1 City Council Special Meeting Agenda
January 21, 2026
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A SPECIAL MEETING OF THE
LOS ALTOS HILLS CITY COUNCIL WILL BE HELD ON
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M.
Meetings of the City Council are held in-person. As a courtesy, and in compliance with applicable state law, staff and members of the public may participate in the meeting in person at Town Hall or virtually via Zoom Video Conference. Members of the City Council may participate remotely from time to time in accordance with the provisions of Government Code section 54953.
To attend the meeting in person:
City Council Chambers, 26379 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 To provide Public Comment in person:
Members of the public wishing to speak are requested to complete a speaker card and submit it to the City Clerk at the meeting.
To participate in the meeting via Zoom Video Conference, please follow the instructions below:
Public comment will also be accepted via email at [email protected] prior to the start of the meeting. Written comments will be posted on the website and distributed to the Council. If you choose to email your comments, please indicate in the subject line “FOR PUBLIC COMMENT” and indicate the item number.
If you wish to submit a public comment during the meeting, please use the following information. Before speaking, please identify yourself by name and where you reside. The City Council meeting will be live streamed on the Town’s website and via zoom at the following location:
https://bit.ly/LAHCommitteeGoals2026
Webinar ID: 856 7981 5670
Passcode: 94022
NOTICE TO PUBLIC
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on the open session portion of this agenda will be made available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s office located at 26379 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills, California during normal business hours.
These materials will also be made available on the City website at www.losaltoshills.ca.gov subject to Staff’s ability to post the documents before the meeting.
Town of Los Altos Hills
City Council Special Meeting Agenda
Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
Council Chambers, 26379 Fremont Road
Los Altos Hills, California
2 City Council Special Meeting Agenda
January 21, 2026
CALL TO ORDER (6:00 P.M.)
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. PUBLIC COMMENT (Public Comment is Limited to Items which are the Subject of the Special Meeting) Speakers and members of the audience are reminded that public comments must comply with the Town’s Rules of Decorum. Profane language or disruptive conduct is prohibited under Los Altos Hills Municipal Code Sections 2-1.115(c) and (d).
2. STUDY SESSION
A. Annual Reports by the Town of Los Altos Hills Planning Commission and Standing Committees on 2025 Accomplishments and Proposed Work Plans for 2026-2027
3. ADJOURN
Pursuant to Ordinance No. 506, the Council Meeting shall adjourn no later than 10:00 p.m., unless otherwise approved by a majority of the Councilmembers present.
ASSISTANCE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in the meeting, please contact the City Clerk at 650-941-7222. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.
Copies of all agenda reports and supporting data are available for inspection at Town Hall, 26379 Fremont Road 72 hours in advance of the meeting.
A complete agenda can be found on the Town’s webpage: http://www.losaltoshills.ca.gov. A complete packet of information is available for inspection during the meeting at the table to the back of the Council Chambers and online. Council may take action on any agendized matter in any manner deemed appropriate by Council.
Los Altos Hills Environmental Design &
Protection Committee
Annual Report 2026-2027
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 21, 2026
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN & PROTECTION
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
EDPC
Members: Minimum 5 - Maximum 8 Where: Chambers Conference Room When: 2nd Tuesday at 5:00 PM Council Liaison: Kavita Tankha Member Term Duration Current
Term
Grace Tsang(Chair) 6/16/22-6/16/26 1
Elizabeth Loinaz (Vice-Chair) 7/21/25-7/21/29 2
Anne Hsiao (Secretary) 5/16/24-5/16/28 1
Carol Gottlieb 9/19/24 - 9/19//28 4
Ivy Mei 1/29/25 - 1/29/29 1
Vijay Chawla 8/18/22 - 8/18/26 2
Anna Chien
Vacant
COMMITTEE CHARTER
• To work for the beautification of the Town and the protection of its resources. • To assist staff in implementation of the Town landscape policy through recommendations at subdivision, site development, Planning Commission and City Council meetings, and through review and inspection of required plantings.
• To study and make recommendations relating to landscaping and protection of public property, such as park lands, and treatment of riparian habitat and open space within the Town. • To identify nuisance problems and sources of pollution and recommend actions for abatement; and
• To prepare educational materials for residents outlining Town, ordinances and enforcement with regard to landscape design and protection of the environment. • When requested to make recommendations to staff on proposed new development including new homes, remodels, secondary dwellings, and auxiliary structures as to impact on site specific and the surrounding neighboring sites reviewed by the Site Development Plans and Field visits. Such impacts would include topography, vegetation, drainage, lighting, skylights, riparian habitat, and conservation easements.
• To attend all Fast Track/Site Development meetings to support committee and staff recommendations.
