City of Menlo Park 701 Laurel St., Menlo Park, CA 94025 tel 650-330-6600 menlopark.gov City Council
SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA
Date: 3/18/2023
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Locations: Zoom.us/join – ID# 811 3335 9761
Members of the public can listen to the meeting and participate using the following methods. If you have issues viewing the meeting, please email the city clerk at [email protected].
How to participate in the meeting:
Submit a written comment online up to 1-hour before the meeting start time:
[email protected]
Please include the agenda item number you are commenting on. Access the meeting real-time online at:
Zoom.us/join – Meeting ID 811 3335 9761
Access the meeting real-time via telephone at:
(669) 900-6833
Meeting ID 811 3335 9761
Press *9 to raise hand to speak
How to watch the meeting:
Cable television subscriber in Menlo Park, East Palo Alto, Atherton, and Palo Alto:
Channel 26
City Council Chambers
Note: City Council closed sessions are not broadcast online or on television and public participation is limited to the beginning of closed session.
Subject to Change: Given the current public health emergency and the rapidly evolving federal, state, county and local orders, the format of this meeting may be altered or the meeting may be canceled. You may check on the status of the meeting by visiting the City’s website menlopark.gov. The instructions for logging on to the webinar and/or the access code is subject to change. If you have difficulty accessing the webinar, please check the latest online edition of the posted agenda for updated information (menlopark.gov/agendas).
According to City Council policy, all meetings of the City Council are to end by midnight unless there is a super majority vote taken by 11:00 p.m. to extend the meeting and identify the items to be considered after 11:00 p.m.
Special Session
A. Call To Order
B. Roll Call
C. Regular Business
City of Menlo Park 701 Laurel St., Menlo Park, CA 94025 tel 650-330-6600 menlopark.gov City Council Special Meeting Agenda
March 18, 2023
C1. Annual City Council priority and goal setting workshop (Staff Report #23-069-CC) Not a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) project.
D. Adjournment
At every regular meeting of the City Council, in addition to the public comment period where the public shall have the right to address the City Council on any matters of public interest not listed on the agenda, members of the public have the right to directly address the Council on any item listed on the agenda at a time designated by the chair, either before or during the City Council’s consideration of the item.
At every special meeting of the City Council, members of the public have the right to directly address the City Council on any item listed on the agenda at a time designated by the chair, either before or during consideration of the item.
For appeal hearings, appellant and applicant shall each have 10 minutes for presentations.
If you challenge any of the items listed on this agenda in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Menlo Park at, or prior to, the public hearing.
Any writing that is distributed to a majority of the City Council by any person in connection with an agenda item is a public record (subject to any exemption under the Public Records Act) and is available by request by emailing the city clerk at [email protected]. Persons with disabilities, who require auxiliary aids or services in attending or participating in City Council meetings, may call the City Clerk’s Office at 650-330-6620.
Agendas are posted in accordance with Government Code §54954.2(a) or Section §. Members of the public can view electronic agendas and staff reports by accessing the City website at menlopark.gov/agendas and can receive email notification of agenda and staff report postings by subscribing to the “Notify Me” service at menlopark.gov/subscribe.
Agendas and staff reports may also be obtained by contacting City Clerk at 650-330-6620. (Posted: 3/16/2023) City Manager's Office
City of Menlo Park 701 Laurel St., Menlo Park, CA 94025 tel 650-330-6600 menlopark.gov
STAFF REPORT
City Council
Meeting Date: 3/18/2023
Staff Report Number: 22-069-CC
Regular Business: Annual City Council priority and goal setting workshop
Recommendation
Staff recommends the City Council provide direction and establish priorities and goals for fiscal year 2023-
24. Policy Issues
The City Council holds an annual priority and goal setting workshop to provide direction to the city manager on aligning resources and work plans for the next year.
Background
The City Council last held a priority setting workshop January 30, 2021, and carried over those identified priorities through 2022. This year, the City engaged a professional facilitator to develop the workshop agenda, present findings on priority topics, and facilitate a priority setting discussion.
Analysis
The workshop objectives are to establish City Council priorities and goals for fiscal year 2023-24, create consensus on principles of governance, and strengthen teamwork.
