Orinda City Council Minutes Page 1 of 11 03.17.26
MARCH 17, 2026
CITY OF ORINDA
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Note: Written communications received from the public prior to the start of this meeting can be viewed on the City’s website meeting calendar. They are also kept in the City Clerk’s Office as part of the public record and available upon request ([email protected]).
7:00 P.M. – REGULAR MEETING– ORINDA LIBRARY AUDITORIUM
A. CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL:
Mayor Iverson called the Regular Meeting to order at approximately 7:00 p.m.
COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT: Cara Hoxie, Latika Malkani, Janet Riley Mayor Brandyn Iverson, Vice Mayor Darlene Gee
COUNCILMEMBERS ABSENT: None
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Led by Mayor Iverson.
C. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mayor Iverson proposed moving up the Councilmember Reports and City Manager Reports to be heard after the Public Forum.
MOTION by Mayor Iverson, and seconded by Councilmember Riley, to adopt the agenda, as amended. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
D. ITEMS FOR THE GOOD OF THE CITY
D.1 Citizens Academy Recognition
Police Chief Rossi said he is recognizing three members of the first graduating Citizens Academy; Kevin Roebuck, Perrin Kliot, and Marcie Tuttle. He provided a brief background of the academy, described the diversity of training for members, and said they will have the academy as a reoccurring class.
Mayor Iverson called on the three members to share their experiences.
Marcie Tuttle said the academy was so interesting and fun. She recommended everyone in Orinda participate in this because she learned so much and she spoke about the K9 dogs, drones, firing range, forced simulation, and she learned it is very hard to be a police officer. She also learned that Orinda’s police officers truly care about the community and thinks the program is widely popular.
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Kevin Roebuck spoke of his great experience and thanked Chief Rossi and his staff for providing him with the most informational benefit of the community, how to keep it safe, and learn about what police do. He liked the K9 patrol, the drone unit, and the highlight was the Martinez Detention Facility. The officers who do the job daily are amazing and he hopes everybody can participate and would love to see high school students be able to participate in this.
Perrin Kliot echoed Marcie and Kevin’s comments, said he was impressed on how officers provided the program with nothing glossed over. It was a wonderful experience and he hopes it continues.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
Councilmembers thanked the City Manager and Chief Rossi for starting the program, recognized the importance of transparency, knowledge, and information sharing, confirmed there were 6 participants in the first class, and voiced appreciation for designing and implementing the program.
D.2 Introduction of New Police Officers
Police Chief Rossi said they have had a high turn-over due to promotions to Sergeant, and many officers have moved on. They have had the opportunity to recruit new officers, and he introduced Officers Tizoni, Reyes, Florez, Garcia, Officer Dickerson could not attend, and Sergeant Shepard.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
Councilmembers welcomed the new police officers and Sergeant Shepard to the City.
D.3 Presentation – Officer of the Year
Police Chief Rossi expressed his honor in recognizing Orinda Officer of the Year Garrick Huether, a professional who exemplifies the department’s highest standards and values.
This officer consistently demonstrates integrity, accountability, and sound judgment, earning the trust of the community through both actions and character. He shows courage not only in critical incidents but also in everyday decision-making, remaining calm, focused, and committed to serving the community.
He said his proactive approach to policing helps prevent crime and maintain the safety Orinda is known for. A dedicated leader and teammate, he supports his colleagues, fosters accountability, and contributes to a positive work environment. Leading with humility, respect, and professionalism, he sets a strong example for others.
Tonight, the department recognizes not only his outstanding performance but also his role as a true guardian of the community, and extends sincere appreciation for his honor, courage, commitment, and unwavering service.
On behalf of citizens, the Council, City Manager and himself, he presented Officer Huether with a plaque recognizing him as the Orinda Police Department Officer of the Year for 2025.
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Officer Huether thanked his wife and children, his amazing partners he works with everyday most of whom are senior partners, and said when he first came to Orinda, his goal was to be the police officer he wanted in his community—one that is proactive, cared for the community and constantly looked to address criminal behavior. He thanked everyone who is here and said he is very appreciative to receive this award.
City Manager Smith suggested, and photos be taken, prior to receiving public comments.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum.
Nick Waranoff thanked the Chief and officers for their work and for what is, in his opinion, a very positive approach to law enforcement in the community. This is a big change in a positive direction from not long ago. The level of comfort he feels in the community and he knows others do, is very reassuring.
Mayor Iverson and Councilmembers agreed with Mr. Waranoff, stating the tone, confidence, and the feeling of safety is something the Council is incredibly proud of.
