other ways to provide input that do not require speaking in a public setting. Outreach also includes businesses, workers, students, and others connected to Los Altos through work, school, services, or daily activities because schools, transportation networks, commercial uses and services, and community relationships often extend across jurisdictional boundaries and are directly relevant to General Plan topics. The Phase 1 outreach program was designed to identify key themes and priorities that shape the vision. Between January and May 2026, community members participated in a variety of outreach efforts to share input and stay informed about the project, including:
• Three Citywide mailings.
• Multilingual online survey (offered in English, Spanish, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese).
• Citywide community open house.
• Pop-up events across Los Altos where people visited interactive stations and shared their perspectives.
• Stakeholder meetings, including nonprofit organizations, religious institutions, major property owners, and the residential and commercial development communities. • A dedicated project website and email address for members of the public to track progress, stay informed, and submit ongoing feedback.

The City also held the following Commission study sessions to gather early commission input on the development of the Draft Community Vision and Guiding Principles:

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• April 22, 2026, with the Planning, Complete Streets, and Financial Commissions; • April 27, 2026, with the Parks, Arts, Recreation and Culture (PARC), Environmental, Senior, and Library Commissions; and
• May 27, 2026, with the Historical Commission.

Commissioners provided input on all topic areas, and public comments were received and documented at each of the three meetings. The feedback gathered through this process was used to inform and refine the Draft Vision and Guiding Principles. All community and commission input received through these efforts has been synthesized and anonymized in the attached Phase 1 Outreach Report (Attachment 3). Engagement will continue throughout all phases of the project, with outreach approaches refined and tailored to each stage.

Planning Commission Review
On June 18, 2026, the Planning Commission reviewed the Draft Vision and Guiding Principles.

Below is a summary of the input received from the Planning Commission. • One commissioner encouraged the City to think more ambitiously about the role of biking in Los Altos and suggested that bikeability could play a more central part in shaping the mobility policies as the plan develops.
• One commissioner noted that in addition to environmental stewardship, the General Plan should emphasize sustainability as a forward-looking concept. They highlighted the importance of addressing issues such as electrification, greenhouse gas reductions, and long-term resource efficiency, and emphasized that sustainability should remain a visible priority as the plan develops.
• One commissioner suggested that historic preservation could be highlighted more specifically, reflecting community interest in preserving and elevating the importance of the City’s historic resources.
• Several commissioners reflected on the ongoing tension between preserving the qualities people appreciate about Los Altos and recognizing that the City will need to evolve over time. They noted that concepts like “community character” and the “village atmosphere” will need to be examined as the City plans for the future, particularly as Los Altos responds to state housing requirements and navigates an evolving legislative landscape where local discretion is more limited than in the past. • Several commissioners noted that Phase 1 outreach did not generate as much community participation as they had hoped. While recognizing the range of engagement activities conducted to date, commissioners encouraged the project team to continue looking for fresh and varied ways to build awareness, expand outreach, and increase participation as the General Plan process moves forward.

Approximately 10 members of the public provided written and oral comments on several topics.

Key themes included strengthening historic preservation language; clarifying how policies related to historic resources, community character, and natural resources will be incorporated

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into the updated General Plan, expanding community outreach and engagement efforts, and retaining the existing Plan's emphasis on Los Altos' village character, small-town feel, and unique way of life.

Based on the feedback received at the Planning Commission meeting, the project team revised the Draft Vision and Guiding Principles which are included as a redlined document in Attachment 4 for Council consideration. Additionally, the project team will expand community engagement efforts to increase participation and awareness of the General Plan process. Topics related to the specific content and language in the General Plan document will be discussed in Phase 3.

City Council Review
At this stage of the General Plan Update, staff is requesting Council input on the Draft Vision and Guiding Principles before the project proceeds to the next phase. Staff requests feedback on whether any themes should be added to better represent community values and priorities, and whether any edits or clarifications are recommended to strengthen how the draft reflects the community’s long-term vision.

Next Steps
Following completion of Phase 1 of the project with a General Plan Vision and Guiding Principles, Phase 2 will commence and will focus on preparing and evaluating alternative land use and circulation scenarios that reflect the guiding principles and community input. Continued outreach during Phase 2 will ensure that a broad range of community perspectives informs the choices and tradeoffs embedded in these alternatives as the General Plan Update progresses.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Draft Vision and Guiding Principles

2. Attachment 2 - Technical Background Report

3. Attachment 3 - Phase 1 Outreach Report

4. Attachment 4 - Redlined Draft Vision and Guiding Principles

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Los Altos
General Plan
Update
Draft Vision &
Guiding Principles
ATTACHMENT 1

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Introduction | Phase 1 Outreach Report
1 About the Vision and Guiding Principles
The Draft Vision and Guiding Principles are a foundational first step for the General Plan Update, describing a shared image of the kind of place that Los Altos residents and businesses would like their community to be in 2050. The Draft Vision and Guiding Principles were developed with community input and reflect ideas and insights that community members shared between January and May 2026 through a variety of engagement activities, including a citywide survey, a community open house meeting, and pop up outreach at events around Los Altos where people visited stop and chat stations to share input. A series of study sessions was also conducted with appointed City Commissions to collect input. Through these activities, community members shared their thoughts on what they love about Los Altos, what they think can be improved, and what their priorities are for the future of the city.

The Vision and Guiding Principles are intended to be broad, aspirational statements that will inform the more specific, detailed language of the goals and policies in the General Plan. In Phase 2, as different alternatives for future land use, transportation, and quality of life are explored with the community, the Vision and Guiding Principles will be used as a lens for evaluating the different options.

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Phase 1 Outreach Report | Introduction
2 Vision Statement
Los Altos began as an agricultural hub and commuter town along the Southern Pacific Railroad in a fertile valley famed for its orchards of fruit trees. Incorporated as a city in 1952, the population grew steadily in the decades that followed. As agriculture has given way to science and technology in the region, Los Altos has become a quiet residential community with family-friendly neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and an exceptional quality of life in the heart of Silicon Valley. Its walkable downtown serves as a cherished hub of community activity, while its proximity to major employment centers and easy access to parks, regional trails, and nature preserves continue to make it a desirable place to live and raise a family.

Looking to the future, Los Altos will embrace its role within Silicon Valley while remaining a peaceful and friendly refuge with a strong sense of community. Los Altos will respond creatively to the demands of a changing world and play its part in addressing the challenges of the region, while seeking to preserve and enhance the enduring qualities that define the community. In 2050, Los Altos will be a model of multigenerational living, a leader in environmental sustainability and historic preservation, and a welcoming home for a diverse population. It will offer a variety of housing options to meet the needs of residents at all stages of life. Its vibrant downtown and neighborhood centers will be focal points of community life, easily accessible by foot, bicycle, or shared modes of transportation. Its expansive tree canopy and abundant, connected green spaces will help moderate summertime heat, replenish the natural environment, and contribute to the physical and mental well being of residents.

Los Altos will thoughtfully integrate new technologies and leverage the knowledge, creativity, and skills of its residents and businesses to address its challenges while celebrating the people, places, and stories that have shaped the community. It will be a community that invites constructive dialogue and broad participation in civic life and that strategically invests in public infrastructure, community facilities, and programs and services for the benefit of current and future generations.

