Orinda City Council Minutes Page 1 of 10 07.21.26
JULY 21, 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
(via Zoom)
COUNCILMEMBERS ABSENT: None.
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Led by Mayor Iverson.
C. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
There were no changes to the agenda.
MOTION by Mayor Iverson, and seconded by Councilmember Hoxie, to adopt the agenda. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) roll call vote.
D. ITEMS FOR THE GOOD OF THE CITY
E.1 Introduction of Officer Taliaferro
Police Chief Rossi stated the new Police Officer position represents an important investment in the safety and quality of life of Orinda and is dedicated to: 1) supporting schools; 2) strengthening emergency preparedness; and 3) enhancing partnerships with their business community. He then introduced new Police Officer Taliaferro.
Officer Taliaferro said she is excited to be a part of the beginning of this new position the City has granted.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
Councilmembers welcomed Officer Taliaferro to the Police Department.
E.2 Recognition of Aiden Meng, National Spelling Bee Finalist Donna Brown from Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan’s office and on behalf of Senator Tim Grayson, presented and recognized Aiden Meng, as a National Spelling Bee finalist from Orinda Middle School.
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Mayor Iverson then presented and read a Proclamation into the record recognizing Aiden Meng. A 7th grade student, as a finalist in the National Spelling Bee.
Aiden Meng, 7th grade student, Orinda Middle School, thanked the Council, his family, and Ms. Brown on behalf of the Assemblymember and Senator for recognizing him as a finalist in the National Spelling Bee.
Councilmembers congratulated Aiden for his accomplishments.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
E. PUBLIC FORUM - None
F. COUNCIL REPORTS
Councilmember Riley reported attending the Orinda Historical Society meeting and said they are holding their first Teen Appreciation Pizza Party Lunch this week. The Historical Society is supporting DIR’s event on August 6th at the Lafayette Library in honor of the 250th anniversary, is launching a new website, and they are interested in providing a tour of historical sites in the future.
Vice Mayor Gee gave the following report:
• CCTA met and approved the award of the Countywide Evacuation Study and the work will get underway in the next couple of months. Also, CCTA is encouraging listening with all communities with the County this summer and asking people what to share what their transportation challenges are and things they would like to see happen, are already great, and generally how they feel about transportation in the County.
• They held their annual Tri-Cities Meeting in Moraga at St. Mary’s College with a good turnout of elected officials and a warm welcome from the St. Mary’s President. New facilities of the campus were able to be toured. She described speakers at the meeting; Casey Elliott from Townsend Public Affairs, BART CFO spoke regarding SB 63 on the November ballot, and Tim Hale, ED from CCTA.
Councilmember Malkani reported this weekend she attended AAPI Lead conference in Southern California. It is the third annual national conference of AAPI elected members from around the nation.
Councilmember Hoxie reported attending the TSAC meeting where the Committee discussed new calming measure requests, reviewed police reports of traffic violations and citations issued, as well as collision data, and discussed going out for a bid for a bike/ped trail map and plan for Orinda, and input is needed. She and Councilmember Riley took the tour of the St. Mary’s facilities, noting the Nursing Program will be a great asset to the region and community.
Councilmember Riley stated the St. Mary’s College President also mentioned the 100th anniversary coming up in 2028, celebrating when St. Mary’s moved to Moraga. She asked Councilmembers to think about how they can partner with Moraga and Lafayette with mutual interests.
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Mayor Iverson gave the following report:
• She attended the Mayors’ Liaison meeting and said the Tabor student arrives on August 10th and a host family is still needed.
• The OUSD announced enrollment is up again this year and their facilities project is on schedule and going well.
• One Orinda beat their target shy of $6 million, beating it by $80,000 year over year and their target for the coming year will be over $6 million. • The Acalanes School District sent out information about a potential parcel tax and will have until August 7th to commit to a parcel tax.
• MOFD will move into their new building the first week of August and the demonstration garden at Station 42 is now up and live.
