Orinda City Council Minutes Page 1 of 24 06.09.26
JUNE 9, 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
City Manager Smith requested moving up Item H.8 off of the Consent Calendar to Items for the Good of the City in order to formally recognize the Garden Club with a certificate of appreciation. Mayor Iverson confirmed and said this item will become Item. D.5.
MOTION by Mayor Iverson, and seconded by Councilmember Hoxie, to adopt the agenda, as amended. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
D. ITEMS FOR THE GOOD OF THE CITY
D.1 Introduction of New Assistant Engineer - Nazmieh Huebner Public Works Director Scott Christie introduced new Assistant Engineer, Nazmieh Huebner, aka “Mia Huebner” who comes with a lot of experience in engineering having worked for the cities of Pinole and San Rafael.
Ms. Huebner thanked the City Council and staff, appreciates the opportunity, and looks forward to learning new things with the City of Orinda.
Mayor Iverson and Councilmembers welcomed Ms. Huebner to the City.
D.2 Proclamation Declaring the Month of June, 2026 as LGBTQ Pride Month in the City of Orinda
Mayor Iverson reported having presented the Proclamation at the Pride Flag Raising on June 1st, declaring the month of June, 2026 as LGBTQ Pride Month in the City of Orinda, which brings the community together for a great chance to celebrate the diversity and all talents of the community.
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Councilmembers recognized the event as incredible and significant in sending a message of inclusiveness.
D.3 Orinda Teen Advisory Council - Annual Report
Parks and Recreation Director Todd Trimble introduced the item.
Recreation Coordinator Spencer Beattie thanked the Teen Advisory Council for their volunteerism and creation of events for the community and introduced Emma Wang who will present the Annual Report.
Emma Wang, OTAC Chair, said she recently graduated Miramonte High School and served as the Chair of OTAC this year. She introduced members of the Council, said they hosted members this year and growing their membership, reported on the accomplishment of many community events, continuation of traditional programs, and presented photographs of events.
Regarding future goals, they hope to continue discussion of OTAC topics such as fire and pedestrian safety every two years to allow them to have more focus on it. They hope to continue hosting their local OTAC events, collaborate with Moraga Youth Council next year for their pickleball tournament, and continue collaboration with local youth serving groups.
Councilmembers thanked OTAC for their service, confirmed they have engagement with Tabor exchange students, and to provide outreach on the need for a host family for the new student, and recognized and highlighted the work on fire safety.
Director Trimble recognized Mindful Littles who OTAC worked with on both Orinda Action Day and the Winter Fest. They helped a number of younger residents create a number of care kits which include recycled products, bookmarks, flower pots, and other items.
D.4 Orinda Historical Society - Annual Report
Alison Burns, President of the Orinda Historical Society, presented the organization’s annual report and summarized a busy year of preservation and outreach work. She noted ongoing efforts to digitize historical documents, photographs, and local histories, much of which is now accessible through the Society’s website.
She highlighted educational programming as a key focus, including annual third-grade school visits in May where students learn about local history, as well as guided walking tours of historical sites accompanied by parent chaperones. She also emphasized the value of teen volunteer participation in supporting preservation efforts and community engagement, and concluded by thanking the City Council for providing meeting space in the library and for its continued support of the Orinda Historical Society’s programs and activities.
Councilmembers thanked OHS for their contributions, recognized the special work of the teens and Laurie Smith, likened OHS as a lasting treasure, commented on how fun the historical walk could be for the Council and staff which is led by Kay Norman, and thanked Ms. Burns for her presentation.
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D.5 Accept Work and Contract with Marina Landscape, Inc. as Complete for the Camino Pablo Median Landscape Improvements (City Project No. 5019) and Accept Donation from the Orinda Garden Club
The City Council will consider adopting Resolution No. 42-26 to accept the work for the Camino Pablo Median Landscape Improvements (Project No. 5019). The project included the installation of two median openings in the event they are necessary for an evacuation, along with new landscaping, irrigation upgrades and paving improvements. In addition, the City Council will accept the donation of $80,000 from the Orinda Garden Club to offset a portion of the project cost.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution No. 42-26 Accepting the Work and Contract with Marina Landscape, Inc. as Complete for the Camino Pablo Median Landscape Improvements Project, City Project No. 5019 and Accept the donation from the Orinda Garden Club.
Mayor Iverson said this Consent Calendar Item H.8 was to accept the work and contract with Marina Landscape for the Camino Pablo Median Landscape Improvements project and accept a donation from the Orinda Garden Club (OGC). She said this donation was exceptional and appreciated and she wanted to pull the item to thank the OGC in person.
Lisa Kavalag, Co-President, OGC, described their organization that supports beautification of Orinda, education and conservation, and they have done some fundraising as well as taken donations. Several members are passionate about OGC and they were able to provide a check to support the work on the medians. They are grateful for the city’s work and are proud to support the project.
Mayor Iverson and Councilmembers thanked the OGC and its donors for their $80,000 donation to the City to support the medians. Ms. Kavalag was then presented with a certificate of recognition and photographs followed.
City Manager Smith stated she was able to accept the check at a recent Garden Club event and voiced appreciation for the support of the OGC and staff. She then briefly described the project.
MOTION by Mayor Iverson moved, and seconded by Councilmember Riley to adopt Resolution No. 42-26 Accepting the Work and Contract with Marina Landscape, Inc. as Complete for the Camino Pablo Median Landscape Improvements Project, City Project No. 5019 and Accept the donation from the Orinda Garden Club. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
E. PUBLIC FORUM
Mayor Iverson provided remarks about the several letters received and protocols on the Council not responding to comments.
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Lewis Lopez, a TOPS parent and advocate, expressed concern about project changes affecting the preschool’s outdoor classroom, including a retaining wall and tree removal.
He questioned whether these modifications were appropriately reviewed and emphasized potential impacts on child safety, privacy, and school operations. He requested construction mitigation measures, including scheduling major concrete work on weekends, improving emergency access and traffic circulation, and reviewing whether project permit extensions were processed correctly.
Morea said she went to TOPS and wants her little brother to have the same experience she had at TOPS. She asked to make sure TOPS stays safe and a fun place for kids to learn and play.
Layla Alami said she is a good friend of Morea and hopes many other kids have the same experience as she has had at TOPS. It is very nice knowing that the preschool was a good experience for her.
Kia said she went to TOPS.