D.4 Certificate of Recognition – Women’s History Month and Miramonte Gym being named “Sabrina Ionescu Gym” after the WNBA Star and Olympian
Mayor Iverson stated in honor of Women’s History Month in March and March 8th being International Women’s Day, she highlighted that Miramonte Gym has been named after Sabrina Ionescu. They had a petition with 571 signatures to name the gym in her honor.
She highlighted Ms. Ionescu’s athletic skills, education, records set, four-time WNBA All Star, and helped lead them to the first ever WNBA championship, while also being a contributor on the national team that took home the Gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Vice Mayor Gee stated since she was at the Mayor’s Liaison Meeting, she announced there is no known date yet, but at some point, the Superintendent and Principal from Miramonte said that Sabrina will be in Orinda in order to be honored in person, likely when they are playing.
E. PUBLIC FORUM
Robert Phillips reported three major accidents on Coral Drive (2017, 2025, and a recent incident), noting he is among the most affected residents. While he supports the proposed 4-way stop, he emphasized that additional safety measures are needed due to ongoing speeding, particularly given the number of children walking to nearby schools and the lack of sidewalks between Moraga Way and Artis.
He recommended further traffic-calming improvements, including speed tables, enhanced signage, and road surface upgrades, and urged the Council to continue addressing safety beyond the stop sign decision. He expressed concern that current conditions could lead to serious injury.
Mr. Phillips also described a separate incident in which an unattended truck rolled down the steep hill, causing significant property damage to a tree, his fence, and his son’s bedroom, underscoring the roadway’s hazard and the potential consequences of excessive speed.
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Mayor Iverson said she hopes Mr. Phillips continues to advocate with the Traffic Safety Committee on this matter.
Nick Waranoff withdrew his request to speak.
I. COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS
Councilmember Malkani reported on her attendance as liaison to the SSTOC meeting, noting a discussion about a recommendation around the incentive program, engagement with FSMO, and community education. She also reported on introduction of an Assembly bill which would reduce the percentage of what is required to be a distressed community.
Councilmember Hoxie reported on last night’s Transportation Safety Advisory Committee (TSAC) meeting, noting the topic of additional types of calming measures and connecting the various Orinda plans to achieve better safety for biking and walking.
Vice Mayor Gee reported on the Infrastructure Subcommittee meeting last night, which followed up on discussion at the last Council meeting, discussion of the work plan, update on storm drain mapping and San Anselmo’s work. She also reported that Congressman DeSaulnier was in Orinda last week and he focused on women’s equality.
Councilmember Riley reported on her attendance to the District Briones Boy Scouts of America event at the Lafayette Veterans Hall which honored leaders and youth.
Mayor Iverson reported providing a Rotary talk to the Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary on a “mini-state of the City” and questions were asked about BART. There are “under construction” signs on the dog park and the scaffolding up on the library tiles which are underway.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum.
Nick Waranoff argued that making Orinda more walkable and bikeable is unrealistic due to its geography and infrastructure, warning that promoting biking on unsafe roads like Miner Road could lead to accidents.
J. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
City Manager Smith provided updates on community projects, including Library tile replacement and dog park fence work; upcoming events such as the Annual Spring Egg Hunt on April 4th and the Third Annual Touch a Truck on April 11th (registration required); and noted openings on two City Commissions, with applications still being accepted.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum.
Nick Waranoff commended the Mayor for moving the Council and City Manager Reports to be heard earlier on the agenda.
F. CONSENT CALENDAR
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Mayor Iverson asked if Councilmembers or the pubic wished to remove any items, and there were none and no public comments.
F.1 Approval of City Council Minutes
The City Council will consider approval of the Meeting Minutes of:
1. February 28, 2026, 9 a.m. Commission Interviews
2. March 3, 2026, Regular Meeting
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve City Council Minutes of:
3. February 28, 2026, 9 a.m. Commission Interviews
4. March 3, 2026, Regular Meeting
F.2 Repeal and Replace the City of Orinda’s Municipal Code Chapter 8.20, Fire Safety, with this Chapter that Reflects the City’s Ratification of MOFD Ordinances 26-01 and 26-02
The City Council will consider adoption of Ordinance 26-04 which would repeal and replace the City of Orinda Municipal Code Chapter 8.20, Fire Safety, with an updated version of this Chapter to reflect the City’s ratification of MOFD Ordinances 26-01 and 26-02, waiving a full reading of the text.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Ordinance 26-04, waiving full reading, to repeal and replace the City of Orinda Municipal Code Chapter 8.20, Fire Safety, with an updated version of this Chapter to reflect the City’s ratification of MOFD Ordinances 26-01 and 26-02.