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3 Guiding Principles
Community & Place
SMALL TOWN CHARM. Preserve and enhance
the qualities that contribute to Los Altos’ enduring smalltown character, including its peaceful neighborhoods, walkable downtown, historic architecture, abundant
tree canopy, and shared sense of connection across the
community.

NATURE FORWARD ETHOS AND
ABUNDANT GREENSPACE. Recognize green
spaces as fundamental to the physical development
of the community and promote wise stewardship of
environmental resources. Maintain tree canopy and
integrate green spaces equitably throughout the
community, recognizing the co-benefits for public
health, climate resilience, and environmental quality.

VIBRANT DOWNTOWN. Strengthen the role of downtown as a focal point of community life in Los Altos and a destination for visitors from the region. Downtown ambiance comes from the design of the street network and walkable character of the area, as well as from the eclectic mix of locally-owned businesses, varied cultural events and activities, and opportunities for social interaction.

NEIGHBORHOOD GATHERING PLACES. Foster a network of gathering places throughout the community that bring residents together and provide authentic, in-person opportunities to socialize. Position Los Altos’ commercial centers as hubs of neighborhood activity, anchored by thriving shops and services with complementary housing, entertainment, and recreational opportunities. Reinforce parks and recreational facilities as a core setting for informal public life with a range of programs and services that supports everyday interaction and lifelong learning.

SAFE, WELCOMING CITY. Prioritize public safety and promote well-maintained buildings and public spaces that create an inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors. Promote welldesigned, well-maintained, and accessible amenities in parks and public places to serve older adults, families, youth, and residents of all ages and abilities.

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4 Guiding Principles
People & Culture
MULTIGENERATIONAL LIVING. Foster a community that supports people of all ages and life stages. Work to ensure that Los Altos nurtures the curiosity of childhood, the energy of youth, the demands of working life and families, and the wisdom of age, so that every resident feels a sense of belonging at every stage of life.

SENSE OF COMMUNITY. Preserve and enhance Los Altos’ strong sense of community that comes from connections built over time, neighbors who support one another, and residents engaged in their community.

Continue to foster active neighborhood life and provide opportunities for residents to volunteer their time, energy, and skills.

DIVERSITY OF PEOPLE AND IDEAS. Welcome young families
and new residents of all ages, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and foster a culture of learning from one another. Leverage a wide range of perspectives and lived experiences to creatively meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

HISTORY IN THE EVERYDAY. Celebrate Los Altos’ history and heritage and continue traditions that build community bonds and strengthen sense of place. Honor the people and stories that have shaped Los Altos so that they continue to inform and enrich community life in the future.

Mobility & Connectivity
CONNECTED COMMUNITY. Promote a balanced, efficient, and reliable transportation network that connects people to homes, jobs, schools, parks, shopping, services, and regional destinations. Expand mobility choices with a focus on promoting active, healthy transportation options, reducing sole reliance on cars, and reducing pollution.

SAFE ROUTES. Provide a continuous network of safe, comfortable, and convenient pedestrian and bicycle connections to key destinations in Los Altos and surrounding communities for people of all ages and abilities. Focus on physical improvements as well as education and programs that reinforce safe travel behavior and encourage walking and bicycling.

ACTIVITY MOBILITY. Make walking and biking the easy, everyday choice and promote multimodal mobility and independence for all. Recognize this means prioritizing safety and work to create a low stress network of connections that knits neighborhoods together, promotes social interaction, reduces congestion, and enhances quality of life.

TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGY. Thoughtfully integrate
technology that facilitates safe, reliable trips by all modes of transportation.

Design streets, buildings, and the public realm to accommodate technological innovations and proactively address conflicts between users.

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5 Guiding Principles
Governance & Infrastructure
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY.

Treat sustainability as a lens applied to every decision about how the city operates, moves, and evolves
and create a community that functions better by
design. Pursue a carbon neutral future as a shared
responsibility, reduce resource consumption,
embrace electrification, and enhance the natural
systems around us so that Los Altos’ leadership in
environmental sustainability is a point of local pride.

INNOVATION AND PRAGMATISM.

Leverage the creativity, caring, and skill of local
residents to develop innovative solutions that
address Los Altos’ challenges. Plan holistically for
the future, integrate new technology for the benefit
of the community, and partner with neighboring
jurisdictions, major regional employers, and
institutions to pilot new approaches and strategies.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY. Approach long-term municipal governance with foresight, cultivating a resilient and adaptable revenue base to sustainably fund public services, infrastructure, and community investments for decades to come.

COLLABORATIVE GOVERNANCE. Foster transparency, open dialogue, inclusion, and trust between the City and the community, and provide opportunities for residents and businesses to participate meaningfully in civic life.

MODERN, RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE. Strategically invest in public infrastructure and community facilities that support daily life, public safety, business vitality, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.

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Draft
Technical
Background
Report
June 12, 2026
ATTACHMENT 2

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Prepared By

CONSULTANT TEAM
Dyett & Bhatia Urban and Regional Planners (D&B)
Architectural Resources Group (ARG)
Bay Area Economics (BAE)
BKF Engineers
Fehr & Peers (F&P)
Charles M. Salter Associates Inc.

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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction...............................................................................1-1 Chapter 2: Land Use and Development Trends 2-1
Chapter 3: Market Study ........................................................................... 3-1 Chapter 4: Transportation and Multimodal Mobility ......................4-1 Chapter 5: Parks and Public Services................................................... 5-1 Chapter 6: Community Health and Environmental Justice 6-1 Chapter 7: Environmental Resources................................................... 7-1 Chapter 8: Water, Sewer, and Stormwater Infrastructure............8-1

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INTRODUCTION
1 This chapter summarizes the purpose of the Technical
Background Report (TBR), outlines the role and purpose
of the General Plan, defines the Planning Area, provides an overview of regional and local setting, and describes the organization and content of the TBR.

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Chapter 01 | Introduction
1-2
Report Purpose
The City of Los Altos is preparing an update of its General Plan, which will establish the city’s overall approach to development and preservation; transportation and infrastructure; environmental quality; housing; and other key topics through 2050. Los Altos’ current General Plan was adopted in 2002, with a planning horizon of 2020. While the City has recently completed updates to the Housing
and Safety Elements, the General Plan has not been
comprehensively updated since 2002 and the Plan needs
to be revised to ensure alignment with community priorities. Emerging technologies, demographic changes, and new State laws are also triggering the need for an update.

This Technical Background Report represents the first
major step in the process of updating the General Plan.

It provides a baseline of information representing conditions as of March 2026 that will be used at multiple stages throughout the process to:
• Facilitate community input on planning issues,
priorities, and visions for the future;
• Prepare alternative land use and transportation
planning scenarios;
• Formulate goals, policies and implementation actions
for the General Plan; and
• Inform the environmental setting portion of the
Environmental Impact Report for the General Plan.

Background

GENERAL PLAN REQUIREMENTS
The general plan is a statement of the community’s vision of its long-term or ultimate physical form and development policies. The State of California mandates that “...each county and city shall adopt a comprehensive,
long-term general plan for the physical development of
the county or city, and of any land outside its boundaries which in the planning agency’s judgment bears relation
to its planning.” (Govt. Code 65300). A city’s general plan has been described as its development constitution—the
set of policies within which development regulations and decisions must fit.