Tawny Martinez, TOPS Board President and parent, said the preschool supports affordable senior housing but is concerned that the Vista Verde project's impacts on TOPS were not fully considered during project review. She noted that portions of the outdoor classroom may be affected during construction and by permanent project features, despite earlier representations that the playground would not be impacted. She questioned whether additional review or mitigation would have been required had these impacts been fully disclosed and expressed concern about potential effects on enrollment, staffing, and the long-term operation of TOPS.
Ann Gordon, a TOPS parent and educator, supported the Vista Verde project but expressed concern about construction impacts on preschool children. She emphasized the importance of TOPS’ outdoor classroom and urged the City to ensure that mitigation measures are actively monitored and enforced. She requested scheduling disruptive construction activities outside school hours when possible, appointing an independent safety monitor, and maintaining direct communication with TOPS to address concerns promptly.
Anthony Valdioseva, a former TOPS student and parent, supports affordable senior housing but expressed concern that TOPS was not adequately recognized as a directly affected neighbor during project review. He noted that earlier statements indicated the preschool playground would not be impacted, yet current plans show work extending into the preschool play area. He raised concerns about child safety, construction impacts, and the lack of detailed construction information provided to TOPS. He urged the Council to visit the site and facilitate collaboration among TOPS, the City, the church, and the developer to protect the preschool while allowing the project to proceed.
William Hudson said TOPS has positively impacted multiple generations of his family. He described the school’s outdoor learning environment as a valuable community asset and urged the Council to protect and preserve TOPS as an important Orinda institution.
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Jamey Volker, a parent of two former TOPS students and a land use attorney, acknowledged that the project has been entitled for several years. However, he suggested that if current construction plans differ from those originally approved, the City may have an opportunity to facilitate further review and discussion. He encouraged the City to help bring the developer and TOPS together, stating that improved communication and collaboration could lead to a reasonable solution that addresses concerns raised by both parties.
Tina Arantes, a TOPS parent, supports the senior housing project but expressed concerns about construction impacts on preschool children and the outdoor classroom.
She cited potential issues related to dust, noise, traffic, parking lot safety, and changes to the play environment. She urged the Council to work with TOPS families to implement protections such as independent air quality and noise monitoring, debris cleanup, and other safety measures to minimize impacts during construction.
Lux Ingleby, a former TOPS student, said she supports affordable senior housing but hopes a solution can be found that preserves the TOPS experience for future children.
She shared fond memories of playing and learning in the outdoor classroom and expressed hope that future students will have the same opportunities she enjoyed.
Tom Schneider, a TOPS parent and former Parks and Recreation Commissioner, supports affordable housing but expressed concern that TOPS was not adequately considered during the project's review process. He stated that the preschool, which operates primarily outdoors, could be significantly affected by construction activities and project revisions impacting the play area.
He questioned the approval of project elements affecting land leased by TOPS without notification to the preschool and noted concerns about declining enrollment. He urged the Council to ensure enforceable construction protections, improve communication with TOPS, and provide the preschool a meaningful role in future project discussions.
Val Ingleby echoed prior speakers and described TOPS’ outdoor classroom as a key reason her family chose the preschool after moving to Orinda. She said the program’s child-led, outdoor learning environment had a lasting positive impact on her children. She expressed concern that the outdoor classroom may be impacted by the Vista Verde project and urged the Council to consider protections that preserve the integrity of TOPS’ educational environment for future children.
Aksel Ingleby, a former TOPS student, said he values his experience at the preschool and expressed concern about the impact of nearby construction on the outdoor play environment. He urged consideration of how the project could affect children’s ability to safely and freely use the outdoor classroom.
Steve Austenfeld, an Orinda resident, TOPS alumnus parent, and Board of Trustees member, said TOPS was surprised by details of the Vista Verde project, including retaining wall markers within areas long used and leased by the preschool. He questioned how the project was reviewed and approved without fully accounting for its proximity to young children.
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He raised concerns about construction impacts and reported that some families have unenrolled or chosen not to enroll, affecting the school’s financial stability. He urged the Council to support mitigation measures, address health and safety concerns, and consider financial assistance to help preserve TOPS during construction.
Harmony Anderson, an Orinda resident, Arts in Public Places Committee member, and TOPS alumna parent, highlighted TOPS’ long-standing role in the community and noted that many alumni now enroll their own children there. She expressed concern about potential impacts from the Vista Verde project on enrollment and the school’s long-term viability. She urged the Council to ensure protections for TOPS during construction, improve engagement between developers and City decision-makers, and encouraged Councilmembers to visit the site to better understand its proximity to the preschool play area.
Allison Windhurst, a mother of four TOPS graduates, described the school’s outdoor classroom as central to its program and a key reason families choose TOPS. She expressed concern that construction and nearby residential development could permanently change this environment. She said prolonged construction impacts such as noise, dust, and heavy equipment activity may affect the school’s operations and urged the Council to explore solutions that protect TOPS’ educational setting and long-term viability.
Kristin Armanini, Director of TOPS, said the preschool has served Orinda since 1938 and has partnered with Orinda Community Church since 1944. With over 32 years in various roles at TOPS, she described it as a long-standing institution connecting generations of local families.
Ms. Armanini said TOPS supports the senior housing project but is concerned it was not meaningfully consulted during planning. She noted that the outdoor classroom is central to the program, with children spending much of their day outdoors, and expressed concern that tree removal and the scale and proximity of the new building would permanently alter that environment. She urged the Council to ensure greater engagement with TOPS and provide support to help the school continue operating during and after construction.
Eugene Lin, an Orinda resident and parent of a recent TOPS graduate, described TOPS as a valued community institution centered on outdoor learning and child development.
He said TOPS was not meaningfully included in planning for the Vista Verde project despite its proximity and urged the Council to ensure the school has a formal role in future discussions to help protect its long-term viability.
Kathy Barrett, a retired teacher and former TOPS parent, said she became involved with TOPS more than 30 years ago when her daughter attended the preschool. She described the site as a meaningful learning environment where children interact closely with nature.
She said the TOPS community was unaware of the Vista Verde project until recently and urged the Council to consider mitigation options. While supporting senior housing, she expressed concern about potential impacts to TOPS and noted that even nearby residents share concern for the preschool’s future.
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Stan White, a 30-year Orinda resident, said his family spans three generations connected to TOPS, including a granddaughter currently enrolled and a daughter who teaches there.
He described TOPS as a unique community institution with a long history and emphasized its outdoor, play-based model. He expressed concern that the Vista Verde project encroaches on land leased by TOPS and said he was surprised the project was approved without input from the preschool. He noted concerns about potential impacts to enrollment, child safety, tree removal, and the outdoor classroom environment.
