Orinda City Council Minutes Page 1 of 14 05.05.26
MAY 5, 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: Latika Malkani, Janet Riley
Mayor Brandyn Iverson, Vice Mayor Darlene Gee
COUNCILMEMBERS ABSENT: Councilmember Cara Hoxie
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Led by Mayor Iverson.
C. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
City Manager Smith requested removal of Item H.6 which will be deferred to a later meeting date.
MOTION by Councilmember Malkani, and seconded by Vice Mayor Gee, to adopt the agenda. Said motion carried by unanimous (4-0-1; Hoxie absent) vote.
D. ITEMS FOR THE GOOD OF THE CITY
D.1 Orinda Association Annual Report
Alex Drexel, Orinda Association (OA), gave the annual report for the Orinda Association, provided an overview of main programs, the OA Board, Orinda News, Volunteer Guide, the Lions Recycle for Sight collection box, Seniors around Town (SAT), Orinda Classic Car Show, Orinda 4th of July Parade and Celebration, and spoke about their support for public and nonprofit groups, schools, clubs and businesses to coordinate with Lamorinda.
Councilmembers posed questions regarding OA’s tentative plans for its anniversary celebration, ridership and tracking of Seniors Around Town, resources from the City for volunteer matching, an added suggestion to educate those at risk with fire safety, and thanked the OA for their work and presentation.
D.2 Cancer Support Community Presentation, Brian Donohue Orinda City Council Minutes Page 2 of 14 05.05.26
Andy Dunn, Development Manager at Cancer Support Community San Francisco Bay Area (CSC), spoke of their nonprofit in Walnut Creek that can be a valuable resource to the Orinda community affected by cancer, described their comprehensive support programs at no cost, statistics on those diagnosed with cancer, their partnership between CSC and UCSF John Muir Cancer Center, fundraising campaign for their $30 million project with expanded resources. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held in 2027 and he invited Orindans to participate.
Brian Donohue, a 40-year Rotarian, retired trial lawyer, spoke about his experience with his wife’s battle with cancer, spoke about their outreach efforts about CSC’s remarkable services, described the many presentations made within the district, available volunteerism from the Orinda Rotary, and an overview of their fundraising campaign.
Councilmembers posed questions about how to learn more about their program through www.cancersupport.net, confirmed its former name as The Wellness Center, and thanked CSC for their efforts and resources,
D.3 Recognizing May as Asian Pacific American Month
Mayor Iverson recognized May as Asian Pacific American Month and provided remarks on Asian Pacific Americans for their contributions.
E. PUBLIC FORUM
Jeff Blum spoke about his view that recycling is not working properly in its measurement of its success and asked that reuse day be moved to the same day as trash day and not the day prior, and landfill day as the next day afterwards.
Chirag Kathrani introduced himself to the Council, said he is running for the State Assembly District 16 representing Orinda, asked that everybody vote, said 65% of races in the County are going unchallenged, and said he supports all of those running.
Kirsten Slaussen of Hillcrest Drive requested that the Council reconsider Orinda’s 45- decibel HVAC noise ordinance limit, noting that neighboring jurisdictions use broader reasonableness standards or permit higher daytime noise levels. She stated that, due to a neighbor’s strict enforcement efforts, her family has incurred significant costs implementing noise mitigation measures.
F. COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS
Councilmember Malkani reported on the Cal Cities East Bay Division meeting last Thursday. An interesting presentation was given on E-bikes which she described, and said she will circulate her notes to the Council.
Vice Mayor Gee said she also attended the very informative E-bike presentation at the Cal Cities East Bay Division meeting. She also reported that she and Councilmember Malkani attended EBMUD’s Annual Ward 3 presentation and tour at the former Cal Shakes site.
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Mayor Iverson noted that the City Manager has been working on this issue over the year with Bike East Bay and legislative representatives, and it is a multi-faceted problem and solution. She said May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, Teacher Appreciation Week, and there are five more shopping days until Mother’s Day.