Workshop topics:
• Welcome and call the meeting to order
• Public comment
• Comments from the City Manager
• Review today’s agenda
• Discuss principles of governance
• Introduction and context for priority setting discussions • Discuss and establish top priorities for fiscal year 2023-24 • Wrap up and next steps
Public engagement:
A dedicated webpage (Attachment D) provides transparency on priority and goal setting actions by the City Council. Staff will place updates on progress over the next year on this webpage.
The City encouraged public participation in the priority and goal setting process through a variety of public communication platforms including the Weekly Digest, Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor, Instagram, website listings (calendar and project pages), and print information at the Menlo Park Library and the Belle Haven Branch Library.
AGENDA ITEM C-1 Page C-1.1
City of Menlo Park 701 Laurel St., Menlo Park, CA 94025 tel 650-330-6600 menlopark.gov Staff Report #: 23-069-CC
To facilitate in-person participation, the City has provided a charter shuttle between Ivy Plaza in Belle Haven and the Civic Center campus. The shuttle is labeled “City Council Shuttle” in its electronic destination sign to make it easy for riders to identify and provides six runs in each direction between the destinations starting 9:30 a.m. and concluding with last drop-off at 2:30 p.m.
Additionally, Spanish translation services are offered during the meeting for both in-person and virtual attendees.
On February 27, 2023, staff launched an online web form to gather public input on community-identified priorities. Staff requested the public provide input by Friday, March 10, so results could be compiled and summarized ahead of the Council workshop. The City received 392 submissions (Attachment A).
The principal priority raised in 41 percent of submissions was to establish a quiet zone for train noise. The second most common priority in 25 percent of submissions was to expand pickleball opportunities, followed by 17 percent of submissions to preserve or improve tennis opportunities. The fourth most common priority in 14 percent of submissions was for safe streets improvements related to bicycling and traffic.
Approximately 10 percent of submissions favored environmental sustainability, mainly for electrification and climate action. Other themes included emergency preparedness/response, recreation opportunities/improvements and parks preservation, housing development, and creating vibrancy in the downtown area.
Priority and goal setting
Priority and goal setting is informed through public participation, input from City Councilmembers, input from staff based on City Council actions and direction, needs identified in various master planning efforts, and review of remaining work plan items from 2022. Staff compiled a list of significant City Council-directed projects or items requiring allocation of staff time (Attachment B) as well as a list of adopted priorities, work plan items, and new requests from 2021 to 2022 (Attachment C).
Next steps
The facilitator will produce a final workshop report that summarizes outcomes on City Council priorities and goals. Staff will use workshop results to prepare a work plan for City Council consideration at a future meeting, as part of the fiscal year 2023-24 budget development process.
Impact on City Resources
There is no impact on City resources.
Environmental Review
This action is not a project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines §§ 15378 and 15061(b)(3) as it will not result in any direct or indirect physical change in the environment.
Public Notice
Public notification was achieved by posting the agenda, with the agenda items being listed, at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.
Page C-1.2
Staff Report #: 23-069-CC
City of Menlo Park 701 Laurel St., Menlo Park, CA 94025 tel 650-330-6600 menlopark.gov Attachments
A. Input on City Council priorities – online submissions B. Significant City Council-directed projects or items requiring allocation of staff time C. List of past priorities, work plan projects and new requests from 2021 to 2022 D. Hyperlink – Public engagement webpage: menlopark.gov/priorities Report prepared by:
Stephen Stolte, Assistant City Manager
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Page C-1.4 ATTACHMENT A
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Share your nput Priority: degassify Burgess!!!
Recently I learned from Tom Kabbat, Rebecca Lucky, and Ori Paz that the
methane-burning water heaters at the Burgess aquatic center are soon due for retirement and replacement. Perhaps their EOL is as soon as 2025.
While one might think "ouch, bad luck, we must spend money" the truth is more positive, like: "great, let's pull forward this upgrade to electrical heatpump." Avoid years of emissions!
Is this significant? Burgess aquatic center burns 58300 therms of gas per year (thank you Ori). That's equivalent to about 117 "typical" homes of gas consumption. (I define a typical home to be 2+ BR, 1 bath, like the house at 810 College Ave, which used 557 therms during 12 months of
2021 and 2022).
117 houses worth of gas consumption in one place is a lot! The cost per therm of usage avoided is likely much lower when dealing with a single concentrated use site vs. 117 homes.