The State mandates that all general plans cover at least seven “elements”: land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety. Additionally, communities with designated Disadvantaged Communities (DACs)—low-income areas that are disproportionately affect-ed by environmental pollution and adverse health effects—are required to adopt an Environ-mental Justice Element that incorporates strategies to improve community conditions and quality of life in DACs.

The general plan must be “internally consistent;” that is, it should “...comprise an integrated, internally consistent and compatible statement of policies for the adopting agency.” (Govt. Code 65300.5). Furthermore, all actions relating to physical development need to be consistent with an
adopted general plan. This requirement implying “vertical consistency” means that subdivisions, capital improvements, development agreements, specific plans, zoning, and other land use regulatory actions must be consistent with the general plan.

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE PROCESS
The Los Altos General Plan serves as a blueprint for the future of the community. It is a long-range plan built on a shared vision that describes the kind of community
local residents, business owners and employees, and
visitors want Los Altos to be, and it identifies actions to take to realize the vision. This General Plan Update will

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Technical Background Report | Los Altos General Plan Update 1-3
Figure 1-1: Project Timeline
be the fourth comprehensive update in the city’s history.

The City’s original General Plan was adopted in 1964,
several years after the city incorporated in 1952. The plan established the community’s early vision as a primarily residential suburb with a small-scale downtown and limited commercial development, a framework that has
continued to shape land-use policy in the city. Subsequently, the General Plan was comprehensively updated in 1987 and again in 2002.

The City of Los Altos is updating the General Plan to
address emerging issues and new State laws while achieving key objectives, including:
• Preserving and enhancing Los Altos’ distinctive sense of place;
• Reinforcing the role of Downtown Los Altos in the life of the community;
• Facilitating infill development in strategic locations linked to market opportunities while strengthening
neighborhood quality of life;
• Revitalizing older commercial centers with new uses to better serve the community;
• Promoting environmental sustainability throughout
the community and integrating best practices into City
programs and policies;
• Exploring options to enhance recreational amenities
and foster community health; and
• Advancing citywide goals for multimodal mobility,
roadway safety, business vitality, and housing
availability.

The update involves four broad phases, shown on the
graphic below:

1. Building a shared vision for the future;

2. Evaluating different options and alternatives that can achieve the vision;

3. Preparing a Draft General Plan, Zoning Code, and EIR; and

4. Finalizing the Plan through public hearings before the Planning Commission and City Council.

The process will be completed in approximately 2 years, with adoption anticipated in late 2027. Community input will be vital to the process in every phase, from identifying the shared vision to providing input on the final plan.

Planning Area

REGIONAL LOCATION AND ACCESS
Nestled at the heart of Silicon Valley, Los Altos is located in the northern part of Santa Clara County on the San
Francisco Peninsula, approximately 37 miles south
of San Francisco and 16 miles northwest of San Jose.

Los Altos is bordered on the north by Palo Alto, on the east by Mountain View, on the south by Cupertino and
Sunnyvale, and on the west by Los Altos Hills and unincorporated Santa Clara County. El Camino Real (State Route 82) forms the eastern boundary of the City and provides connections to other destinations on the Peninsula, while Interstate-280 (I-280) skirts the southern part of the city and provides connections to the regional transit network.

Foothill Expressway bisects Los Altos from north to south, connecting Cupertino, Los Altos, and Palo Alto along the alignment of a former rail line. Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) operates bus services connecting Los Altos to nearby employment and transit centers in
Mountain View, Palo Alto, Cupertino, and San José, including the San Antonio and Mountain View Caltrain stations.

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Chapter 01 | Introduction
1-4

PLANNING AREA BOUNDARY
The Planning Area for the General Plan includes all land within the City limit and the City’s Sphere of Influence (SOI), which represents land in unincorporated Santa Clara County which may one day be annexed into the City. The
SOI is determined by Santa Clara County Local Agency
Formation Commission (LAFCO), which designates the
probable future boundary and service area for each jurisdiction in the county as part of a process intended to ensure the provision of efficient services while discouraging urban sprawl and the premature conversion of agricultural and open space lands. As shown on Map 1-1, Los Altos’ SOI includes unincorporated areas adjacent to the City limit, generally west of Foothill Expressway. The Planning Area encompasses 4805.2 acres, including 4174
acres within the City limit and 631.2 acres in the SOI.

Community Profile
Los Altos is a quiet residential community with familyfriendly neighborhoods, excellent schools, and an enviable quality of life. The community boasts a range of historic resources from the Victorian Winchester-Merriman
House to the iconic Apple Garage that contribute to the character of the community, and its walkable downtown
is a cherished hub of community activity. Its proximity to major employment centers and access to regional trails
and nature preserves continue to make it a desirable place to live and raise a family.

Los Altos is the twelfth largest city in Santa Clara County by population, with a population of 31,625 in 2024. The City was incorporated in 1952 and grew to 27,150 residents by 1970 and has seen only modest population growth
since that time. Today, Los Altos is largely a community of families with children, although older adults make up an increasing share of the population with over one in
five residents aged 65 or older. There were 14,542 jobs in Los Altos in 2023, primarily in the professional/business services and education/health sectors. Population and
employment projections are not available for the City
alone, but regional projections prepared by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) as part of the Plan Bay Area 2050 Plus blueprint project forecast 38 percent growth in households and 15 percent growth in jobs for
the Northwest Santa Clara County “superdistrict,” which includes Los Altos Hills, Los Altos, and portions of Palo Alto and Mountain View. The superdistrict is projected to grow from 74,000 residents and 180,000 jobs in 2015 to 102,000 residents and 207,000 jobs by 2050.

As Los Altos looks to the future, a key challenge to be addressed through the General Plan Update is preserving and enhancing community character and quality of life while accommodating the evolving needs of residents.

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Map 1-1: Los Altos Planning Area

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Chapter 01 | Introduction
1-6
The Technical Background Report is organized into eight chapters, as summarized below. Each chapter contains
an analysis of existing conditions and trends, presented in text, tables, photo-graphs, diagrams, and maps. In
addition, each chapter concludes with a bulleted list
summarizing key implications for the General Plan Update. • Chapter 1: Introduction summarizes the purpose of
the TBR, outlines the role and purpose of the General
Plan, defines the Planning Area, provides an overview
of regional and local setting, and describes the
organization and content of the TBR.
• Chapter 2: Land Use and Development Trends
discusses existing land uses in the Planning Area,
describes the existing General Plan and other
planning efforts, and gives an overview of major recent developments and potential focus areas.
• Chapter 3: Market Study evaluates the current
conditions and future outlook of residential, retail,
office, and industrial/flex/R&D development in the
city and the surrounding submarket to help lay the
foundation for the General Plan update. It also discusses the existing historic resources of the Planning Area,
including historic landmarks, historic properties, and
heritage trees throughout the city.

Report Organization
• Chapter 4: Transportation and Multi-Modal Mobility
discusses the Planning Area’s existing transportation
infrastructure, including roadways, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and transit. It also describes truck routes and traffic distribution patterns throughout the city.
• Chapter 5: Parks and Public Facilities discusses key
public facilities and services, including parks, recreation, trails, and open space within the Planning Area; as well as public safety services, schools, libraries, and cultural and civic facilities in Los Altos.
• Chapter 6: Community Health and Environmental
Resources documents trends and conditions related
to community health in Los Altos compared to peer
communities; introduces the concept of environmental
justice and its relation to community health.
• Chapter 7: Environmental Resources provides an
overview of environmental conditions and resources
in the Planning Area, including air quality, biological resources, cultural/historic resources, geology and
seismicity, hazardous materials, hydrology and water
quality, noise, and wildfire risk.
• Chapter 8: Water, Sewer, Stormwater Infrastructure
and Capacity summarizes the capacities of wet utilities (water, wastewater, recycled water, storm drainage)
given existing and planned growth in Los Altos.