Councilmember Malkani added that she and the Mayor attended Orinda In Action Day which was well attended, and she thanked Parks and Recreation staff. She added that there will be a soft opening event on June 5th and learn more on the Siesta Valley Bowl website.
G. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
City Manager Smith gave the following report:
• She reminded there will be a leash cutting ceremony on May 16th to celebrate the opening of the recently completed dog park facility at Orinda Oaks Open Space. • Scaffolding will be coming off of the Library and the tile project is complete. • New lights have been installed at Wilder Sports Field. • Legislative letters are heading out the door locally and regionally. Many bills are moving into the Appropriations Committee in the next week and more letters will be sent if necessary to ensure the City’s platform is being heard. • She attended the Open House for MOFD this weekend at Station 45 and toured the great collaboration between the nonprofit community, MOFD and the City. • Tomorrow evening is the 2x2 School Committee meeting with Councilmembers Malkani and Riley attending.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Iverson asked confirmed Councilmembers requested removal of Item H.7 (Riley and Iverson), Item H.9 (Malkani and Iverson), Item H.10 (Gee), and there were no further requests and no public comments.
H.1 Approval of City Council Minutes
The City Council will consider approval of the Meeting Minutes of:
1. April 21, 2026, Regular Meeting
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve City Council Minutes of
1. April 21, 2026, Regular Meeting
H.2 Appointment to the Contra Costa County Library Commission The City Council will consider the Mayor’s recommendation to appoint Erika Rosenberg as Orinda’s representative on the Contra Costa County Library Commission. Ms. Rosenberg would fill a vacancy due to a recent resignation.
RECOMMENDATION:
Appoint Erika Rosenberg as Orinda’s Representative on the Contra Costa County Library Commission.
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H.3 Adoption of Citywide Objective Design Standards (ODS) Ordinance 26-03, implementing Action 3.E of the Housing Element
The City Council will consider adoption of Citywide Objective Design Standards. The purpose of the objective design standards is to provide guidance, set design expectations, expedite processing, align with new laws streamlining review for residential projects, and maintain the architectural and landscape character of the community.
RECOMMENDATION:
Waive the full reading and adopt Ordinance 26-03, amending Title 17 of the Orinda Municipal Code (Zoning) and Adopting the Citywide Objective Design Standards for the Residential and Open Space Districts for Consistency with State Housing Law, and direct Staff to file a Notice of Exemption.
H.4 Investment Report for the Quarter Ending March 31, 2026 The City Council will receive the quarterly report on the City’s investments, consistent with California Government Code Section 53646(b) and the City's Investment Policy. This report covers the period of January 1, 2026, to March 31, 2026.
RECOMMENDATION:
Accept the Investment Report for the quarter ending March 31, 2026.
H.5 Quarterly Financial Report for the 3rd Quarter of Fiscal Year 2025-26 The City Council will receive a report on results of the first nine months of the Fiscal Year (July 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026). It includes a detailed analysis of General Fund performance compared to the Budget. Staff is recommending that the City Council approve a budget change to reflect changes needed during the Fiscal Year.
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the report and approve Budget Change Form #014-26 updating the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget to incorporate some minor adjustments and corrections.
H.6 Approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement with Ladris Technologies Inc. for Evacuation and Wildfire Modeling Services and Software
The City currently utilizes Ladris software to model wildfire spread and evacuation timing under a range of scenarios. These tools support emergency preparedness efforts, inform evacuation planning, and provide the public with greater transparency regarding evacuation constraints. The existing one-year agreement is set to expire in August 2026. Amendment No. 1 would extend the agreement for an additional two-year term at a fixed annual cost of $252,700, ensuring continuity of service as the City continues to refine its evacuation modeling and public education efforts.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Amendment No. 1 (Attachment A), extending an agreement with Ladris to provide evacuation and wildfire modeling software for an additional two-year term at a fixed annual cost of $252,700.