ACTIVITIES IN 2025
Site Visits with Reports for Planning Saff
• Reported on 32 site applications with respect to screening, lighting, noise, plantings • Attended FastTrack meetings for visited sites
Native Plant and Water Use
• Created a plant list for LAH Public Works Department and Town Hall Sites • Proposed and had accepted a reduced landscape water budget via WELO formula • Town Hall North border native hedge installed and maintained
CURRENT PROJECTS
Housing Element and Objective Design Standards
• Working with staff and Planning Commission provide definitions needed for each document
Ordinance and Policy Updates with Staff
• Fencing
• Maximum Development Area (MDA)
• Artificial Turf
• Tree Preservation – revisit to include mature non-oak species and consider wildfire • Reconciling Street Corner Sight-Line Allowance Rules
• Wildlife Corridor
FUTURE PROJECTS
Firescaping
• Work on Heritage House Zone 0 Plant Removal
• Work with EPRC on Policies to promote fire-safer landscapes Phase II Native Garden
• Install new (and renew existing) native plantings along with irrigation and rain harvesting features
• Estimated partial cost of $25,000
FUTURE PROJECTS
View Ordinance
• Revise to equalize rights of viewer and tree owner
Update Landscape Guide
• Include details of adjusting irrigation as landscape grows in Update Planning Policies
• Light Wells
• Parking
Los Altos Hills Environmental Initiatives
Committee
Annual Report 2026-2027
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 21, 2026
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Environmental
Initiatives
Members: Minimum 5 - Maximum 11 Where: Duxbury Conference Room When: 4th Thursday at 6:30 PM Council Liaison: George Tyson Member Term Duration Current
Term
Anand Ranganathan(Chair) 10/22/24 - 10/22/28 1
Mike Salameh(Vice-Chair) 6/16/22 - 6/16/26 1
Steve Schmidt (Secretary) 5/16/24 - 5/16/28 2
Johann George 5/17/23 - 5/17/27 1
George Lee 2/16/23 - 2/16/27 1
Vrinda Bhandarkar 10/22/24 - 10/22/28 2
April Anair 1022/24 - 10/22/28 3
Aileen Lee 11/20/25 - 11/20/29 3
Vacant 1
Vacant 2
Vacant 3
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES COMMITTEE
The charges to and duties of this Committee shall be:
• to assist the Town in the development of and refinement of the Council’s Environmental Strategic Goals for Town-owned property;
• to recommend a set of initiatives that would lead to the progress and achievement of these goals; and
• to review other environmental initiatives to be proposed to the City Council, subject to the appropriate hearings, that would affect other aspects of Town policy including residential development and Town infrastructure.
2025 ACHIEVEMENTS
REACH CODE Update
• Joint Effort with Staff, SVCE
• Huge thank you to Director Bradford and the Community Development Staff • Belt and Suspenders Approach
• Electrification and Clean Air
• Multi-family to be All Electric
2025 ACHIEVEMENTS
GHG Inventory
• Presented to the City Council in September 2025
• Helps the Town Understand our Performance with Respect to Goals • Ocean Liner is Turning, but Needs to Turn Faster
WELO Update
• Another Joint Effort
• Environmental Design & Protection Committee
• Community Development Staff
• Attempts to Curtail Growth in Water Usage
2025 ACHIEVEMENTS
Community Outreach
• Picnic Booth
• Newcomer Reception
• Mike S. working to get published as widely as possible Decarb Kiosk
• SVCE Grant used for maximum impact
• Electrification Tour Outside Town Hall
2025 ACHIEVEMENTS
SolarApp+
• Assisted with SolarApp for Solar Permitting in Town
• Hope to apply this model to other permits going forward Foothill College
• Currently doing all the right things
2026 PLANS
Outreach
• Our Town Publication
• Annual Town Picnic
• Newcomers’ Reception
• Town Crier
• City Manager’s Weekly
• Might require staff time and budget ($5k?)
2026 PLANS
Tracking Electrification
• Electrification Dashboard
• Cannot improve what we do not track
GHG Inventory
• Annual Affair
• Keep track of progress towards climate goals
SVCE Grant
• Assist Public Works on grant and implementation
2026 PLANS
Foothill College
• Outreach to Foothill re-electrification
• Collaborate with Foothill on sustainability
REACH Code
• Keep REACH Codes Current
• Defense against attacks on Code
• Might require staff time
Los Altos Hills
Emergency Preparedness and Response
Committee 2025 Annual Report
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 15, 2026
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Member Term
Phil Harter (Chair) 3/23 – 2/27
Dave Stewart (Vice Chair) 6/22 – 6/26
Amita Sachdeva (Secretary) 6/22 – 6/26
Terry Kearney 6/22 – 6/26
Sam Wood 6/22 – 6/26
Benjamin Gikis 6/22 – 6/26
Rabindra (Rob) Singh 2/23 – 2/27
Vacancy
Vacancy
EPRC
Members: Minimum 5 - Maximum 9 Where: Chambers Conference Room When: 1st Tuesday at 6:00 PM Council Liaison: Rajiv Bhateja
EPRC COMMITTEE ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
Associate Members
Neil Katin
Bill Lattin
Victoria Bebee
Andrew Kirk
David Gilmour
Katy Serventi
EPRC CHARTER
• Advise the Town on its emergency mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery programs, goals, policies, plans, protocols, and priorities related to emergencies, and make recommendations to Staff and City Council
• Provide guidance and support to the emergency volunteer programs and community outreach programs on their operations, planning, protocols, and procedures
EPRC 2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Reviewed and recommended changes to the update of Title 4 of the LAHMC • Reviewed and recommended wildfire hardening changes to the LAH building ordinance, including WUI designation for LAH
• Reviewed and recommended Fire Hazard Severity Map for LAH • Formed a joint subcommittee with the EDPC to review LAH ordinances related to landscape and wildfire/storm hardening