Mr. White urged the Council to ensure TOPS has a role in discussions with the developer and to revise the project to better protect the preschool’s leased space, outdoor learning areas, and the health, safety, and privacy of children.
Jillian White, a TOPS parent, teacher, and Orinda resident, supported thoughtful development but raised concerns about impacts to TOPS’ outdoor preschool environment. She described the school’s play-based, outdoor learning model for children ages 2–5 and noted that daily activities often include water play and other hands-on exploration.
Ms. White expressed concern that the proposed project could create direct sightlines into the outdoor classroom from nearby elevated areas, raising privacy and safety issues. She questioned whether these impacts were fully evaluated during review and urged the Council to implement mitigation measures such as screening, landscaping, and redesign of viewing areas. She also requested that TOPS be included in ongoing discussions to help protect the preschool environment.
A speaker read a statement from Brook Goff Anderson, a lead teacher at TOPS, expressing appreciation for the school’s outdoor classrooms, natural landscape, and educational philosophy. Ms. Anderson raised concerns that the proposed construction could significantly impact TOPS’ educational environment and urged all parties to collaborate on a solution that prioritizes safety, communication, and respect for the preschool community, ensuring TOPS can continue serving families for years to come.
Heather Barrett, a former TOPS student with family ties to Orinda, said she supports affordable senior housing but raised concerns about how the adjacent preschool was considered during project approval. She noted that TOPS has long operated on the site but was not meaningfully engaged during the planning process.
Ms. Barrett referenced concerns raised at a Planning Commission meeting about limited awareness of TOPS and questioned how a five-story project next to a preschool was not central to review. She also raised concerns about potential encroachment into leased preschool areas and broader impacts on child safety, traffic, air quality, and emergency access. She urged the Council to re-evaluate the project in light of these concerns and work with TOPS to ensure its educational environment and safety are fully addressed before construction proceeds.
F. Marchau, a TOPS parent, said her family moved to Orinda a year ago to be near the preschool. She expressed concern about how the City is addressing impacts to schools and children, and said the situation has affected her confidence in the community. She urged the Council to consider protections for TOPS students and the broader implications for families choosing to live in Orinda.
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Johnny Windhurst, a former TOPS student, said the preschool’s outdoor classroom was a defining part of his early childhood experience. He recalled playing in the outdoor spaces and described TOPS as a formative and meaningful part of his life. He expressed hope that future children will have the same opportunity.
Paige Stocker, a former TOPS student, parent, and former Vice President of Community on the Executive Board, said TOPS played a foundational role in her family’s experience in Orinda. She described the preschool as a key part of the local education system and emphasized its benefits for children’s social and emotional development. She said her daughter developed confidence, independence, and self-advocacy skills through TOPS’ self-directed, play-based approach, and expressed appreciation for the program’s impact on her child’s growth.
Zuleika Godinez, parent of a recent TOPS graduate, said the school’s outdoor environment was a key reason her family chose it, describing it as a place where children learn through nature-based exploration. She noted her son’s lasting connection to TOPS and her hope that her younger daughter will have a similar experience.
Ms. Godinez expressed concern about potential impacts from the Vista Verde development while supporting both affordable senior housing and early childhood education. She emphasized that TOPS is a long-standing community institution whose outdoor classroom serves as an active learning environment. She urged the City to recognize TOPS as a directly affected institution and implement protections such as air quality and noise monitoring, traffic safety measures, and ongoing communication with school leadership. She also requested that TOPS be included as a partner in future planning discussions.
Marcella Larosa-Wilson, a TOPS parent and Vice President of Community on the Executive Board, said she supports affordable housing but is concerned about impacts to TOPS’ safety, privacy, and educational environment. She noted her family’s connection to the school and its play-based learning model.
Ms. Larosa-Wilson emphasized the importance of the outdoor classroom and expressed concern about potential loss or alteration of key features such as the hillside, gazebo, and redwood trees. She urged the Council to consider privacy screening, project modifications, and independent air quality monitoring to protect students during construction.
Erin Daly, Vice President of Finance for TOPS Preschool, said the Vista Verde project is already affecting enrollment and could threaten the school’s long-term viability. She noted staff and enrollment reductions, along with lost prospective and returning families attributed to project-related concerns.
Ms. Daly explained that TOPS relies heavily on enrollment revenue and warned that continued declines could create significant financial strain despite existing reserves. She described the situation as a serious risk to the preschool’s stability and urged the Council to pause and re-evaluate the project while considering mitigation measures to support both senior housing and TOPS’ continued operation.
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Claire Peterson, an early childhood educator and former TOPS parent, spoke in support of TOPS and its leadership. She noted that both of her children attended TOPS and that her experience there led to a long career in early childhood education.
Ms. Peterson highlighted a broader shortage of childcare and preschool capacity locally and said the potential loss of approximately 70 spaces at TOPS would significantly affect Orinda families. She also noted that regulatory and licensing changes to preschool operations can take substantial time to implement, even for modest adjustments. She urged the Council to consider these constraints and to prioritize preserving TOPS as a long-standing community childcare and education provider.
Molly MacFadden, a former TOPS student, parent, and educator, described the school’s outdoor classroom as a defining part of the TOPS experience. She said her daughters continue to recall the freedom, creativity, and discovery they experienced there.
She noted that, in her work at Sleepy Hollow Elementary School, TOPS graduates often stand out for their creativity, independence, and imagination, which she attributes to the outdoor learning environment. She also highlighted strong community engagement among TOPS families. She urged the Council to consider the long-term impacts of construction on the outdoor classroom, describing it as a valued community asset.
Mayor Iverson thanked the 31 speakers for their comments, noted that the Council could not respond to public comments, and confirmed that all remarks had been received and heard.
F. COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS
Councilmember Riley reported attending a John Muir Trust focus group with the Orinda Garden Club and a Municipal Finance webinar, and noted an upcoming Parks and Recreation facilities tour.
Vice Mayor Gee encouraged community participation in CCTA’s summer transportation input process via an online questionnaire, voicemail, or video submission, and asked staff to help promote it broadly.
Councilmember Malkani also attended the Municipal Finance webinar, the Orinda Chamber of Commerce mixer, Siesta Valley Bowl events, and a Meals on Wheels gala, highlighting community engagement and food insecurity concerns following the County tax measure outcome.
Councilmember Hoxie reported on the Lamorinda Spirit Van 20th anniversary celebration, presented a proclamation to a retiring Orinda Intermediate School teacher, attended a Chamber meeting, and encouraged residents to host an international student from Tabor Academy, noting the value of the exchange program.
