CITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person.
Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto ,
and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/362027238) Meeting ID: 362 027 238 Phone:1(669)900‐6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to [email protected] and will be provided to the Council and available for inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to [email protected] at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not accepted.
TIME ESTIMATES
Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Council reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.
CALL TO ORDER
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:30 ‐ 5:45 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (5:45 ‐ 5:50 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (5:50 ‐ 5:55 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
1. Approval of Minutes from December 11, 2023, December 18, 2023, and December 19, 2023 Meetings
2. Adopt an Ordinance to Expand the Public Art Commission (PAC) from Five to Seven Members; CEQA status ‐ not a project
3. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number C24189060 with US Bank and its Wholly owned Subsidiary Elavon for General Banking and Merchant Services and Approval of Contract Amendment Number C24189061 with Wells Fargo for Lockbox Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
4. Approval of Professional Services Contract with Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc. (E3) for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $945,286 for the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) Funding Study; Amendment to Professional Services Contract with Sterling Communications, Inc. to Amend the Scope, Extend the Timeline, and Increase Total Not‐to‐Exceed Compensation by $75,000 (from $85,000 to $160,000); and a Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund for Acceptance of $75,000 DEED grant for S/CAP Funding Study; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
5. Accept the City of Palo Alto’s Audited Financial Statements as of June 30, 2023 and the Macias, Gini & O’Connell Management Letter; Approve the FY 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)and Amendments to the FY 2023 Budget in Various Funds; and Adopt a Resolution to Extend and Amend the Development Services Reserve Fund Policy, as Recommended by the Finance Committee; CEQA Status – Not a Project
6. Approval of Amendment No. 2 with Pets in Need Contract (C19174493) to extend the term through March 2024 and increase the compensation by $342,501 for operations of the Palo Alto Animal Shelter, for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $4,431,872; CEQA status – not a project.
7. Adopt a Resolution Approving an Amendment to the City’s 2009 California‐Oregon Transmission Project Long‐Term Layoff Agreement to Extend the City’s Layoff of its Share of the California Oregon Transmission Project (COTP) until 2034 and to Receive Annual Market Payments as Recommended by the Utilities Advisory Commission (UAC); CEQA Status – Not a Project
8. Approval of Recommendations on Process for 2024 Council Priority Setting Retreat as Recommended by Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status – Not a Project)
9. Approval of the Office of the City Auditor's Investment Management Audit Report as Recommended by the Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project)
10. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.42.160 (Safe Parking) to Permanently Establish the Congregation‐ Based Safe Parking Program and Establishing Regulations Related to Safe Parking, Including a Maximum Number of Vehicles Per Night on Each Site (FIRST READING:
December 4, 2023 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
11. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapters 4.10 (Licenses Obtained by Application to Chief of Police), 4.30 (Soliciting Funds), and Chapter 4.32 (Soliciting Information for Commercial Purposes); and Adding Chapter 4.12 to Title 4 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Comply With Updates to the Law, Including 2018 Senate Bill 946 (Sidewalk Vendors). CEQA status – categorically exempt. (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
12. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Urgency Ordinance and an Interim Ordinance That Allows the Director of Planning and Development Services to Extend Planning Entitlements for Housing Development Projects up to an Additional 18 Months.
Environmental Review: Exempt from CEQA in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3). (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 13: 6:20 ‐ 7:50 PM, Item 14: 7:50 ‐ 8:35 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
13. Tree Protection Ordinance Year One Review and Recommendations; Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 8.04 (Street Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Update the Allowable Reasons for Removal of Protected Trees, Make Clarifying Changes, and to Make Clerical Updates; and Adoption of a Resolution amending the Administrative Penalty Schedule to Increase the Penalties for Violations of Title 8 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code; CEQA Status – Not a Projects
14. Approval of a Substation Improvement Agreement With Tesla Inc. to Install Improvements and Reserve Capacity at Hanover Substation, and Approval of a Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund to Establish the Hanover Substation Upgrade Project (EL‐24001); CEQA Status – Exempt under CEQA Guideline Sections 15301 and 15302
ADJOURNMENT
INFORMATION REPORTS
Information reports are provided for informational purposes only to the Council and the public but are not listed for action during this meeting’s agenda.