• Developed a comprehensive tiered mass notification plan for LAH, including • Improve subscription rate to Alert SCC
• An audible alert system to supplement emergency notifications, particular in the parts of Town with poor cell coverage
• Community Emergency Communications Leaders
• Community Emergency Preparedness Program
• Monitored and assisted LAH Emergency Group with amateur radio repeater refresh • Explored provision of an enhanced medical response using licensed medical personnel living in LAH to CERT casualty collection point at Foothill College
• Advised on the radio room upgrades in the Heritage House remodel • Work with Town staff to update emergency plans and required documents • Enrolled community members in AlertSCC at Town events
EPRC 2-YEAR GOALS (2026-2027)
Responsibility Priority Estimated Cost Annual Staff Time Year Staffing Needs
Hire Fulltime Emergency Manager Town Critical $200K 1 and 2 Maximize Emergency Mass Notification to Residents
Improve AlertSCC as our primary emerg mass notification, get to subscription rate in LAH of 40% and annual testing EPRC Critical $0 Minimal for testing 1 Radio Communications
Complete upgrades to repeater LAHEG Critical $6,200 Procurement - Minimal 1
Complete Heritage House Radio Room Town Critical No additional No additional 1 Upgrade EOC Radio Room Equipment Ham Club Critical $8,300 Procurement - Minimal 1
EPRC 2-YEAR GOALS (2026-2027)
Responsibility Priority Estimated Cost Annual Staff Time Year Disaster Mitigation (wildfire, storm, earthquake)
Work with EDPC to propose updated landscaping codes
and standards to reflect our wildfire risk reality
EPRC Medium $0 Minimal 1
Pursue designation as a Fire Risk Reduction Community
by the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection for 2026-2027 cycle
Town Medium Minimal 200 hours
2 Maximize Emergency Mass Notification to
Residents
Complete sound survey and develop LRAD-audible roll-out plan.
EPRC High $30K (sound
survey); TBD
rollout
RFQ and
procurement
support
survey: 1
implement:
2 Establish Emergency Action Teams (comms of leadership), provide training and outfit with emergency
communication radios and response kit
EPRC Medium $20K 500 hours for
Outreach and
procurement
support
1 Community Outreach
Implement Community Emergency Preparation Program
in LAH (reinventing the PEP program)
EPRC High $10K 500 hours 2
Other
Fill EPRC membership vacancies Town and
EPRC
Medium $0 None 1
HIRING A FULL-TIME EMERGENCY MANAGER FOR LAH
• Single most important goal for emergency preparedness • We have been unsuccessful at keeping up with required work with part-time contracts • Workload includes:
• Update and maintain California mandated documentation: EOP, Safety Element, etc. • Train town staff in emergency operations, including drills • Coordinate activities with Disaster Service Volunteers: CERT, Ham Club, etc. • Represent town emergency response requirements in LRAD, cell tower, N5 sensors • Coordinate incident response, post-incident reporting and evaluation • Coordinate with LAHCFD plans and ops.
• Coordinate goals and work plans (disaster mitigation, response, etc.) with EPRC • Community outreach
Finance & Investment Committee
Annual Report 2026-2027
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 21, 2026
FINANCE & INVESTMENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS
FIC
Members: Minimum 5 - Maximum 9 Where: Chambers Conference Room When: 1st Monday at 4 PM
Council Liaisons: Mayor Bhateja and
Vice Mayor Tyson
Member Term Duration Current
Term
Allan Epstein (Chairman) 10/22/24 - 10/22/28 5
Kjell Karlsson(Vice-Chairman) 2/20/25 - 2/20/29 4
Sean McGraw 11/13/23-11/12/27 1
Michele Raffin 5/17/23 - 5/17/27 1
Jeanne Seeley 5/20/24 - 5/19/28 1
Dominique Grau 4/17/25 - 4/17/29 1
Amy Young 9/18/25 - 9/18/29 1
Vatsal Sonecha 12/18/25-12/18/29 1
Vacant
Associate members- Frank Lloyd, Jim Lai , Roddy Sloss (secretary)
FINANCE & INVESTMENT COMMITTEE CHARTER
• To serve as an advisory body to the City Council on financial and investment matters and operations related thereto.
• To review five-year capital budgets and revenue projections and make recommendations to the City Council.
• To review the annual budget and make recommendations to the City Council. • To review the annual audit and make recommendations to the City Council. • To advise the Council on change and selection of auditors. • To study all fiscal issues and recommend possible improvements and economies. • To develop and recommend an investment Policy that protects to monitor investment performance and recommend changes as appropriate. All such recommendations shall be approved by the City Council. The City Manager shall execute any approved investment decisions. • To monitor pension and OPEB obligations and recommend appropriate mitigation and reserve policies.
REGULAR RECURRING ACTIVITIES
Annually-
• Review and approve ACFR
• Review and approve Budget
• Review and recommend changes to reserves
• Review OPEB and Pension valuation reports
• Review Mid-year Budget update
Quarterly
• Review and recommend investment decisions pertaining to cash, pension and OPEB assets
• Review department financial activity check list
Monthly- review Treasurer's and Disbursement reports and Finance Department project progress
Biennially- review insurance policies
2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• Audit
• Budget
• Mid-year Budget update
• Reserve review and recommended changes
• OPEB and Pension review and recommended $1 million investment in PARS • Reviewed excessive building fees and recommended refunds • Special projects-support ad hoc council committees, cell tower renewal • Pathway Impact Fee
• Construction Time Limit Policy
PROJECT RECOMMENDATIONS LEFT OVER FROM
PRIOR YEARS
Left over from the 2023 Work Plan included in the 2024-2025 Work Plan • CAP and Building Fee Study
• Complete new Cost Allocation Plan and Building Fee Study. • Implement new fees and deposits.