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LAND USE AND

DEVELOPMENT TRENDS
2 This chapter summarizes existing conditions and issues relevant to land use and development in the Los Altos
Planning Area. It provides an overview of the existing
General Plan, major recent planning efforts, and recent development trends. It also discusses historic resources and related policies, regulations, and programs. A
summary of findings and considerations for future
planning is provided at the end of the chapter.

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Chapter 02 | Land Use and Development Trends
2-2
Existing Land Use
Originally an agricultural town with apricot orchards and summer cottages, today Los Altos is a small residential community on the western edge of Silicon Valley. The
existing land use pattern for Los Altos is shown in Map 2-1, while Table 2-1 summarizes existing land use in the Planning Area, including land within the City limit and the Sphere of Influence (SOI). Overall, Los Altos has few vacant parcels, and existing development consists primarily of single-family residential uses, with public institutions, schools, and religious facilities dispersed throughout the city’s residential neighborhoods. Multifamily residential, commercial, and industrial uses are concentrated downtown and along key arterial corridors such as El
Camino Real and segments of San Antonio Road and
Foothill Expressway. There are no commercial uses in
the SOI, which consists primarily of single-family residential uses with some public uses and the Los Altos Golf & Country Club. A more detailed description of existing uses and their distribution throughout Los Altos’ City limit and SOI is provided below.

Residential land uses account for 67.8 percent of land
(2382 acres) within the City limit, and 68.8 percent (434 acres) within the SOI. Within the City limit, the majority (64.6 percent) are single-family detached homes.

Single-family attached, townhouses, and condominiums
are concentrated in the west—near El Monte Avenue—
and in the south, along Woods Lane. Accounting for
only 0.7 percent (27.7 acres) of land within the City limit, multifamily residential uses are typically adjacent to key commercial areas such as Downtown Los Altos, Loyola
Corners, and Foothill Shopping Center located along
major corridors like El Camino Real and Foothill Expressway. Within the SOI, residential uses are only comprised of single-family detached homes.

Commercial land uses account for 2.9 percent of land (121 acres) within the City limit. These are predominantly office uses, which make up 1.4 percent (56 acres). Existing office clusters are located along El Camino Real and Foothill
Expressway, and within Downtown Los Altos. There is also

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Technical Background Report | Los Altos General Plan Update 2-3
Table 2-1: Existing Land Use

EXISTING LAND USE

CITY OF LOS ALTOS SPHERE OF

INFLUENCE

TOTAL PLANNING
AREA

ACRES PERCENT ACRES PERCENT ACRES PERCENT
Residential 2831.8 67.9% 434.0 68.8% 3265.8 68.1
Single Family (Detached) 2695.7 64.6% 434.0 68.8% 3129.7 65.1% Single Family (Attached) 85.2 2.0% 0.0 0.0% 85.2 1.8%
Duplex/Two Family 13.0 0.3% 0.0 0.0% 13.0 0.3%
Multifamily 27.7 0.7% 0.0 0.0% 27.7 0.6%
Mixed Use 10.2 0.2% 0.0 0.0% 10.2 0.2%
Commercial 121.2 2.9% 0.0 0.0% 121.2 2.5%
General 50.1 1.2% 0.0 0.0% 50.1 1.2%
Office 56.4 1.4% 0.0 0.0% 56.0 1.0%
Hotel/Motel/Lodging 5.9 0.1% 0.0 0.0% 5.9 0.1%
Mixed Use 6.3 0.2% 0.0 0.0% 6.3 0.1%
Service Station 2.5 0.1% 0.0 0.0% 2.5 0.1%
Public Facilities 287.1 6.9% 9.2 1.5% 286.6 6.0%
Public 35.3 0.8% 0.0 0.0% 35.3 0.7%
Institutional/Semi-Public 13.0 0.3% 0.0 0.0% 13.0 0.3%
Religious 97.4 2.3% 9.2 1.5% 96.9 2.0%
Schools/Educational 141.4 3.4% 0.0 0.0% 141.4 2.9%
Open Space, Parks and
Recreation 44.6 1.1% 99.1 15.7% 144.0 3.0%
Parks and Recreation 43.0 1.0% 0.0 0.0% 43.0 0.9%
Other Open Space 1.6 0.0% 0.1 0.0% 2.0 0.0%
Golf Course 0.0 0.0% 99.0 15.7% 99.0 2.1%
Other 889.3 21.3% 88.9 14.1% 987.6 20.4%
Vacant 22.4 0.5% 3.4 0.5% 25.8 0.5%
Utilities 34.8 0.8% 1.6 0.3% 36.4 0.8%
Easements/Right of Way 0.4 0.0% 0.0 0.0% 0.4 0.0%
Transportation/Roads/
ROW 831.7 19.9% 83.9 13.3% 915.6 19.1%
Total 4173.7 100.0% 631.2 100.0% 4795.1 100.0%
Note: Percentage values less than 0.1 percent have been rounded to the nearest decimal point and may appear as 0.0%.

1. Includes two sites (169 State Street and 401 First Street) characterized as general industrial in Assessor Data, but currently houses office uses.

Source: City of Los Altos, 2025

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Map 2-1: Existing Land Use

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Technical Background Report | Los Altos General Plan Update 2-5
a concentration of small-scale medical offices on Altos Oaks Drive, near Loyola Corners. Other commercial uses, such as shops, restaurants, banks and other daily services, occupy 1.2 percent (50 acres) of City limit land. These are located downtown and along El Camino Real as well as
in shopping centers, including Rancho Shopping Center,
Lucky Shopping Center, and Foothill Shopping Center.

There are no commercial or industrial uses within the SOI.

Public and Semi-Public Facilities land uses cover approximately 6.9 percent of land (287 acres) within the City limit, and 1.5 percent (9 acres) within the SOI. Public facilities within the City limit include the Los Altos and Loyola fire stations, Los Altos City Hall, Woodland Branch Library, Los Altos Community Center, Municipal Service Center, public schools, churches, and nursing and care facilities. Public and community facilities also include public parking lots, which are found within Downtown Los Altos. Institutional and semi-public facilities include nursing and care facilities like the Los Altos Post Acute located in Loyola Corners and the Terraces at Los Altos on Pine Lane. Schools and educational facilities account for the largest share of public and community facilities land uses within the city, accounting for 3.4 percent (141 acres) of land within the City limit, while church and religious facilities make up 2.1 percent (87 acres). Both these types of facilities are found in neighborhoods throughout the community. The Antiochian Orthodox Church of the Redeemer is the only public facility located within the SOI.

Open Space, Parks, and Recreation land uses occupy
approximately 1.1 percent of land (45 acres) within the City limit and 15.7 percent of land (100 acres) within the SOI.