F.3 Finance Advisory Committee Term Expirations and Statements of Interest
The City Council will consider the reappointment of two current Finance Advisory Committee members. Due to an administrative oversight, Joan Kiekhaefer and Wendy Wee were not contacted prior to the February 28, 2026, City Council interview process and were unaware of their term expirations. After being contacted by the City Clerk, both members expressed interest in continuing to serve and submitted updated Statements of Interest for the City Council’s consideration.
RECOMMENDATION:
Reappoint two Finance Advisory Committee Members, Joan Kiekhaefer and Wendy Wee.
F.4 Reject all Bids for Crossroads Plaza Project No. 4103 The City Council will consider rejecting all bids received on March 3, 2026, for the renovation of Crossroads Plaza. Irregularities were found in the bids, which Staff recommends not be waived. If the City Council rejects all bids, the project will be rebid as soon as practical with minor changes to the bid documents to minimize the likelihood of such irregularities.
RECOMMENDATION:
Reject all Bids for Crossroads Plaza Project No. 4103.
F.5 NPDES Stormwater Utility Assessment Fee for Fiscal Year 2026-27 Orinda City Council Minutes Page 6 of 11 03.17.26
The City Council will consider Establishing the Rate per Equivalent Runoff Unit (ERU) for Fiscal Year 2026-27 and Requesting the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District to Adopt an Annual Parcel Assessment for Drainage Maintenance and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution No. 18-26 Establishing the Rate per Equivalent Runoff Unit (ERU) for Fiscal Year 2026-27 and Requesting the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District to Adopt an Annual Parcel Assessment for Drainage Maintenance and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program.
F.6 Install All-Way Stop Control at Coral Drive and Ardith Drive Intersection, Install Stop Sign at Spring Road and Knickerbocker Lane Intersection, Implement NO PARKING restriction on El Camino Moraga at Del Rey Elementary
The City Council will consider proposed changes for road safety improvements at various intersections including Coral Drive, Ardith Drive, Moraga Way, El Camino Moraga, Spring Road, and Knickerbocker Lane.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Approve Resolution 16-26 (Traffic Order 241) Authorizing installation of All-Way STOP sign and additional traffic calming striping changes on Coral Drive at Coral Drive and Ardith Drive/Court intersection; and add new STOP sign on Spring Road at Spring Road and Knickerbocker Lane intersection.
2. Approve Resolution 17-26 (Traffic Order 242) and Authorize Implementing NO PARKING restrictions on Eastbound El Camino Moraga near the exit driveway at Del Rey Elementary.
F.7 Approve On-Call HVAC Services Contract to City Mechanical, Inc.
The City Council will consider a new contract with City Mechanical, Inc. for the on-call HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems maintenance efforts for all six city buildings. The work includes preventive maintenance (regular equipment check-outs, filter changes and as-needed maintenance/repairs) of the HVAC infrastructure and responding to emergency call outs when heating and air conditioning equipment does not function properly.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 13-26 Approving Exception to Competitive Bidding per Orinda Municipal Code Section 2.55.100.A.6, and Approving an On-Call HVAC Services Contract to City Mechanical, Inc.
F.8 Amendment to the Contract with Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc.
The City Council will consider approving an amendment to the contract with Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc. resulting from feedback from the City Council and City staff regarding the calculation of in-lieu fees, partial build alternatives, and modification of inclusionary requirements. The amendment includes an increase to the term and to compensation.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the amendment to the Contract with Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc.
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MOTION by Councilmember Hoxie moved, and seconded by Councilmember Malkani to approve Consent Calendar Items F.1, F.2, F.3, F.4, F.5, F.6, F.7 and F.8. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
G. PUBLIC HEARING – None.
H. POLICY MATTERS
H.1 Annual Presentation from Police Chief Anthony Rossi The City Council will receive its annual presentation from Chief of Police Anthony Rossi on state of community policing in Orinda.
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the presentation.
Police Chief Rossi gave a PowerPoint presentation on the state of community policing in Orinda. He presented the Department organizational chart, photos of officers, new police vehicles, crossing guard service, quarterly traffic enforcement, continued education on Ebikes and proposed legislation, new equipment, and E-citations. Evens include Citizens Academy, Toy Drive, National Night Out in August, Coffee with the Cops, Recess with Elementary Schools, Touch a Truck, Trunk or Treat, Fourth of July Parade, Age WellDrive Well, Safety Education with Schools, Neighborhood Watch, and Emergency Preparedness.