Left over from the 2024-2025 Work Plan
• Investigate and implement systems to increase automation of accounting operations, commencing with Accounts Payable, and increase public transparency and access to financial performance.
• Develop five-year financial outlook.
• This item was subsequently deleted due to the Staff not having time to provide outlook data necessary to complete the project.
PROJECT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2026-2027
• CAP and Building Fee Study
• Complete new Cost Allocation Plan and Building Fee Study. • Implement new fees and deposits.
• Increase accounting system automation and transparency • Purchasing, Bank Reconciliations, TRAK-IT
• Improve Financial Transparency (e.g., increasing public access to financial data) • Develop comprehensive five-year capital plan. Decide on Town Hall expansion and implementation. Develop five-year financial outlook.
• Document Standard Operating Procedures in all departments (Desk Procedures) and update municipal code as required.
• Issue timely refunds for all deposits on completed projects and excessive fees.
PROJECT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2026-2027
CONTINUED
• PA and LA Sewer Processing and Conveyance Charges
• Eliminate Inequitable Arrangements affecting LAH share of Sewer Plant Operations and Capital Expense and Markup.
Note: This project was not approved as part of the 2024-2025 workplan but an Ad hoc committee was formed to investigate the matter.
• Perform Sewer Rate Study
RECOMMENDATION: CONSIDER CHANGES TO THE LIST
OF PROJECTS THAT MAKE THE WORK PLAN
To focus on key matters and avoid departmental inconsistencies Council may wish to consider removing from the Work Plan
Items that are routine or customary or required by Law (below the water line, in Peter’s parlance). In finance related matters this might include:
• ACFR
• Budget
• Recurring Annual Capital Projects - e.g., pavement and sewer.
This may conflict with the purpose of Council Meeting staff reports citing whether a recommended action is, “part of the 20XX Work Plan”.
Los Altos Hills History Committee
Annual Report 2026
TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 21, 2026
HISTORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
History
Members: Minimum 5 - Maximum 9 Where: Duxbury Room or Heritage House When: 3rd Tuesday at 3:30 PM Council Liaison: Linda Swan Member Term
Duration Current
Term
Duffy Price (Secretary) 1/23 – 1/27 1
Carol Gottlieb (Co-Chair) 5/24 – 5/28 4
Sally Wood (Program Chair) 7/25 – 7/29 3
Jitze Couperus 2/24 – 2/28 4
Bernardo Ferrari (Co-Chair) 8/22 – 8/26 1
Sylvia Jensen (Vice Chair) 4/22 – 3/26 1
Patty Woolsey 9/23 – 9/27 1
Vacant
Vacant
Associate members: Joe Heindrick, Barry Smith, Deanne Troyen, Nancy Traficanti
HISTORY COMMITTEE CHARTER
The charges to and duties of this Committee shall be:
• To implement policies that preserve the historic and cultural fabric of the Town; • To protect the historic and cultural resources from inappropriate destruction; • To preserve community input into the policymaking process; • To research and document best practices and model preservation policies; • To organize and make available to the public the historic artifacts that have been preserved and to continue to collect historic artifacts for future generations.
Nothing in the charges and duties shall be interpreted as authorizing the mandatory historic preservation of private residence or requiring property owners to submit their pending site development plans before the Committee.
HISTORY 2024 ACCOMPLISHMENTS, PART 1
Accomplishments made by our Committee/Commission in 2024
1. Sponsored community-based presentations for
• Historical Walk from Town Hall to June Town Picnic via Viscaino, for ~ 25 attendees • Annual Presentation: History of Horses and Pathways – Their Influence on Making LAH a Connected Community, September 29, 2024. for ~ 70-80 attendees.
• Eight historical presentations
• Reception
• Recorded video for archival retention
2. Our Town Publication
• Continued oversight of articles selected for publication. Articles include the cultural and historic heritage of the community as well as environmental issues of special interest to the Town. • Four issues reviewed and published.
HISTORY 2024 ACCOMPLISHMENTS, PART 2
Accomplishments made by our Committee/Commission in 2024 continued
3. Submitted reports and recommendations to the Planning Commission and Council on Historical sites for:
Westwind Bard, Altamont; Avidano House, Robleda; Carriage House, Foothill College; Willow Pond, Willow Pond Lane; Marth Lynn Water Tower, Fremont Hills Country Club.
4. Participated with Ham Radio Operations and ED&P to advise and review the design for the Heritage House renovation.
5. Continued acquisition of content to be used in our Historical Archives
HISTORY 2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS, PART 1
Accomplishments made by our Committee/Commission in 2025
1. Sponsored community-based presentations for
• Historical Walk from Town Hall to June Town Picnic via Concepcion including a tour of Fremont Hills Stables, for ~ 25 attendees.
• Annual Presentation: Ferrari Family Members Memories from over 100 Years in the Los Altos Hills Area September 21, 2025. for ~ 70-80 attendees.
• Presentation by Bernardo Ferrari, who has lived in Los Altos Hill all of his life. • Reception.