Parks and recreational facilities account for the majority of the open space within the City limit, primarily located east of Foothill Expressway. Other open spaces include trails, small wooded areas, or small landscaped areas owned
by the City. Additionally, there is a small 0.3-acre parcel of parkland with a structure at 321 University Avenue. This parcel is owned by Santa Clara County but currently part of Lincoln Park. The structure is occupied by the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce. The open space within the SOI
belongs to the Los Altos Golf & Country Club, a private recreational facility, or Santa Clara County.

Vacant land accounts for 0.8 percent (32 acres) of the
City limit and 0.5 percent (3 acres) of the SOI. Within the City limit, the largest vacant land parcel is found along El Camino Real (APN 17004068), currently under construction with a 196-unit multifamily residential development.

Additionally, there are several small vacant parcels in residential neighborhoods throughout the city. Within
the SOI, vacant sites are clustered near the Los Altos Golf & Country Club.

Utilities account for 0.8 percent (34 acres) of land, and comprise utility equipment, creek diversion canals, or
parking lots for adjacent commercial sites. A majority of these are public parcels owned by the California Water
Service Company, Santa Clara Valley Water District, and the City of Los Altos. Other parcels are owned by the
Los Altos Golf & Country Club, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Santa Clara County, and a few private property owners. There is an additional two-acre utility site within the SOI adjacent to the Los Altos Methodist Church, which makes up 0.3 percent of the land respectively.

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Chapter 02 | Land Use and Development Trends
2-6

DENSITY AND INTENSITY OF

EXISTING DEVELOPMENT
Map 2-2 shows the as-built residential density throughout the city. Reflecting that single-family residential neighborhoods are the predominant land use in the city, residential density is relatively low across the city with Up to 4 units per acre (du/acre) making up the largest share, followed by 5-8 du/acre. Mid-range densities (9 to 16 du/acre and 17 to 24 du/acre) are near key shopping/commercial areas like Downtown Los Altos, Loyola Corners, El Camino Real, and Foothill Shopping Center. A majority of these developments are relatively old townhouses or condominium neighborhoods constructed in the 1950s and 1960s. Higher densities of 24 or more are limited, found in pockets with multifamily developments along El Camino Real, within
Downtown Los Altos, and near Foothill Shopping Center.

This includes projects built in the 2000s like Peninsula Real Condo Complex, Los Altos Court, and Colonnade
Apartments built in the 2000s and typically have 50 to
75 units. It also includes Springwood Apartments in the south, the largest housing development in the city with 216 housing units. Recent development projects (refer to Map 2-7) also tend to be at slightly higher densities than their surroundings. Overall, as-built density is consistent with the applicable General Plan land use designations, described below.

Map 2-3 shows as-built non-residential floor area ratio (FAR) in Los Altos. FAR is a measure of development intensity, expressed as a ratio of building square footage to the land area of the site. Existing non-residential development is concentrated downtown and along segments of major
thoroughfares. The highest FARs is found downtown
and to the north along El Camino Real. In these areas,
as-built FAR typically ranges from 0.6 to over 1.0, indicating relatively large buildings in relation to lot size. As built FAR in Los Altos’ neighborhood (Loyola Corners and Rancho
Shopping Center) and community commercial centers
(Lucky Shopping Center and Foothill Shopping Center)
is lower, typically ranging from up to 0.2 to 0.4, where single-story buildings have large areas of surface parking adjacent to them. This is typical of suburban shopping
centers.

Land Use Plans and
Regulations

LOS ALTOS GENERAL PLAN
The Los Altos General Plan is a comprehensive, long-range guide that establishes goals, objectives, policies, and actions for development and conservation in the city.

The City adopted its first General Plan in 1965 and undertook a first comprehensive update in 1987. A subsequent comprehensive update was adopted in 2002, consisting of nine chapters—called elements—that correspond to legal
requirements established in State law and optional topics of local importance. State-required elements include Land Use, Housing, Open Space Conservation & Community
Facilities, Circulation, Safety, and Natural Environment and Hazards. Optional elements address Economic Development, Community Design & Historic Resources, and Infrastructure & Waste Disposal. Below is a description of each element’s policy direction.
• Community Design & Historic Resources Element.

This Element is not required by State law but has been
included to preserve and enhance the community’s
small-town identity. It includes goals and policies
related to the physical character of Los Altos,
primarily intended to maintain scale, form, and visual
compatibility of development and streetscapes within
existing neighborhoods. Importantly, it also establishes policies for identifying, preserving, and sensitively
reusing historic buildings and sites, ensuring that new development respects and complements historic
resources.
• Land Use Element. The State-required Land Use
Element establishes a land use pattern with standards
for accommodating measured, context-sensitive
growth. It also describes various specific plans for
the development of special Planning Areas such
as Downtown Los Altos, El Camino Real Corridor,
Foothill Plaza and El Retiro. The element emphasizes
compatibility between new and existing development,
careful transitions in scale and intensity, preservation of scenic and natural features, and coordination between
land use and infrastructure capacity to ensure longterm fiscal and environmental sustainability. City Council originally adopted the element in 1965, and the last comprehensive update was adopted in November
2002.

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Map 2-2: Existing Residential Density

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Map 2-3: Existing Non-Residential Density (FAR)

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Technical Background Report | Los Altos General Plan Update 2-9
• Housing Element. The City’s 2023-2031 Housing
Element was recently updated after the adoption
of the General Plan elements and is bound as a
separate document. Government Code 65588 requires
Housing Elements to be updated every eight years
and to include specific components such as analysis
of existing housing stock, analysis of existing and
projected housing needs, and the number of housing
units that will be developed, preserved, and improved
through its policies and actions. It is intended to
provide a comprehensive strategy for promoting safe,
decent, and affordable housing within the community.

The 2023-2031 Housing Element was adopted by the
City Council on January 24, 2023, and was certified by
the California Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD) on September 6, 2023.
• Economic Development Element. This is an optional
element that was included in the General Plan to
maintain and enhance the economic character of the
community. It contains goals, policies, and actions
that provide the overall framework for decisionmaking that affects economic development in the city, addressing shopping needs, providing for expanded
job opportunities, and building the City’s tax base. This element was added as part of the adopted General Plan
in 2002.
• Open Space, Conservation & Community Facilities
Element. This element combines two elements
required by State law – the Open Space Element and
the Conservation Element – along with the optional
Community Facilities Element. It conveys community
goals to protect and maintain parks, natural resources
and public services. Resources addressed in this
element include open space, natural resources and
features, parks and recreation, law enforcement and
fire protection, public education, and community,
social, civic, and cultural services. This Element was first adopted by the City Council in 2002, making it a recent addition to the Los Altos General Plan.
• Circulation Element. The State-required Circulation
Element guides continued development of the
circulation system to support planned growth. It
establishes a hierarchy of transportation routes and
recommends goals and policies that coordinates
transportation system with planned land uses,
promotes efficient and safe transport of goods and
people, makes efficient use of existing transportation
facilities, and promotes environmental quality and
equitable use of economic and natural resources. City
Council originally adopted the element in 1965, and
the last comprehensive update was adopted in 2002.

It should be noted that the current element does not
conform to requirements for Complete Streets (AB1358)
or Active Transportation (SB932) requirements, as these regulations were enacted subsequent to the element’s
adoption.
• Safety Element (2025). The State-required Safety
Element includes goals and policies to protect the
community from risks associated with the effects
of flooding, seismic and other geological hazards,
wildfires, and hazardous materials. Key components
include hazard identification and risk assessment,
evacuation routes and emergency response, and
climate adaptation and resilience. On June 10, 2025, City Council adopted the first standalone Safety Element,
which began development in early 2024. Prior to this,
strategies were incorporated as part of the Natural
Environment & Hazards Element in the 2002 update of
the General Plan.
• Natural Environment & Hazards Element (2025).