15. Sales Tax Digest Summary Calendar 2023 Q2 (April 2023 – June 2023) OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments using a computer or smart phone will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 , Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. Or download the Zoom application onto your smart phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter in the Meeting ID below.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 362‐027‐238 Phone: 1‐669‐900‐6833 Americans with Disability Act (ADA)
It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing [email protected]. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service.
1 Special Meeting January 16, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas.
CITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person.
Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto ,
and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/362027238) Meeting ID: 362 027 238 Phone:1(669)900‐6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to [email protected] and will be provided to the Council and available for inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to [email protected] at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not accepted.
TIME ESTIMATES
Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Council reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.
CALL TO ORDER
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:30 ‐ 5:45 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (5:45 ‐ 5:50 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (5:50 ‐ 5:55 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
1. Approval of Minutes from December 11, 2023, December 18, 2023, and December 19, 2023 Meetings
2. Adopt an Ordinance to Expand the Public Art Commission (PAC) from Five to Seven Members; CEQA status ‐ not a project
3. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number C24189060 with US Bank and its Wholly owned Subsidiary Elavon for General Banking and Merchant Services and Approval of Contract Amendment Number C24189061 with Wells Fargo for Lockbox Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
4. Approval of Professional Services Contract with Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc. (E3) for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $945,286 for the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) Funding Study; Amendment to Professional Services Contract with Sterling Communications, Inc. to Amend the Scope, Extend the Timeline, and Increase Total Not‐to‐Exceed Compensation by $75,000 (from $85,000 to $160,000); and a Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund for Acceptance of $75,000 DEED grant for S/CAP Funding Study; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
5. Accept the City of Palo Alto’s Audited Financial Statements as of June 30, 2023 and the Macias, Gini & O’Connell Management Letter; Approve the FY 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)and Amendments to the FY 2023 Budget in Various Funds; and Adopt a Resolution to Extend and Amend the Development Services Reserve Fund Policy, as Recommended by the Finance Committee; CEQA Status – Not a Project
6. Approval of Amendment No. 2 with Pets in Need Contract (C19174493) to extend the term through March 2024 and increase the compensation by $342,501 for operations of the Palo Alto Animal Shelter, for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $4,431,872; CEQA status – not a project.
7. Adopt a Resolution Approving an Amendment to the City’s 2009 California‐Oregon Transmission Project Long‐Term Layoff Agreement to Extend the City’s Layoff of its Share of the California Oregon Transmission Project (COTP) until 2034 and to Receive Annual Market Payments as Recommended by the Utilities Advisory Commission (UAC); CEQA Status – Not a Project
8. Approval of Recommendations on Process for 2024 Council Priority Setting Retreat as Recommended by Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status – Not a Project)
9. Approval of the Office of the City Auditor's Investment Management Audit Report as Recommended by the Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project)
10. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.42.160 (Safe Parking) to Permanently Establish the Congregation‐ Based Safe Parking Program and Establishing Regulations Related to Safe Parking, Including a Maximum Number of Vehicles Per Night on Each Site (FIRST READING:
December 4, 2023 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
11. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapters 4.10 (Licenses Obtained by Application to Chief of Police), 4.30 (Soliciting Funds), and Chapter 4.32 (Soliciting Information for Commercial Purposes); and Adding Chapter 4.12 to Title 4 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Comply With Updates to the Law, Including 2018 Senate Bill 946 (Sidewalk Vendors). CEQA status – categorically exempt. (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
12. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Urgency Ordinance and an Interim Ordinance That Allows the Director of Planning and Development Services to Extend Planning Entitlements for Housing Development Projects up to an Additional 18 Months.