• Recorded video for archival retention.
2. Heritage House: Continued to work with staff on renovation of the Heritage House.
3. Landmark designation for the Marth Lynn Water Tank at Fremont Hills Country Club was made part of condition of approval for new pool house by the Town Council.
HISTORY 2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS, PART 2
Accomplishments made by our Committee/Commission in 2025, continued
4. Progress was made on the historical update to the general plan.
5. Began planning for a week of open house events in January at the Heritage House as part of the 70th town anniversary celebration.
6. Our Town Publication
• Continued oversight of articles selected for publication. Articles include the cultural and historic heritage of the community as well as environmental issues of special interest to the Town. • Two issues reviewed and published.
7. Requested maintenance assistance for clearing brush near the Shumate gate.. Work was accomplished by maintenance, and the gates are much more visible and more protected.
8. Collaborate with the Acting City Manager on the new direction of “Our Town” might take under the “Our Town Informal Request for Proposals” to insure it stays relative to the Town.
IN-PROGRESS FROM PREVIOUS WORK PLANS
Heritage House
• We plan to have open house events in January Celebrating the Town’s 70th Anniversary with the reopening of the renovated Heritage House. Staff Time – 2 hours – Cost - $250.00 - $500.00. • After we will begin the process or organizing our files in the Committee’s Storage Room and arranging the Sitting area where we can display the Town’s artifacts for public access.
Work plan
• Continue work on the history element to move it out of the conservation element. Staff Time- 20=40 hours.
Westwind Barn
• Designation as a California Historical Landmark was placed on hold. • Application still needs to be processed and submitted by the Town. Staff Time – 20 to 30 Hours Filling Fee ? Plaques for Heritage Trees Byrne Preserve
• Staff Time – Making of Plaques by Staff to match the ones already there. Cost $200.00
HISTORY COMMITTEE PROJECTS FOR 2026-2028
Project #1
Create a Historic Resource Ordinance
• Adopt a Historic Resource Ordinance that will allow the Town to review all the homes over 50 years old for historical significance beginning with those listed in Appendix A Inventory Sites and Structures of the Conservation Element of the General Plans. Staff Time 20-40 Hours Project #2
250th anniversary of the De Anza Expedition
• Reinstall of DeAnza Plaques with appropriate explanation concerning the re-enactment of the ride Staff Time – 2 Hours. Cost Estimate $500-$1,500.00
• Participate in the 250th celebration with other historical organizations.
HISTORY COMMITTEE PROJECTS FOR 2026-2028
Project #3
Educational Programs
• Continue our mission to provide historical education for residents through walks, articles, and presentations. • We will have our traditional annual presentation in the fall of each year/ Staff Time – 3 Hours Cost estimate $1,500.00.
• We will continue to have history walks before the town picnic. • We will explore smaller scale presentations and additional history walks.
Project #4
Historical Landmark Designations:
• Request permission from the Church for the Chapel of the Hills to be designated as a Town Landmark.
Committee with Permission of Council.
HISTORY PROJECT 2026-2031 - 75TH ANNIVERSARY
• Research History of Town by Residents and compile into a written History of TownFirst two years – Volunteer Labor
Questions?
Los Altos Hills Open Space Committee
Annual Report 2026-2027
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 21, 2026
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Open Space
Members: Minimum 5 - Maximum 9 Where: Chambers Conference Room When: 2nd Wednesday at 9:30 AM Council Liaison: Stan Mok Member Term
Duration Current
Term
Anita Baldwin(Chair) 2022-02-17 2026-02-16
Sarah He (Vice-Chair) 2024-05-16 2028-05-15
Eric Bredo 2025-03-20 2029-03-19
Peter Brown 2022-03-17 2026-03-16
Richard Contreras 2025-03-20 2029-03-19
Viggy Mokkarala 2022-02-17 2026-02-26
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE CHARTER
In compliance with the General Plan, we advise and assist the Town Council, Planning Commission, planning staff, and residents on native habitats (creeks, trees, plants, wildlife, steep slopes, etc.).
Additionally, we collaborate with regional agencies (Valley Water, Animal Services, Weed Management Area, County, CalFire, etc.) to bring latest information to our Town.