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H.8 Temporary Full Road Closure on Portions of Camino Sobrante and El Sueno for EBMUD Camino Sobrante Phase 1 Water Main Replacement Project
The City Council will consider approving Resolution 26-26 (Traffic Order #230) Authorizing the Temporary Full Closure of a Portion of Camino Sobrante between Miner Road and La Espiral, and El Sueno Road.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 26-26 (Traffic Order #230) Authorizing the Temporary Full Closure of a Portion of Camino Sobrante between Miner Road and La Espiral, and El Sueno Road.
H.11 Contra Costa County Regional Alternative Compliance (RAC) Joint Powers Authority (JPA) Participation
The City Council will consider approval to participate in the Contra Costa Regional Alternative Compliance (RAC) system. The RAC is designed to meet requirements under the Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 23-26 to approve participation in the Joint Powers Authority (JPA) for the Contra Costa County Regional Alternative Compliance (RAC) system.
MOTION by Councilmember Riley moved, and seconded by Councilmember Malkani to approve Consent Calendar Items H.1, H.2, H.3, H.4, H.5, H.8, and H.11. Said motion carried by unanimous (4-0-1; Hoxie absent) vote.
Items Removed from the Consent Calendar:
H.7 Decrease the Prima Facie Speed Limit on Orchard Road The City Council will consider a traffic order which would decrease the prima facie speed limit speed limit of 25 miles per hour to 15 miles per hour on Orchard Road between Moraga Way (North) and Moraga Way (south). This change has been recommended for approval by the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee through their standard process
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 22-26 (Traffic Order #237) Decrease the Prima Facie Speed Limit of 25 Miles Per Hour to 15 Miles Per Hour on Orchard Road Between Moraga Way (North) and Glorietta Boulevard and between Glorietta Boulevard and Moraga Way (South).
City Engineer Siva Natarajan presented the staff report and recommendation to adopt Resolution 22-26, reducing the speed limit on Orchard Road from 25 mph to 15 mph.
Councilmember Riley sought clarification regarding concerns about southbound left turns from Moraga Way onto Orchard Road and confirmed that limited study data did not show significant cut-through traffic. Mr. Natarajan explained that two separate traffic studies had been conducted and agreed to share the second study with her.
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Mayor Iverson questioned why the proposed 15 mph limit would apply to the entire stretch of Orchard Road, including straighter sections, rather than only the curvier portions already marked with advisory slow-speed signs. Mr. Natarajan explained that the existing signs are non-enforceable warnings, whereas the proposed change would establish an enforceable speed limit. He added that multiple speed changes along the relatively short roadway could confuse drivers and reduce compliance.
Councilmember Malkani asked whether similar speed reductions exist elsewhere in Orinda, and Mr. Natarajan cited La Espiral as a recent example of a 15 mph roadway. He also confirmed that the proposal originated through a Traffic Calming Request process, that neighborhood residents had been informed through the Neighborhood Action Team, and that both the NAT and TSAC supported the reduced speed limit and additional traffic calming measures.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum.
Dr. Helena Hershel of Orchard Road stated that residents experience significant difficulty exiting their driveways between approximately 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. due to traffic conditions. She supported the proposed 15 mph speed limit reduction as a positive first step, particularly if actively enforced, but expressed concern that it would not fully address the issue given reports of vehicles traveling at speeds of 40 to 50 mph.
Mayor Iverson recalled earlier TSAC discussions in which residents expressed concerns regarding safety for children, pets, and pedestrians on Orchard Road. While generally hesitant to impose restrictions on residential streets due to shortcut traffic, she acknowledged the road’s narrow, winding, and partially blind configuration and expressed support for the proposed speed reduction.
Councilmember Malkani supported the 15 mph limit as an initial traffic-calming measure and encouraged staff to monitor whether conditions improve. Councilmember Riley expressed concern that broader resident input had not been presented to the Council and questioned whether the supporting survey data justified the reduction, requesting additional information and emphasizing enforcement of the existing 25 mph limit before lowering it further.
Vice Mayor Gee also supported the proposal, noting familiarity with the roadway and emphasizing that enforcement would be critical to its effectiveness. Mayor Iverson stated that traffic engineering recommendations and the public review process conducted through TSAC and neighborhood meetings should carry significant weight in the Council’s decision-making unless compelling contrary evidence exists.