Chief Rossi then presented photos of officers participating in programs and events, equipment and vehicles, Neighborhood Watch, crime prevention, firearm safety, parking enforcement.
He then provided statistics noting reductions in various categories of burglaries and stolen vehicles due to proactive policing, an increase of arrests, active shooter training, wildfire and evacuations, license plate reader cameras (LPRs), and public outreach with social media.
Councilmember Riley referred to the deployment of Piranhas, used to deflate and disable a criminal’s tires.
Councilmember Hoxie referred to sharing camera footage with federal agents and she asked and confirmed data can be shared locally; however, outside agencies must fill out a form specific to their request. Data is kept for 30 days, and the audit trail indefinitely.
She asked and confirmed there are policies in place which protects information gathered and all-wheel drive SUV vehicles allow officers to go off road, as needed.
Councilmember Malkani recognized LPR cameras are useful in the community but questioned how sharing information using the Flock system cameras is not in violation of law. Chief Rossi spoke of their firewall which has made their system specific in following SB 34.
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Vice Mayor Gee referred to a phase-in of state law where police departments and reporting tools were able to capture all data in case someone wants to look at something recorded in the past. Chief Rossi said this RIPA data is still being collected which had become law. They follow the procedure where any time an officer has any proactive contact with individuals, they must fill out a form and answer questions for the form and the data is forwarded to and maintained by the State.
Councilmember Malkani referred to firearm safety and confirmed police utilize safe storage, and firearms and ammunition is sometimes turned in from residents. She also confirmed police conduct education at the schools with parking, driving habits, and E-bike safety. She suggested that those graduating from the Citizens Academy might be interested in volunteering to be emergency preparedness ambassadors, and Chief Rossi said yes, and they are also talking with Chief Isaacs for a fire component.
Mayor Iverson noted the dramatic statistics of crime reduction and she confirmed that changes were likely due to the LPRs, great policing work, as well as community awareness.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum.
Jeff Bloom raised concerns about the City’s use of Flock Safety. He urged regular reviews, better oversight of access and usage, and cautioning about potential misuse, legal issues, and the company’s broader surveillance practices.
Nick Waranoff supported license plate readers, dismissed privacy concerns, and warned that population growth without developer-funded public safety measures could strain police services and reduce response effectiveness.
Councilmembers thanked Chief Rossi, recommended continued sharing to the Council of any privacy concerns or of control issues, recognized Traffic Enforcement Day which addressed bad behaviors of drivers, cited the importance of public safety, cameras, reductions in crime, the balance provided in thoughtful policing, and recognized the Chief’s leadership.
H.2 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report
The City Council will consider the submission of its Housing Element Annual Progress Report to the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and to the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) by April 1.
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report and direct staff to file the Report with the appropriate state agencies.
Associate Planner Christine Thompson gave the staff report and presentation of the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report. She provided background of the Housing Element, the APR process of reporting, implementation actions 1-6, remaining 5th cycle work, work in addressing affordable and market rate housing units, review of RHNA for the coming cycle, and next steps.
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Councilmember Malkani asked which streamlining requirements are not meeting progress.
City Attorney Osa Wolff explained that Orinda is currently a 50% jurisdiction under SB 35, meaning projects must include half the units as affordable and meet other criteria to qualify for streamlining; if mid-cycle targets aren’t met, the City would shift to a 10% jurisdiction, allowing projects with 10% affordable units to receive streamlined approval.
Councilmember Hoxie asked how Orinda compares to similar cities, and Ms. Thompson noted surrounding communities like Danville, Lafayette, and Moraga are slightly ahead, particularly Lafayette with its downtown multi-family projects, while Orinda is slower due to land and slope constraints. Wolff added that Orinda is compliant with its certified Housing Element and required rezones, unlike many other jurisdictions.
Mayor Iverson questioned the practical impact of the 10% threshold, and staff noted it may align with existing policies and not be dramatic, though a detailed citywide analysis could be prepared. They clarified that SB 35 applies to residentially zoned properties, so some DPP sites like the Downtown Office District would not qualify automatically.
Updates were provided on the Caltrans site, which is still being pursued. Regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs), Ms. Thompson said low numbers are influenced by high costs, terrain challenges, setbacks, and strict requirements.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum.