Mayor Iverson highlighted Memorial Day observances, Pride Month events including a flag raising, an Eagle Scout ceremony recognizing six new Eagle Scouts, relocation of the Friends of the Nature Area to Siesta Valley Bowl, and a presentation from White Pony Express on food recovery and distribution programs.
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Mayor Iverson opened the public comment period, and there were no speakers.
G. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
City Manager Smith gave the following report:
• A Red-Flag Day warning notice has been posted from the National Weather Service which starts tomorrow evening at 11:00 p.m. They have been pushing out information about this and it will last until 9:00 a.m. the next morning. She advised members of the community to keep phones off of sleep mode for one night. • Thursday Nights in Orinda will kick off this week with Movie in the Park, the Lion King and food trucks will be back. Dogs are allowed on leash. • She would be remiss if she did not plug how Orinda works. The Citizens Academy is now accepting signups and it is available on the City’s website. It will start at the middle of August.
• They also have been approached about hosting a Watch Party this Friday for the soccer match between the USA and Paraguay so they are opening up the Founder’s Room in case members of the community want to come and watch together. It is a BYO food and beverage type of event and non-alcoholic. • Focus groups for wildfire preparedness will occur next week on June 16th. Visit the City’s website to find out more information.
• She reminded residents that they have changed their notification process for meetings and if someone has previously subscribed to receive meeting notices, go to their website and re-subscribe for the new system.
Mayor Iverson opened the public comment period, and there were no speakers.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Iverson asked if Councilmembers or the public wished to remove any items, noting Item 8 was removed earlier in the meeting. There were no requests and no public comments.
H.1 Approval of City Council Minutes
The City Council will consider approval of the Meeting Minutes of:
1. May 19, 2026, Closed Session
2. May 19, 2026, Regular Meeting
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve City Council Minutes of
1. May 19, 2026, Closed Session
2. May 19, 2026, Regular Meeting
H.2 Approve Agreement with TJKM Transportation Consultants for the Bicycle, Trails, Walkways Master Plan Update
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The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution, approving an agreement with TJKM Transportation Consultants (TJKM) for planning, engineering and professional design services to prepare the 2026 Bicycle, Trails, Walkways Master Plan Update. The proposed contract amount is $205,890. The master plan update will review and incorporate relevant projects from the 2011 Bicycle, Trails and Walkways Master Plan and provide new analysis that examines bicycle and pedestrian safety and needs, creating a comprehensive document that prioritizes multi-modal school commuter safety, safety in school zones and multi-modal transportation throughout the City.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 32-26 to Award a contract to TJKM for the 2026 Bicycle, Trails, Walkways Master Plan Update professional services in the amount of $205,890, and authorize the City Manager to increase contract value by amendment, up to 15% ($31,000).
H.3 Accept Work and Contract with Eric F. Anderson Inc. for the Library Exterior Accent Tile Replacement Project, CIP No. 4179 The City Council will consider adopting Resolution No. 46-26 Accepting the Work and Contract with Eric F. Anderson Inc. (EFA) for the Library Exterior Accent Tile Replacement Project, CIP No. 4179.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution No. 46-26 Accepting the Work and Contract with Eric F.
Anderson, Inc. (EFA) for the Library Exterior Accent Tile Replacement Project, CIP No. 4179.
Adoption of the Appropriation Limit for the Fiscal Year 2026-27 The City Council will consider setting the Fiscal Year 2026-27 appropriation limit at
$29,986,057. It is a requirement under Article XIII of the State Constitution to adopt an annual appropriations limit which sets the amount of tax revenue a government can legally spend. Charges for services, regulatory fees, grants, donations, and other non-tax proceeds are not subject to the limit.
Exemptions are also made for voter-approved debt, qualified capital expenditures, and for the cost of compliance with court or Federal government mandates. The limit is allowed to increase annually based on inflation factors. This limit is calculated by multiplying the preceding year's appropriations limit by the percentage change in population of the City or County and the percentage change in the California Per Capita Personal Income.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 36-26 Establishing the Annual Appropriations Limit for Fiscal Year 2026-27.
H.5 Agreements for the Contra Costa Clean Water Program (CCCWP) and the Group Program Inspection Agreement
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The City Council will consider approval of two agreements, one for the Contra Costa Clean Water Program (CCCWP) and one for the Group Program Inspection, which supports compliance with stormwater permit requirements. The CCCWP Agreement is an amended and restated agreement that will extend for a 15-year period.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 37-26 Approving the Contra Costa Clean Water Program (CCCWP) Agreement and Adopt Resolution 38-26 Approving the Group Program Inspection Agreement between City of Orinda and the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District.
H.6 Public Hearing - Confirm the Diagram and Assessment and Order the Levy and Collection of Assessments for the Orinda Street Lighting and Landscape Assessment District No. 1986-1, Zones L-42, M-9, and M-11 for Fiscal Year 2026-27
The City Council will hold a public hearing and consider confirming the diagram and assessment and ordering the levy and collection of assessments for the for Orinda Street Lighting and Landscaping Assessment District No. 1986-1, Zones L-42, M-9, and M-11, for Fiscal Year 2026-27. The proposed assessments will allow the City to continue providing street lighting, landscape maintenance, and related services within the District.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution No. 45-26 Confirming the Diagram and Assessment and Ordering the Levy and Collection of Assessments for the Orinda Street Lighting and Landscape Assessment District No. 1986-1 Zones L-42, M-9 and M-11 for Fiscal Year 2026-27.
H.7 Public Hearing - Approval of the City of Orinda Fiscal Year 2026- 27 Proposed Master Fee Schedule
The City Council will hold a public hearing (scheduled on the consent calendar) and consider adoption of its annual Master Fee Schedule. Fees included address the costs of providing services and the costs to mitigate development impacts. Where appropriate, user fees will be increased by
1.7% to reflect the change (increase) in the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all urban workers for the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose metropolitan area from February 2025 to February 2026. Fees for the Lamorinda Fee and Finance Authority (LFFA) are adjusted based on the increase in the Engineering News-Record Construction Cost Index (CCI) for the San Francisco Bay Area for the period ending September 30.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 28-26 Modifying Fees for Services Rendered by the City for Administrative, Planning, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Public Safety Services, and Development Impact Fees.
MOTION by Councilmember Hoxie moved, and seconded by Vice Mayor Gee to approve Consent Calendar Items H.1, H.2, H.3, H.4, H.5, H.6, and H.7. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0)vote.