Councilmember Malkani added that speed limits and enforcement can help influence driver behavior, particularly among younger drivers, and noted the measure could be revisited if significant opposition emerges. Mr. Natarajan explained that observed vehicle speeds near the current 25 mph limit, combined with roadway conditions, supported staff’s recommendation that 15 mph would be a safer operating speed.
Mayor Iverson concluded by asking whether the Council wished to proceed with the reduction while remaining open to future adjustments if negative feedback is received, and suggested a motion.
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MOTION by Councilmember Malkani moved, and seconded by Vice Mayor Gee to adopt Resolution 22-26 (Traffic Order #237) Decrease the Prima Facie Speed Limit of 25 Miles Per Hour to 15 Miles Per Hour on Orchard Road Between Moraga Way (North) and Glorietta Boulevard and between Glorietta Boulevard and Moraga Way (South).
Said motion carried by a 3-1-1 vote; Riley no; Hoxie absent.
H.9 Approve New CIP Project #5042 for Coral Drive Sidewalk Construction The City Council will consider adoption of a new project to install sidewalks along Coral Drive, between Ardith Drive and Moraga Way to enhance pedestrian safety in the area. The City Council is reviewing this proposed project in advance of the standard review process in order to move quickly on the consultant selection process prior to the end of the Fiscal Year. A budget change is necessary to provide a small amount of initial funding to this project.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve CIP Project #5042 for the Coral Drive Sidewalk Construction and approve Budget Change Form # 015-26.
Councilmember Malkani said her reason for removing this item was to thank City staff for listening to residents and listening to the Council’s feedback and moving so quickly.
Mayor Iverson echoed sentiments and said this is the reason she also wanted to remove the item.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
MOTION by Councilmember Malkani moved, and seconded by Vice Mayor Gee to approve CIP Project #5042 for the Coral Drive Sidewalk Construction and approve Budget Change Form # 015-26. Said motion carried by unanimous (4-0-1; Hoxie absent) vote.
H.10 Approval of Fiscal Year 2026-27 SB1 Road Repair and Accountability Act Project List
The City Council will consider approving the list of streets scheduled for pavement rehabilitation in Fiscal Year 2026-27. The project is partially funded by State Gas Tax Funds, in particular the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA), which requires local agencies submit to the California Transportation Commission an adopted list of projects proposed to be funded with these funds by July 1 each year.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 25-26 approving the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Project List as required by the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017.
Vice Mayor Gee asked Public Works staff to address public comments, noting the City’s maintenance programming can be difficult to understand.
City Engineer Siva Natarajan said staff reviewed the comments and prepared formal responses to factual questions, while some comments involved policy matters. City Manager Smith noted the responses had not yet been distributed and offered to present them.
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Mayor Iverson requested a general explanation regarding why roads with relatively high PCI ratings were included for maintenance. Mr. Natarajan explained that the City uses the Street Saver software program to analyze roadway conditions and recommend paving projects. Each year, staff must submit a street list generated by the program, including deferred streets requiring attention.
Mr. Natarajan also clarified questions regarding project costs. He explained the attached list does not total $800,000. Instead, the City combined the 2025 and 2026 paving projects into a single $3.5 million effort due to delays in the 2024 paving project caused by high bids. Funding remains tied to the applicable fiscal years, with approximately half allocated to the 2026 paving project.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
Councilmembers thanked Mr. Natarajan for his explanations and responses to public comments.
MOTION by Vice Mayor Gee moved, and seconded by Councilmember Riley to adopt Resolution 25-26 approving the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Project List as required by the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. Said motion carried by unanimous (4-0- 1; Hoxie absent) vote.
I. PUBLIC HEARING – None.
J. POLICY MATTERS
J.1 Proposed FY 2026-27 Mid-Cycle Budget Update
On June 3, 2025, the City Council adopted a two-year budget covering Fiscal Year 2025-26 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026) and Fiscal Year 2026- 27 (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027). Since the budget relies on estimates and projections, it is appropriate to periodically review the financial plan and make adjustments as necessary.
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive presentation and provide direction regarding any adjustments or changes to be incorporated into the proposed Mid-Cycle Budget Update for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27 (The Update) which is scheduled to be presented for adoption on June 9, 2026.
Assistant City Manager Doug Alessio presented the staff report and PowerPoint on the proposed mid-cycle budget adjustments for FY 2025-26 and FY 2026-27. He reviewed General Fund refinements for FY 2026-27, including staffing allocation changes, transfers from the unassigned fund balance, and an additional $81,917 in General Fund contributions to the City’s three Lighting and Landscaping Districts.
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Mr. Alessio also reviewed staffing updates resulting in a $29,027 cost reduction, proposed staffing changes by position, and proposed one-time transfers. He outlined Measure R adjustments for FY 2026-27, including $150,000 for unfinished GIS mapping, $450,000 for the Fire Safe Moraga Orinda services contract, $252,000 for renewal of the Ladris evacuation modeling software subscription, and $48,510 for increased outreach and education services. Additional updates included $253,438 in TDA grant revenue increases, $79,011 in increased LLD revenue, and a $200,000 Bike Trails and Walkway Master Plan update funded equally through the Transportation Impact Fee and Contra Costa Transportation Return to Source funds.
Regarding next steps, Mr. Alessio said Council direction would be incorporated into the proposed mid-cycle budget update. The SSTOC will review the changes at its May 13 meeting, and the Independent Library Parcel Tax Oversight and Finance Advisory Committee will review them at a special meeting in May 2026.
Mr. Alessio concluded the presentation and requested Council questions, clarifications, and input on any additional adjustments before the final proposed budget is presented for adoption at the June 9, 2026 Council meeting.
Councilmember Riley highlighted beautification as a Council strategic priority and requested funding for an annual street banner program, noting her appreciation for the current streetlight banners, particularly the butterfly design.
Mayor Iverson referenced the City’s flower basket holders, which have not been maintained, and suggested evaluating them alongside the banner program.
Councilmember Riley noted the baskets were discontinued during the drought but agreed the efforts are related. Councilmember Malkani also expressed support for incorporating beautification initiatives into the budget.
Mayor Iverson confirmed the request would return as part of allocated funding recommendations. Mr. Alessio said staff would develop a plan and include it in the budget proposal for the June 9 meeting.
Councilmember Malkani asked whether the proposed part-time GIS Technician position would support ongoing maintenance of the City’s GIS storm drain mapping. Mr. Alessio confirmed it would, explaining that regular updates are necessary to keep the mapping system current and that maintaining the GIS database would be one of the position’s responsibilities.
Councilmember Malkani also confirmed that proposed staffing changes would require notice to the union before Council approval.
Vice Mayor Gee asked whether staff could provide a broader overview of grant opportunities and funding activity. City Manager Smith said department leads regularly meet with California Consulting to review grant opportunities aligned with City priorities and noted the firm would attend the May 16 Council meeting. She added that the upcoming CIP item identifies grant-funded projects.
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Vice Mayor Gee and Councilmember Malkani requested periodic reports summarizing grants awarded through California Consulting and other federal or state sources. Mayor Iverson agreed and also requested a list of pending projects requiring grant funding or matching funds.
Mayor Iverson asked for clarification regarding the County Library parcel tax and distinctions between City, County, and parcel tax funding sources. Mr. Alessio explained the parcel tax was intended for expanded library hours and maintenance rather than capital improvements. He noted the parcel tax currently funds only limited capital work, including painting and tile replacement. He further explained that the County operates library programming, the City owns the property, and the Friends of the Library own the building and lease it to the City for maintenance costs. Ongoing maintenance is funded approximately 85% by the parcel tax and 15% by the General Fund.
Mayor Iverson also inquired about the $50,000 Measure R communications allocation.
City Manager Smith explained the funding supports a contract for research and outreach services focused on wildfire awareness, including focus groups, seminars, events, and messaging strategies, rather than staffing.
Regarding the Infrastructure Ad-Hoc Subcommittee’s ongoing work, Mayor Iverson asked how future budget impacts should be considered. Vice Mayor Gee said potential needs are not yet known and would be addressed in the future. Mr. Alessio added that the $1.4 million currently remains in the unassigned General Fund balance and could later be transferred to Fund 700 for related expenditures.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
City Manager Smith noted Mayor Iverson’s concern regarding the proposed Ladris allocation, emphasizing that including the funding in the budget should not be interpreted as automatic approval of the contract. She explained staff hopes to have Ladris present at the June 9 meeting to discuss the proposal. Under the current approach, the Council could approve the budget appropriation separately from the contract itself and would still retain authority to approve or reject the contract at a later date. If the funds remain unspent, the appropriation would lapse at the end of the fiscal year and return to the unallocated balance.
Mayor Iverson asked whether the Council could avoid allocating funds for an undecided item. Mr. Alessio responded that staff could remove the allocation from the budget and later process a budget amendment if and when the contract is approved.
Councilmember Riley asked whether the Council could instead amend or remove the allocation at the June 9 meeting. Mr. Alessio said that option exists, but significant changes at adoption could mean the final budget differs from the version publicly presented in advance.
Vice Mayor Gee asked staff to provide a broader assessment of the City’s technology investments, including cameras, computer systems, and security upgrades, noting she did not see those items reflected in the budget discussion.
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City Manager Smith and Mr. Alessio outlined several recent technology initiatives, including deployment of Cloud Permit software, implementation of new cloud-based financial software, Laserfiche document management, GIS investments, HR onboarding software, and other future technology upgrades funded through Fund 600. City Manager Smith also noted the City received a $79,000 grant for an e-citation software system and said only one or two additional license plate reader cameras remain under consideration.
Councilmember Malkani confirmed that while the Ladris contract renewal is due at the end of August, discussion of the contract and associated Measure R funding could be deferred. She emphasized the importance of reserving the funds given public support for the program and confirmed that a future budget amendment could adjust the amount if necessary.
Mr. Alessio explained that if the appropriation remains in the budget, the funds would be available to spend, but any unused amount would lapse at fiscal year-end and remain in Fund 106 for future use.
Mayor Iverson reiterated that while she strongly supports Ladris, she preferred not to publicly budget an amount that may ultimately be negotiated lower. She stated her preference was to leave the amount unallocated until an actual contract proposal is presented.
City Manager Smith responded that staff expects few changes to the proposal by June 9 but agreed the meeting would provide an opportunity for further discussion with Ladris.
Mayor Iverson also commented on the City’s broader financial leadership, expressing concern about increasing spending levels while acknowledging staff’s thoughtful longterm budgeting approach and successful project delivery. She thanked staff for their fiscal planning and management.
Councilmember Malkani echoed those comments, noting that several major capital projects delayed from prior years are now moving forward. She also highlighted additional community priorities that may be pursued through grant funding, including gathering spaces, multigenerational and park facilities, and recreation projects.
City Manager Smith added that staff is also coordinating with Caltrans on beautification projects that could be incorporated into future budgets or capital improvement projects.
Mayor Iverson concluded discussion of the item and moved to the next agenda item.
J.2 Proposed Mid-Cycle Update to Capital Improvement Plan for FY 2026- FY 2027
The City Council will review proposed changes to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) which will be made as part of the upcoming mid-cycle update to the City’s two-year budget.
RECOMMENDATION:
Review, discuss, and provide comments on the proposed Update to the Capital Improvement Plan.
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Public Works Director Scott Christie presented the staff report and PowerPoint on the proposed mid-cycle update to the FY 2026–27 CIP, outlining the process, completed projects (including photos), and projects currently underway.
Proposed CIP revisions included the Camino Pablo Pathway Project, supported by a $140,000 TDA grant; the Community Park Accessibility and Play Areas project, estimated at $1.3 million; and a $50,000 increase for bioswales in the Wilder parking area under the Green Stormwater Infrastructure program. New proposed projects were also introduced across roadway, drainage, building, and park categories.
City Manager Smith noted that Community Center investments are intended to enhance facility “rentability,” including potential conversion of the Kinder Gym into a meeting hall and creation of group picnic areas, which could generate additional rental revenue to offset project costs.
Mayor Iverson confirmed the Corporation Yard expansion location near the Wilder Sports Field parking area and its role as the Public Works operations and storage site. She also confirmed the $75,000 Pickleball line item for FY 2026–27 is a legacy placeholder from prior planning.
Mayor Iverson further noted the need to consider additional investment in Founders Auditorium and the Community Center, particularly upgrades such as flooring and furnishings. She and Councilmember Malkani supported bringing these enhancement options back for future Council consideration.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
Councilmember Riley proposed replacing or redesigning the existing wooden “Orinda” sign near Safeway and raised traffic safety concerns at Ivy Drive, asking whether a dedicated left-turn lane at Moraga Way and Coral could be prioritized. She also noted reported sidewalk gaps on Ivy Drive and suggested they may present a higher safety priority than the previously discussed gap to St. Stephens at Orinda Woods.
Mr. Christie clarified the sidewalk gap extends from Moraga Way to Ardith and confirmed additional discontinuities exist, though full conditions beyond Ardith were uncertain.
Councilmember Malkani framed the Ivy Drive issue in the context of Safe Routes to School connectivity, particularly toward Orinda Intermediate School, while noting prior prioritization of elementary school routes. Mayor Iverson added that the corridor includes inconsistent sidewalk placement on alternating sides of the street, supporting further study and prioritization of the area.
On the proposed left-turn lane, Councilmember Riley described congestion caused by vehicles waiting to turn, while Councilmember Malkani requested further detail on the concept before proceeding.
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Councilmember Malkani also referenced potential façade improvement and economic development efforts, noting many such initiatives would require additional funding. City Manager Smith responded that funding would come through the operational budget and noted façade improvement discussions are scheduled for the Downtown Revitalization Committee meeting.
Vice Mayor Gee supported further planning-level review of the Ivy Drive sidewalk project.
Mayor Iverson emphasized its importance for student pedestrian and bicycle access.
Councilmembers closed by acknowledging the City’s senior leadership team for its work over the year. City Manager Smith noted staff’s sense of accomplishment and ongoing efforts to advance additional projects.
City Manager Smith summarized the consensus and desire to:
• Include a proposal for a CIP to study and analyze the sidewalk for Ivy Drive; • Research the dedicated left turn from Coral onto Moraga Way in the future; • Review additional signage at the corner of Safeway for improvement and this can be moved from unfunded to funded and staff can adjust the budget; • Review the Founder’s Auditorium improvements which could be something to capitalize rather than having it as an operating expense along with the Community Kitchen work.
Councilmember Malkani noted that the pedestrian bridge between the BART station and Theater Square feels unwelcoming and suggested involving the Art in Public Places Committee to explore aesthetic improvements such as public art and softer lighting. City Manager Smith responded that the bridge is not City-owned and any improvements would require coordination with Caltrans.
Mayor Iverson referenced prior “Connect Orinda” concepts, noting that reopening an additional BART access point—previously identified as a relatively low-cost, permissionbased improvement—could improve pedestrian flow from the parking area across the freeway. She asked staff to explore whether the concept remains feasible. City Manager Smith agreed to include the idea in ongoing coordination discussions with Caltrans and BART.
Mayor Iverson concluded the presentation and confirmed staff had direction.
Vice Mayor Gee returned to Councilmember Reports and reported that next week on Thursday and Friday, May 14th and 15th from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on both days, the CCTA is having their Spring Workshop in the Founder’s Auditorium and it is a public meeting. She was not sure whether it is being recorded, but it is an extraordinary opportunity to learn more about CCTA, Measure J’s importance, and begin talking about the framework for a future renewal of the sales tax.
Mayor Iverson asked that the City Manager send a link to the agenda and information on the workshop.
K. MATTERS INITIATED – None.
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L. ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:54 p.m. to the next Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
______________________________
Sheri Marie Smith, City Clerk