ACTIVITIES IN 2024 – 2025
• 16 site visits with reports including recommendations for Open Space Easements, fences, riparian habitat, invasive plants, tree health, geology of area (liquefaction, faults)
• Attended fast track meetings
• Advised town on Byrne Preserve planting and fencing
• Sent educational messages via the City Manager’s weekly report • Advised the Town Council and via Ad Hoc committee for Objective Design Standards for the Housing Element, and the Planning Commission as pertains to creek protection for the HE
• Advised residents on stinkwort removal and creek protection
UPCOMING PROJECTS FOR 2026-2027
• LAHCFD Open Space Easement language
• Work with Denise Gluhan on language to guide homeowners on clearing their easements for fire mitigation while remaining sensitive to habitat • Host Education Forum
• On the geology and hydrology of the Los Altos Hills
• Draft Ordinances – keep on front burner
• Work with staff and EDPC on Tree Ordinance
• Fence Ordinance – compliance with wildlife corridor bill • Assist Town with Bench Donation Policy
• Location, naming, application
• Continue to Coordinate with Town on Grassroots Ecology • Continue to Support Town Council and Planning Commission on Housing Element
Los Altos Hills Parks, Recreation and
Community Events (PRCE) Committee
Annual Report 2025
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
PARKS, RECREATION & COMMUNITY EVENTS COMMITTEE
MEMBERS
PRCE Members: Minimum 5 - Maximum: 10 Where: Duxbury Conference Room When: 4th Monday at 6 PM Council Liaison: Stanley Mok
Current
Term Member Term Duration
Jasmeen Pombra (Chair) 1/29/2025-1/28/2029 1Boxia Schmidt 1/29/2025-1/28/2029 1Jennifer Lauren Kan Bardsley 1/29/2025-1/28/2029 1Yibin Tang 1/29/2025-1/28/2029 1Weiwen Li 1/29/2025-1/28/2029 1Mukta Sharangpani 1/29/2025-1/28/2029 1Lana Einschlag 1/29/2025-1/28/2029 1Lew Jamison 1/29/2025-1/28/2029 1April Anair 1/29/2025-1/28/2029 1
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE CHARTER
The charges to and duties of this Committee shall be:• Advisory Role: Continue serving as an advisory body to the Town Council on all matters related to yearround recreational programs and activities for both children and adults. • Program Development: Create and expand recreational programs and activities, evaluate existing facilities, and make recommendations to ensure they align with the Town’s general plan. • Welcoming Program: Strengthen efforts to welcome new residents through coordinated outreach — including welcome packets, personal greetings, phone calls, or invitations to special events. • Community Events: Plan and host regular Town events such as the Annual Picnic, Pathways Run, and other special gatherings that foster community connection and engagement. • Resident Communication: Keep Los Altos Hills residents informed and engaged through articles in Our Town and other communication channels, including event information tables and digital updates.
2025
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Committee Merger: Successfully combined the
Parks and Recreation Committee with the Community Relations Committee to streamline planning and collaboration.New Events: Launched new community activities, including two Family Game Nights and the Gnomeo event, both drawing great participation and enthusiasm.Newcomers Reception: Hosted a warm and well-received welcome event for new residents to help them connect with the community.
Town Picnic: Organized the town’s largest
annual gathering with over 2,000 attendees. The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback, and our committee table gathered valuable input from community members.Traditional Events: Continued beloved traditions such as the Pathways Run, 4th of July Parade, Hoedown, and Barn Lighting.Cost Management: Maintained event quality while keeping costs stable despite inflation pressures.
GOALS FOR 2026
Continue planning and enhancing major signature
events — Town Picnic and Pathways Run: Build on the
success of these cornerstone events by introducing new activities, improving logistics, and strengthening community engagement to ensure they remain highlights of the town’s annual calendar.Support development of the Heritage House Café and Community Room as a central gathering place:Collaborate with town staff and community partners to help shape this new social hub, promoting it as a welcoming space for residents to connect, host gatherings, and enjoy local programs.
Contribute to the planning and promotion of the Town
Pickleball Court: Work closely with relevant committees and staff to ensure the new facility meets community needs, supports active recreation, and encourages residents of all ages to participate.Explore creative ways to attract new residents and encourage participation in community activities:
Develop outreach initiatives, such as welcome events, social gatherings, and communications campaigns, to help new residents feel at home and foster a stronger sense of belonging and involvement in town life.
THANKS !
Mayor TankhaCouncilmember MokCody EinfaltEmina Mahic
Los Altos Hills Pathways Committee
Annual Report 2025
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 21, 2026
PATHWAYS COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Pathways
Members: Minimum 5 - Maximum 9 Where: Chambers Conference Room When: 4th Monday at 6:30 PM Council Liaison: Linda Swan Member Term Duration Current
Term
Nick Erndt (Chair) 11/21/24 - 11/21/28 1
Mike Orlando 7/18/2024 - 7/18/2028 1
Marc Gurwith 10/22/2024 - 10/22/2028 1
Richard Partridge 2/16/23 – 2/16/27 2
Mike Henshaw 10/22/2024 - 10/22/2028 1
Vacancy 1
Vacancy 2
Vacancy 3
Vacancy 4
PATHWAYS COMMITTEE CHARTER
The charges to and duties of this Committee shall be:
a. to work for the preservation and enhancement of the pathways within the Town for the use and enjoyment of all residents; b. to review and recommend changes to the Master Path Plan and the Bicycle Plan of the Town; c. to make recommendations at subdivision, site development, Planning Commission and City Council meetings regarding pathway easements;
d. to meet regularly with the City Manager or the Manager’s designee to render advice on pathway activities, priorities, and necessary maintenance;
e. to communicate to residents the concepts and locations of paths and trails within the Town as approved by the City Council; f. to study and recommend ordinances and resolutions relating to acquisition, construction, maintenance and use of public trails and pathways;
g. to communicate Town policies and procedures regarding pathways if advised to do so by the City Council; and h. to make recommendations to the City Council regarding both the maintenance and capital improvements budgets with regard to pathways.