Environmental Review: Exempt from CEQA in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3). (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 13: 6:20 ‐ 7:50 PM, Item 14: 7:50 ‐ 8:35 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
13. Tree Protection Ordinance Year One Review and Recommendations; Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 8.04 (Street Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Update the Allowable Reasons for Removal of Protected Trees, Make Clarifying Changes, and to Make Clerical Updates; and Adoption of a Resolution amending the Administrative Penalty Schedule to Increase the Penalties for Violations of Title 8 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code; CEQA Status – Not a Projects
14. Approval of a Substation Improvement Agreement With Tesla Inc. to Install Improvements and Reserve Capacity at Hanover Substation, and Approval of a Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund to Establish the Hanover Substation Upgrade Project (EL‐24001); CEQA Status – Exempt under CEQA Guideline Sections 15301 and 15302
ADJOURNMENT
INFORMATION REPORTS
Information reports are provided for informational purposes only to the Council and the public but are not listed for action during this meeting’s agenda.
15. Sales Tax Digest Summary Calendar 2023 Q2 (April 2023 – June 2023) OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments using a computer or smart phone will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 , Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. Or download the Zoom application onto your smart phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter in the Meeting ID below.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 362‐027‐238 Phone: 1‐669‐900‐6833 Americans with Disability Act (ADA)
It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing [email protected]. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service.
2 Special Meeting Janua ry 16, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas.
CITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person.
Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto ,
and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/362027238) Meeting ID: 362 027 238 Phone:1(669)900‐6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to [email protected] and will be provided to the Council and available for inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to [email protected] at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not accepted.
TIME ESTIMATES
Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Council reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.
CALL TO ORDER
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:30 ‐ 5:45 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (5:45 ‐ 5:50 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (5:50 ‐ 5:55 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
1. Approval of Minutes from December 11, 2023, December 18, 2023, and December 19, 2023 Meetings
2. Adopt an Ordinance to Expand the Public Art Commission (PAC) from Five to Seven Members; CEQA status ‐ not a project
3. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number C24189060 with US Bank and its Wholly owned Subsidiary Elavon for General Banking and Merchant Services and Approval of Contract Amendment Number C24189061 with Wells Fargo for Lockbox Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
4. Approval of Professional Services Contract with Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc. (E3) for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $945,286 for the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) Funding Study; Amendment to Professional Services Contract with Sterling Communications, Inc. to Amend the Scope, Extend the Timeline, and Increase Total Not‐to‐Exceed Compensation by $75,000 (from $85,000 to $160,000); and a Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund for Acceptance of $75,000 DEED grant for S/CAP Funding Study; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
5. Accept the City of Palo Alto’s Audited Financial Statements as of June 30, 2023 and the Macias, Gini & O’Connell Management Letter; Approve the FY 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)and Amendments to the FY 2023 Budget in Various Funds; and Adopt a Resolution to Extend and Amend the Development Services Reserve Fund Policy, as Recommended by the Finance Committee; CEQA Status – Not a Project
6. Approval of Amendment No. 2 with Pets in Need Contract (C19174493) to extend the term through March 2024 and increase the compensation by $342,501 for operations of the Palo Alto Animal Shelter, for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $4,431,872; CEQA status – not a project.