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I. PUBLIC HEARING – None.
J. POLICY MATTERS
J.1 Discussion and Update on Ladris Software for Evacuation and Wildfire Modeling
The City Council will receive a presentation from Ladris CEO Leo Zlimen on the Ladris software program. Further, the City Council will discuss and provide direction to Staff extending the use of the software for its disaster planning and community education purposes. The existing one-year agreement is set to expire at the end of August 2026. Staff is proposing to enter into two-year extension with an annual fixed cost of $252,700, ensuring continuity of service as the City continues to refine its evacuation modeling and public education efforts.
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the presentation and discuss the Staff recommendation to continue working with Ladris for two additional years at a fixed annual cost of $252,700.
City Manager Smith said this was an opportunity for the Council to have a more detailed discussion regarding the Ladris software, used less than a year where the City has a oneyear agreement as a result of the settlement agreement with OC. City staff is recommending they continue the arrangement with Ladris for at least two more years and they wanted to talk with the Council about the value they believe they are getting from the services and software provided by Ladris, and discuss working more collaboratively over the next couple of years. She introduced Leo.
Leo Zlimen, CEO of Ladris Technologies, stated that the company is honored to provide wildfire evacuation modeling services to the City of Orinda and other U.S. communities.
He commended Orinda for its transparency and proactive approach to wildfire risk and mitigation, noting that such openness is uncommon and commendable. He indicated he would first outline Ladris’ business operations before addressing Council questions.
He presented an overview of Ladris as a risk management company focused on helping communities measure and reduce risk using software, data, personnel, and artificial intelligence. He described the company’s service tiers, noting that Orinda is currently at the Enterprise level and is already exceeding typical usage for that tier, reflecting strong engagement with the platform.
He reported that Ladris has invested approximately $440,000 in support of Orinda over the past year, equating to roughly $1.65 in platform investment for every $1.00 of contract value, and stated the company’s continued commitment to public education efforts intended to reduce the City’s risk exposure.
He further outlined key wildfire planning priorities for the next two years, including contraflow analysis, protection of vulnerable populations, Red Flag Day street planning, and Safety Element and emergency vehicle access analysis.
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He concluded by praising the City’s leadership and community engagement, emphasizing that Orinda stands out among clients for its high level of transparency and effective use of evacuation modeling, and expressed appreciation to the Council before opening the floor for questions.
Mayor Iverson opened the public comment period.
Jud Hammon, a resident and SSTOC member, expressed ongoing concern about wildfire mitigation and the City’s overall risk. He said that his initial impression of the Ladris proposal was positive, viewing it as having strong potential to help address complex wildfire-related challenges, particularly the central question of how to reduce risk to life and property in Orinda. However, he noted a key limitation in his perspective of the current approach, stating that the emphasis appears to be primarily on evacuation modeling rather than on reducing total wildfire risk. He suggested that this focus does not fully address broader mitigation needs.
Mr. Hammon also raised concerns about aspects of the wildfire spread modeling, stating that certain simulated fire front behaviors did not appear fully accurate to him. He referenced prior comments he had shared via email and indicated he may follow up further on those technical questions. Despite these concerns, he acknowledged that if the model can continuously update based on real-time fire behavior, then initial inaccuracies in long-range projections may be corrected as new data becomes available. On that basis, he said he remains optimistic about the tool’s value for evacuation planning.
He concluded by asking where the City should prioritize fuel reduction efforts, noting this remains an unresolved question. He suggested that either a different modeling approach or further development of the current system may be needed to better address long-term risk reduction strategies.
Councilmember Malkani asked whether Ladris can incorporate near real-time wildfire data—such as updated fire front locations and changing wind conditions—into its model during an active incident to improve evacuation guidance when initial predictions change.
Mr. Zlimen responded that the company is developing a system called “Prime,” scheduled for announcement around August, which is designed to operationalize real-time updates, including fire perimeter changes and traffic data, to continuously reproject wildfire behavior. He noted that while this capability is already functioning internally, it has not yet been publicly released and was not part of the original scope of the City’s engagement, though it is technically available.
Councilmember Malkani referenced public correspondence raising questions about the reliability and scope of the wildfire modeling.
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Mr. Zlimen replied that the discussion should distinguish between evacuation modeling and strategies for property protection. He stated that the system already includes capabilities to simulate fuel breaks and other interventions intended to slow fire spread using available fuel data. He added that these features have been active within the system for most of the contract period and that City staff have received training on them, though he acknowledged they have not been fully implemented due to competing priorities. He further suggested that such capabilities could support vegetation management planning and potential grant applications.
City Manager Smith stated that staff have been evaluating multiple aspects of the system and are particularly focused on whether investments improve evacuation timing. She emphasized that their primary priorities are life safety, followed by evacuation effectiveness, and then property protection.
Mayor Iverson noted that wildfire management has traditionally been split between two domains: fire behavior modeling used by fire agencies for suppression planning, and evacuation/traffic modeling systems like those used by Ladris. She asked whether these two approaches are converging and how the City should conceptualize their relationship.
Mr. Zlimen responded that Ladris has been working to integrate these capabilities over the past year, combining wildfire, flood, and evacuation tools into a unified platform called “Core.” He said the system now allows users to evaluate both life safety and economic impacts, and can incorporate parcel-level data to compare outcomes with and without mitigation measures, including modeled effects of suppression. He described these features as newly enhanced and evolving rapidly.
He added that the platform has advanced significantly over the past year and now aligns more closely with leading wildfire suppression modeling tools used in California, drawing on similar fire science and high-resolution (5-meter) data. However, he emphasized that limitations remain in fire modeling, particularly in predicting structure-to-structure fire spread due to unknown conditions within individual homes. While vegetation-driven fire behavior can be modeled with increasing accuracy, the variability of building contents prevents precise prediction of how structures ignite and propagate fire.
Mayor Iverson then asked how Orinda, despite its small size, has become such an intensive user of the system, and whether this level of investment is realistic or scalable, especially given limited participation from neighboring jurisdictions and budget constraints.
Mr. Zlimen replied that wildfire risk often lacks a clearly defined owner within government structures, unlike areas such as cybersecurity or finance. He argued that some jurisdictions have chosen to explicitly take ownership of wildfire risk as a managed responsibility and are investing accordingly, despite cost and complexity. He said adoption varies widely, and while change is slow, more jurisdictions are beginning to treat wildfire risk as a core function of government.