• The County was proud of an opening for their new behavioral center. • Loard’s Ice Cream and Candy is sponsoring a Chamber Mixer on July 30th.
Mayor Iverson opened the public comment period, and there were no speakers.
G. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
City Manager Smith gave the following report:
• She reminded the Council and public that the City’s annual pavement work projects began yesterday;
• The Thursday Night Concert is Opera in the Park this week sponsored by Orinda Rotary.
• The City is still seeking feedback on the Community Park Master Plan on changes and proposed playground design, themes, equipment, etc. • The Citizen’s Academy, titled “How Orinda Works – HOW” is still accepting applications. They have 30 people wishing to participate to date. • National Night Out will be held August 4th at the Community Park with Orinda Police and MOFD.
• The Fall Recreation Guide is out on-line, coming to people’s homes, and registration starts August 10th.
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, and Councilmember Hoxie asked to remove Item I.4 for discussion. There were no other requested items and no public comments.
I.1 Approval of City Council Minutes
The City Council will consider approval of the Meeting Minutes of:
1. July 7, 2026, Closed Session
2. July 7, 2026, Regular Meeting
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve City Council Minutes of
1. July 7, 2026, Closed Session
2. July 7, 2026, Regular Meeting
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I.2 Ordinance Establishing State-authorized limitations on Parcels Created Pursuant to the Starter Home Revitalization Act The City Council will consider adoption of Ordinance 26-05, which was introduced at the City Council Meeting of July 7, 2026. This Ordinance would amend Title 16 (Subdivisions) and Title 17 (Zoning) of the Orinda Municipal Code to establish State-authorized limitations on parcels created pursuant to the Starter Home Revitalization Act, 2026.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Ordinance 26-05, waiving full reading, amending Title 16 (Subdivisions) and Title 17 (Zoning) of the Orinda Municipal Code to establish State-authorized limitations on parcels created pursuant to the Starter Home Revitalization Act (California Government Code Section 66499.41).
I.3 Investment Report for the Quarter Ending June 30, 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 April 1, 2026, to June 30, 2026.
RECOMMENDATION:
Accept the Investment Report for the quarter ending June 30, 2026.
I.5 Authorize an Exception to Competitive Bidding Per Orinda Municipal Code (OMC) Section 2.55.100, Purchase Two Replacement Police Patrol Vehicles, Including Equipment Outfitting and Installation, and Approve Budget Change Form #001-27
The City is responsible for providing the fleet of vehicles used by Police personnel under the contract with the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff. Two existing Police Patrol Vehicles have reached the end of their useful life and need to be replaced. Per Orinda Municipal Code Section
2.55.100, when another public agency has administered a competitive bidding process and has a current valid agreement for the same or substantially similar equipment, an exception to the competitive bidding requirement may be requested. In addition, Staff is requesting a budget adjustment of $179,500 originally appropriated in Fiscal Year 2025-26 which went unspent and remains available for this use.
RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize an exception to the competitive bidding process per OMC
2.55.100, approve the replacement of two existing police patrol vehicles at a total cost of
$179,500 ($125,000 for the vehicles and approximately $54,500 for equipment and outfitting); and approve Budget Change Form #001-27 in the amount of $179,500 from the Fleet Replacement Fund (Fund 605).
MOTION by Mayor Iverson moved, and seconded by Councilmember Hoxie to approve Consent Calendar Items I.1, I.2, I.3 and I.5. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) roll call vote.
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Item Removed from the Consent Calendar:
I.4 Ladris Contract Amendment No. 1 for Wildfire and Evacuation Planning Services
The City Council will consider approving Amendment No. 1 to the agreement with Ladris Technologies, Inc., extending the City's wildfire scenario and evacuation planning services for an additional two-year term, from August 30, 2026, through August 29, 2028, at a fixed annual cost of $252,700, for a total contract amount not to exceed $505,400.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution No. 56-26 Approving Amendment No. 1 to the Professional Services Agreement with Ladris Technologies, Inc. for the continued provision of wildfire scenario and evacuation planning services to the City of Orinda.