7. Adopt a Resolution Approving an Amendment to the City’s 2009 California‐Oregon Transmission Project Long‐Term Layoff Agreement to Extend the City’s Layoff of its Share of the California Oregon Transmission Project (COTP) until 2034 and to Receive Annual Market Payments as Recommended by the Utilities Advisory Commission (UAC); CEQA Status – Not a Project
8. Approval of Recommendations on Process for 2024 Council Priority Setting Retreat as Recommended by Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status – Not a Project)
9. Approval of the Office of the City Auditor's Investment Management Audit Report as Recommended by the Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project)
10. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.42.160 (Safe Parking) to Permanently Establish the Congregation‐ Based Safe Parking Program and Establishing Regulations Related to Safe Parking, Including a Maximum Number of Vehicles Per Night on Each Site (FIRST READING:
December 4, 2023 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
11. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapters 4.10 (Licenses Obtained by Application to Chief of Police), 4.30 (Soliciting Funds), and Chapter 4.32 (Soliciting Information for Commercial Purposes); and Adding Chapter 4.12 to Title 4 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Comply With Updates to the Law, Including 2018 Senate Bill 946 (Sidewalk Vendors). CEQA status – categorically exempt. (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
12. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Urgency Ordinance and an Interim Ordinance That Allows the Director of Planning and Development Services to Extend Planning Entitlements for Housing Development Projects up to an Additional 18 Months.
Environmental Review: Exempt from CEQA in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3). (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 13: 6:20 ‐ 7:50 PM, Item 14: 7:50 ‐ 8:35 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
13. Tree Protection Ordinance Year One Review and Recommendations; Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 8.04 (Street Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Update the Allowable Reasons for Removal of Protected Trees, Make Clarifying Changes, and to Make Clerical Updates; and Adoption of a Resolution amending the Administrative Penalty Schedule to Increase the Penalties for Violations of Title 8 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code; CEQA Status – Not a Projects
14. Approval of a Substation Improvement Agreement With Tesla Inc. to Install Improvements and Reserve Capacity at Hanover Substation, and Approval of a Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund to Establish the Hanover Substation Upgrade Project (EL‐24001); CEQA Status – Exempt under CEQA Guideline Sections 15301 and 15302
ADJOURNMENT
INFORMATION REPORTS
Information reports are provided for informational purposes only to the Council and the public but are not listed for action during this meeting’s agenda.
15. Sales Tax Digest Summary Calendar 2023 Q2 (April 2023 – June 2023) OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments using a computer or smart phone will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 , Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. Or download the Zoom application onto your smart phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter in the Meeting ID below.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 362‐027‐238 Phone: 1‐669‐900‐6833 Americans with Disability Act (ADA)
It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing [email protected]. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service.
3 Special Meeting Janua ry 16, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas.
CITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person.
Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto ,
and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/362027238) Meeting ID: 362 027 238 Phone:1(669)900‐6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to [email protected] and will be provided to the Council and available for inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to [email protected] at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not accepted.
TIME ESTIMATES
Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Council reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.
CALL TO ORDER
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:30 ‐ 5:45 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (5:45 ‐ 5:50 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (5:50 ‐ 5:55 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
1. Approval of Minutes from December 11, 2023, December 18, 2023, and December 19, 2023 Meetings
2. Adopt an Ordinance to Expand the Public Art Commission (PAC) from Five to Seven Members; CEQA status ‐ not a project
3. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number C24189060 with US Bank and its Wholly owned Subsidiary Elavon for General Banking and Merchant Services and Approval of Contract Amendment Number C24189061 with Wells Fargo for Lockbox Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
4. Approval of Professional Services Contract with Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc. (E3) for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $945,286 for the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) Funding Study; Amendment to Professional Services Contract with Sterling Communications, Inc. to Amend the Scope, Extend the Timeline, and Increase Total Not‐to‐Exceed Compensation by $75,000 (from $85,000 to $160,000); and a Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund for Acceptance of $75,000 DEED grant for S/CAP Funding Study; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
5. Accept the City of Palo Alto’s Audited Financial Statements as of June 30, 2023 and the Macias, Gini & O’Connell Management Letter; Approve the FY 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)and Amendments to the FY 2023 Budget in Various Funds; and Adopt a Resolution to Extend and Amend the Development Services Reserve Fund Policy, as Recommended by the Finance Committee; CEQA Status – Not a Project
6. Approval of Amendment No. 2 with Pets in Need Contract (C19174493) to extend the term through March 2024 and increase the compensation by $342,501 for operations of the Palo Alto Animal Shelter, for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $4,431,872; CEQA status – not a project.