Executive Summary 2025 Accomplishments
• Workplan goals
• Investigated the feasibility study of 2024-2025 Updated Workplan Midyear-Update-to-2024-25- Work-Plan-Adopted-with-Milestones
• Completed Saddle Mountain to Stirrup Way, off-road path (1100’) • Prep work for future development (Magdalena, Summerhill) • Altamont and Magdalena are likely the new paths that will be installed in 2026 • CEQA Middle Fork to Maple Leaf Ct Path section in process • Old Page Mill to Christopher Lane Path development is approved and assumed by CalTrans but need to follow up periodically
• Moody to Corbetta on Altamont ten-segment plan is recommended for 2026/2027 • Fremont from Arastradero to St. Francis ten-segment plan is recommended for 2026/2027
Executive 2026-2027 Goals
• Project 1: Magdalena is planned on being installed in 2026 • Project 2: Summerhill Phase 2 possibly installed 2027 (tied to county issues and encroachment permit)
• Project 3: Altamont from Moody to Corbetta ten-segment plan is recommended for installation in 2026
• Project 4: Middle Fork to Maple Leaf Court Path CEQA final review in 2026, with inclusion of the segment in the Master Path Plan
• Old Page Mill to Christopher Lane Path is assumed by Caltrans but needs periodic follow up to ensure in Caltrans workplan possibly for 2026/2027
• Project 5: Development of West Fremont from Arastradero to St. Francis plan is recommended for 2027
• Implementation of new pathway impact fee which allows developers to build pathways (Permit checklist to include pathways in site plan, quick assessment by pathway ad on-site hoc committee)
• Update GIS maps to include loops, as well as better query capability • Update long term Master Path Plan strategy to develop more segments
2025 Accomplishments
• Thanks to WooJae Kim, Astha Khanal, Michael Schloetter and the Maintenance Crew, and all Town Staff that helped develop and maintain pathways.
• Worked with Neighbors or County on:
1) Magdalena Rd Ave Phase
2) Summerhill Ave Phase
3) Saddle Mountain to Stirrup Way
4) Old Page Mill to Christopher Lane Path
5) Countywide Trails Map Update with Juan Bautista de Anza Trail designation.
Pathway 2025 Work Plan Accomplishments
Path Length (ft) Resource Status Type
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Magdalena Rd Phase 2 1,915 Contractor In process on-road X X X X Summerhill Ave Phase 2 2,300 Contractor Easment needed, County Discussions on-road X X X X Saddle Mountain to Stirrup Way 1100 In house on-road X X Old Page Mill to Christopher Lane 350 CalTrans In Caltrans Workplan on-road X X Middle Fork to Maple Leaf Ct 1,230 Contractor CEQA off-road X 2025
2025 CIP Pathway Status Drives 2026/27 Plan
• Magdalena Rd
• Summerhill Ave
• Middle Fork to Maple Leaf Ct
• Old Page Mill to Christopher Lane Path
Pipeline emptied due to cost, lack of easement and approval delays Proposed paths for 2026/27
Path Length (ft) Resource Type of Path Construction (approx. date) Status Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Magdalena Rd 1,915 Contractor On-road (IIB) Summer 2026 In process X X X X X X X X Summerhill Ave 2,300 Contractor On-road (IIB) Summer 2027 Easment needed, County DiscussionsX X X X X X X X X X X X Middle Fork to Maple Leaf Ct 1,230 Contractor Off-road 2027 CEQA X X X X Moody to Corbetta on Altamont 430 (new) In house On-road (IIB) Spring 2026 Discussions X X Fremont from Arastradero to St. Francis 1,900 In house On-road (IIB) 2027 Discussions X X X X X X Old Page Mill to Christopher Lane 350 County On-road TBD CalTrans Call Call Call Call Call Call Call Call Call 2025 2026 2027
Magdalena
• Completion expected by end of 2026
Summerhill
• Continuous discussions with County, 1 more easement needed to complete segment
Altamont
• Relatively flat, some trees in pathway along Moody, revamp of current sections
Middle Fork to Maple Leaf CtMiddle Fork to Maple Leaf Ct • CEQA Middle Fork to Maple Leaf Ct Path section
Old Page Mill to Christopher Lane
• Project taken over by CalTrans. Need to remind CalTrans quarterly!
Fremont
• Relatively flat, refresh existing paths
Work Plan Project Inputs
• Project 1: Stake, design, install and complete construction of four on-road pathways over two years.
• Project 2: Stake, design, install and complete construction of one or more off-road pathways over two years.
• Project 3: Adjust the pathway process to reduce the pathway install cost.
Project 3: Reduce Pathway Install Cost
• Look for efficiencies to reduce pathway infrastructure cost • Recommend using Maintenance Staff to install off-road paths • Investigate and recommend simplified road-right-of-way construction process • Remove requirement for header boards?
• Look for ways to fund completion of pathway system
• Pathway impact fee has been approved to provide necessary funding for current and future pathways – based on NEXUS study in 2024
Summary
• Portions of the 2024/2025 ten-segment pathway build plan were completed • Summerhill Phase 2 is likely to be installed in 2027
• Magdalena Phase 2 is likely to be installed in 2026
• Altamont is recommended for 2026/2027
• West Fremont is recommended for 2026/2027
• Questions?
Selection
• On MPP
• Have
Easements
• PWC
Recommended
• CC approves
Planning
• Feasibility
Walk
• Survey Staking
• Topo mapping
• Public Input
• Estimating
Scope
• Staff build or
contract out?
• CIP needed?