Councilmember Hoxie referenced public comments regarding the proposed use of Ladris and asked how the platform would support the City during a wildfire event similar to the ongoing fire in the Pleasanton, Sunol, and Livermore area.
City Manager Smith explained that while Alameda County and CAL FIRE may use some fire prediction and modeling tools, Ladris is intended to support the City's emergency management efforts. In a local wildfire scenario, the platform would analyze fire conditions, weather, and other variables to model fire progression, identify areas that may require evacuation, and evaluate evacuation timing using real-time traffic data. The primary benefit is to assist the City in making informed decisions about evacuation warnings and orders rather than serving as a public-facing tool.
Councilmember Hoxie also raised public concerns regarding the accuracy of ember-cast modeling. City Manager Smith responded that Ladris incorporates detailed fire behavior modeling based on factors such as wind direction, wind speed, humidity, and fire origin.
She noted that these modeling capabilities were reviewed extensively with the MoragaOrinda Fire District (MOFD) during the City's evaluation of the system.
Regarding cost, Councilmember Hoxie acknowledged public concerns about the City's investment in the platform and observed that the City considers the expense justified given its value for real-time evacuation planning. City Manager Smith agreed, noting that Ladris uses highly detailed regional vegetation mapping at a five-meter resolution, providing greater accuracy than the more common 30-meter datasets. She added that the City continues to pursue a regional funding approach and has submitted grant applications to help offset costs.
Vice Mayor Gee highlighted a specific public question about whether Ladris accurately models wildfire spread rates. He noted that during previous discussions, MOFD had reviewed the platform's methodology and expressed confidence that its modeling approach is sound.
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City Manager Smith stated that the City worked closely with the Fire Chief and the Ladris team to refine the platform's wildfire modeling. She explained that the model incorporates high-resolution vegetation mapping at the five-meter level and has been adjusted based on the Fire Chief's experience and input from CAL FIRE officials. She added that the modeling assumes no fire suppression activities and is based on conservative assumptions, including 45-degree wind directions, wind speeds exceeding 30 mph, and relative humidity conditions, resulting in what the City believes is a realistic planning model.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
Councilmembers highlighted the value of Ladris for wildfire modeling, including its embercasting capabilities, and encouraged the public to review the information available on the City's website. They also supported pursuing regional partnerships, including through CCTA, to integrate the tool with countywide evacuation planning and explore cost-sharing opportunities, noting that while the software is a worthwhile investment, its long-term costs would be more sustainable if shared among neighboring jurisdictions.
MOTION by Councilmember Malkani Iverson moved, and seconded by Councilmember Hoxie to approve Consent Calendar Item I.4. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) roll call vote.
I. PUBLIC HEARING
J.1 Introducing Ordinance No. 26-07 Pilot Facade Improvement Program Streamlining. On June 9, 2026, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 35-26 establishing a one-year Pilot Façade Improvement Program to encourage investment in exterior improvements to commercial properties. As part of that action, the City Council directed staff to prepare any necessary amendments to the Orinda Municipal Code to streamline review procedures for approved Façade Improvement Program projects.
Ordinance No. 26-07 implements that direction by exempting approved Façade Improvement Program projects from Planning Commission design review, sign permit requirements, tree removal permit requirements, and outdoor dining permit requirements while maintaining compliance with applicable building, fire, accessibility, and encroachment requirements.
As required for all amendments to Title 17 (Zoning Code), the Planning Commission considered the proposed ordinance on July 14, 2026, and recommended that the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 26-07. The Planning Commission's recommendation is advisory, and the City Council retains full authority to approve, modify, or deny the proposed ordinance.
RECOMMENDATION:
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Waive the full reading and introduce Ordinance No. 26-07, amending Chapters 17.8.5 (I-Downtown Commercial District), 17.18.5 (Exempt Signs), 17.21.3 (Permit Required for Removal or Destruction of a Protected Tree), and 17.30.3 (Design Review Requirement) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Orinda Municipal Code to streamline permitting requirements for approved Façade Improvement Program projects; and find that Ordinance No. 26-07 is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and direct staff to file a Notice of Exemption.