The State-required Natural Environment and Hazards
Element previously combined safety, noise, and air
quality as part of the 2002 General Plan Update. The
element was revised in 2025 to include only Statemandated requirements for noise and air quality, while safety-related topics (i.e. seismic, flooding, wildfire) were migrated to the new standalone Safety Element.

However, the format, language, and content of these
sections remain the same as the 2002 version. Goals
and policies in the element cover minimizing noise
exposure, maintaining or improving air quality, and
ensuring compliance and enhancing resilience for
residents.
• Infrastructure & Waste Disposal Element. This is an
optional element that focuses on providing reliable,
efficient public services while minimizing environmental impacts and supporting long-term sustainability. The
element addresses essential systems such as water
supply, wastewater collection and treatment, storm
drainage, solid waste and recycling services, and energy and communications infrastructure. It emphasizes
maintaining and upgrading aging facilities, coordinating with regional service providers, and ensuring that
infrastructure capacity keeps pace with community
needs without encouraging excessive growth. Policies
also promote water conservation, waste reduction,
recycling and composting, and resilient infrastructure
design to address climate change, seismic risk, and
extreme weather, supporting the city’s overall goals for public health, safety, and environmental stewardship.

This element was added as part of the adopted General
Plan in 2002.

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Chapter 02 | Land Use and Development Trends
2-10
• Appendices. The appendices to the current General
Plan serve as a reference resource to further understand elements that shaped the Plan. They include a glossary
of terminologies to describe concepts discussed in
the General Plan and findings from the Transportation
Charrette, a community outreach effort conducted to
support the development of goals and policies in the
Circulation Element.

Land Use Vision of General Plan (2002)
At its core, the General Plan seeks to preserve its smalltown character, influenced heavily by its low-density residential neighborhoods, and ensure a high quality of life for residents, while accommodating modest, well-planned change in appropriate locations using a logical, organized land use pattern with standards for future development.

Most of the new growth is directed to Downtown Los Altos and select commercial corridors, encouraging mixed use
development, housing diversity, and pedestrian-oriented design. At the same time, it emphasizes protecting existing neighborhoods, hillsides and open spaces, supporting
local-serving businesses, and ensuring that land use
decisions reinforce community character, environmental
sustainability, and overall quality of life. The General Plan Land Use Map (refer to Map 2-4) illustrates the long-term vision for development in the Planning Area, with land
use designations that describe the type of uses and scale of development envisioned for each neighborhood and
district. In total, there are 16 land use designations that describe a range of residential, commercial, industrial, open space, and public uses, as summarized in Table 2-2.

Transportation infrastructure, utilities, public services, and parks and recreational facilities are all planned to support the land use pattern depicted on the General Plan Land
Use map.
6TH CYCLE HOUSING ELEMENT
(2023-2031)
The Housing Element is one of eight State-required
elements of the General Plan. It provides an analysis of a community’s housing needs for all income levels and
includes strategies to address those needs. Pursuant to State law, it is updated every eight years and must be
approved by the State’s Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD). The City adopted its 6th
Housing Element for the 2023-2031 planning period on
January 24, 2023, and the Housing Element was certified by HCD on September 6, 2023, with minor amendments.

Given the requirement to update this element on a shorter timeline than other General Plan elements, the Los Altos Housing Element is published under separate cover.

A critical input for the Housing Element is the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA), a process required
under State housing law to determine projected and
existing housing needs for all jurisdictions in California.

RHNA quantifies the “fair share” of regional housing
needs for a jurisdiction, breaking it out into four household income level categories used for federal and State programming. For the 2015-2023 planning period, the
City of Los Altos’ “fair share” allocation was a total of 477 units across all income levels. For the 2023-2031 planning period, the City of Los Altos’ RHNA allocation includes a total of 1,958 units, more than four times the previous cycle allocation. The 6th Cycle RHNA allocation is broken down as follows:
• 501 units affordable to extremely low-income and very low households
• 288 units affordable to low-income households
• 326 units affordable to moderate-income households
• 843 units affordable to above-moderate income
households

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Map 2-4: General Plan Land Use Designations

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Chapter 02 | Land Use and Development Trends
2-12

CATEGORY PRIMARY PURPOSE
MAX

DENSITY/
FAR
Residential
Single-family,
Large Lot
The Single-family Large Lot Land Use designation provides for singlefamily detached homes on large lots. The designation allows a maximum density of 2.0 units per net acre. The anticipated density of this type of development is approximately 1.8 units per net acre. Uses such as second dwelling units, guest houses, community facilities, parks and open space, day cares, churches, agricultural uses, and others that are compatible with low density single-family neighborhood may also be considered as conditional uses.

Two dwelling
units/acre
Single-family,
Medium Lot
The Single-family Medium Lot land use designation provides for singlefamily detached homes. The designation allows a maximum density of 4.0 units per net acre. The anticipated density of future Single-Family Medium Lot development is approximately 3.5 units per dwelling acre. Uses such as second dwelling units, guest houses, community facilities, parks and open space, day cares, churches, agricultural uses, and others that are compatible with the low density single-family neighborhood may also be considered as conditional uses.

Four
dwelling
units/acre
Single-family,
Small Lot
The Single-family Small Lot land use designation provides for single-family detached homes on smaller lots. The designation allows a maximum density of 10.0 units per net acre where already subdivided. Future small lot development is anticipated at a density of approximately 5.6 units per net acre. The City recognizes that areas that were developed with higher density single-family homes comprise an important part of the community character and affordable housing stock. The City intends to conserve this community resource by discouraging consolidation of smaller lots into larger lots. Parcels of 10,000 square feet or more that are designated as Single Family Small Lot will not be permitted to subdivide into parcels smaller than 10,000 square feet.
10 dwelling
units/acre
Low Density
Multi-Family
The Low Density Multi-family designation provides for detached and attached single-family homes, condominiums, duplexes, and apartments.

The maximum density for this land use designation is 15.0 units per net acre. Unless City Council determines that a less dense project is in the best interest of the community, projects in this land use designation shall be developed at 75 to 100 percent of the maximum allowed density (11 to 15 units per acre).
15 dwelling
units/acre
Medium
Density MultiFamily
The Medium Density Multi-family designation provides for detached and attached single-family homes, condominiums, and apartments.

The maximum density for this land use designation is 38.0 units per net acre. Unless City Council determines that a less dense project is in the best interest of the community, projects with this designation shall be developed at 75 to 100 percent of the maximum allowed density (28 to 38 units per acre).
38 dwelling
units/acre
Table 2-2: General Plan Land Use Designations

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Technical Background Report | Los Altos General Plan Update 2-13

CATEGORY PRIMARY PURPOSE
MAX

DENSITY/
FAR
Senior Housing The Senior Housing designation is designed to meet a variety of the City's senior housing needs. To serve these needs, this designation provides for detached and attached single-family homes, condominiums, duplexes, and apartments. The maximum density for this land use designation is

28.0 units per net acre. Projects with this designation shall be developed at 75 to 100 percent of the maximum allowed density (21 to 28 units per acre), unless City Council determines that a less dense project is in the best interest of the community.
28 dwelling
units/acre
Commercial
Neighborhood
Commercial
The Neighborhood Commercial land use designation provides for a variety of retail uses that serve the needs of nearby neighborhoods, but do not want to supplant commercial uses in Downtown Los Altos. In addition to retail uses, these areas may also include general business, medical, or professional offices. Potential traffic impacts to surrounding neighborhoods and the Foothill Expressway should be considered when determining the allowable development intensity for each center. The Special Planning Areas section of the Land Use Element establishes the potential to increase the allowed density and intensity for the inclusion of residential development. Otherwise, the maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio of 0.5. The anticipated intensity of development in this designation is a floor area ratio of 0.35.

0.5 FAR
Thoroughfare
Commercial
The Thoroughfare Commercial land use designation provides for both retail, service, and office uses that typically rely on auto-traffic and attract customers from a citywide and/or regional trade area. As identified in the Special Planning Areas section of this Land Use Plan, floor area ratios are established based on the type of use(s) proposed. The City will consider other incentives in an effort to encourage mixed-use development and affordable housing.

Established
based
on use
proposed/
NA2
Downtown
Commercial
The Downtown Commercial land use designation provides for a wider range of general retail than the Neighborhood Commercial designation, providing opportunities for service, commercial recreation, cultural, and office uses that serve local residents. High density residential uses are also allowed to enhance the village character of the area. As identified in the Special Planning Areas section of the Land Use Plan, the City will consider increasing the maximum density and intensity of development in the Downtown Core and Periphery to enhance retail activities and encourage housing, especially affordable housing. Without these incentives, the maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio of 1.0:1 and the anticipated intensity of development is a floor area ratio of 1.0:1 for the Downtown Core and 0.8:1 for the Downtown Periphery.
1 FAR for
Downtown
Core and

0.8 for
Downtown
Periphery/
NA2
Public/Quasi Public Facilities
Public and
Institutional
The Public and Institutional land use designation provides for governmental, institutional, academic, group residence, church, community service uses and lands, utilities, easements, rights-of-way, and City-owned parking facilities. These uses are intended to be compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. Where applicable, the maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio of 0.6:1. The anticipated development intensity for this land use designation is a floor area ratio of

0.35:1.

0.6 FAR

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Chapter 02 | Land Use and Development Trends
2-14

CATEGORY PRIMARY PURPOSE
MAX

DENSITY/
FAR
Public School
Land
The Public School Land Designation applies to land owned by public school districts and used or proposed for education, recreation, administration, or other non-commercial, non-residential, or non-industrial purposes. The maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio of

0.6:1. The anticipated development intensity for this land use designation is a floor area ratio of 0.3:1.

0.6 FAR
Private School
Land
The Private School Land Designation applies to land owned by private or parochial schools and used or proposed for education, recreation, administration, or other noncommercial, non-residential, or nonindustrial purposes. The maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio of

1.0:1. The anticipated development intensity for this land use designation is a floor area ratio of 0.3:1.

1.0 FAR
Open Space
Parks The Parks designation provides for publicly owned and dedicated parkland. Activities that may be developed include areas for active sports play, large multipurpose fields for community events and informal recreation, tot lots, picnic areas, multipurpose sports fields and courts, concessions, community event space, outdoor amphitheaters, maintenance/support facilities, and caretaker facilities. The maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio of 0.4:1. The anticipated development intensity for this land use designation is a floor area ratio of

0.1:1.

0.4 FAR
Other Open
Space
This classification provides open space for the preservation of natural resources, managed production of resources, outdoor recreation and protection of health and public safety. It includes waterways, open space easements, private and public open spaces, as well as golf courses and other private recreational uses.

N/A
Planned Community
Planned
Community
The Planned Community designation provides for long-term development of large areas of land under single or common ownership or control. The Planning Community designation ensures compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods; protects the public health, safety, and welfare; provides for the long-term development of large properties; protects and preserves open space as a limited and valuable resource; and permits reasonable use of land. The Planned Community designation also preserves and protects land for recreation, scenic value, conservation or natural resources, agriculture, senior housing, residential, and low intensity public/quasi public facilities. Allowable uses include a variety of residential singlefamily and senior housing types, as well as community facilities, private schools, recreational areas, religious facilities, educational or philanthropic institutions, public utilities and services, hospitals, and open space areas.

The maximum intensity of development will be determined based on zoning of area prior to rezoning to Planned Community. Senior housing projects may be approved up to 50 dwelling units/acre.

Determined
based on
zoning of
area prior
to rezoning
to Planned
Community.

Senior
housing
projects may
be approved
up to 50
dwelling
units/acre

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Technical Background Report | Los Altos General Plan Update 2-15
To meet the RHNA allocation, the adopted 2023-2031
Housing Element identifies potential housing opportunity sites, depicted in Map 2-5. Sites are primarily concentrated in commercial areas and along arterial roadways in Los
Altos, including El Camino Real, Downtown Los Altos, San Antonio Road, Rancho Shopping Center, Loyola Corners,
Lucky Shopping Center, and Foothill Shopping Center.

Rezoning of sites along El Camino Real and at Loyola
Corners needed to accommodate the RHNA allocation has
been completed. The efforts included zoning text amendments to allow for more density in commercial, mixed use, and multifamily zoning districts like these areas. Based on the 2024 Los Altos Housing Annual Progress Report,
building permits have been issued for 245 housing units since the start of the eight-year planning period, 132 of which have been constructed to-date. Nearly half (64)
of units built are Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in
single-family neighborhoods; however, several notable
multifamily projects have been built or approved on infill sites. More information on construction and permitting
trends is provided in the “Major Recent Developments”
section below.

ZONING CODE
The City of Los Altos Zoning Code, included as Title 14 of the Municipal Code, controls the physical development
of land and the kinds of uses allowed on each individual property within the City limit. The Code implements the General Plan, providing specific requirements for lots size, building placement, density of development, and height, in addition to regulating allowable uses. As with the
General Plan land use designations, zoning designations do not always coincide with existing land uses and development intensities as built. Map 2-6 shows the existing zoning districts for Los Altos and Table 2-3 provides zoning descriptions. Zoning in the SOI is regulated by Santa Clara County.

Base Zoning Districts
Residential. There are nine different residential zoning districts that permit a range of housing types. Single-family residential districts are determined based on minimum lot sizes, while multiple-family residential districts are categorized by density. R1-10 Single Family Residential accounts for a majority of zoned land (72.0 percent) within the Planning Area, permitting single-family housing on
lots ranging between 10,000 and 20,000 square feet.

The five multiple-family residential districts account for only 1.7 percent of zoned land. These are predominantly concentrated to the west of Downtown Los Altos and two
additional sites near El Camino Real and Foothill Shopping Center. Densities can range from two to 14 units per acre.

Additional density up to the maximum permitted by the
applicable General Plan land use classification may be
allowed with approval of a permit.

Commercial. There are six commercial zoning districts
that permit a mix of retail, restaurant, office, lodging, service, and general commercial uses, as well as opportunities for residential only and mixed use developments.