Nick Waranoff said the application of SB 35/SB 423 is a strictly numerical determination by HCD and the City is unlikely to meet State housing permit targets, but believes the consequences will be minimal since current zoning and density limits make development less attractive despite streamlined approvals.
Councilmembers thanked staff for the thorough report and depth of work, cited the slow progress towards meeting RHNA targets and constraints of the City’s topography, and recommended continue moving forward.
MOTION by Mayor Iverson, and seconded by Councilmember Hoxie, to receive the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report and direct staff to file the Report with the appropriate state agencies. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
H.3 Discussion Regarding Possible Joint Meeting with Town of Moraga and Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District
The City Council will discuss the possibility of a joint meeting with the Town of Moraga and the Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District. This was a Matters Initiated from the February 3, 2026, City Council meeting.
RECOMMENDATION:
Provide direction to Staff.
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City Manager Smith introduced the item, stating the Council requested a future joint meeting with MOFD to discuss agenda topics and gather feedback to share at an upcoming 2x2 meeting, and that she has begun coordinating with the Town Manager and Fire Chief to assess interest. She emphasized that over the past 1½ years, the City’s partnership with MOFD has significantly strengthened through regular coordination, including monthly joint meetings and frequent communication focused on wildfire preparedness, emergency planning, fuel mitigation, and community outreach.
She also highlighted collaborative efforts such as the OrindaReady initiative, integration of evacuation and ember-cast modeling tools, shared grant and engagement efforts, and ongoing policy-level coordination through the 2x2 subcommittee on issues like defensible space standards and broader regional collaboration.
Councilmember Hoxie highlighted ongoing coordination challenges among MOFD, the City, SSTOC, and FSMO, noting unclear roles, funding uncertainties, and difficulties seniors face complying with MOFD citations. She suggested a joint meeting with Moraga, MOFD, and Orinda to improve alignment and support.
Vice Mayor Gee noted that Moraga and MOFD expressed interest, contingent on knowing the topics.
Councilmember Malkani recalled limited past joint meetings focused on specific presentations, and City Manager Smith confirmed previous sessions, including one led by Chief Winnacker on Zone Zero.
Councilmember Riley asked whether coordination could be handled at the staff level instead of a full joint meeting.
City Manager Smith clarified that while the City can suggest improvements and manage programs like the Chipper Program, primary responsibility for senior citations and outreach rests with MOFD and FSMO. She also reported progress on FSMO grant coordination and noted a formal recommendation is forthcoming. Finally, she suggested that senior issues and other topics could be addressed at the next 2x2 meeting to determine whether a larger joint session is warranted.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum.
Nick Waranoff cautioned the Council against relying on FSMO, arguing that as a nongovernmental organization it lacks transparency and oversight, raising concerns about proposed high salaries for its leadership and warning against delegating significant fire safety responsibilities to it.
Council discussion recognized the value of sharing ideas but expressed caution about a large joint meeting without a clear purpose. Councilmembers suggested requesting MOFD provide a focused report—similar to the Police Chief’s annual report—covering their roles, responsibilities, updates on initiatives, coordination with the City, support for seniors, and Moraga’s participation. They also discussed improving clarity on roles, sharing information, self-education, holding a short workshop before a regular meeting to identify redundancies or gaps, reviewing factual data, and accessing the video and PowerPoint available on the City’s YouTube channel.
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EXTEND MEETING
MOTION by Councilmember Malkani, and seconded by Mayor Iverson, to extend the meeting until 10:10 p.m. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
City Manager Smith stated at the next 2x2 committee meeting they can talk about some of the conversation from tonight, solicit feedback from the Fire Chief and the two directors to see how they feel. She thinks some of the things Councilmember Hoxie brought up where there potentially are gaps are 2x2 committee topics, such as enforcement and compliance support, identification of what Moraga is doing, education and outreach connected to enforcement, chipper program coordination, and she can report back as well as decisions the City has made regarding funding FSMO, press MOFD to find ways to partner with the non-profit, getting education going, and putting out money into the community to help improve wildfire preparedness and resilience.
She agreed to pull together facts and share it with the Council, as well and the roles and responsibilities as be a topic for a future joint meeting, or the 2x2 committee can provide feedback and see where they are at that time with their outcomes. She will also schedule a one-hour Council workshop after the 2x2 committee meeting.
K. MATTERS INITIATED – None.
L. ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting was adjourned at approximately 10:10 p.m. to the next Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
______________________________
Sheri Marie Smith, City Clerk