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He stated that Orinda is not unique in making such investments, but is notable for its level of engagement and transparency. He added that broader adoption will likely require time and coordination across county and regional levels, and referenced examples where similar “federated” approaches have emerged over multi-year timelines. He concluded that while Orinda’s adoption is still relatively recent, the City is ahead of many peers in its willingness to invest and share its approach.
Councilmember Hoxie noted concerns about vulnerable residents, including students, schools, and especially isolated seniors who live alone, may not drive, and may live in difficult-to-access areas. She asked how the software could help identify and support these individuals during an emergency.
Mr. Zlimen responded that the issue involves two distinct challenges. First is identification:
determining who needs assistance. He said this is largely a manual and opt-in process supported by community reporting tools and disaster registry systems, but noted that participation is typically low and requires active outreach, including door-to-door engagement and coordination with City departments.
Second is response: once vulnerable individuals are identified, ensuring they can safely evacuate. He said the platform is better suited to this phase by helping planners incorporate known vulnerable locations into evacuation strategies, including flagging high-risk properties and prioritizing them for targeted response. He added that effective use of this capability requires coordination with police, fire, and emergency management to integrate those locations into operational planning.
He concluded that improving disaster registries and better integrating community participation tools is an ongoing area of development, and indicated that Ladris is working with City staff on approaches to strengthen these systems over time.
Vice Mayor Gee asked whether local fire and police professionals, including MOFD, support and find value in the software, noting concern that the system can appear like a “black box.” She emphasized that while public-facing tools may be useful for awareness, the key measure is whether they effectively support City staff and emergency responders, who ultimately make operational decisions during disasters.
City Manager Smith agreed and stated that MOFD Chief Isaacs has been actively involved in the development and refinement of the system, including recent work on ember casting assumptions. She explained that initial modeling approaches were adjusted after direct feedback from the Chief, who clarified operational realities and helped guide more appropriate assumptions for Orinda-specific conditions. She added that staff also consulted with Cal Fire and other fire professionals to refine the model and ensure it reflects field experience.
She further noted that multiple departments have been engaged, including emergency services leadership and the City Engineer, to review evacuation modeling, parcel data accuracy, and operational constraints. This collaboration has led to updates in the system and improved alignment with real-world response planning.
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City Manager Smith said that this work has already informed upcoming multi-agency tabletop exercises, including scenarios such as the Orinda Oaks area, anticipated road closures (e.g., Moraga Way), and limited real-time decision-making during fast-moving wildfire conditions. She emphasized that the modeling is now being used to support coordinated planning among agencies rather than public exploration alone.
Vice Mayor Gee also asked whether the City could use the modeling and outputs to advocate for increased mitigation funding from agencies such as EBMUD and state legislators. City Manager Smith responded affirmatively, noting that City representatives have already presented the work to state officials, including Senator Grayson and an Assemblymember, who expressed interest in broader statewide application. She added that there is growing discussion with Cal Fire and neighboring jurisdictions about expanding the approach regionally.
City Manager Smith concluded that while regional collaboration is being pursued, the City still has outstanding internal planning needs—such as evacuation analysis, contraflow planning, and other Safety Element commitments—and emphasized the importance of continuing to develop these tools with support from partners like Ladris.
Vice Mayor Gee closed by encouraging continued public education efforts and additional community forums to help residents understand the importance of the modeling and preparedness work.
Councilmember Riley suggested that if the City proceeds with a two-year contract, it should consider a structured reduction in services afterward, noting that it can be difficult to scale back once the City becomes accustomed to receiving detailed modeling outputs.
She asked whether the contract could be framed in a way that anticipates a planned “weaning” from the service over time.
City Manager Smith responded that this is ultimately a policy decision. She explained that the current use of the system serves two main purposes: public education through a portal that allows residents to explore evacuation scenarios, and operational planning to support City decision-making. She noted that the City is still in the early stages of using the platform to fully answer key planning questions. After the two-year period, the City may have developed sufficient knowledge to transition to a reduced level of service or potentially rely on more regionalized capabilities, depending on outcomes.
She added that continuity of institutional knowledge is a consideration, with documentation being created to preserve learnings as staff and leadership continue to engage with the system. She also noted that fire leadership, including the Chief, is sharing insights with Battalion Chiefs to support operational use.
Mayor Iverson suggested in addition to asking for more time, she will suggest take a break between this matter and two matters. She asked how much more time they should vote to extend the meeting.
EXTEND MEETING
MOTION by Mayor Iverson, and seconded by Councilmember Riley, to extend the meeting at 9:50 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
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Councilmember Malkani asked whether the modeling system can be used to evaluate how fuel reduction efforts—particularly on non-city lands such as EBMUD and East Bay Regional Park District properties—might reduce overall wildfire risk and improve evacuation conditions. She referenced longstanding concerns that even with local mitigation, broader landscape-level risk remains, and asked whether the model can demonstrate the impact of treating those larger areas.
Mr. Zlimen responded that the system can model the effects of fuel treatments, including estimating reductions in potential economic loss by comparing scenarios with and without mitigation. He noted that for large-scale wildfire behavior, they also have access to advanced atmospheric fire modeling tools, including work associated with Dr. Cohen’s fire behavior research, which can help simulate how fire spreads under complex weather conditions.
He added that the system can also assess evacuation-relevant impacts, such as changes in heat intensity along roadways to determine whether routes remain safely passable under different fire scenarios. However, he noted that applying these analyses across multiple jurisdictions and landowners can be challenging, since responsibilities for mitigation, evacuation, and land management are distributed among different agencies.
He emphasized that wildfire risk management is inherently a fragmented, multi-agency problem involving overlapping responsibilities across utilities, land managers, fire agencies, and law enforcement, which can complicate coordinated action. Despite these challenges, he said that scenario modeling can help quantify potential benefits of mitigation, particularly in terms of avoided property loss.
He concluded that while risk levels fluctuate over time, the value of such modeling lies in identifying high-impact opportunities where targeted fuel treatments could meaningfully reduce losses in major fire events.
Mayor Iverson asked about the return on investment for the proposed two-year extension and how Mr. Zlimen views the value of continued higher-level service in years two and three, particularly in comparison to alternative uses of funds such as reserves or infrastructure projects like roads and storm drains.
Assistant City Manager Alessio responded that the value of the system is significant from both a financial oversight and risk management perspective. He noted that while the direct financial return is difficult to quantify in the absence of a disaster, the tool has the potential to reduce exposure to substantial wildfire-related claims and improve overall City preparedness and performance.
Mayor Iverson pressed further on opportunity cost, asking why continued investment in the platform would be preferable to other municipal priorities. Mr. Alessio replied that the greatest value lies in the potential to influence broader regional behavior around wildfire mitigation. He explained that wildfire risk is highly interconnected across jurisdictions, and that the modeling could help visualize and communicate that shared risk in a way that encourages neighboring communities to take action. He said such influence and coordination would be difficult to achieve without the data and visual outputs provided by the system.
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Mayor Iverson then asked what guidance should be given to the City Manager ahead of further discussions and decisions in August.
City Manager Smith said staff had already identified four key focus areas for the next two years, primarily centered on evacuation planning and operational readiness. She noted that Council interest also appears to include expanded wildfire modeling applications, particularly in support of grant funding, fuel mitigation planning, and coordination with regional agencies. She clarified that staff’s primary mandate remains evacuation and life safety, while acknowledging that fuel breaks and broader fire behavior modeling are typically handled by fire agencies. She indicated that if Council wishes to expand the scope to include these additional areas, staff could incorporate that work into the next phase of engagement with the vendor.
Councilmember Malkani emphasized that while evacuation planning must remain the City’s top priority, she sees a strong opportunity to use the modeling platform to advance regional wildfire mitigation efforts. She noted improving coordination with MOFD, the East Bay Regional Park District, and EBMUD, and said the City may be able to use the tool to help highlight large-scale “unmitigated risk areas” that extend beyond City boundaries.
She added that this could support efforts to secure additional grant funding for fuel reduction projects, particularly given that funding is currently available for such work, and expressed interest in using the model to strengthen regional investment and collaboration.
City Manager Smith responded that pursuing this direction would require close coordination with fire agencies to ensure alignment on priorities and responsibilities. She noted that a key first step would be confirming whether existing fuel breaks are sufficient and identifying where additional mitigation is needed. She referenced recent work, including mapping of existing fuel breaks by Contra Costa Fire Protection District and integration of GIS data, which allows the City to better assess how these features affect fire behavior and risk.
She added that understanding the effectiveness and maintenance needs of existing fuel breaks—such as those in North Orinda and the Happy Valley area—could help quantify their value and inform funding requests for ongoing maintenance and new projects. This type of analysis could support both local decision-making and regional advocacy by demonstrating where fuel treatments provide measurable risk reduction benefits.
Vice Mayor Gee expressed support for proceeding with the proposed contract extension, acknowledging the significant cost but noting her belief that additional funding sources may emerge over time, reducing the financial burden on Orinda alone. She suggested that regional funding opportunities, including potential enhancements to Contra Costa County tax measures such as Measure R, could help support continued investment in wildfire preparedness tools. She stated that, despite the expense, she supports continuing the program given its alignment with Measure R priorities.
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Councilmember Riley said she felt the weight of the decision but ultimately could not oppose the proposal, while expressing concern about long-term dependency on the system. She supported a two-year term but emphasized the importance of planning for a future reduction in reliance on the service and maintaining internal City capacity. She questioned the prioritization of Red Flag Day analysis within the proposed focus areas, suggesting it may be less critical than regional coordination and mitigation efforts. City Manager Smith clarified that Red-Flag Day work primarily involves evaluating parking restrictions and street access adjustments, and is relatively straightforward compared to other modeling tasks.
Councilmember Riley reiterated that regional collaboration should be more central to the plan and suggested revisiting the priority structure of the four focus areas.
Councilmember Hoxie highlighted concerns regarding isolated seniors and the challenges of maintaining accurate disaster registries, particularly as residents move, age, or pass away. She emphasized the importance of integrating community-based systems, such as Senior outreach programs, to improve identification and evacuation planning for vulnerable individuals. She also supported continued attention to schoolrelated evacuation planning and Red-Flag Day considerations, reaffirming that life safety must remain the City’s top priority, followed by property protection. She expressed strong support for continued use of the software and deeper regional coordination.
Mayor Iverson concluded by emphasizing the City’s leadership role in wildfire preparedness and expressed frustration that other jurisdictions and agencies, including the fire district, are not contributing at a comparable level. She praised the collaboration between City staff and Ladris, noting the significant effort required to develop and refine the system. She stated that she trusts the judgment of staff and subject-matter experts who recommend continuing the program and expressed her support for approving the extension.
City Manager Smith confirmed she had direction and she and Councilmembers thanked Mr. Zlimen.
BREAK
Mayor Iverson called for a break at 10:12 p.m. and, thereafter, reconvened the meeting at 10:15 p.m.
J.2 Pilot Facade Improvement Program
The City Council will consider adoption of a pilot Facade Improvement Program, following a presentation to and recommendation from the Downtown Planning and Revitalization Subcommittee, composed of Mayor Iverson and Councilmember Hoxie.
The proposed program includes a two-tier grant structure, a $75,000 budget, and an administrative review process intended to reduce project timelines and uncertainty. Eligible improvements would focus on permanent exterior upgrades, including signage, lighting, storefront improvements, landscaping, outdoor dining enhancements, and ADA accessibility improvements.
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt Resolution No. 35-26 directing implementation of the Facade Improvement Program, including exemptions from Planning Commission discretionary review, sign permit, tree removal permit, and outdoor dining permit requirements, and waiving applicable City building permit review and encroachment permit fees for approved projects.
Cole Haselip, Assistant to the City Manager, presented the staff report and accompanying PowerPoint on the proposed Façade Improvement Program (FIP). He explained that the program is identified as a strategic priority (3.e) and is intended to support exterior building improvements that enhance commercial areas and community aesthetics.
His presentation outlined the purpose and benefits of façade improvement programs, provided examples of similar initiatives in other jurisdictions, and summarized a proposed program structure. The proposal includes a one-year pilot program running from July through June 2027 with a total budget of $75,000. Under the program design, projects exceeding $10,000 would require applicant matching funds, with the City contributing up to $30,000 per project.
He also described streamlined administrative procedures, including staff-level review of applications in place of Planning Commission discretionary review. The program would exempt qualifying projects from certain permitting requirements, including sign permits, tree removal permits, and outdoor dining permits, and would waive associated building and encroachment permit fees for approved projects.
Staff recommends adoption of Resolution No. 35-26 to implement the pilot program and authorize the proposed exemptions and fee waivers. He added that staff would later return to Council with an ordinance formalizing the streamlined permitting approach, including adjustments to discretionary review processes needed to support program implementation.
Mayor Iverson asked whether the ordinance would require two readings. Mr. Haselip responded that staff would first take the item to the Planning Commission and noted that, although the program is intended to begin in July, the first applications are not expected immediately, so the approval process would not significantly delay implementation.
Councilmember Malkani asked whether there would be internal discretionary review of applications, clarifying that eligibility for funding would not be automatic even if an application falls under a certain dollar threshold. Mr. Haselip confirmed that applications would be evaluated against established criteria outlined in the staff report and would need to meet a minimum threshold to be considered. He added that proposals would also be reviewed in comparison to other submitted applications.
Vice Mayor Gee asked how the program would be publicized. Mr. Haselip said staff would use multiple outreach methods, including social media, newsletters, press outreach, Chamber of Commerce coordination, regional meetings, and direct engagement with property owners through existing business outreach staff.
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Councilmember Riley questioned whether the proposed funding levels were sufficient, noting they appeared low. Mr. Haselip responded that the amounts were based on comparable programs in other jurisdictions and were intended to support a pilot approach, with flexibility to adjust funding levels in future Council action.
City Manager Smith added that the inclusion of a no-match tier was based on feedback from the local business community, particularly interest in smaller-scale improvements such as awnings or minor façade upgrades that might not warrant a matching investment.
She explained that the structure was designed to encourage broader participation while allowing the program to be adjusted after the pilot phase.
Mayor Iverson opened the public comments, and there were no speakers.
Mayor Iverson noted that in subcommittee discussions she had previously raised questions about whether items such as sidewalk dining, planters, and similar streetscape enhancements could be eligible for funding. She explained that staff clarified City funds are intended for permanent, taxable improvements to private property, rather than movable or non-fixed items. As a result, eligible improvements must be physically attached to buildings or structures, while items like planters and furniture are excluded.
She also referenced signage review, noting that while signage typically goes through the Planning process, she appreciated having input through the program’s structure to help shape outcomes and ensure quality improvements. She emphasized the importance of streamlining the process, while still maintaining a high standard of design review through dedicated staff oversight, particularly for signage, rather than relying on a full commissionlevel review.
Councilmember Malkani expressed support for the proposal and thanked both the subcommittee and staff for their work in bringing the program forward for Council consideration.
MOTION by Councilmember Malkani, and seconded by Vice Mayor Gee, to adopt Resolution No. 35-26 directing implementation of the Facade Improvement Program, including exemptions from Planning Commission discretionary review, sign permit, tree removal permit, and outdoor dining permit requirements, and waiving applicable City building permit review and encroachment permit fees for approved projects. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
J.3 Fiscal Year 2026-27 Mid-Cycle Budget Update, Including CIP Changes, Approval of New Job Classifications, and Annual Consolidated Salary Schedule 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, which includes changes to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).
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In addition, Staff is recommending the creation of three new job classifications as part of the staffing plan for Fiscal Year 2026-27 along with the annual update to the Consolidate Salary Schedule which incorporates adjustments for both Unrepresented Employees and the General Employees unit, ensuring alignment and consistency across all classifications.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt the following resolutions: 1) Resolution 48-26 Approving the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Mid-Cycle Budget Adjustment, 2) Resolution 43-26 Approving New Job Classifications, and 3) Resolution 44-26 Approving the Amended Consolidated Salary Schedule.
Assistant City Manager Doug Alessio said this item is the FY 2026/27 mid-cycle budget update, including CIP changes. It is approval of three new job classifications and approval of the annual consolidated salary schedule update. He then presented the staff report and overview of the budget, with minor changes which he described. Staff incorporated the changes proposed at the May 5th meeting which he highlighted.
EXTEND MEETING
MOTION by Councilmember Malkani, and seconded by Vice Mayor Gee, to extend the meeting at 10:30 p.m. to 10:35 p.m. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
Human Resources Manager Ginger Staton said to ensure transparency, she read the monthly salary ranges for the Director level positions into the public record.
Staff recommends the Council adopt the following resolutions: 1) Resolution 48-26 Approving the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Mid-Cycle Budget Adjustment, 2) Resolution 43-26 Approving New Job Classifications, and 3) Resolution 44-26 Approving the Amended Consolidated Salary Schedule.
There were no questions on the Operating Budget, and Mayor Iverson called on Public Works Director Scott Christie, who briefly summarized changes made based on the Council’s input from the May 5th meeting and a recap of what the CIP is.
Mayor Iverson referenced the Altarinda sidewalk, noting that while there are popular walking areas on either side, she was not aware of significant pedestrian movement between them. She stated that the area appears to have a demonstrated need for a sidewalk, but it is not currently scheduled in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for approximately three years. She suggested that the Bicycle Master Plan could evaluate the corridor sooner to better inform prioritization.
Mr. Christie responded that the project has been included in long-range planning documents, including the Bike, Trails, and Walkways Plan, and has moved into a higher priority tier in recent updates. He acknowledged that pedestrians do use the area, but noted that existing conditions are constrained and unsafe due to narrow roadway conditions and the absence of a sidewalk. He added that the updated planning effort would consider the corridor’s needs and help reassess its timing and prioritization.
Mayor Iverson asked to make that a question in the plan versus a given in the plan.
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Councilmember Hoxie supported the need for improvements along the Altarinda corridor, noting firsthand familiarity with the area through a friend who lives nearby. She explained that pedestrians do use the roadway, particularly around a curved section with limited visibility due to vegetation and traffic conditions, which creates safety concerns.
She added that some residents walk along the route toward the freeway crossing and that access to the nearby bus stop at Altarinda and St. Stephens currently requires walking in the street. Given these conditions, she stated that she believes the location is a strong candidate for a sidewalk improvement and would benefit from prioritization.
EXTEND MEETING
MOTION by Councilmember Malkani, and seconded by Vice Mayor Gee, to extend the meeting at 10:30 p.m. to 10:55 p.m. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
Mayor Iverson thanked staff for such great listening, noting she is excited about for projects in the CIP and likes some of the new changes, as well as sidewalks which will be very appreciated.
Councilmembers thanked staff for their excellent report.
MOTION by Councilmember Hoxie, and seconded by Vice Mayor Gee, to adopt the following resolutions: 1) Resolution 48-26 Approving the Fiscal Year 2026-27 MidCycle Budget Adjustment, 2) Resolution 43-26 Approving New Job Classifications, and 3) Resolution 44-26 Approving the Amended Consolidated Salary Schedule.
Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) vote.
K. MATTERS INITIATED – None.
L. ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting was adjourned at approximately 10:55 p.m. to the next Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
______________________________
Sheri Marie Smith, City Clerk