Assistant to the City Manager Cole Haselip presented the staff report on the proposed ordinance implementing the one-year Pilot Façade Improvement Program. He explained that the program includes grants of up to $30,000 for eligible exterior improvements and a streamlined review process that exempts approved projects from certain design review, sign permit, outdoor dining permit, and tree removal permit requirements. He noted that the Planning Commission reviewed the proposed ordinance and recommended adoption of Ordinance No. 26-07.
Councilmember Riley asked whether improvements to the rear of a building would qualify if the area is visible from public streets or walkways. Mr. Haselip responded that the program is limited to storefront façades but encouraged interested property owners to submit an interest form for staff review. City Manager Smith added that while grant funding is intended for eligible façade improvements, property owners could use their own funds for other building improvements, and staff would work with applicants to discuss their project goals.
Councilmember Malkani asked whether improvements to the theater sign could be eligible under the program. Mr. Haselip encouraged submission of an interest form for staff evaluation, and City Manager Smith noted that staff recognizes the Council's interest in the theater sign and is exploring potential solutions.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
Mayor Iverson referenced the Planning Commission's discussion of the Pilot Façade Improvement Program and supported its recommendation for a one-year review, noting the importance of evaluating the pilot's outcomes and considering how the streamlined review process could inform future City procedures.
Councilmember Malkani confirmed with Mr. Haselip that the Planning Commission recommended including a Planning Department representative on the program's review committee and requested that the program return to the Planning Commission after one year to report on the pilot's results.
Mayor Iverson also expressed support for maintaining quality control over signage while minimizing burdens on small businesses. She suggested that signage and tree-related decisions could be reviewed by the Zoning Administrator and stated that the first year of the pilot would provide valuable information for future program improvements.
Councilmember Hoxie echoed the previous comments and expressed support for the program.
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MOTION by Councilmember Hoxie, and seconded by Councilmember Malkani, to waive the full reading and introduce Ordinance No. 26-07, amending Chapters 17.8.5 (IDowntown Commercial District), 17.18.5 (Exempt Signs), 17.21.3 (Permit Required for Removal or Destruction of a Protected Tree), and 17.30.3 (Design Review Requirement) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Orinda Municipal Code to streamline permitting requirements for approved Façade Improvement Program projects; and find that Ordinance No. 26-07 is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and direct staff to file a Notice of Exemption. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) roll call vote.
J. POLICY MATTERS
K.1 Adopting the 2026 Emergency Operations Plan
The proposed 2026 Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) establishes the City’s framework for preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies and disasters. The EOP is designed as an all-hazards plan and provides scalable guidance that may be applied to wildfires, earthquakes, severe weather, utility disruptions, hazardous materials incidents, public safety emergencies, and other events affecting the community.
The EOP identifies the City’s emergency organization, establishes procedures for activating and operating the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), describes the roles of City departments and partner agencies, and provides functional and hazard-specific annexes, operational checklists, and supporting forms. The plan is intended to improve coordination, clarify responsibilities, and provide City staff with practical guidance during an emergency.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution No. 58-26 Adopting the 2026 Emergency Operations Plan.
Assistant to the City Manager Cole Haselip presented an update to the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), including integration of updated laws, wildfire response practices, Ladris, training exercises, and action items. City Manager Smith introduced Lee Rosenberg of Navigating Preparedness, who assisted staff with the plan update.
Councilmember Hoxie asked how the City can improve coordination with outside organizations, including the school district. Mr. Haselip said this was identified in the afteraction report and staff will continue outreach through training invitations, direct meetings, and sharing of the EOP.
Vice Mayor Gee praised the plan and emphasized the importance of regional coordination with neighboring cities. Mr. Haselip noted that recent exercises improved alignment among agencies through shared NIMS training and emergency response structures, with continued collaboration planned.