The Commercial Thoroughfare (CT) zone is the most
prevalent, applicable to 54.4 acres (1.4 percent) within the Planning Area. Additionally, the plan emphasizes implementing the Downtown Los Altos Vision through four zoning designations that prescribe development and
design standards for the area. These include Commercial Downtown (CD), Commercial Retail Sales (CRS), Commercial Downtown/Multiple Family (CD/R3), and Commercial Retail Sales/Office (CRS/OAD). Other focus areas include Office-Administrative (OA-1/OA-4.5), in which standards are specifically tailored to promote development along
Altos Oaks Drive, near Loyola Corners.

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Map 2-5: Housing Element Opportunity Sites

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Map 2-6: Zoning

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Chapter 02 | Land Use and Development Trends
2-18

ZONE DESCRIPTION ACRES PERCENT
(%)

MINIMUM

LOT SIZE

MAXIMUM

COVERAGE

MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
Residential
Single-Family
(R1-10)1
Designed for
detached, lowdensity single-family
homes, allowing for
accessory structures,
home occupations,
and small
family daycares.

Characterized by a
minimum lot size of
10,000 s.f.
2,801.2 72.0 10,000 s.f.,
except on
corner lots
(11,000 s.f.)
and glad lots
(15,000 s.f.).1
35% for
structure
more than 6
ft. tall
27 ft. or 2
stories
Single-Family
(R1-H)1
Designed for
detached, lowdensity single-family
homes characterized
by, or allowing for
reduced lot sizes
(typically 10,000 s.f or
less).

54.3 1.4 20,000 s.f.,
except on
corner lots
(21,000 s.f.).

Planning
Commission
may
recommend
and City
Council may
approve
reductions.
25% 27 ft. or 2
stories, except
for flag lots
which will
have 20 ft. or 1
story
Single-Family
(R1-20)1
Designed for
detached, lowdensity single-family
homes, requiring
a minimum lot
size of 20,000 s.f.

Permits one primary
dwelling, along with
accessory structures,
home occupations,
agriculture and a
small family daycare.
290.5 7.5 20,000 s.f.,
except on
corner lots
(21,000 s.f.).
25% 27 ft. or 2
stories, except
for flag lots
which will
have 20 ft. or 1
story
Table 2-3: Base Zoning, City of Los Altos

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Technical Background Report | Los Altos General Plan Update 2-19

ZONE DESCRIPTION ACRES PERCENT
(%)

MINIMUM

LOT SIZE

MAXIMUM

COVERAGE

MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
Single-Family
(R1-40) 1
Designed for
detached, lowdensity single-family
homes, requiring
a minimum lot
size of 40,000 s.f.

Permits one primary
dwelling, along with
accessory structures,
home occupations,
agriculture/
horticulture and a
small family daycare.

55.4 1.4 40,000 s.f.,
except on
corner lots
(41,000 s.f.).
20% 27 ft. or 2
stories, except
for flag lots
which will
have 20 ft. or 1
story
MultipleFamily (R3-

4.5)
Designed for low
density, multifamily
residential
developments.

Permitted uses
include two-family
dwelling units. Its
specific purpose is to
retain and enhance
the character of the
Stevens Place and
Marshall Court area.

11.2 0.3 7,000 s.f. 60% 36 ft. or 3
stories
MultipleFamily (R3-5)Designed for
developments with
two or more units.

11.6 0.3 5,000 s.f. 60% 36 ft. or 3
stories
MultipleFamily (R3-3)Designed for
medium density
multifamily
residential
developments with
two or more units, up
to 14.5 per acre.

2.8 0.1 3,000 s.f. 60% 36 ft. or 3
stories
MultipleFamily (R3-1.8)Designed for
medium density
multifamily
residential units.

23.5 0.6 7,100 s.f. for
a vacant
property;
14,000 s.f.
for a site
with existing
structures.
65% 36 ft. or 3
stories
MultipleFamily (R3-1)Designed for
medium density
multifamily
residential units and
for hotel use upon
the granting of a use
permit.

15.5 0.4 5,100 s.f. 65% 40 ft. or 4
stories

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Chapter 02 | Land Use and Development Trends
2-20

ZONE DESCRIPTION ACRES PERCENT
(%)

MINIMUM

LOT SIZE

MAXIMUM

COVERAGE

MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
OfficeAdministrative
(OA)
Designed to
attract new office
development, allow
the integration of
residential uses
and a variety of
housing types, and
allow latitude for
creative design
and architectural
variety. Permitted
uses include officeadministrative uses,
residential only
developments,
and mixed use
developments.

Conditional uses
include reprographic
uses, data processing
centers, medical and
dental clinics, and
mortuaries.

20.5 0.5 5,100 s.f. 75% 40 ft. or 4
stories for
residential only
developments;
45 ft. or 4
stories for
mixed use
developments,
30 ft. or 2
stories for only
non-residential
use
OfficeAdministrative
(OA-1/OA-4.5)
Designed specifically
for properties along
Altos Oaks Avenue to
accommodate new
development, while
retaining design and
scale compatibility
with the surrounding
residential properties.

0.0 0.0 4,500 s.f. 75% 40 ft. or 4
stories for
residential only
developments;
45 ft. or 4
stories for
mixed use
developments,
30 ft. or 2
stories for only
non-residential
use
Commercial
Neighborhood
(CN)
Designed to allow
for mixed uses of
residential and
commercial like
offices, recycling
facilities, retail,
restaurants, and
medical/dental
offices, while retaining
and enhancing
neighborhood
character.

29.5 0.8 N/A 35% for nonresidential
uses only, no
restriction for
mixed use
developments
45 ft. for 4
stories for
mixed use
developments,
30 ft. or 2
stories for only
non-residential
use

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Technical Background Report | Los Altos General Plan Update 2-21

ZONE DESCRIPTION ACRES PERCENT
(%)

MINIMUM

LOT SIZE

MAXIMUM

COVERAGE

MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
Commercial
Downtown
(CD)
Promotes the
implementation
of the downtown
urban design plan.

Provides a full range
of retail, office, and
service uses as
well as residential
uses appropriate
to downtown,
while retaining the
downtown Los Altos
village atmosphere.

12.6 0.3% N/A N/A 40 ft. or 4
stories for
residential only
developments;
45 ft. or 4
stories for
mixed use
developments,
30 ft. or 2
stories for only
non-residential
use
Commercial
Downtown/
MultipleFamily (CD/R3)
Designed to provide
a full range of retail,
office, and service
uses appropriate to
downtown Los Altos,
while encouraging
preservation and
improvement of
village character
through a series of
design guidelines. A
large focus is added
to landscaping
features and
improving the
visual appeal
and pedestrian
orientation.

12.1 0.3% N/A N/A 40 ft. or 4
stories for
residential only
developments;
45 ft. or 4
stories for
mixed use
developments,
30 ft. or 2
stories for only
non-residential
use
Commercial
Retail Sales
(CRS)
Designed to attract
businesses to the
downtown Los Altos
Village. Encourages
a mix of uses that
meet needs of the
community, and
with housing located
above ground floor
businesses. Also helps
retain and enhance
the downtown
Los Altos Village
atmosphere.

19.0 0.5% N/A N/A 40 ft. or 4
stories for
residential only
developments;
45 ft. or 4
stories for
mixed use
developments,
30 ft. or 2
stories for only
non-residential
use

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Los Altos City CouncilJuly 14, 2026

Los Altos City Council
July 14, 2026