Design and
Approval
• Detailed
design if
required
• CC CIP
approval if
needed
• Other
approvals as
needed
• State,
County, City,
Army Corp of
Engineers,
SEQA, SVWD
• Public Input
Build
• Installed by
Contractor or
Town
Maintenance
Staff
Backup
New Path Development Process – Initial Draft
Los Altos Hills Planning Commission
Annual Report 2026-2027
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 21, 2026
PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS
PC
Members: 5 members Where: Council Chambers
When: 1st Thursday at 6:00 PM Council Liaison: none
Member Term Duration Current
Term
Birgitta Indaco (Chair) 6/24 - 6/28 2
Jim Waschura (Vice-Chair) 6/24 - 6/28 2
Alisa Bredo 6/22 - 6/26 1
Rajiv Patel 6/22 - 6/26 2
2024 & 2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Housing Element items discussed in Total of 23 meetings • Multi-family Zoning
• Objective Design Standards discussed and drafted (7 meetings) • Municipal Code Updates
• WELO
• Pathways
• ADU
• Site Development Reviews – 24 properties
• Variances
• Conditional Use Permits
2024 & 2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Code Interpretations
• SB9 units with 900 square foot allowance
• Grading Policy of decks and balconies
• Master Pathway review of Maple Leaf Court to Middle Fork Lane • Reviewed in 2 meetings and then postponed into the future • Ongoing
• 2 Ad Hoc Committees working on issues and code updates for • ADUs ( Commissioners Waschura and Bredo)
• SB 9 ( Commissioners Indaco and Patel)
PROJECT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2026-2027
Housing Element Programs – Mandatory (driven by planning staff, supported by the Commission) • A-12 Program (duplexes & triplexes) - early engagement with residents – due Q1 2027 • ADU Ordinance Update
• SB 9 Ordinance Update
2024-2026 Objectives (driven by the Commission, supported by staff) • ADU Streamlining per City Council request
• PG&E Transformer “temporary one year for above ground” Variance Policy – expect 30 applications • GIS Layer for Waterways and Creek Definition (OSC driven) • GIS Layer for ridgelines and Ridgeline Protection Ordinance (EDPC driven) • Fence Ordinance
• Light Wells
• Color Reflectivity
• Variances for Substandard Lots
PROJECT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2026-2027
Strategic Initiatives – Parking Lot (driven by the Commission, ad hoc and committees’ support)
• Wildfire Protection (OSC, EPRC, EDPC)
• Indoor Light Pollution Problem
• Historic Preservation (add in Appendix A)
• Pathway Map Update
• Tree Ordinance
• View Protection
• Decks – design, second story deck, and wooden vs cement with retaining walls 20-Year Planning (exclusively driven by the Planning Commission) • Density Solutions
Los Altos Hills Technology Committee
Annual Report 2025
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 21, 2026
TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Technology
Members: Minimum 5 - Maximum 9 Where: Chambers Conference Room When: 2nd Wednesday at 5:00 PM Council Liaison: Rajiv Bhateja Member Term
Duration Current
Term
Ameesh Divatia (Chair) 2022-02-17 2026-02-16
Annie Ju (Vice-Chair) 2022-02-17 2026-02-16
John Swan (Secretary) 2023-02-16 2027-02-15
George Lee 2022-02-17 2026-02-16
Lew Jamison 2023-10-19 2027-10-18
Sam Wood 2025-01-29 2029-01-28
Andreas Bibl 2025-09-18 2029-09-17
Rajesh Shakkarwar 2025-09-18 2029-09-17
Augustin Farrugia 2025-10-16 2029-10-15
TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE CHARTER
The charges to and duties of this Committee shall be:
• Advising the Council and staff on policies, initiatives, emerging trends, and best practices in innovation and technology that can improve public services and enhance operational efficiency. • Promoting access to broadband connectivity for all residents, including exploring opportunities to provide multiple service options.
• Evaluating and overseeing tools that support physical safety (such as ALPRs, speed cameras, drones, and firedetection/mitigation systems) and cybersecurity (including scam prevention and technology assistance). • Assessing opportunities to leverage advancements in Artificial Intelligence for Town operations and pursuing collaboration with Foothill College, located within town limits. • Evaluating and recommending strategies to help residents achieve redundancy in their power supply.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR 2025
• Speed Display Devices
• Purchased a radar on wheels to monitor and move wherever needed • Earthquake gas shutoff valve
• Program is ready to be launched by town staff
• Public-Private-Academic Joint Venture
• Working with Foothill/DeAnza and SJSC to implement a joint venture • Partnership with Sheriff for improved security
• In addition to the sheriff, we have implemented private patrols to provide coverage • Home/Online Security Education and AI
• Conducted one security session and made recording available online, currently revising security content and developing an AI awareness program for residents
• Broadband Implementation
• Infrastructure is 90% complete and should be completed by January
DETAILS ABOUT GOALS FOR 2026
• New Physical Safety Initiatives
• Fire Detection
• Sensor installation in sensitive areas (mountain ridges, wind corridors)(https://n5sensors.com/) • Camera installation (Advocacy for inclusion in https://alertcalifornia.org/) • Real-time satellite image monitoring
• Comprehensive monitoring platform for Los Altos Hills • Fire Mitigation
• Drone-based response
• Fuel management (https://burnbot.com)
DETAILS ABOUT GOALS FOR 2026
• New Artificial Intelligence Initiatives
• Customer service chatbot on Los Altos Hills website
• Response to resident queries about building permit regulations • Comprehensive asset coverage
• Town-wide information sessions
• Foothill Innovation Challenge