Councilmembers Malkani and Riley echoed the importance of regional preparedness and public education, including evacuation awareness and future community exercises. City Manager Smith noted that evacuation drills can be challenging but highlighted the value of ongoing education and lessons learned from recent regional fire events.
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Mayor Iverson asked about maintaining and updating the EOP. Mr. Haselip stated staff will regularly review the plan and update it when significant changes are needed. She also asked about potential delays if emergency operations staff do not live locally. Mr.
Haselip described mitigation measures, including emergency notification systems, remote work capabilities, and improved communication tools.
Mr. Haselip and Mr. Rosenberg discussed emergency communication resources, including GECS, wireless priority services, satellite phones, and public safety radio systems. City Manager Smith noted her role as Chair of the East Bay Regional Communications System Authority.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
Councilmembers expressed support for the plan, noting it is thorough and well-developed.
They emphasized the importance of continued testing and training, thanked Mr.
Rosenberg and staff for their work, and recognized the plan’s attention to detail, commitment, and professionalism.
MOTION by Councilmember Hoxie, and seconded by Councilmember Riley, to adopt Resolution No. 58-26 adopting the 2026 Emergency Operations Plan. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) roll call vote.
K.2 Strategic Plan Progress Report
In July 2025, the City Council adopted the Fiscal Years 2025/26–2026/27 Strategic Plan to establish the City's organizational priorities and guide policy development, budgeting, and staff work over the two-year planning period. The Strategic Plan identifies four strategic priorities and a series of implementation objectives intended to improve wildfire resilience, infrastructure, downtown vitality, and community engagement.
This report provides the City Council with its first comprehensive implementation update. Attachment A summarizes the implementation status of every Strategic Plan objective, while Attachments B and C document the policy actions, projects, and initiatives undertaken by the City that support implementation of the Strategic Plan. Together, these documents provide a comprehensive overview of the City's progress toward accomplishing the Council's adopted priorities.
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the Strategic Plan Progress Report and provide direction to Staff on further implementation.
Assistant to the City Manager Cole Haselip presented a progress report on the Counciladopted Strategic Plan, which is targeted for completion by the end of Fiscal Year 2027.
He reviewed the plan’s four components and highlighted progress on the 19 strategic items, noting three items are complete, 16 are ongoing, and six are in progress. He also reviewed reports on Council actions and staff work items completed from July 2025 through June 2026 and provided updates on key projects.
Councilmember Malkani asked whether community emergency preparedness education efforts would continue with the Fire Safe Moraga-Orinda (FSMO) taking a lead role.
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City Manager Smith confirmed that staff will continue working with FSMO on outreach and are also partnering with Impactful Communications on focus groups to evaluate effective messaging and delivery methods. She noted staff will return with the findings and recommendations, including discussions with the 2x2 Committee and SSTOC.
Mayor Iverson opened the Public Forum, and there were no speakers.
Councilmembers recognized staff’s efforts in developing and tracking the Strategic Plan, identifying completed work, and maintaining focus on Council priorities.
City Manager Smith stated that staff will begin planning earlier for next year’s Strategic Plan update, with the goal of scheduling a facilitated session in late February and aligning the process with upcoming budget timelines.
Councilmember Malkani confirmed with the City Manager that the current staff report and attachments will be provided as part of the future strategic planning process.
K. MATTERS INITIATED – Councilmember Malkani said she received a number of comments from residents who are asking for a gas leaf blower ban, which is something neighboring jurisdictions have imposed. She asked if staff could provide an analysis of that, pros and cons, and what other Contra Costa cities’ experiences has been.
MOTION by Councilmember Malkani, and seconded by Councilmember Riley, to direct staff to return with analysis, pros and cons, and what other Contra Costa cities have experienced with implementation of restrictions on gas leaf blowers. Said motion carried by unanimous (5-0) roll call vote.
L. ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:43 p.m. to the next Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, August 04, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. ______________________________
Sheri Marie Smith, City Clerk