7. Adopt a Resolution Approving an Amendment to the City’s 2009 California‐Oregon Transmission Project Long‐Term Layoff Agreement to Extend the City’s Layoff of its Share of the California Oregon Transmission Project (COTP) until 2034 and to Receive Annual Market Payments as Recommended by the Utilities Advisory Commission (UAC); CEQA Status – Not a Project
8. Approval of Recommendations on Process for 2024 Council Priority Setting Retreat as Recommended by Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status – Not a Project)
9. Approval of the Office of the City Auditor's Investment Management Audit Report as Recommended by the Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project)
10. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.42.160 (Safe Parking) to Permanently Establish the Congregation‐ Based Safe Parking Program and Establishing Regulations Related to Safe Parking, Including a Maximum Number of Vehicles Per Night on Each Site (FIRST READING:
December 4, 2023 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
11. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapters 4.10 (Licenses Obtained by Application to Chief of Police), 4.30 (Soliciting Funds), and Chapter 4.32 (Soliciting Information for Commercial Purposes); and Adding Chapter 4.12 to Title 4 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Comply With Updates to the Law, Including 2018 Senate Bill 946 (Sidewalk Vendors). CEQA status – categorically exempt. (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
12. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Urgency Ordinance and an Interim Ordinance That Allows the Director of Planning and Development Services to Extend Planning Entitlements for Housing Development Projects up to an Additional 18 Months.
Environmental Review: Exempt from CEQA in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3). (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 13: 6:20 ‐ 7:50 PM, Item 14: 7:50 ‐ 8:35 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
13. Tree Protection Ordinance Year One Review and Recommendations; Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 8.04 (Street Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Update the Allowable Reasons for Removal of Protected Trees, Make Clarifying Changes, and to Make Clerical Updates; and Adoption of a Resolution amending the Administrative Penalty Schedule to Increase the Penalties for Violations of Title 8 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code; CEQA Status – Not a Projects
14. Approval of a Substation Improvement Agreement With Tesla Inc. to Install Improvements and Reserve Capacity at Hanover Substation, and Approval of a Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund to Establish the Hanover Substation Upgrade Project (EL‐24001); CEQA Status – Exempt under CEQA Guideline Sections 15301 and 15302
ADJOURNMENT
INFORMATION REPORTS
Information reports are provided for informational purposes only to the Council and the public but are not listed for action during this meeting’s agenda.
15. Sales Tax Digest Summary Calendar 2023 Q2 (April 2023 – June 2023) OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments using a computer or smart phone will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 , Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. Or download the Zoom application onto your smart phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter in the Meeting ID below.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 362‐027‐238 Phone: 1‐669‐900‐6833 Americans with Disability Act (ADA)
It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing [email protected]. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service.
4 Special Meeting January 16, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas.
CITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person.
Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto ,
and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/362027238) Meeting ID: 362 027 238 Phone:1(669)900‐6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to [email protected] and will be provided to the Council and available for inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to [email protected] at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not accepted.
TIME ESTIMATES
Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Council reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.