If upgrading those pool heaters from gas to electrical and solar heating, Menlo Park will/can:
(1) show leadership in transitioning off methane.
(2) honor our commitments: we are a rich city in a rich state in a rich country. Who else but Menlo Park should spent capex up front to save in total over time (electrical opex is much cheaper that methane over the next 20 years).
(3) use this pool upgrade to brag about leading from the front, blogs in Almanac and InMenlo.
(4) feel great to use this opportunity to generate awareness of the need to urgently move away from CH4.
IRA might help Menlo Park accomplish this upgrade, but, truth be said, I don't think a wealthy town needs to wait for an IRA handout to spend a bit of capex to earn opex!
We can do it. We should do it. Let's do it!
We must do it for our children! Climate change is in their future!!! F rst name Ole
Last name Agesen
Ema l
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Dept/division Short description Category/theme Master plan/direction ASD/Finance Improve efficiency and workflow of capital asset tracking systems through automation efficient operations /software IT Master Plan ASD/Finance Implement Finance Division process improvements including OpenGov, filing/monitoring system, and automated printing of budget book efficient operations / software IT Master Plan ASD/HR Negotiate MOUs with labor groups and consider update to Personnel Rules/Manual workforce IT Master Plan ASD/HR Implement and fully utilize the HRIS system to provide better employee access to information efficient operations / software IT Master Plan ASD/IT Evaluate creation of a five-year IT Master Plan and submit IT projects for the fiscal year 2023-24 budget master planning IT Master Plan ASD/IT Implement Office 365 efficient operations / software IT Master Plan CDD Recruit for seven open positions and provide professional development opportunities recruitment, training City Council direction, July 2021 CDD
Begin implementation of Housing Element components, including updates to Environmental Justice and Safety Elements, zoning changes, and more policy, administration Housing Element, Jan 2023
CDD Improve public communication for development projects public engagement IT Master PlanCDD Refine and enhance electronic permitting processes efficient operations / software, climate action IT Master PlanCDD Process development projects including large projects like SRI Parkline review and Willow Village infrastructure permits development projects City Council direction, Dec 2022 CMO Launch volunteer program for emergency preparedness volunteers, emergency preparedness City Council direction, Jan 2023CMO Review and enhance emergency preparedness as an organization emergency preparedness City Council direction, Jan 2023CMO Review and enhance public communications public engagement City Council direction, Jan 2023CMO Implement Streetary outdoor dining program economic development City Council direction, Jan 2022CMO Support economic development with communications to business community economic development City Council direction, Dec 2021 CMO Launch Civics 101 Academy public engagement CMO Enhance emergency communications emergency preparedness, public engagement City Council direction, Jan 2023 CMO Implement a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative in collaborating with regional partners DEI City Council direction, Dec 2021
CMO Promote electrification - Reach Codes 2.0 climate action CAP 1 Climate Action Plan CMO Promote electrification - $4.5M grant from State of CA climate action CAP 1 Climate Action Plan CMO Promote electrification - create public education program climate action CAP 1 Climate Action Plan CMO Eliminate fossil fuels - implement EV charging plan at city facilities climate action CAP 5 Climate Action Plan CMO Eliminate fossil fuels - replace water heaters at city facilities climate action CAP 5 Climate Action Plan CMO Eliminate fossil fuels - explore Burgess pool electrification and microgrid at civic center climate action CAP 5 Climate Action Plan CMO Adopt and implement zero emission landscape equipment (ZELE) ordinance environmental policy City Council direction, Oct 2022 Significant City Council-directed projects or items requiring allocation of staff time
ATTACHMENT B
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Dept/division Short description Category/theme Master plan/direction Significant City Council-directed projects or items requiring allocation of staff time CMO Support community efforts on climate action climate action City Council direction, Aug 2021 LCS Implement Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging policies and practices DEI LCS Strategic Plan
LCS Prepare for opening of programs at the Menlo Park Community Campus MPCC LCS Strategic PlanLCS Complete agreement with new aquatics operator at Burgess and MPCC pool MPCC LCS Strategic Plan
LCS
Develop focused addendum to Parks and Recreation Facilities Master Plan (2019) to include significant new community needs like pickleball and the MPCC project master planning LCS Strategic Plan
LCS Implement a customer satisfaction feedback system efficient operations / software LCS Strategic PlanLCS Maintain emergency preparedness capabilities and update emergency procedures and continuity of service plan emergency preparedness LCS Strategic Plan LCS Increase enrollment at the Belle Haven Child Development Center and Menlo Children's Center preschools to full capacity public engagement LCS Strategic Plan LCS Implement new recreation registration management software efficient operations / software IT Master Plan LCS Support renovation and recreational programming at Willow Oaks Park capital project LCS Strategic PlanPD Plan alternative enforcement strategy for code violations, parking, and administrative citations service delivery change IT Master PlanPD Start transparency program with the Police-Community Advisory Roundtable public engagement PD Offer community academies in other languages public engagement LCS Strategic PlanPD Redesign annual report and update public information and data dashboard public engagement IT Master PlanPD Compliance plan and strategy for new legislation policy State legislationPD Hire emergency preparedness staff person; expand leadership development and training emergency preparedness, recruitment, training City Council direction PW Complete construction of MPCC and clean energy infrastructure (microgrid) in collaboration with Meta MPCC CIP, Climate Action Plan PW Continue to advance efforts to plan, fund and construct resiliency projects, such as SAFER Bay capital project (resilience) CIP PW Operate, maintain and improve the City’s infrastructure to serve community needs capital project CIPPW Advance transportation priorities according to the goals of the Transportation Master Plan, with an emphasis on safety projects including the Middle Avenue pedestrian and bicycle rail crossing, Willow Road and Newbridge Street pedestrian and bicycle improvements, El Camino Real pedestrian crossings, and the Caltrain quiet zone implementation study capital project (safe streets) Transportation Master Plan PW
Continue to reduce the capital project backlog, beginning construction on Willow Oaks Park improvements, Ravenswood Avenue resurfacing, Sharon Road sidewalks, Haven Avenue streetscape improvements, and a new roof for a water storage reservoir capital project (mostly streets/sidewalks) CIP
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Dept/division Short description Category/theme Master plan/direction Significant City Council-directed projects or items requiring allocation of staff time ASD - Administrative Services DepartmentCMO - City Manager's OfficeCD - Community Development DepartmentPD - Police DepartmentPW - Public WorksLCS - Library and Community Services HR - Human ResourcesIT - Informational Technology Page C-1.392
Name Project overview Current status Current update Type Reimagining public safety
City Council established a Re-imagining Public Safety Subcommittee, composed of Vice Mayor Wolosin, City Councilmember Taylor, the city manager, and the police chief. An academic, Dr. Terri Givens, was added to the team to facilitate public discussion on policing.Focus groups will be held to generate public feedback on policing, the department will conduct public presentations to increase transparency, and a Community and Police Advisory Team will be established to provide the department with a resource for public feedback and collaboration.
In progress
The Department has launched an initiative to provide a series of short videos from our officers helping to answer some of the lingering questions from the Safe Space Town Hall, so that our personnel can help the public with these areas of curiosity. The department has also begun arranging the program and schedule for a Community Police Academy , to begin in January 2023, and the first of no less than 5 transparency sessions on policing. The Department has already made substantive changes to the Compliment/Complaint page online, making reporting easier for the end-user, and is exploring a program to boost the community's confidence and comfort with making reports. The Department has also added software to assist us in accountability and public feedback. Some residents will receive text-message surveys after non-traumatic calls for service, requesting feedback on the call-takers and initial responders. The initial roll-out has shown a response rate of over 50% (very high for surveys) and an initial positivity rate for the reviews of over 90%. Positive reviews are shared with all department members in near real time. The Department beginning to form the Community-Police Advisory Roundtable Group. 2021 Adopted priority
CAP #1 - Explore policy/program options to convert 95% of existing buildings to all-electric by 2030 Achieve the following milestones to project completion:1. May 2021: Complete cost effectiveness analysis on various policy/program pathways toward achieving 95% electrification by 2030.2. June 2021: Environmental Quality Commission (EQC) provides advice to City Council on cost effectiveness analysis and potential pathways to achieve electrification goals for existing buildings.3. July/August 2021: City Council reviews policy/program options and EQC recommendations and directs staff on next steps.
In progress
Staff is working with the City Council CAP 1-5 subcommittee (Mayor Nash and Vice Mayor Wolosin) on various recommendations from staff, EQC, and Bay Area Reach Code Initiative to consider which measures to present at a City Council study session in early 2023. Staff is also exploring modifications to the Zoning Ordinance that would allow intrusion of electric equipment in garage space and setback areas up to an allowable amount. 2021 Adopted priority
2022 housing element and related zoning code updates and documents Housing Elements are housing plans that are one part of the General Plan – a guide to all the ways each city, town or county is planned and managed, from our roads and sidewalks to our parks and neighborhoods. With an update required every eight years by the State of California, this Housing Element update will create a foundation for all the policies and programs related to housing.
In progress
The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing to receive comments on the Draft Subsequent Environmental Impact Report and a study session to introduce the concepts for the potential zoning ordinance amendments at their November 14 and December 1, 2022 meetings. The City Council conducted a study session to provide direction regarding revisions to the draft Housing Element in response to comments from the State Department of Housing and Community Development and potential zoning ordinance amendments at their December 6 and 22, 2022 meetings. Based upon guidance from the City Council, staff has been working to advance adoption of the Housing Element separately from the implementation zoning programs. Drafts of the EJ Element and Safety Element update were released on December 12, 2022. On January 12, 2023, the Planning Commission and Housing Commission recommended adoption of the Housing Element with modifications to several programs. The recommendations of the two Commissions will be presented to the City Council for action on January 31, 2023. Two community meetings on the draft EJ Element and Safety Element are scheduled for February 9 (in English) and February 10 (in Spanish) at the Belle Haven Branch Library. 2021 Adopted priority
ConnectMenlo community amenities list update
Review community amenities procedures and update community amenity list associated with bonus level developments in the Bayfront Area.
In progress
The City Council Subcommittee prepared an updated list and shared it in June 2022. The updated list will be scheduled for City Council action early in 2023. Staff has begun the process of updating the procedures. 2021 Adopted priority
Menlo Park Community Campus building
In December 2019, the City Council received a proposal from Facebook Inc. proposing to explore funding and development of a new multigenerational community center and library located in Menlo Park’s Belle Haven neighborhood, replacing the existing community center, senior center, youth center, pool house, and library facilities. Identified as a City Council priority on January 28, 2020, this project would deliver the City's funding contribution to the project.
In progress
The MPCC project construction began in November 2021 and most of the construction is on schedule to be completed by March 2023. Unprecedented supply chain issues continue to impact the timely availability of critically important infrastructure, equipment, and materials, and there are confirmed supply chain delays with critical electrical infrastructure equipment which has shifted the overall project’s completion timeline by several months to 2024. City Council will receive an informational report with additional project updates on January 24, 2023. 2021 Adopted priority
Caltrain rail corridor quiet zone analysis
This study would fund a review of grade crossing improvements needed to consider a quiet zone along the Caltrain corridor at the Encinal, Glenwood, Oak Grove and Ravenswood Avenue crossings.
In progress
The consultant began work on the quiet zone study, identifying existing conditions, conducting risk analysis, and beginning to develop improvement options for the several crossings. Coordination with the California Public Utilities Commission on options is underway, including a site diagnostic meeting held December 13, 2022. 2021 Adopted priority
CAP #4 - Middle Avenue rail crossing and complete street This project would provide a grade-separated crossing through the Caltrain railway to create a pedestrian/ bicycle connection near Middle Avenue, between Alma Street near Burgess Park and El Camino Real at the proposed open space plaza as identified in the El Camino Real/Downtown Specific Plan. The project would develop detailed design plans and construct the project. As part of the terms of the development agreement for Middle Plaza at 500 El Camino Real, Stanford University is required to make a contribution towards the cost of the project, 50 percent of the cost, up to $5,000,000. In May 2020, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors also allocated $1,000,000 in funds for this project through the Stanford University recreation mitigation fund established during the 2000 General Use Permit approvals.
In progress
For the undercrossing, staff continued to coordinate with Caltrain on design and construction approach. Staff pursued grant opportunities, including likely award of $4m in federal community project funding and the regional One Bay Area grant program. For the complete streets project, staff conducted public outreach and developed concept designs for multiple improvement options. These were presented to the Complete Streets Commission in mid-2022 and City Council in September and October 2022. Staff are working on bringing forward actions for City Council to finalize the preferred design on February 14, 2023. The City received a grant from the SMCTA Measure A & W Pedestrian & Bicycle Program to fund final design and construction of the complete streets project. 2021 Adopted priority
2021 Adopted priorities, work plan items, and 2021-current new requests
ATTACHMENT C
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Name Project overview Current status Current update Type 2021 Adopted priorities, work plan items, and 2021-current new requests CAP #3 - Expand access to electric vehicle (EV) charging for multifamily and commercial properties Resources will be used to monitor the effectiveness of state and regional charging infrastructure incentives, and the City will promote/market the incentives to multifamily property owners using existing databases and communication mediums. In addition, $5,000 to $10,000 in additional incentives will be allocated to further motivate at least two multifamily property owners with existing units/buildings to install electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
In progress Staff is recommending increases to EV charging requirements as part of Phase 1 (November 2022) and Phase 2 (early 2023) reach codes proposals 2021 Adopted work plan CAP #4 - Reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) by 25% or an amount recommended by the Complete Streets Commission Resources will be used to focus on current work underway that would reduce VMT that includes the SB2 Housing grant, completion of the Transportation Management Association feasibility study, and implementation of VMT guidelines for new development adopted in June 2020. In addition, the Complete the Streets Commission’s work plan includes prioritizing projects in the Transportation Master Plan that would reduce VMT. The Complete Streets Commission two-year work plan will be amended to include a future work effort to set a VMT reduction target in 2022 dependent upon staff resourcing to support this effort, provided it does not impact delivery of capital projects planned for the same timeframe.
In progress
The Complete Streets Commission Multimodal Metrics subcommittee reported out on work develop multimodal metrics in March 2022. Subcommittee priorities included safety, multimodal network connectivity, and tracking the status of Transportation Master Plan projects. Safety and connectivity metrics were identified in part to help demonstrate implementation of vehicle miles traveled (VMT) reduction strategies by providing a transportation network that enables travel by non-automobile modes of travel. 2021 Adopted work plan
CAP #4a - Transportation management association (TMA) formation The goal of a TMA is to coordinate logistics and TDM services amongst multiple member businesses. Instead of an individual business providing TDM services for their employees, a TMA allows multiple businesses to share TDM resources. TDM services may not be cost-effective and wellutilized at individual businesses, so a TMA creates cost-efficiency and a shared burden amongst everyone, allowing smaller businesses to access some services that they would normally not be affordable.
In progress The City officially joined commute.org. Staff are continuing to coordinate with Manzanita Works. 2021 Adopted work plan CAP #5 - Eliminate the use of fossil fuels from municipal operations Utilize current resources and available budget toward eliminating fossil fuels in building the new Menlo Park Community Campus. In addition, if there are fossil fuel appliances or assets at the end of its life, a nonfossil fuel option as a replacement will be the default unless infeasible. Additional appropriations may be required for non-fossil fuel assets or appliances that have a cost premium. Specifically in 2021-22, the City will focus on expanding a pilot program to transition landscaping equipment from gas to electric. In future years, as City contractor agreements are procured, the City will incorporate a request for landscaping equipment as well. A Sustainable Fleet Policy was adopted in 2020. There will be additional opportunities for comprehensive nonfossil fuel asset or appliance replacement planning through the upcoming Corporation Yard Needs Assessment and Facilities Inventory and Maintenance Plan, which were funded in 2021-22 capital improvement plan.
In progress
City Council approved the purchase of electric vehicles and equipment in October. Staff is working with Optony Inc to finalize a roadmap for city operations to be carbon neutral by 2030. An electric vehicle charging master plan for employees and fleet is underway. The Tesla police patrol pilot was also kicked off in October. 2021 Adopted work plan
CAP #6 - Develop a climate adaptation plan to protect the community from sea level rise and flooding Continue to participate in and monitor One Shoreline, a flood and sea level rise resiliency district, that was formed to support planning and mitigation measures for coastal erosion, sea level rise, and flooding threats up to 2100. Menlo Park is a member of this agency and pays dues annually through funds provided in the capital improvement plan. This work covers Menlo Park’s neighborhoods adjacent to the bay and creeks. In February 2021, One Shoreline’s board of directors authorized the Bayfront Canal and Atherton Channel Flood Protection and Ecosystem Restoration project to go out to bid. Bidding is currently underway for pre-qualified bidders and construction is expected to begin in mid-2021. Resources will be utilized to continue to actively work with neighboring communities and other agencies to close gaps not addressed by the above projects and seek further funding.
In progress The recruitment for a management analyst in the Sustainability Division to support this work is underway. 2021 Adopted work plan Page C-1.394
Name Project overview Current status Current update Type 2021 Adopted priorities, work plan items, and 2021-current new requests CAP #6a - Menlo Park SAFER Bay implementation
This project provides funds to support the staff time needed to continue to implement SAFER Bay. In September 2020, PG&E approached the City about partnering on a FEMA grant opportunity to address sea level rise impacting the Ravenswood Electrical Substation consistent with the SAFER Bay project and the recently completed Dumbarton Bridge West Approach + Adjacent Communities Resilience Study. Following initial coordination, the City, SFCJPA and PG&E also reached out Facebook to consider providing additional funding to expand the project. The FEMA grant is a program offering up to $50 million per project to reduce risks from disasters and natural hazards. The City Council authorized a letter of support for the application on November 17, 2020. PG&E, the SFCJPA, Facebook and the City collaborated on the required documentation for a Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) application, which was submitted to CalOES by December 3, 2020. Cal OES submitted the grant application for FEMA consideration on January 27. FEMA notified the City in summer 2021 of potential award.
In progress Staff is awaiting FEMA review of the application to formalize the award of funding. 2021 Adopted work plan Caltrain grade separation
The existing Ravenswood Avenue Caltrain crossing is a critical rail crossing within Menlo Park. It is within the El Camino Real/Downtown Specific Plan Area and falls within the City’s Priority Development Area. The project would fund the additional scope of work requested by the City Council in 2018 to evaluate a fully elevated alternative and advance engineering design of a chosen preferred alternative.
In progress Project has been restarted. Consultant is identifying potential fully elevated alternatives for Council's consideration in early 2023. 2021 Adopted work plan Coleman and Ringwood Avenues Transportation Study
Joint project with San Mateo County to evaluate traffic calming and multimodal safety improvement options for Coleman and Ringwood Avenues.
In progress Consultant and staff completed the first round of project outreach and an existing conditions report. 2021 Adopted work plan Request for future agenda item to add the identification of parks to the municipal code Requested by the City Council on October 23, 2021. In progress On tentative agenda. New City Council request/directionAdopt wireless facility ordinance Staff requested City Council direction on November 16, 2021 to return with an ordinance for adoption. In progress New City Council request/direction Provide direction on restarting the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program Requested by the City Council on November 16, 2021. In progress Staff presented to the Complete Streets Commission and received feedback on potential updates to the NTMP. Staff anticipates bringing an update to the City Council as time allows. New City Council request/direction Adopt SB9 regulations
Staff requested City Council direction on December 14, 2021 to return with ordinance updates to respond to recent state housing legislation (SB9).
In progress
Staff conducted a study session with the Planning Commission on July 25, 2022. On January 9, 2023, the Planning Commission reviewed the draft SB 9 ordinance and voted to recommend that the City Council approve the proposed amendments to Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances in the Municipal Code with several modifications. The City Council is anticipated to review and take action on the draft ordinance in February 2023.
New City Council request/direction
Develop permanent design guidelines and permitting process for downtown outdoor uses Staff requested City Council direction on January 25, 2022. In progress Staff has reviewed nearby jurisdictions' parklet and sidewalk cafe standards and is in the process of drafting standards, the review process and submittal guidelines for an outdoor parklet program, which is anticipated to be reviewed by the City Council in the first quarter of 2023.
New City Council request/direction
Study session or update on Willow Road transportation projects (to confirm) Requested by the City Council on April 19, 2022. In progress Staff continues to advance the Belle Haven Traffic Calming Plan with implementation expected in early 2023. Staff is coordinating with Caltrans on ongoing Willow Road resurfacing project and potential pedestrian and bicycle safety enhancements. Staff submitted a State Active Transportation Program grant application in summer 2022, but was not awarded funding. Staff is exploring other funding opportunities for this project.
New City Council request/direction
Study session on water Requested by the City Council on May 24, 2022. In progress New City Council request/direction Provide direction on guidelines, regulations and restrictions for impact fees Requested by the City Council on January 15, 2022. On hold-capacity New City Council request/direction Reimagining downtown Project scope has yet to be established. Requires City Council direction. On hold-capacity 2021 Adopted priority Study session on the Bay-Delta Plan Requested by the City Council during adoption of the 2020 Urban Water Management Plan on May 25, 2021. On hold-capacity New City Council request/direction Follow up on parks projects and Measure T funds Requested by City Council on August 17, 2021. On hold-capacity New City Council request/directionRacial equity - NLC REAL program and baseline project Created in 2015 in the wake of social unrest in Ferguson, Missouri, NLC’s Race, Equity And Leadership (REAL) program helps to empower and equip local officials with tools to address racial disparities in their communities. As local leaders look to reimagine government policies, procedures, and processes to build more equitable communities, REAL is available to help cities and towns learn the impact of historical inequities and design programs that dismantle structural and system racism. REAL provides training with local elected officials and municipal staff, seminars for municipal staff and local elected officials, customized training to match city needs.
On hold-capacity 2021 Adopted work plan
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Name Project overview Current status Current update Type 2021 Adopted priorities, work plan items, and 2021-current new requests Public health advocacy (COVID-19, mental health) Project scope has yet to be established. Requires City Council direction. On hold-capacity 2021 Adopted work plan Willow Road traffic calming Project scope has yet to be established. Requires City Council direction. On hold-pending direction 2021 Adopted work plan Follow up on Springline traffic Requested by the City Council on December 7, 2021. Future item New City Council request/direction Update the City Council mission statement to include a definition of equity Requested by the City Council on April 19, 2022 Future item New City Council request/direction Study session on shoreline flooding and sea level rise projects Requested by the City Council on May 10, 2022. Future item New City Council request/directionFlag policy Requested by City Councilmember Taylor on June 14, 2022. Future item New City Council request/direction Reconsider prevailing wage requirements in BLOC Power agreement Requested by the City Council on July 12, 2022. Future item New City Council request/directionEnhanced maintenance on Willow Road near U.S. Highway 101 interchange Requested by the City Council on July 12, 2022. Future item New City Council request/direction Marquee or signage alerting people of activities around town Requested by the City Council on August 9, 2022. Future item New City Council request/directionWhen electrification revenue forfeiture reaches $150,000 the master fee schedule is returned to the City Council Requested by the City Council on August 23, 2022. Future item New City Council request/direction Evaluate purchasing a new senior shuttle vehicle as part of the 2023 fleet purchase Requested by the City Council on October 11, 2022. Future item New City Council request/direction Follow up on the selected construction method for Chilco Street median islands Requested by the City Council on September 21, 2021. City manager reported on October 23, 2021 regarding the outreach conducted, that a two-week roadway closure to allow construction was selected, and that construction was to be delayed until spring 2022.
Completed New City Council request/direction
Follow up on pedestrian safety measures in the Bayfront area in response to development Requested by the City Council on October 23, 2021. Completed New City Council request/direction Study session on leaf blower restriction ordinance (enforcement, trade-in program, education) Requested by the City Council on November 16, 2021. Completed Staff presented a zero emissions landscape equipment ordinance proposal on October 18, 2022. New City Council request/direction Annual update on the status of City's annex plan to the San Mateo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Requested by the City Council on November 16, 2021. Completed Annual update was provided at the October 11, 2022 City Council meeting. New City Council request/direction Follow up on Sharon Rd/Eastridge Ave safety, if action or budget required by the City Council Requested by the City Council on December 7, 2021. Completed New City Council request/direction Redistricting
Every ten years, local governments use new census data to redraw their district lines to reflect how local populations have changed. Assembly Bill 849 (2019) requires cities and counties to engage communities in the redistricting process by holding public hearings and/or workshops and doing public outreach, including to non- English-speaking communities.
Completed
The Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) adopted the updated District map on April 14, 2022 and the IRC Chair presented that map to the City Council on April 26, 2022. At the April 26, 2022 meeting, the City Council unanimously adopted a resolution affirming the IRC’s Redistricting Plan and the new City Council district boundaries set forth in Map 131.1 as adopted by the IRC. The new District map was used for November 8, 2022 election. 2021 Adopted priority
CAP #2 - Set citywide goal for increasing EVs and decreasing gasoline sales Defer implementation to the Beyond Gasoline Initiative (BGI) under Joint Venture Silicon Valley. Staff will continue to work with BGI within current staff capacity using existing communication mediums to promote and market information from BGI.
Completed 2021 Adopted work plan
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