CALL TO ORDER
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:30 ‐ 5:45 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (5:45 ‐ 5:50 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (5:50 ‐ 5:55 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
1. Approval of Minutes from December 11, 2023, December 18, 2023, and December 19, 2023 Meetings
2. Adopt an Ordinance to Expand the Public Art Commission (PAC) from Five to Seven Members; CEQA status ‐ not a project
3. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number C24189060 with US Bank and its Wholly owned Subsidiary Elavon for General Banking and Merchant Services and Approval of Contract Amendment Number C24189061 with Wells Fargo for Lockbox Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
4. Approval of Professional Services Contract with Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc. (E3) for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $945,286 for the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) Funding Study; Amendment to Professional Services Contract with Sterling Communications, Inc. to Amend the Scope, Extend the Timeline, and Increase Total Not‐to‐Exceed Compensation by $75,000 (from $85,000 to $160,000); and a Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund for Acceptance of $75,000 DEED grant for S/CAP Funding Study; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
5. Accept the City of Palo Alto’s Audited Financial Statements as of June 30, 2023 and the Macias, Gini & O’Connell Management Letter; Approve the FY 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)and Amendments to the FY 2023 Budget in Various Funds; and Adopt a Resolution to Extend and Amend the Development Services Reserve Fund Policy, as Recommended by the Finance Committee; CEQA Status – Not a Project
6. Approval of Amendment No. 2 with Pets in Need Contract (C19174493) to extend the term through March 2024 and increase the compensation by $342,501 for operations of the Palo Alto Animal Shelter, for a Not‐to‐Exceed Amount of $4,431,872; CEQA status – not a project.
7. Adopt a Resolution Approving an Amendment to the City’s 2009 California‐Oregon Transmission Project Long‐Term Layoff Agreement to Extend the City’s Layoff of its Share of the California Oregon Transmission Project (COTP) until 2034 and to Receive Annual Market Payments as Recommended by the Utilities Advisory Commission (UAC); CEQA Status – Not a Project
8. Approval of Recommendations on Process for 2024 Council Priority Setting Retreat as Recommended by Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status – Not a Project)
9. Approval of the Office of the City Auditor's Investment Management Audit Report as Recommended by the Policy & Services Committee (CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project)
10. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.42.160 (Safe Parking) to Permanently Establish the Congregation‐ Based Safe Parking Program and Establishing Regulations Related to Safe Parking, Including a Maximum Number of Vehicles Per Night on Each Site (FIRST READING:
December 4, 2023 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
11. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapters 4.10 (Licenses Obtained by Application to Chief of Police), 4.30 (Soliciting Funds), and Chapter 4.32 (Soliciting Information for Commercial Purposes); and Adding Chapter 4.12 to Title 4 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Comply With Updates to the Law, Including 2018 Senate Bill 946 (Sidewalk Vendors). CEQA status – categorically exempt. (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
12. SECOND READING: Adoption of an Urgency Ordinance and an Interim Ordinance That Allows the Director of Planning and Development Services to Extend Planning Entitlements for Housing Development Projects up to an Additional 18 Months.
Environmental Review: Exempt from CEQA in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3). (FIRST READING: December 11, 2023 PASSED 5‐1‐1, Kou no, Veenker absent)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 13: 6:20 ‐ 7:50 PM, Item 14: 7:50 ‐ 8:35 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
13. Tree Protection Ordinance Year One Review and Recommendations; Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 8.04 (Street Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Update the Allowable Reasons for Removal of Protected Trees, Make Clarifying Changes, and to Make Clerical Updates; and Adoption of a Resolution amending the Administrative Penalty Schedule to Increase the Penalties for Violations of Title 8 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code; CEQA Status – Not a Projects
14. Approval of a Substation Improvement Agreement With Tesla Inc. to Install Improvements and Reserve Capacity at Hanover Substation, and Approval of a Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment in the Electric Fund to Establish the Hanover Substation Upgrade Project (EL‐24001); CEQA Status – Exempt under CEQA Guideline Sections 15301 and 15302
ADJOURNMENT
INFORMATION REPORTS
Information reports are provided for informational purposes only to the Council and the public but are not listed for action during this meeting’s agenda.
15. Sales Tax Digest Summary Calendar 2023 Q2 (April 2023 – June 2023) OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments using a computer or smart phone will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Council, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30 , Firefox 27 , Microsoft Edge 12 , Safari 7 . Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. Or download the Zoom application onto your smart phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter in the Meeting ID below.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Council. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 362‐027‐238 Phone: 1‐669‐900‐6833 Americans with Disability Act (ADA)
It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing [email protected]. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service.
5 Special Meeting January 16, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas.