CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 01, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Amended Agenda
Amended agenda items appear below in RED (Agenda Order Updated) 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.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks, posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
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
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY (5:30 ‐ 5:55 PM)
1. Presentation from Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) to City Council
2. Review List of Applicants for Board and Commission Openings and Select Candidates to Interview. CEQA Status ‐ Not a project.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes deending on # of speakers. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
STUDY SESSION (6:15 ‐ 7:15 PM)
3. Study Session: Palo Alto Link One‐Year Service Evaluation and Report; CEQA status – not a project.
CONSENT CALENDAR (7:15 ‐ 7:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
4. Approval of Minutes from March 11, 2024 Meeting
5. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated, Supplemental Report added
6. Approval of Amendments with Professional Account Management LLC, dba Duncan Solutions for Contracts C17164727 and C19171363A for a Combined Additional Amount of $60,000 (Total not to exceed of $860,000 and $767,000 respectively) and to Extend the Contract Terms to December 31, 2024 (total term of eight and five years respectively), for Parking Permitting and Citation Management Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
7. Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data Supplemental Report added
8. SECOND READING: Adopt a Revised Interim Ordinance to Extend the Interim Parklet Program to July 31, 2024 (from March 31, 2024) and Phase‐in Enforcement of the Ongoing Parklet Program through November 1, 2024; and Extend Parking Lot Eating/Drinking Uses to December 31, 2024; CEQA Status‐ Categorically Exempt (Sections 15301 and 15304(e)) (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 7‐0)
9. SECOND READING: Adopt an Ordinance Increasing Council Member Salary From $1,000/Month to $1,600/Month, Effective January 1, 2025, as authorized by State law (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (7:20 ‐ 7:35 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 11: 7:45 ‐ 8:45 PM, Item 10: 8:45 ‐ 9:30 PM) ITEMS WILL BE HEARD OUT OF ORDER
Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
11. Discussion of Caltrans’ Repaving Project of El Camino Real, Including Replacing Existing Parking with Bicycle Lanes, and Potential Approval of a Resolution to Support this Project; CEQA status – categorically exempt.
10. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapter
8.04 (Street, Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations) (FIRST READING: January 16, 2024 PASSED 5‐2, Lythcott‐ Haims, Tanaka no)
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.
12. Palo Alto Fire Department Annual Performance Report for Calendar Year 2023 OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Finance Committee April 2, 2024 CANCELED
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
AMENDED AGENDA ITEMS
5. Supplemental Report – Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated
7. Supplemental Report ‐ Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data
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 April 01, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas.
CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 01, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Amended Agenda
Amended agenda items appear below in RED (Agenda Order Updated) 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.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks, posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
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
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY (5:30 ‐ 5:55 PM)
1. Presentation from Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) to City Council
2. Review List of Applicants for Board and Commission Openings and Select Candidates to Interview. CEQA Status ‐ Not a project.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes deending on # of speakers. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
STUDY SESSION (6:15 ‐ 7:15 PM)
3. Study Session: Palo Alto Link One‐Year Service Evaluation and Report; CEQA status – not a project.
CONSENT CALENDAR (7:15 ‐ 7:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
4. Approval of Minutes from March 11, 2024 Meeting
5. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated, Supplemental Report added
6. Approval of Amendments with Professional Account Management LLC, dba Duncan Solutions for Contracts C17164727 and C19171363A for a Combined Additional Amount of $60,000 (Total not to exceed of $860,000 and $767,000 respectively) and to Extend the Contract Terms to December 31, 2024 (total term of eight and five years respectively), for Parking Permitting and Citation Management Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
7. Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data Supplemental Report added
8. SECOND READING: Adopt a Revised Interim Ordinance to Extend the Interim Parklet Program to July 31, 2024 (from March 31, 2024) and Phase‐in Enforcement of the Ongoing Parklet Program through November 1, 2024; and Extend Parking Lot Eating/Drinking Uses to December 31, 2024; CEQA Status‐ Categorically Exempt (Sections 15301 and 15304(e)) (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 7‐0)
9. SECOND READING: Adopt an Ordinance Increasing Council Member Salary From $1,000/Month to $1,600/Month, Effective January 1, 2025, as authorized by State law (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (7:20 ‐ 7:35 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 11: 7:45 ‐ 8:45 PM, Item 10: 8:45 ‐ 9:30 PM) ITEMS WILL BE HEARD OUT OF ORDER
Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
11. Discussion of Caltrans’ Repaving Project of El Camino Real, Including Replacing Existing Parking with Bicycle Lanes, and Potential Approval of a Resolution to Support this Project; CEQA status – categorically exempt.
10. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapter
8.04 (Street, Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations) (FIRST READING: January 16, 2024 PASSED 5‐2, Lythcott‐ Haims, Tanaka no)
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.
12. Palo Alto Fire Department Annual Performance Report for Calendar Year 2023 OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Finance Committee April 2, 2024 CANCELED
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
AMENDED AGENDA ITEMS
5. Supplemental Report – Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated
7. Supplemental Report ‐ Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data
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 April 01, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at
www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas
.
CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 01, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Amended Agenda
Amended agenda items appear below in RED (Agenda Order Updated) 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.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks, posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
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
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY (5:30 ‐ 5:55 PM)
1. Presentation from Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) to City Council
2. Review List of Applicants for Board and Commission Openings and Select Candidates to Interview. CEQA Status ‐ Not a project.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes deending on # of speakers. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
STUDY SESSION (6:15 ‐ 7:15 PM)
3. Study Session: Palo Alto Link One‐Year Service Evaluation and Report; CEQA status – not a project.
CONSENT CALENDAR (7:15 ‐ 7:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
4. Approval of Minutes from March 11, 2024 Meeting
5. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated, Supplemental Report added
6. Approval of Amendments with Professional Account Management LLC, dba Duncan Solutions for Contracts C17164727 and C19171363A for a Combined Additional Amount of $60,000 (Total not to exceed of $860,000 and $767,000 respectively) and to Extend the Contract Terms to December 31, 2024 (total term of eight and five years respectively), for Parking Permitting and Citation Management Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
7. Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data Supplemental Report added
8. SECOND READING: Adopt a Revised Interim Ordinance to Extend the Interim Parklet Program to July 31, 2024 (from March 31, 2024) and Phase‐in Enforcement of the Ongoing Parklet Program through November 1, 2024; and Extend Parking Lot Eating/Drinking Uses to December 31, 2024; CEQA Status‐ Categorically Exempt (Sections 15301 and 15304(e)) (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 7‐0)
9. SECOND READING: Adopt an Ordinance Increasing Council Member Salary From $1,000/Month to $1,600/Month, Effective January 1, 2025, as authorized by State law (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (7:20 ‐ 7:35 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 11: 7:45 ‐ 8:45 PM, Item 10: 8:45 ‐ 9:30 PM) ITEMS WILL BE HEARD OUT OF ORDER
Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
11. Discussion of Caltrans’ Repaving Project of El Camino Real, Including Replacing Existing Parking with Bicycle Lanes, and Potential Approval of a Resolution to Support this Project; CEQA status – categorically exempt.
10. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapter
8.04 (Street, Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations) (FIRST READING: January 16, 2024 PASSED 5‐2, Lythcott‐ Haims, Tanaka no)
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.
12. Palo Alto Fire Department Annual Performance Report for Calendar Year 2023 OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Finance Committee April 2, 2024 CANCELED
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
AMENDED AGENDA ITEMS
5. Supplemental Report – Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated
7. Supplemental Report ‐ Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data
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 April 01, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at
www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas
.
CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 01, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Amended Agenda
Amended agenda items appear below in RED (Agenda Order Updated) 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.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks, posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
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
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY (5:30 ‐ 5:55 PM)
1. Presentation from Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) to City Council
2. Review List of Applicants for Board and Commission Openings and Select Candidates to Interview. CEQA Status ‐ Not a project.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes deending on # of speakers. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
STUDY SESSION (6:15 ‐ 7:15 PM)
3. Study Session: Palo Alto Link One‐Year Service Evaluation and Report; CEQA status – not a project.
CONSENT CALENDAR (7:15 ‐ 7:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
4. Approval of Minutes from March 11, 2024 Meeting
5. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated, Supplemental Report added
6. Approval of Amendments with Professional Account Management LLC, dba Duncan Solutions for Contracts C17164727 and C19171363A for a Combined Additional Amount of $60,000 (Total not to exceed of $860,000 and $767,000 respectively) and to Extend the Contract Terms to December 31, 2024 (total term of eight and five years respectively), for Parking Permitting and Citation Management Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
7. Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data Supplemental Report added
8. SECOND READING: Adopt a Revised Interim Ordinance to Extend the Interim Parklet Program to July 31, 2024 (from March 31, 2024) and Phase‐in Enforcement of the Ongoing Parklet Program through November 1, 2024; and Extend Parking Lot Eating/Drinking Uses to December 31, 2024; CEQA Status‐ Categorically Exempt (Sections 15301 and 15304(e)) (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 7‐0)
9. SECOND READING: Adopt an Ordinance Increasing Council Member Salary From $1,000/Month to $1,600/Month, Effective January 1, 2025, as authorized by State law (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (7:20 ‐ 7:35 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 11: 7:45 ‐ 8:45 PM, Item 10: 8:45 ‐ 9:30 PM) ITEMS WILL BE HEARD OUT OF ORDER
Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
11. Discussion of Caltrans’ Repaving Project of El Camino Real, Including Replacing Existing Parking with Bicycle Lanes, and Potential Approval of a Resolution to Support this Project; CEQA status – categorically exempt.
10. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapter
8.04 (Street, Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations) (FIRST READING: January 16, 2024 PASSED 5‐2, Lythcott‐ Haims, Tanaka no)
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.
12. Palo Alto Fire Department Annual Performance Report for Calendar Year 2023 OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Finance Committee April 2, 2024 CANCELED
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
AMENDED AGENDA ITEMS
5. Supplemental Report – Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated
7. Supplemental Report ‐ Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data
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 April 01, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at
www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas
.
CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 01, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Amended Agenda
Amended agenda items appear below in RED (Agenda Order Updated) 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.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks, posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
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
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY (5:30 ‐ 5:55 PM)
1. Presentation from Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) to City Council
2. Review List of Applicants for Board and Commission Openings and Select Candidates to Interview. CEQA Status ‐ Not a project.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:55 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes deending on # of speakers. Council reserves the right to limit the duration of Oral Communications period to 30 minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
STUDY SESSION (6:15 ‐ 7:15 PM)
3. Study Session: Palo Alto Link One‐Year Service Evaluation and Report; CEQA status – not a project.
CONSENT CALENDAR (7:15 ‐ 7:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
4. Approval of Minutes from March 11, 2024 Meeting
5. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated, Supplemental Report added
6. Approval of Amendments with Professional Account Management LLC, dba Duncan Solutions for Contracts C17164727 and C19171363A for a Combined Additional Amount of $60,000 (Total not to exceed of $860,000 and $767,000 respectively) and to Extend the Contract Terms to December 31, 2024 (total term of eight and five years respectively), for Parking Permitting and Citation Management Services; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
7. Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data Supplemental Report added
8. SECOND READING: Adopt a Revised Interim Ordinance to Extend the Interim Parklet Program to July 31, 2024 (from March 31, 2024) and Phase‐in Enforcement of the Ongoing Parklet Program through November 1, 2024; and Extend Parking Lot Eating/Drinking Uses to December 31, 2024; CEQA Status‐ Categorically Exempt (Sections 15301 and 15304(e)) (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 7‐0)
9. SECOND READING: Adopt an Ordinance Increasing Council Member Salary From $1,000/Month to $1,600/Month, Effective January 1, 2025, as authorized by State law (FIRST READING: March 11, 2024 PASSED 6‐1, Tanaka no)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (7:20 ‐ 7:35 PM)
BREAK (5‐10 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 11: 7:45 ‐ 8:45 PM, Item 10: 8:45 ‐ 9:30 PM) ITEMS WILL BE HEARD OUT OF ORDER
Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
11. Discussion of Caltrans’ Repaving Project of El Camino Real, Including Replacing Existing Parking with Bicycle Lanes, and Potential Approval of a Resolution to Support this Project; CEQA status – categorically exempt.
10. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapter
8.04 (Street, Trees, Shrubs, and Plants) and Chapter 8.10 (Tree Preservation and Management Regulations) (FIRST READING: January 16, 2024 PASSED 5‐2, Lythcott‐ Haims, Tanaka no)
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.
12. Palo Alto Fire Department Annual Performance Report for Calendar Year 2023 OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Finance Committee April 2, 2024 CANCELED
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
AMENDED AGENDA ITEMS
5. Supplemental Report – Approval of Contract Amendment Number 1 to Contract Number S24190818 with Integrated Design 360 in the Amount of $82,200 for a total not to exceed $132,200 and Extension of the Contract Term through December 30, 2024 for development of a “One Margin” Reach Code. CEQA Status: Exempt Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 Title Updated
7. Supplemental Report ‐ Policy and Services Recommendation Regarding Use of Board and Commissions Demographic Data
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 April 01, 2024
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at
www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas
.
City Council
Staff Report
Report Type: SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
Lead Department: City Clerk
Meeting Date: April 1, 2024
Report #:2403-2771
TITLE
Review List of Applicants for Board and Commission Openings and Select Candidates to Interview. CEQA Status - Not a project.
RECOMMENDATION
Review list of applicants and select candidates to interview for vacancies on the Architectural Review Board, Historic Resources Board, Human Relations Commission, Public Art Commission, Planning and Transportation Commission, Stormwater Management Oversight Committee, and Utilities Advisory Commission.
BACKGROUND
The 2024 Board and Commission Recruitment closed on March 17th, 2024. A total of 45 applications were submitted during the recruitment period. 2 applicants withdrew and 7 applicants did not meet the minimum requirements mandated by the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
At the February 26, 2024 meeting the City Council deliberated on the process to select candidates to interview. The direction provided was to allow each Council Member a limited number of votes (number of vacancies plus 50%, round up) to select their preferred candidates to interview with a threshold of 2 votes for an interview. The breakdown for each commission is listed below:
•Architectural Review Board – 2 vacancies, 6 applicants, 3 votes each. •Historic Resources Board – 4 vacancies, 1 applicant. Interview all. •Human Relations Commission – 2 vacancies, 7 applicants, 3 votes each. •Public Art Commission – 4 vacancies, 10 applicants, 6 votes each. •Planning & Transportation Commission – 1 vacancy, 2 applicants. Interview all. •Stormwater Management Oversight Committee – 3 vacancies, 4 applicants. Interview all.
•Utilities Advisory Commission – 2 vacancies, 6 applicants, 3 votes each.
Council members will submit votes via email for their preferred candidates to the City Clerk and a supplemental memo will be published prior to the April 1, 2024 meeting with the final vote results.
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Membership Requirements
Each Board or Commission has different requirements for appointment such as mandatory residency, specialized training, or professional service in a specified area. For each of the Board or Commission with current vacancies, the requirements are listed below. Additionally, appointed members cannot be council members, officers or employees of the City of Palo Alto.
Architectural Review Board
•At least three members shall be architects, landscape architects, building designers or other design professionals (PAMC 2.21.010). This requirement is currently fulfilled by all 5 members of the Architectural Review Board.
Historic Resources Board:
•Demonstrated interest in and knowledge of history, architecture or historic preservation (PAMC 2.27.010).
•One member shall be an owner/occupant of a category 1 or 2 historic structure, or of a structure in a historic district (PAMC 2.27.010). This requirement is currently fulfilled by Alisa Eagleston-Cieslewicz (term expires 2026) and Gogo Heinrich (term expires 2024). •Three members shall be architects, landscape architects, building designers or other design professionals (PAMC 2.27.010). This requirement is currently fulfilled by Margaret Wimmer (term expires 2024), Caroline Willis (term expires 2024), and Gogo Heinrich (term expires 2024).
•At least one member shall possess academic education or practical experience in history or a related field (PAMC 2.27.010). This requirement is currently fulfilled by Samantha Rohman (term expires 2026) and Michael Makinen (term expires 2024).
Human Relations Commission
•Palo Alto residency. (PAMC 2.22.010)
Public Art Commission
•Each member of the Commission shall either be members of the Architectural Review Board or shall be professional visual artists, professional visual arts educators, professional visual arts scholars, or visual arts collectors whose authorities and skills are known and respected in the community and, whenever feasible, who have demonstrated an interest in, and have participated in, the arts program of the city. (PAMC 2.18.020)
Planning and Transportation Commission
•Palo Alto residency. (PAMC 2.20.010)
Stormwater Management Oversight Committee
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•Each member shall be a resident of Palo Alto, an employee of a business located in Palo Alto, or an owner of a real property within the City. (Resolution 9969) Utilities Advisory Commission:
•Each member of the commission shall be a utility customer or the authorized representative of a utility customer. (PAMC 2.23.010)
•Palo Alto Residency for at least six members of the commission (PAMC 2.23.010).
Currently Megan Mauter (term expires 2026) resides outside of Palo Alto; therefore, all newly appointed members to Utilities Advisory Commission this year must be Palo Alto residents.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A – Architectural Review Board Applications Redacted Attachment B – Historic Resources Board Application Redacted Attachment C – Human Relations Commission Applications Redacted Attachment D – Public Art Commission Applications Redacted Attachment E – Planning and Transportation Commission Applications Redacted Attachment F – Stormwater Management Oversight Committee Applications Redacted Attachment G – Utilities Advisory Commission Applications Redacted APPROVED BY:
Mahealani Ah Yun, City Clerk
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Architectural Review Board Application
Submitted on 9 March 2024, 6:14pm
Receipt number 64
Related form version 13
Name Ajay Kumar Mishra
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Architectural Review Board?
Palo Alto Weekly
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Startup Founder
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Education:
B.Tech, Electrical Engineering, IIT Kanpur
Ph.D., 3D Computer Vision/Robotics, University of Maryland/NUS Experience:
Research Scientist, Amazon: Advanced computer vision techniques.
Lead Software Engineer, Magic Leap: Led augmented reality projects.
Director of AI, Hover3D: Pioneered 3D modeling for home exteriors.
Current Role:
CEO, Trisetra: We make 3D visualization easy for homeowners.
Trisetra's app enables homeowners and professionals to collaborate effectively by navigating and annotating 3D models of homes under construction. This facilitates superior spatial understanding, aiding in the optimization of architectural designs and enhancing stakeholder communication.
My background marries technical innovation in 3D visualization and AI with practical applications in construction and design. I'm committed to leveraging this expertise to contribute to the Architectural Review Board's mission of promoting sustainable and thoughtful urban development in Palo Alto.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Though I haven't directly engaged in volunteer or civic organizations due to intensive professional endeavors, my work, notably with Trisetra, aligns with societal betterment through technology. We enhance home construction and design communication via 3D visualization, underscoring a commitment to community improvement.
I'm now eager to translate this commitment into direct community service, particularly in technology's role in sustainable urban development. My candidacy for the Architectural Review Board is a step toward this goal, aiming to contribute my expertise to Palo Alto’s inclusive and sustainable planning efforts.
I look forward to expanding my involvement in civic and volunteer initiatives, leveraging my background to enrich our community’s quality of life.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Architectural Review Board and what experience would you bring to the position?
My interest in the Architectural Review Board is driven by a passion for integrating technology with design to enhance living spaces. My background in 3D visualization and computer vision, developed through roles from Research Scientist to CEO of Trisetra, equips me with unique insights into the transformative potential of architectural planning.
At Trisetra, I've pioneered tools that enable stakeholders to visualize construction projects in 3D, enhancing design clarity and communication. This experience has refined my ability to bridge technical innovation with practical design applications, ensuring projects are both Application Questions
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aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior.
I aim to contribute this blend of technological expertise and visionary thinking to the Board, promoting sustainable, efficient, and user-centric urban development. My commitment is to leverage my skills to help Palo Alto achieve architectural excellence that mirrors its community's values and forward-thinking spirit.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Board that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
The recent Palo Alto revisions to SB9, streamlining design rules from 64 to 19, caught my interest. The initial response to SB9 highlighted the challenge of balancing community integrity with housing needs. My passion lies in utilizing technology to bridge such gaps. I see the confusion around SB9 applications as an opportunity to leverage advanced visualization technologies. By presenting design rules through clear animations instead of traditional sketches and 2D drawings, we can demystify regulations for homeowners and architects alike. This approach not only enhances transparency but also streamlines the planning process, making it more accessible and engaging. My experience in 3D visualization at Trisetra underpins my belief that such technological solutions can significantly improve communication and understanding in urban planning and development.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Architectural Review Board achieve, and how would you help in the process?
If appointed, I’d focus on sustainable development, community engagement, and leveraging technology. I’d advocate for integrating sustainable design principles, ensuring projects align with environmental goals. To enhance public involvement, I propose digital platforms for transparent communication and feedback on projects. Additionally, I’d champion the use of 3D visualization tools to streamline the review process, providing clearer project insights and facilitating more informed decisions. My expertise in technology and commitment to sustainability will help make the architectural review process more efficient, inclusive, and aligned with Palo Alto’s growth objectives.
4. Please identify a project (or projects) that you find to be examples of good architecture, and explain why. You may include samples, identify project addresses, or provide links.
The Magical Bridge playground in Mitchell Park is a great example of good architecture that combines utility and beauty.
5. Architectural Review Board Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection, but will help you better understand the work of the board.
I am learning about zoning codes and design guidelines but I am not professionally familiar with the codes and guideline list If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
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Signature Name of signatory: Ajay K Mishra
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/09/2024
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Architectural Review Board Application
Submitted on 7 November 2023, 5:29pm
Receipt number 56
Related form version 6
Name Geddes Ulinskas
Address
City
Postal Code
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Architectural Review Board?
Community Group
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
GRADUATE OF LA JOLLA HIGH SCHOOL IN LA JOLLA CA.
BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE DEGREE FROM PRATT INSTITUTE
IN NEW YORK CITY. LICENSED ARCHITECT IN NEW YORK,
CALIFORNIA AND HAWAII. MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS. WORKED AS AN ARCHITECT DESIGNING
RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS IN NEW YORK CITY FROM 1990 TO 1998.
WORKED AS AN ARCHITECT IN SAN FRANCISCO DESIGNING
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE FROM 1998 TO THE PRESENT.
ESTABLISHED GEDDES ULINSKAS ARCHITECTS IN 2005. LEED
CERTIFIED IN 2012.
Employment Information
GEDDES ULINSKAS ARCHITECTS
Occupation ARCHITECT
Is your Company/Employer your current one or last? Current Employer Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
BESIDES DESIGNING RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS, I HAVE
DEVELOPED EDUCATION FACILITIES, DAY CARES AND PLACES
OF WORSHIP SUCH AS SYNAGOGUES. MY CLIENTS INCLUDE THE
RUSSIAN SPEAKING JEWISH COMMUNITY IN THE RICHMOND AND
CONGREGATION CHEVRA THIMIL IN SAN FRANCISCO. I HAVE
VOLUNTEERED FOR THE SAN FRANCISCO FOOD BANK AND THE
SIERRA CLUB. I HAVE ALSO PARTICIPATED IN CHARITABLE
DESIGN FOCUSED EVENTS SUCH AS BREAK THE CYCLE - TO
BENEFIT AT RISK CHILDREN, AND THE SAN FRANCISCO
DESIGNER’S SHOWCASE TO RAISE MONEY FOR UNIVERSITY
HIGH SCHOOL.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Architectural Review Board and what experience would you bring to the position?
I HAVE A DEEP KNOWLEDGE OF HISTORICAL DESIGN AND
HISTORIC HOMES. MY STUDY OF ARCHITECTURE IN NEW YORK
AND PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE AND PRESERVATION IN NEW
YORK ALLOWED ME TO WORK ON MANY CLASSICAL REVIVAL
AND EARLY MODERN HOMES ON THE EAST COAST. I AM
PASSIONATE ABOUT MANY OF THE NEIGHBORHOODS IN PALO
ALTO SUCH AS PROFESSORVILLE AND BARON PARK AND WOULD
LIKE TO USE MY EXPERIENCE TO ENCOURAGE PRESERVATION
OF HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOODS AS WELL AS THE DEVELOPMENT
OF QUALITY STRUCTURES IN WHAT IS ADDED TO PALO ALTO.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Board that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
I WAS INTERESTED IN THE BOARDS GUIDANCE OF THE
REPLACEMENT FIRE STATION AT 3600 MIDDLEFIELD ROAD. FIRE
STATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL SERVICES STRUCTURES AND HAVE A
CLEAR UTILITY TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD, BUT THEY ARE ALSO A
BENCHMARK FOR THE QUALITY THAT THE CITY IS WILLING TO
Application Questions
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INVEST IN ITS OWN BUILDING PROJECTS. THE BOARD
CAREFULLY CONSIDERED EVERYTHING FROM EXTERIOR
MATERIALS AND MASSING, TO THE OPEN SPACE AROUND THE
FIRE STATION AND HOW IT RESPONDED TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD
AND SURROUNDING SITE. I WAS IMPRESSED BY THE
THOUGHTFUL NATURE OF THE COMMENTS BY THE BOARD
MEMBERS TOWARD THE APPLICANT AND THE SUGGESTIONS
FOR THE APPLICANT TO CONSIDER ALTERNATE MATERIAL
CHOICES AND CONTRAST BETWEEN BUILDING SURFACES.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Architectural Review Board achieve, and how would you help in the process?
IF APPOINTED, I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE ARCHITECTURAL
REVIEW BOARD CONTINUE ITS LEADERSHIP IN ENCOURAGING
SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS TO DESIGN. WITH MY EXPERIENCE IN
THE ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN FIELD AND RELATIONSHIP WITH
MANY GREEN BUILDING CONSULTANTS, I WOULD BE A
RESOURCE TO THE BOARD TO IDENTIFY PRACTICAL, EFFECTIVE
GREEN BUILDING PRACTICES. I AM ALSO AN AVID CYCLIST,
COMMUTING BY BICYCLE TO CAL TRAIN ON DAYS I TRAVEL TO
SAN FRANCISCO. I WOULD CONSTANTLY BE LOOKING FOR WAYS
TO MAKE THE PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLING EXPERIENCE OF PALO
ALTO THE BEST IT CAN BE.
4. Please identify a project (or projects) that you find to be examples of good architecture, and explain why. You may include samples, identify project addresses, or provide links.
THE NEW POWER FACILITY AT STANFORD IS A BEAUTIFUL
EXAMPLE OF THOUGHTFUL, ELEGANT DESIGN. EVEN THOUGH
THERE ARE MANY INDUSTRIAL ELEMENTS TO THIS
DEVELOPMENT, THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF ARCHITECTURE IS
WOVEN AROUND THE PHYSICAL PLANT TO CREATE SOMETHING
THAT LOOKS LIKE IT IS A BEAUTIFUL ADDITION TO THE CAMPUS.
ALTHOUGH EICHLER HOMES HAVE BEEN AROUND FOR A LONG
TIME, I AM A FAN OF THEIR SIMPLICITY AND ELEGANCE. I HAVE
ENJOYED SEEING HOW MANY ORIGINAL EICHLER HOMES THERE
ARE IN PALO ALTO AND HOW WELL THEY ARE PRESERVED, OR
HAVE BEEN UPDATED IN A WAY THAT RESPECTS THE INTEGRITY
OF THE DESGIN.
5. Architectural Review Board Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection, but will help you better understand the work of the board.
AS AN ARCHITECT, I HAVE DESIGNED PROJECTS AT 3132 SOUTH COURT, 440 MELVILLE AND AT 1201 BRYANT STREET. FOR THESE
PROJECTS I HAVE HAD TO HAVE THROUGH KNOWLEDGE OF THE
PALO ALTO PLAN AND ZONING CODE, CEQA AND THE
SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR’S STANDARDS. I HAVE ALSO HAD
TO UNDERSTAND THE DESIGN HISTORIC GUIDE LINES FOR
PROFESSORVILLE BECAUSE MY PROJECTS AT 1201 BRYANT AND
440 MELVILLE STREET FELL WITHIN THE HISTORIC
PROFESSORVILLE DISTRICT.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: GEDDES ULINSKAS
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Link to signature
Date Completed 11/07/2023
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Architectural Review Board Application
Submitted on 23 January 2024, 10:25pm
Receipt number 58
Related form version 13
Name Kendra Rosenberg
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Architectural Review Board?
Other: Current sitting Vice Chair - reapplying for position Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Principal Designer
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Kendra Rosenberg is the principal designer of KNR Design Studio. She has over 18 years of design experience spanning luxury hotels, high-end residences, and modern and traditional houses. She holds a Masters in Architecture and a Certificate in Building Science from the University of Southern California, where she won multiple awards for her architectural designs. Kendra is a U.S. Green Building Council LEED® Accredited Professional (LEED AP BD+C) and an associate member of American Institute of Architects (AIA). Currently serving as Vice Chair of the Palo Alto ARB.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Kendra currently serves as Vice Chair of the Palo Alto Architectural Review Board (ARB). She was a founding board member of The Magical Bridge Playground in Palo Alto, providing her expertise to develop a playground site for children of all abilities. She has also repeatedly designed for the Dreams Happen playhouse fundraising event, supporting Rebuilding Together Peninsula.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Architectural Review Board and what experience would you bring to the position?
I have served for 2 years on the ARB and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience thus far. As a residential designer, I regularly sit on the "other side of the table" when presenting my projects, and have learned a lot from the experience on this side of the decision making process.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Board that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
We have covered a plethora of issues that I have found to be interesting.
Having been born and raised in Palo Alto, I have a somewhat unique perspective of having watching the city grow and change over the past 4 decades. Larger urban planning and setting standards for types of proposed housing (townhouses, condos, etc.) are of significant interest to me.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Architectural Review Board achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would like to see the ARB review larger urban planning for specific areas to allow for unified, thoughtful, and comprehensive growth of the city. With many SB-330 projects on the horizon, getting low income housing is of critical importance, and making sure we meet our housing growth in a considerate way will be vital.
4. Please identify a project (or projects) that you find to be examples of good architecture, and explain why. You may include samples, identify project addresses, or provide links.
I found the new proposed building at 3300 El Camino (in front of the existing Rivian building) to be a very interesting project that crossed ARB's table. The methods of large timber construction, lots of glass, and living roofs were elegant and thoughtful. Also, the proposed "Cenote" Senior Citizen living facility at 824 San Antonio. We have a growing elderly population and will need more of these types of buildings in the near future.
Application Questions
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5. Architectural Review Board Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection, but will help you better understand the work of the board.
I have reviewed all of these documents during my time on ARB.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Kendra Rosenberg
Link to signature
Date Completed 01/23/2024
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Architectural Review Board Application
Submitted on 3 February 2024, 4:23pm
Receipt number 59
Related form version 13
Name Mousam Adcock
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? No
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Architectural Review Board?
Other: I am a current board member.
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Architect
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Licensed Architect in the State of California
LEED Accredited Professional
Education:
M. Architecture – The Ohio State University – 2004
B.S. Civil Engineering – Lafayette College – 2001
B.A. Art – Lafayette College – 2001
Employment History:
Principal at CAW Architects – with the firm since 2011
Architect at Acock Associates Architects 2007-2011
Designer at WSA Studio – 2004-2007
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Currently a board member on the Palo Alto Architecture Review Board (since October 2023).
AIA Columbus Board of Directors - 2008-2010
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Architectural Review Board and what experience would you bring to the position?
I am interested in making a positive impact in my community. I have been working in Palo Alto for over a decade and have seen the impact the ARB can make in shaping the built environment around us. Though my work in designing various projects at Stanford University, UC Santa Cruz, UC Berkeley, various K-12 schools and several community facing public and private projects in the bay area, I have learned to work within the context of my projects, design impactful projects and be an engaged listener for all the constituents.
I am currently a board member on the Palo Alto Architecture Review board and I believe my experience has served me well in the ARB.
Although I have been on the board for only a few months since I was appointed to finish a previous board member’s term, I believe I have an effective board member providing thoughtful comments to improve the designs that the board has reviewed in these months. I look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve the city.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Board that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
70 Encina was presented to the board for preliminary review on December 7, 2023. This project is trying to develop an existing parking lot for much needed housing in Palo Alto. However, its site (a privately owned parcel) directly adjacent to Town and Country posed significant challenges to all parties – developer, architect, neighbors and the city.
This is one of those instances where a master plan for the entire street for densifying and proving housing ahead of projects like this would be extremely beneficial. We, the ARB, provided preliminary feedback reviewing the project at hand, addressing the design as presented and with attention to the unusual constraints of this project. I found it particularly interesting because it highlighted the need for more global planning (knowing it is difficult with limited resources).
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3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Architectural Review Board achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I am passionate about the environment. The design community must make impactful improvements in the way we design and build that responds to global warming. The ARB is a catalyst that can help reduce the built environment's greenhouse gas emissions. Though my experience in working on LEED projects and other sustainability measures, I plan to bring my knowledge and experience to inform the ARB's review of projects and future developments.
4. Please identify a project (or projects) that you find to be examples of good architecture, and explain why. You may include samples, identify project addresses, or provide links.
My own firm, CAW Architects' project, the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo is a complex project that is located next to Walter Hays Elementary School, Rinconada Park and single family residences across the street.
The design responds to the scale of the neighborhood while creating a large interior museum space that engages babies to teenagers and adults. The choice of exterior and interior materials, scale of spaces (both interior and exterior), spaces designed to house wildlife as close to their natural habitat as possible are all pieces of the puzzle that comes together in a way that looks effortless. The project was a very close collaboration between the design team, the Friends of the P.A. Junior Museum and Zoo and the City of Palo Alto. The project is not only an example of good architecture but also of the city and the community's commitment to provide and maintain a valuable resource.
5. Architectural Review Board Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection, but will help you better understand the work of the board.
Several of the projects I have worked on have been renovations or additions to historically significant buildings, either listed or eligible properties. For instance, in 2023, we won the California Preservation Foundation award for the project we designed on the U.C. Berkeley Greek Theatre site. That was an award for Contextual Infill. Our project was an addition to the theatre site with clarity of existing vs. new construction – compatible with the existing context. Our projects in historical context pay close attention to the Secretary of Interiors Standards for treatment of Historic properties.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
MKA - CAW resume 2024.pdf
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Mousam K. Adcock
Link to signature
Date Completed 02/03/2024
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Mousam Adcock has over nineteen years of experience in the practice of architecture. Mousam has a diverse experience in higher education work for private and public entities and commercial design. She brings a wealth of experience from programming to design and construction administration.
In her 11 years with CAW Architects, Mousam has completed the design and construction of a new 56,000 square feet conference center and office building for the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, renovation of Hohbach Hall at the Green LIbrary, Stanford University, a new science building for Monterey High School, the renovation and new construction project for Merrill College, UCSC, among others. She is currently leading the construction administration effort for another new building for the Hoover Institution and recently completed the design documents for a new building and a renovation for the Graduate School of Education at Stanford University. She is also designing a new YMCA building in Redwood City that will be a mass timber construction.
Mousam was an adjunct faculty at The Ohio State University, School of Architecture for five years and a board member for the American Institute of Architects, Columbus Chapter for two years during her residency in Columbus, Ohio.
SELECTED PROJECTS
Graduate School of Education, Stanford University
Green Library, Stanford University
Schultz Building, Stanford University
Hoover Institution Traitel Building, Stanford University Stanford Crown Hall Library Renovation, Stanford University Wallenberg First and Fourth Floor Renovations, Stanford University Programming and Expansion Studies, The Hoover Institution, Stanford University Mirada House, Stanford University
Encina Commons Study, Stanford University
Merrill College Renovations & Plaza Building, U.C. Santa Cruz Merrill Cultural Center Renovations, U.C. Santa Cruz
Monterey High School Biotechnology Wing, Monterey Peninsula Unified SD Silver Creek High School Building K, East Side Union HSD Greek Theater Restrooms, Concessions Building & Plaza, U.C. Berkeley
AWARDS AND COMPETITIONS
Hoover Institution Traitel Building, Stanford University - AIA Silicon Valley Merit Award 2018 Greek Theater Restrooms, Concessions Building & Plaza, U.C. Berkeley - California Preservation Foundation Design Award for Contextual Infill 2023 Her Place Design Challenge - Design Competition organized by Building Trust International for a Women’s Empowerment Center for Devchuli, Nepal - Honorable Mention 2021
EDUCATION
The Ohio State University, Master of
Architecture, 2004
Lafayette College, Bachelor of Science in Civil
and Environmental Engineering, 2001
Lafayette College, Bachelor of Arts in Art,
2001
AFFILIATIONS
LICENSED ARCHITECT IN
CALIFORNIA (C33958)
Registered Architect in Ohio - No. 0814638
USGBC LEED Accredited Professional
NCARB Certified
American Institute of Architects, member
AIA Columbus Board of Directors - Director
(2009/2010)
MOUSAM ADCOCK AIA, LEED AP
PRINCIPAL
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Architectural Review Board Application
Submitted on 17 March 2024, 3:29pm
Receipt number 67
Related form version 13
Name Valerie Driscoll
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? No
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Architectural Review Board?
Other: Palo Alto City Employee
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Retired
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
15 plus years work experience in the fields of Accounting, Bookkeeping, Service to the Court, field of Defense, Architecture with regards to blue prints review analysis and assistance with. Attending of County/City Meetings, and that of the Democratic Party, and the Board of Supervisors, present in meetings with the City of Palo Alto with regard to transportation, permits, traffic concerns/issues, some investigation experience, general, College Degree and Education in Business, Psychology, Sociology, Law, and public meetings lobbying for the needs/rights of the people of Palo Alto, San Jose, Santa Clara County, work experience in industry including Oil Transport, a deep knowledge and respect for business, government, social service and I have studied Safety and Emergency Preparedness.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
I have attended meetings in Santa Clara County, San Jose, Palo Alto, with a strong interest to help improve the City and to preserve specifically in Palo Alto the practices, traditions that support the preservation of resources and its cultural diversity as well as its History, Architecture, voting with the building and management decisions of the City, the time I lived in Palo Alto and the time I have been living in San Jose, and Santa Clara County, attended the Democratic Party meetings and public gatherings, to some extent, making recommendations for city and county improvement. I have worked in voter registration twice for a former city with care and concern for the city and vote regularly.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Architectural Review Board and what experience would you bring to the position?
I bring 15 plus years of experience in numerous applicable disciplines- resume.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Board that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
There is no issue that came before, but many I did hear during the meetings while living in Palo Alto, from transportation to governmental concerns, safety, to public issues, to cultural concerns and Hi-Tech, transportation and Traffic concerns, safety and elderly concerns, management of lands, resources and water that all concern me.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Architectural Review Board achieve, and how would you help in the process?
To preserve the Historical traditional beauty of this fine city, and maintain its lasting legacy to the residents and generations to come, help with all aspects of city maintenance and needs, special concerns for all citizens in Palo Alto, for peace and prosperity for posterity.
4. Please identify a project (or projects) that you find to be examples of good architecture, and explain why. You may include samples, identify project addresses, or provide links.
There was a parks center project I recall and Golf Course, as well as the museum and a number of historical buildings, the J Paul project I witnessed and other building projects, Police and Fire Department which are all important as well as numerous old buildings with the old historic beauty of its unique architecture which needs to me maintained, we have Application Questions
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more modern structures and we cannot lose the Historic beauty and charm of the city.
5. Architectural Review Board Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection, but will help you better understand the work of the board.
Downtown Urban Design Guidelines I have viewed in detail and many city council meetings when I lived in Palo Alto. Currently I have nothing to go into specifically, but recall the progress if mentioned. I have moved to a lovely address in San Jose,
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
HRB - Driscoll Valerie - Latest CV.docx
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Valerie Driscoll
Link to signature
Date Completed 3/17/2024
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Valerie Driscoll
Career Objective: To Volunteer as Historic Review Board Rep volunteer.
San Jose City Democratic Party meetings until March 2020.
City of Palo Alto; City Hall of San Jose and Santa Clara County Meetings involvement: Revenues; Transportation; Traffic; City/County Social Development; Housing; Zoning; City/County Planning and Development; Budget. Palo Alto City Hall: Being considered for position with City Hall: Their Historic Resources Board position with City Council, which has been left open for me to interview for.
Internship: Investigations- Atlas Investigations, San Jose, CA: Administrative Assistant to Owner, and database, computer input Skip Traces and Background Checks; Filing misc. duties 12/2010-1/2011. I am a graduate of the Global School of Investigations of Massachusetts and California.
Offered Investigations position paid or volunteer by well-known Civil, Criminal/ Bankruptcy attorney with fine reputation, well known by the Sheriff’s Dept. San Jose CA: Thomas Salcicia. Two weeks later he died. It was a shock to the legal community and to the Sheriff’s Dept. June 2016.
Healthcare- Breathe California, e.g. (American Lung Association) 501 C3: Teaching, database management, article writing, general office and internet, some marketing consulting regarding advertising, phones and accounts updating, processing:
12/2010-01/2011.
Sociology- Counseling Internship Trained by Licensed Social Worker to Counsel Mentally Ill clients: Agency: ACT, San Jose: 2009-2010.
Political Campaign Support to David Cortese, Santa Clara Supervisor: 2010-2011.
Asked to run for office while volunteering with Alza Corporation/ 2 terms: Voter Registration, Sunnyvale and San Jose.
Santa Clara County Recreation/Transportation: Dept. Land and Water Preservation; Public Meetings: Transportation; Traffic Meetings; League of Women Voters.
Author of Economics Book Guide, regarding City/ County Governance and the Economy of Silicon Valley and the United States.
Safety and Emergency Preparedness Representative with the City of Palo Alto Home Owner’s Community.
Work Experience:
Oil Transport Company, San Jose, CA: 08/1993- 09/1993: Accountant Mgr.
Auditor: A/P, A/R database files, with auditing, checking year -to-date totals; Bookkeeping office administration: Job -Costing; W -2’s, Payroll assistant Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Quick Books, Peach Tree. Education was sought full -time in Business; Psych ology: Liberal studies, as well as greater opportunity work experiences, the goal: To find a company with a more defined Item 2
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succession plan, studied Psychology/Business. Started Paralegal studies.
Cisco/Lucent: 04/1993-08/1993: Cupertino, CA: AP/AR Assistant to Management Accounts/administration: Saved the company 1 million dollars before they became Cisco, negotiated contracts with Working with Account vendors; Tracking; Correspondence; Team environment; multi-tasking; bookkeeping, databases and hard copy, files, full service. Seeking permanent position with succession plan because company position was transitional.
Goodman Ball Defense (Missiles), Mountain View, CA: 04/1992-04/1993 Jr.
Accountant: Duties included: Assistance with payroll related functions; Use of Peach Tree software; AP/AR in purchasing and records; Job-costing; Organization of Logs; Fixed Asset Accounting, database files; Year-to-date files; W-2s; Double Entry bookkeeping Data base files and hard copy; Journals, ledger input (On Financial forms). H.R. duties were carried out. There were cutbacks in Defense during that time/better offer toward a hope for a company with a better succession plan.
Paid Internship and Job: Law Offices, Palo Alto, CA 12/1991-04/1992: Intern Law Administration: Civil, Criminal and Probate: Agency type of practice on Park Blvd. behind Superior Court. Court documents and prep for court, many.
San Mateo Apartment Complex Management: San Mateo, CA 09/1991-12/1991:
Administrative Assistant to Management, some bookkeeping; Correspondence;Team; assisting with tenant types of issues, maintenance.
Continued education, relocated, higher education was available and opportunities to train. Career sought, better succession plan. Transitioning during this time to Silicon Valley training, schools, relocation to Silicon Valley.
Education: Associates Degree: West Valley College, Saratoga, CA 9/2000-6/2006 Liberal Studies/Paralegal:2000-2003; Audited: Fort Hays State University/Global School of Investigations, MA/CA, graduate: 2009-2010; Quick Learning School:
San Jose, CA: A. Pre-licensing: Insurance: Health and B. Code and Ethics Certificate: 4/24/2010-5/15/2010- 52 hours total, completed.
Palo Alto, San Jose City Government meetings: 2010-2015 also: Formerly San Mateo College, San Mateo County 1980-1990.
Tech with Comp USA until Accounting position available in addition to work at College of San Mateo: drafting, and work later in Silicon Valley with an Architect on Blueprints and plans for building: 1982-1983 (nothing permanent available).
Healthcare, Oil industry, Bio Tech, and Non-profit 501 C3, as well, Apartment Complex Admin. Property Manager Assistant: Strong literacy in Microsoft Word/Windows: Excel Spreadsheets, some charts; Power Point, Outlook, Quick Books, Peach Tree software. Was a p/t tech. with Computer USA, built computer systems hardware computers with Stanford University Engineers: Worked with Hardware/software- 1986; Windows XP; Windows7; Windows 10; Explorer 9, 10; Programming and Networks skills, and html, Java; QC in computers manufacturing; Accounts management of database; DOS; Perl, C++; People Soft. San Mateo: College of San Mateo 80-89.
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
Experience
Director of Architecture, Senior Campus Planner
Stanford University: University Architect / Campus Planning and Design [March 2012 - Present]
Senior Project Manager,Design Manager, Entitlements Manager Stanford University Medical Center: Planning Design & Construction [February 2006 - February 2012]
Senior Designer, Project Architect
SmithGroupJJR
[May 2002 - February 2006]
Designer
KMD Architects
[June 1999 - January 2002]
Designer
Bohlin Cywinski Jackson
[February 1999 - June 1999]
Designer
Desmone & Associates Architects
[August 1997 - December 1998]
Education
Carnegie Mellon University
Bachelor of Architecture (BArch)
Minor in English Studies
1994 - 1999
Cornell University
Architecture Study Abroad (Rome, Italy)
Architecture, Art & Planning
1998 - 1998
Kunming University of Science and Technology
Architecture Study Abroad (Kunming, China)
Architecture, Art & Planning
1997 - 1997
Licensure
Registered Architect, New York State
License #36269
Employment Information
Stanford University: University Architect, Campus Planning & Design Occupation Director of Architecture
Personal and Job Experience
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Is your Company/Employer your current one or last? Current Employer Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
I I lived in San Francisco from 1999 - 2023, but never held any official public office or had ample time to volunteer to help my local community.
After 20 years commuting to Stanford every day, I finally moved to Palo Alto in the summer of 2023. I have spent the majority of my career helping to guide the planning and design of the Stanford's Land, Buildings and Real Estate, including:
Stanford University
Stanford Redwood City
Stanford Belmont
Stanford Research Park
Stanford Linear Accelerator Center
Stanford Shopping Center
Activities & Volunteering:
Series Director
Stanford University Spring Lecture Series in Architecture + Landscape + Urban Design
June 2012 – Present
Studio Critic & Lecturer
Stanford University - Architectural Design Program
Jan 2016 - Present
Studio Critic
Academy of Art University - School of Architecture
Jan 2018 - Present
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Architectural Review Board and what experience would you bring to the position?
During my 20 years working at Stanford Hospital and Stanford University, I have performed many different roles in the public process on behalf of those institutions, including:
Entitlements Manager
Project Manager
Campus Planner
Director of Architecture
I have collaborated with CoPA Planning, Public Works, Transportation, Fire & Police Departments. I have presented at ARB, Planning Commission, and City Council meetings. in my capacity as landlord, I have successfully guided dozens of Research Park and Shopping Center tenants through the ARB process. I believe I have a strong understanding of the values of the Palo Alto Community and the ARB, and the public process of planning and design review.
I realize that I would need to recuse myself from Stanford projects, but I still feel that I could make a positive impact on the ARB.
I am overjoyed to finally be living in Palo Alto, and would love the opportunity to help the guide the future of the Palo Alto built environment.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Board that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
We currently have a housing crisis in the State of California, and are woefully behind in supplying sufficient affordable workforce housing for the Palo Alto Community. I believe that the next few years will bring many new multi-family residential projects, and there will be a lot of pressure on the ARB to ensure that the density and quality of these projects meet the high standards of the Palo Alto Community. Many existing residents love the historically low-density character of this area, and do not want to see it change. But we must all adjust to an increased population density, and I believe the design community is creative and collaborative enough to solve this critical social problem.
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3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Architectural Review Board achieve, and how would you help in the process?
One of the primary roles in my current position is to critique planning and design within a specific context. This requires the ability to zoom in & out of a project: focusing on the detail of how the proposed project itself is designed, while also considering how it meshes with the broader neighborhood. This ability to focus on different scales is critical to guiding design professionals who do not spend as much time in our community as we do.
I also take pride in my ability to remove my own ego from the design process. My goal is not to make my personal imprint on a project.
Rather, it is to assist the consultant teams to reach the optimal version of their concept & design. This often involves a skill for asking the right questions of the designer, rather than proposing specific solutions. I think I could help project applicants to clarify their own objectives in order to validate (or modify) their proposed solutions.
4. Please identify a project (or projects) that you find to be examples of good architecture, and explain why. You may include samples, identify project addresses, or provide links.
One of the projects that I am proudest of is the Center for Academic Medicine: 453 Quarry Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94304
https://www.hok.com/projects/view/stanford-university-school-of- medicine%E2%80%AFcenter-for-academic-medicine/
The site is at the threshold between the bustling Stanford Medical Center and the sprawling open space of Stanford's Arboretum. This unique dichotomy of active and passive, suburban and rural, became a key diver for the massing of the complex. We chose to spend a premium to construct all of the required parking below grade, and preserve a generous portion of the ground plane for a communal plaza and courtyard. The primary façade along Quarry Road is lifted 2 stories off the ground in order toe welcome the community into the project realm, and enjoy view to the Arboretum beyond. We further activated the ground plane by locating the most communal program elements at grade, including: restaurant (public), fitness center, genius bar, and conference center.
5. Architectural Review Board Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection, but will help you better understand the work of the board.
I have reviewed all of these documents in the past as part of my job as a project applicant on behalf of Stanford.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Zachary Pozner
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Link to signature
Date Completed 01/18/2024
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Historic Resources Board Application
Submitted on 11 March 2024, 1:02pm
Receipt number 10
Related form version 15
Name H. Caroline Willis
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
Yes
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Historic
Resources Board?
Other: currently serving on the Board
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Landlord, housewife
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Architectural degree from the Rhode Island School of Design Licensed to practice Architecture in California, License # C 14615 Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Former President of PAST Heritage
Docent for PAST Heritage
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Historic Resources Board and what experience would you bring to the position? I believe that the structures from our past have important messages to convey to us: reminding of us of the history we are building on, how quickly life changes, that we are making decisions influencing future generations.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Board that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
The Board is currently trying to bring the Historic Inventory up to date for the first time since its inception in the 70s. This action is long overdue.
The fact that it has been ignored for so long has created an unfounded dread in the community that there are lurking unknown negative consequences to being on the Inventory.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Historic Resources Board achieve, and how would you help in the process?
We need to move forward and update our Inventory and create a system for keeping the Inventory up to date. Property owners need to be supported in their efforts to maintain their historic properties instead of being made to feel that they are subject to additional burdens and regulations. We need a staff person with a deep understanding of and appreciation for preservation and the willingness to advocate for our historic property owners.
4. Historic Resources Board Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I am familiar with the PA code section 16.49 regarding preservation and the Sec'y of the Interior Standards. I have referenced these documents to help my decision making while serving on the Board and over the years restoring historic houses and advising homeowners.
5. Please identify a project or projects that you find to be examples of good historic architecture, and explain why. You may attach samples, identify project addresses, or provide links.
I am particularly partial to the Ramona Street Historic District for its unique architecture. I love wandering through and admiring the many handcrafted details. It contains the work of the Architect Birge Clark and the designer Pedro de Lemos who contributed some of our most treasured buildings around town. It represents an early destination shopping district predating the mall concept. It pains me to see the Application Questions
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hodgepodge assembled in the street and I am hopeful that we will invest in finding an appropriate response to the streetscape in the not too distant future.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: H Caroline Willis
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/11/2024
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Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 17 March 2024, 2:30pm
Receipt number 37
Related form version 10
Name Cara Silver
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Attorney
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
UCLA - BA in English
Loyola Law School - JD
City of Santa Monica - Deputy City Attorney
City of Palo Alto - Senior Assistant City Attorney
City of Menlo Park - Interim City Attorney
Town of Portola Valley - Town Attorney
Jorgenson, Siegel, McClure & Flegel - Partner (recently retired) Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
2006- 2019 - Active member of Palo Alto PTA; partiicipated in variety of fundraising, academic enrichment and social activities
2010 - Volunteer Math Tutor at Ohlone Elementary School 2016 - Organized Career Week for Paly High School
2020-2023 -- Organized block parties and emergeny preparedness for local block
2016 - Presentation on charter cities to Palo Alto League of Women Voters
2019-2023 - Served on Cal Cities Brown Act Committee
2022 - Presented training on SB 9 to local realtor group 2023 - Volunteer for Immigration Justice Campaign
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I've always believed that local government is best equipped to protect individual freedoms and make necessary change. The HRC is well poositioned to assess and vet emerging policy issues for the Council. My experience living and raising a family in Palo Alto and my professional experience as a public sector lawyer will contribute to the Commission.
My desire and willingness to eliminate barriers, promote all kinds of equity and to expand access to Palo Alto's great resources align well with the Commission's goals.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
The hearing on the rental registry and tenant protections particularly interested me. Approximately half of Palo Alto's housing stock is rental and one of the best natuarlly occuring affordable housing options. While the Housing Element policies may displace some of this affordable housing stock, it is important to have policies in place that will ensure the existing tenants will be able to remain in our community.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I support all of the issues the HRC is currently working on. I am particularly interested in teen mental health issues; finding ways to keep our adult kids and seniors in the community (i.e. housing options) and activating Midtown as a major community center. Listening sessions and passing information through local networks is a good way to tackle these issues. Also these issues are related and it's important to recognize the synergies.
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4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
1. The Human Services Needs Assessment is conducted every 3 years to assess the needs of Palo Alto's service providers to ensure that Palo Alto's HSRAP funding aligns with the current needs of the community.
2. Muni. Code 9.72 establishes a landlord/tenant mediation program which allows either tenant or landlord to submit disputes to non-binding mediation. This program is funded in part by HSRAP grants. Recently, this Muni Code section was also amended to require a landlord registry.
3. The Community Services Element is a voluntary element of the Comprehensive Plan. Historically, Palo Alto has given great priority to its community services and facilities. This Element surveys existing facilities and programs and sets goals for maintaining and enhancing them through 2030.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Cara Silver
Link to signature
Date Completed 3/17/2024
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Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 16 March 2024, 3:26pm
Receipt number 34
Related form version 10
Name Donald Barr
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations Commission?
Email from the City
Palo Alto Weekly
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics, and of Education - Stanford University Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I have had a successful professional career as a practicing physician and as a Professor at Stanford. My work as a physician included helping to found the Peninsula Healthcare Connection, a Federally Qualified Health Center based at the Opportunity Center that provides medical care and psychiatric care to homeless and low-income residents of the Palo Alto area. I also have a PhD in Sociology from Stanford, with a focus on health care access and health status of low-income and other disadvantaged population groups. For 28 years I taught classes to undergraduate students at Stanford about the structure of the US health care system and about the sources of health inequality among different population groups.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
In 1999 I founded the Community Working Group (CWG), a 501c3 non- profit organization focused on addressing the needs of the homeless population and of low-income individuals and families. Under my leadership and with financial support from the City of Palo Alto and the County of Santa Clara, the CWG developed the Opportunity Center, which provides permanent supportive housing and other supportive services to the homeless. We also collaborated with Eden Housing to develop the low-income family housing at 801 Alma in Palo Alto. Since retiring from Stanford in 2022 I have continued to serve on the Board of Directors of the Peninsula Healthcare Connection. I also serve on the Board of Directors of the Avenidas senior center in Palo Alto. In 2023 I helped to found the Mid-Peninsula Senior Housing Alliance, 501c3 organization that works to develop new housing for low-income seniors in the mid-peninsula area. I also currently serve on the Santa Clara County Health Advisory Commission.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
As I described in the previous section of this application, I have been involved in developing housing and providing health care for disadvantaged populations in our community. My extensive leadership work on multiple non-profit organizations provide me with a background that I believe would facilitate my work as a HRC Commissioner. As a Commissioner, I would continue my commitment to providing supportive services to members of our community. I would also work with other members of the Palo Alto City government to finds ways to work collaboratively on thee issues. As a former Professor of Pediatrics at Stanford, I would also work as a Commissioner to understand the needs of disadvantaged children in our community and to work collaboratively to address those needs.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
I have support for and a strong personal interest in two areas that have been Goals of previous year work plans of the HRC: Housing and Homelessness; and ways to
improve implementation of current City renter protections. Recent data Application Questions
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have demonstrated that renters on Palo Alto and other local communities are experiencing substantial personal and economic strain due to rising costs of housing. Similarly, the unhoused population of our community need housing resources such as the new Homekey Palo Alto transitional housing facility being developed on San Antonio Road near the Palo Alto Baylands. Both of these issues are linked and deserve ongoing attention by the HRC.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would encourage the HRC to continue its focus on housing and services for unhoused members of our community. I would also encourage the HRC to focus its efforts on the needs of low-income and racial/ethnic minority members of our community, in order to support inclusion as members of our community.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I am not personally familiar with these documents.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Barr Publication.pdf
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Donald A Barr
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/16/2024
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Health Disparities in the United States
Social Class, Race, Ethnicity, and the Social Determinants of Health Donald A. Barr, MD, PhD
Johns Hopkins University Press, third edition
Publication Date August 20, 2019
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Human Resources Director - Compensation
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Master’s of Business Administration - Harvard
Bachelor of Arts, Dual Major: Economics and Business Administration, Franklin & Marshall College
People’s Playbook Podcast - Guest Interviewee - Subject “Setting Boundaries”
Carta - Interviewed as a contributor / rewards leader on the topic of location-based pay for remote workers in the post-Covid pandemic workplace environment
Member and Contributor - World at Work
Member - Conference Board - Compensation Council
Member - Conference Board - Executive Compensation Council Member - HR Policy Association
(Work Experience) Former Director, Global Compensation - Google (Work Experience) Former Sr. Director, Global Compensation - Uber (Work Experience) Former Vice President, Total Rewards - Impossible Foods
(Work Experience) Current - Director, Compensation, General Motors Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Patron/Contributor/Performer - Western Ballet
Patron/Contributor - Palo Alto Children’s Theatre
Patron/Contributor - Palo Alto Players
Patron/Contributor - iSing
Patron/Contributor - Palo Alto City Library
Coach - Palo Alto Little League (2011-2013)
Lector/Eucharistic Minister - St. Thomas Aquinas Church Mentor - Harvard Business School - to multiple current students Former Volunteer - GlassDoor - Homeless Shelter when we lived in London (2015-2019)
Contributor - Palo Alto Partners in Education
Patron/Contributor/Volunteer - Greenmeadow Swim Association Patron/Contributor/Volunteer - Diabetes Youth Families (2019-present) Patron/Contributor - JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) - Northern California Chapter (2019-present)
Contributor/Volunteer - NorCal Crew
Contributor - Gunn Foundation (spouse is on Gunn Foundation board) Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
We first moved here in 2011. As parents and community members, we have seen greatness across our community: The creation of Magical Bridge playground, the re-opening of the Mitchell Park Library with Ada’s Cafe; there is so reason for optimism. Concurrently, there are challenges in advocating for vulnerable populations. The COVID-19 pandemic upset all of society with disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations.
National issues, like George Floyd, were brought home with local marches, and local issues highlight struggles with mental health, particularly in teen populations (e.g. ongoing tragedy with death by suicide). We are involved in local theater, sporting groups, and frequent Application Questions
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the many small businesses that help our ecosystem thrive. In my day job, I have worked in Human Resources for nearly 15 years across industries and believe my experience serves me well to understand the types of challenges that exist in promoting fairness, inclusion and equitably across all populations.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
January’s HRC had a listening session for local Jewish experiences in the face of growing anti-Semitism. This topic really hits home for me. I am a frequent speaker at our church, and the importance of religious freedom is a fundamental human right Particularly with the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, it is ever more important to ensure that all religions feel safe to practice and not experience discrimination based upon their belief systems To hear the experiences of Palo Alto residents evidences the need to promote inclusion and a community that is free from hateful rhetoric and actions. Especially given the rise of anti- Semitism and how it inculcates fear from members of our Jewish community. While many of the issues that HRC deals with are critically important, the current zeitgeist of a rise in anti-Semitism brings a significant concern in our community of a critically important issue with such cultural history and significance and implications on a global level.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
Two areas I’m most passionate about are Teen Programs and Affordable Housing. On Teen Programs, I’d like to work with PAUSD (Don Austin et al) on revamping teen outreach initiatives, with specific, actionable plans to address the social and mental health needs of Palo Alto teens. While much has been done to adapt initiatives after the pandemic, it is clear additional thought needs to be put in place to ensure there are mechanisms for teens to combat loneliness, build community, and perhaps even avoid the harmful effects of certain types of social media engagement. On Affordable Housing, there are a plethora of interested parties on this topic: elders, new residents, first-time buyers. Across all of these constituent groups, Palo Alto can do better in achieving a thriving, sustainable community offering affordable housing while not alienating long-time residents. I would be committed to searching for solutions with this community so Palo Alto may continue to thrive for decades to come.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I do not have specific experience with these documents. I have been involved in some of the community outreach and listening sessions as it involved the expansion fo the bicycle corridors as Palo Alto has extended its network to achieve a Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community designation.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Marc R Schoenen
Link to signature
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Date Completed 03/17/2024
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Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 15 March 2024, 2:50pm
Receipt number 31
Related form version 10
Name Mark Weiss
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
Yes
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
Yes
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Arts administration
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Gunn class of ‘82
Dartmouth class of ‘86
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Earthwise Productions 1994-current
Assistant Coach Gunn JV basketball 2024
Neighbors Abroad Oaxaca delegate 1981
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I am a single-issue candidate running to raise awareness of antisemitism in our community, especially since the October 7 2023, terrorist attack in Israel and the propaganda effort corresponding, or in its wake. I spoke at a public hearing at HRC recently on this topic.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
Ibid
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would say, beyond what I just mentioned, I would mostly listen for the first year and then try to put into action what I might learn in the last year of my term. I was a previous candidate for this board and garnered some but not enough support from leadership at the time.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
None
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Mark B Weiss
Application Questions
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Link to signature
Date Completed 03/15/2024
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Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 13 March 2024, 5:06pm
Receipt number 28
Related form version 10
Name Mary Kate Stimmler
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
Yes
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations Commission?
Other: I am currently a commissioner.
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Lecturer, UC Berkeley
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
WORK EXPERIENCE:
Consultant/Lecturer
University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA (Dec 2023-present) --Design curriculum and teach courses on data ethics and AI for computational social science program.
Future of Work Program Manager
Google, Mountain View, CA (April 2022- Dec 2023)
--Provided strategic guidance related to workplace flexibility, return-to- office, hybrid work, and performance management.
People Analytics Sr. Manager
Google, Mountain View, CA (July 2011-April 2022)
--Defined and led a comprehensive employee lifecycle evaluation strategy, including development of statistical and AI tools for evaluating and reporting employee experience.
EDUCATION:
2013 University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business PhD Business Administration, Management and Organizational Research
2003 London School of Economics
MSc Media and Gender, highest possible honors
2000 Columbia University, Barnard College
BA English, magna cum laude, departmental honors
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
May 2023-Present
City of Palo Alto
Human Relations Commissioner
Involvement has included:
*Represented the HRC at Black History Month events
*Analyzed Asian American Hawaiian Native Pacific Islander Survey results, promoting and hosting listening sessions, and creating a presentation
*Co-created recommendations on inclusion efforts to address fears within the Jewish, Muslim, Israeli, Palestinian, and Arab Communities *Hosted a listening session focused on the needs of the elderly, including 6 local non-profits
*Represented HRC on selection of King Residency artist
*Representing HRC on meetings related to the needs of RV dwellers *Made recommendations for three quarterly cycles of Emerging Needs grants
* Working with local environmental student organization to create report on the impact of climate change on local vulnerable communities.
August 2021-Present--Parent Volunteer, PTA Special Ed Rep, Duveneck Aug 2016-Dec 2019, Palo Alto Menlo Park Parents Club (PAMP), Co- President
Personal and Job Experience
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1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I am social scientist with over 10 years of professional experience and a PhD in Organizational Behavior and being an HRC commissioner has been a nearly perfect way to use my skills and experience to benefit my local community. For example, last year the City Council asked the Commission to understand the unique needs of Palo Alto residents with Asian American, Native Hawaiin, and/or Pacific Islander backgrounds.
Although I wasn't initially assigned to the subcommittee for this project, I was invited to help the committee make sense of the survey results.
Using skills I gained leading a team at Google at analyzed over 1 million survey results per year, I analyzed the responses and created a presentation. We then held a listening session and used the Palo Alto City Survey from 2023 (with demographic information) to better understand how AAHNPI residents' experiences are similar and different from others. We hope to share the results with Council during Asian Heritage Month in May.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
The last three HRC meetings have addressed the needs of our Jewish, Muslim, Arab, Palestinian, and Israeli communities. I have to admit that I was initially opposed to addressing the Israeli/Palestine conflict in the HRC because it seemed so far out of our jurisdiction. However, I was wrong not to see immediately the impact that the conflict is having on the local experiences of Palo Alto residents. During the two listening sessions we held, it became extremely clear that Palo Alto residents have felt unsafe and excluded from our community. For example, parents have told their children to hide their religious identities when in public for fear of harassment and, indeed, there were stories of children experiencing just that kind of hateful harassment and even assault. I know much of the energy during City Council public comments has focussed on the conflict abroad, but I hope we can hear the local experiences and find better ways to build unity here in our City.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I think the HRC's current priorities and work plan reflect many of Palo Alto's greatest needs, and we still need to make progress on many of them. Since Oct. 7th, we have chosen to pause many of the workstreams while we focused on the emerging needs of our Jewish, Muslim, Arab, Israeli, and Palestinian communities and addressed tremendous fear in those communities. If I were to add one additional focus for the HRC, it would be mental health, especially for young adults.
While I appreciate the work being done in PAUSD (as a commissioner I reviewed the National Alliance on Mental Health grant for part of this work)--more can be done in the broader community. For example, we should ensure clear lines of support for parents of young adults (including those who have graduated HS) because parents are often the frontline of defense in this public health crisis.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I don't have direct experience working with any of these documents, outside of tangential mentions of them as part of my work as a commissioner (e.g. when reviewing funding requests).
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Application Questions
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Signature Name of signatory: Mary Kate Stimmler
Link to signature
Date Completed 3/12/2024
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Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 17 March 2024, 11:24am
Receipt number 35
Related form version 10
Name Miles Goodman
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations Commission?
Daily Post
City Website
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation District Representative, State. Sen Josh Becker (CA-13) Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Education:
B.A. Psychology, University of San Francisco co. 2022
A.A. Psychology, Foothill College co. 2020
A.A. Humanistic Studies, Foothill College (2024-)
Employment:
Casework Manager and Field Representative for Sen. Josh Becker, CA- 13 Team Lead Manager at Philz Coffee
Prior Experience:
Research & Development Director, Mental Health Action Project (2021- 23)
Social Contact Intervention Assistant, UCSF Memory & Aging Center (2022)
Transfer Student Representative, ASUSF Undergraduate Senate (2021- 22)
Teen Wellness Committee Member, Children's Health Council (2017-18) Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Chapter Lead - Peninsula for Everyone (2023-)
Campaign Marketing Assistant - Nicole Chiu-Wang for Palo Alto School Board (2022)
Voting Registration Volunteer - University of San Francisco USF Votes (2021-22)
Panelist and Mental Health Advocate - Palo Alto Unified School District (2018-)
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
As a lifelong Palo Alto resident and a mental health advocate, I've come to understand that everything is a wellness issue. Education, social justice, funding the arts, even housing.
My background is in social psychology; specifically, understanding the behavioral aspects of social justice advocacy and how bias interferes with our ability to understand each other. Through both my research experience and my current role as a Caseworker for a State Senator, I bring a perspective of constituent service that is rooted in holistic understanding of the self, and through my lived experiences, I bring the voice of a young person of color which is imperative to a commission whose policies impact the lives of those who share those facets.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
In my capacity with Senator Becker's office, I attended January's open forum on the rise of antisemitism in our community and was taken aback by hearing the stories of local leaders and students who have experienced discrimination and prejudice that were heightened by Application Questions
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Hamas' attacks on October 7th. Understanding and combatting bias is personal to me, not just in terms of my own identity but in my background.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I'd like to see increased collaboration between commissions on topics that intersect one another, such as a partnership between HRC and the Arts Commission to develop strategies on using recreational art as a wellness promotion tactic. Growing up half-black and oftentimes being surrounded by peers that didn't look like me, music was my way of not just connecting with my black heritage, but it was a way to escape from the stressors that were always around me. The latter is a mindset that many share, and the prospect of using the arts to empower, uplift, and educate is something I've cared about deeply for my whole life - and something I'm excited to explore in my capacity as a commissioner.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I am a previous applicant for a seat on the commission and have reviewed all these documents thoroughly.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
resume2023.pdf
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Niklas Miles Goodman
Link to signature
Date Completed 3/17/2024
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MILES GOODMAN
EDUCATION __________________________________________________________________________________________ University of San Francisco San Francisco, CA Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology GPA: 3.80 •Transfer Student with previous Associate’s Degrees in Psychology & Social Science from Foothill College; Recipient of Mellon Foundation Scholarship and USF Transfer Academic Award. Involved in student mental health advocacy work, undergraduate student government, independent social psychology research, the McGrath Scholars program, and peer mentor partnerships for students within the College of Arts & Sciences. Graduated Magna Cum Laude.
EXPERIENCE __________________________________________________________________________________________ California State Senate - Sen. Josh Becker, CA-13 West Menlo Park, CA District Representative June 2023 - Present • Serving as a Field Representative for State. Sen Josh Becker, representing California’s 13th Senate District. Acting as a governmental affairs liaison to the cities of Menlo Park, Los Altos Hills, Stanford, and East Palo Alto and maintaining stable relationships with elected officials and commissions in San Mateo County; also assisting with constituent casework relating to unemployment, disability leave, and Department of Motor Vehicles complications. Currently acting as liaison to the district’s Black and LGBTQ+ communities and providing aforementioned updates to the district office about issues pressing to those constituencies.
Philz Coffee San Francisco Bay Area, CA Team Lead Manager August 2021 - Present • Oversaw the re-opening of Philz’s Salesforce Transbay Community & Mobile-only storefronts; responsible for preparation of hand-crafted coffee beverages while simultaneously providing in-the-moment coaching for baristas and trainees. Responsible for People Development initiatives, deescalation tactics in interpersonal conflicts, monitoring daily inventory (Google Slides, Excel) and cash handling. Transferred to Palo Alto Forest Avenue location in June 2022 due to residency change.
Mental Health Action Project - Public Health Nonprofit Remote Director of Research & Development May 2021 - June 2023 • Responsible for overseeing team researching the implementation of Mental Health First Aid training as part of the onboarding student procedures at several California community colleges. Conducted policy analysis on several state-level legislative developments geared towards public health, led data-driven outreach efforts towards administrators and stakeholders, and led grant application process to secure funding for training.
UCSF Memory & Aging Center San Francisco, CA MISCI Social Contact Intervention Assistant January 2022 - May 2022 •Assisted with UCSF MISCI (Multi-modal Intergenerational Social Contact Intervention) development and partnership with other San Francisco-based nonprofits. Participated in a triad consisting of two undergraduate students enrolled in Psychology Practicum at the University of San Francisco. Conducted independent research projects (PowerPoint, Canva) and assisted with multiple clerical tasks, including statistical data analysis (Qualtrics, R, Excel) and conducting follow-up telephone interviews with previous program participants.
ASUSF Undergraduate Senate San Francisco, CA Transfer Student Representative January 2021 - December 2021 • Appointed as Senator-designate before running for a full term; defeated challenger by 12-point margin to serve the University of San Francisco’s transfer and non-traditional student population. Acted as direct line of communication between transfer-oriented student groups and administrative figures; authored multiple resolutions relating to credit articulation agreements (AMTRAC Act) and improving culture of student leadership in its relation to Title IX; held positions in Senate’s committees on Internal Affairs and Marketing and served as a non-voting student representative on the Board of Trustees’ Subcommittee on Academic Affairs. Oversaw the implementation of a revamped university-wide Credit Evaluation System for prospective students and the administrative workgroup on Transfer Success and Belonging.
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Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 16 March 2024, 2:26pm
Receipt number 29
Related form version 10
Name Uzma Rashid Minhas
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
Yes
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations Commission?
Community Group
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Policy Lead at Google
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Bachelors degree from University of Texas at Austin
My career has centered around online policy adherence, program management, and operations. I'm adept at addressing ambiguities in policy and translating them to be readily understood by a diverse audience. Well respected for championing teamwork amongst different departments such as Sales, Operations, and Engineering. I currently work in the Android and Google Play policy space.
Google, Policy Lead, February 2022-present
Stripe, Risk Strategist Sep 2018-Aug 2021
Pinterest, Program Manager, 20116-2018
Google, Legal Specialist, 2008-1016
My Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uzma-minhas-b779764/ Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
I was on the PAUSD Middle School History-Social Science Textbook Selection Advisory Committee for 2017-2018
I'm currently an active Junior League Palo Alto Mid Peninsula Member, and have been since October 2021. I am the current Junior League Community Committee Chair for Project STEAM which partners with the Redwood City Library.
I am the Global Policy Lead for Allyship and Education for the Muslims ERG (Employee Resource Group) at Google, which is a volunteer leadership position.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I’m most passionate about my work when it deeply impacts the people in my community. In my past experience on PAUSD’s Middle School Social Studies Textbook Committee, I worked collaboratively to ensure we chose a textbook where every child feels represented and can easily engage with the material, particularly those with special needs. This experience enhanced my understanding of what equity means in the school academic setting.
Currently, as an active member of the Junior League of Palo Alto Mid Peninsula, I chair Project Steam, a partnership with the Redwood City Library aimed at providing educational opportunities for at-risk children.
Additionally, my role as the Google Muslims ERG Global Lead for Allyship and Education allows me to cultivate an inclusive culture within Google, benefiting the well-being of all employees.
These experiences directly align with the Human Resources Commission's mission and have equipped me with leadership skills essential for the role.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
As a visibly Muslim woman, the past few months have been challenging, as our community has seen a rise in Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian racism, and anti-Arab racism. I knew this was an opportunity for Application Questions
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education and bridge building, so I reached out to HRC Chair Kaloma Smith for a meeting to discuss our community’s concerns. He graciously gave us the opportunity for a listening session with the HRC. I led our community in preparing for this session, created the presentation with our requests for the HRC, and was one of the three main speakers.
For me, this was the first step in continuing civic activism in Palo Alto. I learned that our local agencies, like HRC, are a resource for us, and when engaging with them respectfully and in good faith, beautiful synergies and relationships can be created.
Now that the HRC has released recommendations from our listening sessions, I’m excited to be part of the HRC to see these implemented in a way where all our community feels safe and heard.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
If appointed, I can bring a diverse viewpoint that currently lacks representation. With an intersectional identity, I’m Muslim, Pakistani, woman, and daughter of immigrants, I understand the importance of humanizing communities often misrepresented in our society. I aspire to be a voice for all individuals in Palo Alto who may feel invisible.
I believe that respectful listening and learning, in line with the Palo Alto way, can bridge gaps and foster understanding across diverse backgrounds. Specifically, I am passionate about driving Allyship programs that extend support beyond my own identity. As someone who values being an ally to various marginalized groups, I am dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of all individuals in our community. I have experience in Allyship training through my work, and I’m excited for the opportunity to take my learnings and help to create a city wide initiative where we can all learn how to be allies to each other.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
n/a
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Uzma Minhas
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/16/2024
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 12 January 2023, 6:47am
Receipt number 1
Related form version 5
Name Allison Huynh
Address
City
Postal Code
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
City Website
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Stanford University BS
Stanford University Senior Fellow
Prolific art collector specializing in living women artists and artists of color. Works include originals by Yayoi Kusama, Susan Rothenberg, Kuhinde Wiley and up and coming young female artists of color including Chloe Ryoko Wong.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
Volunteer Science and Computer Science teacher at Synapse School.
Lead Coordinator and Fundraiser for Palo Alto High School TEAMS program. 2022-2023
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
To enrich our community with Art, inclusivity and different modalities for creative expression.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
As a city with a strong focus on science and technology; I think it’s important to develop and fund more programs to support young emerging artists such as visual arts, musical theater, music and alternative modalities to deep technology and computer science heavy curriculum
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would like to create a fund for public project works whether through a voluntary basis or a small city tax to fund artists and creativity. I believe this will allow the city to increase the long term vitality and creative spirit of the town beyond being ground zero for silicon. valley
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
I don’t have experience w this plan
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Allison Huynh
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Link to signature
Date Completed 1/12/2023
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 15 March 2024, 8:46pm
Receipt number 10
Related form version 7
Name Amber J Smith
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation I’m a Mixed Media Mosaic Artist that explores the theme of endangered animals, disadvantaged people, and at risk habitats using materials that can be unfriendly to our environment. My goals are to raise awareness and create dialogue about the way our contemporary lifestyle adversely affects the environment, our social fabric, and our personal well being.
My artistic practice incorporates recycled and repurposed materials, usually treated as mosaic tiles, to bring attention to the overuse of plastic that are abundant and is having an adverse effect on our climate.
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Bachelor of Fine Arts at UC Berkeley,
Art studio space at Art Bias in San Carlos.
Awarded Palo Alto ArtLift Microgrant in 2022 - Cuppa Joe Website: www.asmerakiartstudio.com
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
Community Events: Cuppa Joe Neighborhood Art Project at Hoover Park - community members were encouraged to collect their used Keurig cups for the making of Cuppa Joe - a 4ft tall coffee cup on 8ft diameter saucer made from over 4000 Keurig Cups. Installed in Hoover Park July - October 2022
Midtown Residents Ice Cream Social: Art Activity**
Ventura Residents Ice Cream Social: Art Activity**
**Activity included art projects where kids used recycled materials to make sea turtles and learn about endangered animals and the importance of recycling
May Fete Parade: Community members were encouraged to contribute to the making of a mural by affixing recycled bottle caps onto an image of an endangered humpback whale, participants were encouraged to collect bottle caps for the project, and all participants signed an artist page.
Parent Volunteer: Barron Park, Fletcher Mid, and Gunn
Co-Chair Annual Fundraising Auction 2013-2016
PTA Board Member 2014-2018
Event and Fund Raising Photographer
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I call Palo Alto my home. I would like to see it grow in its outward celebration of its unique diversity and culture — Where all residents are seen, represented, and valued.
As an artist, I’m relatively new in the public art space, but I’ve had a passion for it my entire life. It is what I’m called to do. Public art is powerful in its ability to shape community, spark dialogue, and foster a sense of identity and belonging among residents. It can beautify urban spaces, convey cultural heritage, provoke thought, and even address social or political issues. It should be chosen carefully so that it is appropriate and welcomed warmly by its residents.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe I’m excited by the various artworks discussed on Feb 15: two murals and 20 utility boxes. I have waited expectantly for the painting of utility boxes Application Questions
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why you are interested in it. to come to Palo Alto for quite some time. I am thrilled the funding has finally come through. These colorful little boxes have the ability to add so much character to a street or intersection. They are memorable and unique, and they celebrate the artists local to our area.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
Murals have the ability to create destinations on a map. They are memorable. I would like to see more murals in Palo Alto that celebrate the unique nature of the Silicon Valley melting pot that results from our diverse community.
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
I have no experience with the Public Art Master Plan, but after reading through it, I felt the goals set forth were quality objectives.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Amber J Smith
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/15/2024
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 11 March 2024, 6:51pm
Receipt number 11
Related form version 7
Name Claude Ezran
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Retired high-tech executive
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
• Retired high-tech marketing executive, 30+ years of experience in Silicon Valley companies such as Intel, 3Com, Adobe, and start-ups, mostly at the Director and VP level.
• Extensive experience working collaboratively in teams • MBA, Harvard Business School
• MSEE, Ecole Superieure d'Electricite (France)
• BS. Advanced mathematics and physics
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
• Human Relations Commission, including Vice-chair and Chair:2008- 2014
• Founder and Organizer of Palo Alto World Music Day: 2009-2019 • Member of the Board of Directors, Palo Alto Recreation Foundation (PARF): 2010-2020
• Graduate of the Palo Alto Citizen Police Academy: 2019 • Member of the Community Advisory Group to the Police Chief: 2010- 2012
• Member of Steering Committee for Measure A (school parcel tax): 2005 • Treasurer of the Palo Alto PTA Council: 2004-2007
• Member of the Board of Directors, Cable Co-op: 1992-1998 Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I have extensive experience in the arts, and I will bring a different and broad perspective:
• Took art classes at The Louvre Museum
• Visited art museums in about 80 countries and in many US cities • Most extraordinary museum ever visited: Savitsky Museum in Nukus, Uzbekistan. World-class avant-garde soviet art that was forbidden under Stalin
• I am about to visit the extraordinary National Palace Museum in Taipei, Taiwan
• Attended the huge Art Basel Miami show in 2019
• Attended several big local exhibitions of Bay Area artists, • Participated in Burning Man 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022 and 2023. One of the key attractions of Burning Man, at least for me, is seeing all the incredibly creative pieces of art, some of which end up as public art (San Jose, San Francisco and Reno are examples of cities that have displayed Burning Man art)
• Took ceramics classes at the Art Center and at Paly (Adult Education) • I collaborated with many artists when I was organizing Palo Alt World Music Day
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
Murals to be painted at the Cubberley campus and Fire Stations 4 and 5.
Quite frankly, public art in Palo Alto tends to be bland and unremarkable.
I would like to see more of a wow factor, more creativity.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to Public art in Palo Alto tends to be bland and unremarkable. It is barely Application Questions
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see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
noticeable, not memorable, and does not trigger conversations. I would like to help bring more of a wow factor, more of a sense of wonder, more creativity to Palo Alto. Let us make Palo Alto more of a destination, not just for its restaurants but also for its art, a bit like what I accomplished with World Music Day. I would also love to explore the opportunity of hosting some of the highly creative and stunning art pieces from Burning Man artists.
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
I read it.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Claude Ezran
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/11/2024
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 17 March 2024, 10:18am
Receipt number 16
Related form version 7
Name Harriet Stern
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation I am an arts professional, having spent years working in the fine art field.
I received two PA Artlift Microgrants, one for Andre Thierry to play "Accordion Soul Music" in Mitchell Park (2021) and the other for "Pets of Palo Alto--A Family Portrait Project" (2022) displayed at Mitchell Park.
Recently I curated "We Are What We Eat" the Neighbors Abroad exhibition at the PA Art Center (2024). I am a nonprofit community relations professional (Curator of Community Kindness for the Magical Bridge Foundation). I am also a parent to two teens, a caretaker for my father and partner to my wonderful husband. I try to be an active and compassionate friend. I manage two homes. I am a dog mom, a news junkie, an avid audio book, podcast and radio listener. My extended family is in the Bay Area from Mill Valley to Corillitos. We see each other often. I love to watch soccer, especially the World Cup. I go to the gym.
Travel is a passion. I meticulously plan our family trips. These are my occupations.
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
BA, Art History and the Integrated Program of Humane Studies, Kenyon College, Gambier, OH
Graduate Studies, Modern Art History ,Theory and Criticism, School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Diploma, Interior Architecture, Inchbald School of Design, London Internships: Hirshhorn Museum, Washington D.C.;
Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice, IT;
Chicago Park District, Archives Dept.;
Art Institute of Chicago, Dept. of 20th Century Art
TA, School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Asst. Director, White Pine Gallery, Chicago
Corporate Art Consultant, Merrill Chase Galleries and Corporate Artworks, Schaumberg, IL
Between 1996-2010 and 2016-2018 I was a expatriate spouse with my husband in six cities: Amsterdam, Milan, London, Paris, Shanghai, Hong Kong.
Curator, IBEW Local 1245, Vacaville, CA
Curator of Community Kindness, Magical Bridge Foundation, Palo Alto Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
In my community I have taken a number of classes at Pacific Art League, Mid-Peninsula Media Center, The Art Center. I attend lectures and music at Stanford, follow local visual and performing arts, including attending King Residency and Artlift workshops. My kids attended PAUSD since 2018. My volunteering centers primarily around school. These are my recent longer term volunteer commitments: Odyssey of the Mind Coach, Elementary Division—2017 World Championship Qualifiers, All Students Matter Literacy Volunteer, Ravenswood School District 2018/19, Palo Alto High School, College Career Center/Career Speaker Series Volunteer 2019/20/21/22/23, The Reach Foundation Mentor, Santa Clara HS and SJSU 2020/21/22/23/24, Campaign Volunteer 2020, Palo Alto HS Class of 2025 Parent Lead 2021/22/23, Administrator of Sister Cities International, Youth Artists and Authors Showcase 2022/23/24, Neighbors Abroad Arts Organizer 2023/24. I also volunteer one-off where needed, for example at CodeArt.
Personal and Job Experience
Application Questions
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1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
Our public art reflects Palo Alto's values and vision. In PA we welcome all and encourage open expression and creativity. The Public Art Commission serves a critical role in guiding first impressions of our city.
I would like to serve on the PAC to:
1.reach segments of the community not currently engaged by the public art program and build greater awareness about the program and the collection.
2.guarantee that the community trusts that decisions made around public art are completely transparent and accountable.
3.support local artists and arts professionals and promote art within the community.
4.continue the long-term plans of in the Public Art Master Plan and New Cal Ave Plan and strategize future long-term needs for the collection and programming.
As a lifelong collector and professional in the arts, I have practical experience working with artists, end-users, framers, printers and installers on project development, proposals, acquisitions, commissions, and installations.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
Recently Stephen Galloway presented his proposal for an art piece to be installed at Fire Station No. 4 on the corner of Middlefield and East Meadow. Almost daily I pass by there. I look forward to the renovation of the firehouse and Mr Galloway's piece, Commonweal. Commissioners asked great questions. Commonweal was enthusiastically approved.
Given the scale and format of the piece and its placement on the building, my concern is that it may not read as clearly from the street as the current renderings show. A mock-up would help inform the issues for all.
The material selected is like an old fashioned sign, baked porcelain on steel. In this case; colorful, luminescent and durable. Wonderful. It was great to see Joe Saxe as the project manager. I had only seen him preparing/ installing art. His representation of PA on this project is commendable. He is obviously well invested in the process, working with Stephen, the end-users, build/design team, fabricators and doing PA proud.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would like to see the Public Art Commission seek out underserved populations to engage in public art. I would collaborate with senior citizens or disabled populations to introduce public art in terms meaningful to them. Another idea would be to encourage cooperative projects between East Palo Alto and Palo Alto. I would like to create rolling grant for Palo Altans who wish to create public art projects. This would mean selectively funding a number of small grants available to PA citizens with an idea they would like to share with the public.
There is great potential to work with our International Sister Cities on art exchanges as evidenced by the response for We Are What We Eat.
I would love for Public Art to be collaborative with Cubberley Artists.
They are producing some amazing work. Besides the open studio days, there should be other exhibition opportunities. As a Commissioner I intend to attend community art events, meetings when invited and grant recipient openings.
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
Yes, I am familiar with the Master Plan. I attended a focus group with the authors and have read the final document. I know that we are about three-quarters through the ten year plan.
The Master Plan has effectively established a professional approach to our Public Art Program and its administration. The goals and timeline are very clearly stated.
The Cubberley Artist Studios are included in the Master Plan as a point of discussion. It is my very strong opinion that if Cubberley is used for 3 of 4
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something else in the future, Palo Alto should maintain subsidised artist studios somewhere within our city limits. Artists enhance diversity of our community. They can't afford to be here without our support.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Pets of Palo Alto PAPA.docx
Andre Thierry Artlift Microgrant.docx
Sister Cities International YAAS 2023 participants.docx We Are What We Eat Art Exhibit PDF2- NEIGHBORS ABROAD.pdf IMG_3040.jpeg
IMG_3037.jpeg
IMG_3042.jpeg
IMG_3041.jpeg
IMG_3039.jpeg
IMG_3034.jpeg
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Harriet Stern
Uploaded signature image: IMG_4120.jpeg
Date Completed 03/17/2024
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Pets of Palo Alto – A Family Portrait
Project
O
n Display: October 2022 outside Mitchell Park Community Center Arts professional Harriet Stern in collaboration with photographer Federica Armstrong held a series of community photo sessions across various outdoor locations in Palo Alto to photograph families with their pets. The project concludes with an exhibition of the photographs at the Mitchell Park Community Center Basketball Court displayed during the month of October.
Project Website
Photo credit: Federica Armstrong
Related Information
• Instagram
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Andre Thierry: Zydeco Live Performance
M
itchell Park Bowl: August 28th, 5 - 7 PM
Masterful on all accordion types, Andre Thierry is a phenomenal award-winning musician who has been capturing the attention of music lovers all over the world. Andre Thierry and his band deliver energetic performances, blending his own electrifying sounds with stirring dance beats. Put your best dancing shoes on as Thierry's soulful rhythms will get you moving.
I heard Andre on the radio, contacted him and wrote the grant proposal for him to play.
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Sister Cities International's
Young Artists and Authors
Contest
Showcasing Young Artists and Authors from
Palo Alto and Surrounding Communities
Sister Cities International, the national non-profit that serves as the umbrella membership organization for individual sister cities, counties, and states across the United States, is presenting its annual Young Artists and Authors Showcase. This annual art and writing competition encourages young people aged 13-18 to express the mission of Sister Cities International through original artwork, writing, photography, and music. The theme for 2023 was "Peace by Piece: Food Security in my Community."
The competition has six categories: Classic Art, Digital Art, Photography, Essay, Poetry, and Musical Composition. Winners receive cash prizes and will have their artwork displayed on the Sister Cities International website and other places.
Scroll through the gallery below to see the local submissions from the 2023 contest and stay tuned for 2024:
ART - CLASSICAL MEDIUM CATEGORY
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Bread for Always
Prismacolor pencil on paper
Maya Caran, age 15
"Bread is an important food that connects many cultures around the world, but made from humble ingredients using a simple process. Throughout history, family cooks performed the familiar routine of bread-making each and every day so that their loved ones could depend on its sustenance. Their techniques were passed down from generation to generation, but somehow, much of this tradition has been lost today.
I created this image of a little girl delighting in learning how to make bread from her grandmother because I hope it will rekindle interest in bread-making, and with it, the security of self-sufficiency."
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Equal Food for All
Acrylic paint and pencil on paper
Meher Birari, age 12
"In this world, food insecurity and unequal amounts of food are very common.
The wealthy parts of society have access to varieties of food, and in great amounts, yet waste so much. While the poorer parts of society barely have scraps to stay alive. Why is the world like this? Food is food after all. It is a basic necessity needed to survive and can go away easily, yet people treat it as replaceable. Not just this, but food holds a special place in everybody's hearts.
This is what inspired my artwork, EQUAL FOOD FOR ALL."
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Thief
Soft pastel and colored pencil on paper
River Wu, age 15
"A person is eating a sandwich, on that sandwich is field of dead crops where a skeleton stands, hungry. My community is the one that is eating, the bread is made out of wheat, that wheat could be from local farms but also could be from farms in South Africa and South Asia where there are large farms that produce lots of wheat that the rest of the world eats. The effects of climate change on those farms are extreme weather conditions that make it more difficult for them to grow crops, the crops that not only feed them but also what they sell to make a living. My community takes the little amount of crops due to weather and leave those families struggling in poverty and hunger. And my community has added to climate change and global warming much more than they have, we have stolen so much from them and while they are struggling we are still able to eat well.
Donations and other acts can help these families, and reversing climate change and global warming will not only help these families but help our world."
ART - DIGITAL MEDIUM CATEGORY
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Helping Hands
Adobe Fresco
Maya Caran, age 15
"The vibrant diversity of vegetables being grown in the community garden by my neighbors inspired me to create this image. I was amazed by the multi-cultural spectrum on display: the many shades of emerald from Asian leafy greens, reds of tomatoes and Central American peppers, yellows and oranges of American squash. Grandmothers worked side by side with young children to grow an abundance of food. I learned that local food security organizations here use community gardens to support families by offering gardening workshops, supplies, and resources. Because fresh produce is usually too fragile for food banks to distribute, the helping hands of my neighbors come together to grow Item 2
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crops that provide a welcome supply of healthy fresh vegetables to those in need."
Leftovers
Procreate
Polina van Hulsen, age 15
"My artwork was inspired by the concerning effects of food waste in my community. There are many places where food is not as plentiful as it is in my community and through my artwork, I wanted to acknowledge the fortunate position that we have as a community that has food security. Each year, nearly 119 billion pounds of food is wasted in the United States, meaning that about 40% of all food in the U.S is wasted, and this percent continues to increase.
When I learned about this statistic, I was shocked and was inspired to create this artwork, which depicts someone throwing their dinner into the trash. There are large negative effects when wasting foods, not only does it waste money, but it also negatively effects the planet as resources and energy are wasted as well. I think that it is incredibly important to decrease food waste by creating a meal plan, storing food correctly, and saving leftovers after each meal. While some people have enough food security to throw foods out, others do not have enough to eat. I want us to acknowledge the importance of saving food so that we work together towards a sustainable and food secure society with enough food for all." Item 2
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MUSIC CATEGORY
Starving for the Moon
Piano and Noteflight
Carson Packard, age 16
Listen here
"My main goal with this piece was to illustrate the beauty of music and how instrumentals can have just a message about food security just as strong as a song with vocals. The piece builds, just like the ever-growing problem of world hunger, but each section that builds also represents the efforts against world hunger and protecting food security. Each section is not only growing hunger but also each effort against hunger growing stronger. Sonically, the piece gets crowded and dense, portraying the rumble of empty stomachs. At other times, the piece is light and beautiful, illustrating the dreams of many unfortunate children who can't do what they're destined to because of hunger." Resilience
Original music
Parker Smith, age 14
Listen here
"Many things inspired me to write a song on food insecurity. One in particular was when I visited Kenya last December. Seeing the less fortunate villages made me realize how lucky I am to know where my next meal is coming from and that I can have three meals a day, every day. Another reason was because I wanted to bring awareness to all social issues including food insecurity, and music is a wonderful platform to do that. Music has the power to inspire people, and that was the goal of my song. Many musicians in the past have written about social issues, which was very inspiring to me. For example, Queen wrote Is this the World we Created...? addressing food insecurity. Although I intentionally made my song an instrumental song, I think that the feelings towards insecurity are portrayed. I believe that music and social issues go hand in hand, and communities can promote both. A primary example on how they can do this is through fundraiser concerts. Communities can also raise food drives, education programs, and food pantries that can be enhanced with music to create a more welcoming environment. I chose to name this song Resilience because of how strong people who struggle from food insecurity are. They have to overcome adversity and be able to withstand difficult situations. They have to adapt mentally and physically. When I wrote my song, the first emotion that came to me Item 2
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while listening was Resilience. The song reminds me of people not giving up and staying on their feet."
ESSAY CATEGORY
Cows and Climate Change: An Uncertain Future
Maya Abouav, age 13
"I chose to write this essay because climate change matters to me. I think about it often, and I observe the silent rise it follows as it affects each and every part of our lives. I know a handful of things about food security when it comes to our species' future, so I figured this would be a great opportunity to make my voice heard and spread the word that climate change is more than heat." Walking into a restaurant today, it’s likely you’ll find numerous ways to ingest caffeine. With sugar, with foam, and of course, with milk. So many kinds of milk.
Almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk - one might wonder what sudden epiphany the public had to implement this many alternatives. And it's not just the milk industry - that restaurant likely serves a vegan or veggie burger, too. Why all the choices? The answer may be climate change.
When we think of climate change, we think of dry deserts, rising seas, and extreme seasons. But the fact of the matter is that climate change affects every aspect of our daily lives - particularly when it comes to food security. We try hard not to think about it. The human brain prioritizes the near and the obvious, a double edged sword that we carry in our pocket. One that has brought us to this day and yet may be our demise.
Most of us have met a vegetarian or vegan person at one point or another. While their motives all differ, a common reason for the diet is to boycott the unsustainable meat farms that hurt the climate. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, 37% of human methane emissions are from our current livestock practices (Agriculture and Aquaculture: Food for Thought).
But with a growing population and more mouths to feed, it feels counterintuitive to alter our farming practices when, if anything, we need to use them more. Raise more animals, feed more children. In protest, our vegan friends boycott the system and find other foods to eat.
But there’s a problem - many vegan folks still like milk. Beef, too. And this is fine, but if we won’t consume animal products, we must replicate our own. Thus, all the alternatives on the restaurant menu. But while the western world can avoid Item 2
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cow products, not all countries can afford such luxuries.
According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, beef makes up a quarter of all meat consumed. It provides essential proteins that are hard to replicate. If we suddenly banned eating cow products from unsustainable sources, we’d be setting ourselves decades back in the battle against hunger.
The wealthy’s methods only fix the problem for the wealthy themselves.
So, developed countries leave the developing world to fix the problem. The financial gap between countries has caused inordinate frustration and bitterness across the globe. Food alternatives offer one of many ways to better the climate, but if we can’t sync ourselves with the rest of the world, the progress we make is in fact, futile. Wealthy countries need to lend a helping hand to poorer ones consistently and without fail. We can give money to start alternative dairy and meat production in other countries. We can boycott unsustainable farming practices.
We can save the Earth and stop hunger - it’s not hopeless. But if we really want to achieve them both, we need to prove it.
Busy as a Bee
Taarini Kadambi, age 13
"I was at a honey farm, and found it really fascinating how honey bees put so much effort into creating their delicious honey."
Food security is crucial for the survival of all species. An amazing example of food security within the natural world is shown by Apis Mellifera, more commonly known as the honey bee. Honey bees create and store enough honey during months when flowers are blooming, thereby securing food for when they need it.
These honey bees collaborate as a colony to produce honey.
When bees form their colony, they create tightly-packed hexagonal honeycomb using beeswax. This is a team effort. These hexagons are an efficient use of of space, allowing maximum number of cells in the smallest available area.
Hexagons provide strength and stability, as they are tightly packed, ensuring no wasted material. This shape is also easy to construct.
Honey bees can travel as far as a mile away from their hive to find flowers. In addition, they show other colony members exactly where the flower patches are in relation to the hive. This allows the other bees to go find that patch and collect more nectar. Collaboration allows them to make even more honey during the year.
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The bees proceed to ingest the nectar they collect from the flowers. Their stomach enzymes help digest the nectar, and convert it into honey. Bees regurgitate honey into the honeycomb. The colony works all spring and summer, so when winter comes, they have food to nourish themselves. Honey does not rot or go bad when stored in honeycomb, so it can stay there until it is needed. In 1922, preserved honey was found in Egyptian tombs, and it was perfectly edible.
When the snowy blanket of winter arrives, the bees can no longer go out and collect nectar, as all the flowers have died. For nourishment, the bees break open the honeycombs they filled with honey in the previous months, and eat the honey. This honey lasts them through the winter, and into the spring, when they make more honey.
In regions with snowy winters, local beekeepers can harvest summer honey only, as this is the only time of year where honey is manufactured by the bees.
However, in other areas, where there isn’t snow during winter, there is both a summer and winter harvest, as bees can collect nectar throughout the year.
Bees have an extraordinary way of making sure they have enough food for when the time comes, and they are truly remarkable and incredible little insects. As a result of storing honey for such a long time, these creatures have a secure food bank, for when the need arises. This way, they’ve ensured their survival.
These amazing creatures have shown that they have the capability to build a storage facility, create food, and preserve it perfectly, all with minimal waste. A perfect lesson in food security for us human beings. Don’t you agree?
POETRY CATEGORY
A Poem About Food
Jacob Kinsky, age 15
"I was inspired to write my poem because food security is an issue that is prevalent in my area. I thought that this project would be an interesting experience, and that the issue I would write about would be one that is relevant to my community."
Amidst the field of budding sprouts
Farmers farm to feed our mouths
Their produce taken from their fields
To be plated for our meals.
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Food is universal human right
Regardless of race, gender and creed.
Its guarantee is consistent
Except for those who live a life of inconsistencies.
Its a problem faced by many
A universal human right,
followed by a universal human question?
How to guarantee consistency?
Everyone is different
People live different lives
Yet everyone has one thing in common,
The need for food.
But that begs the question:
If everyone needs it, why doesn't everyone have it?
There is no answer, no remedy, no solution.
a wound that will never heal, regardless of how many fields you plow.
The universal human question.
Where there is no solution
Can there even be improvement?
It is after all a universal human right.
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 15 March 2024, 5:19pm
Receipt number 18
Related form version 7
Name Hsinya Shen
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
Yes
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
Other: I am currently on the Public Art Commission
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Attorney, Board Member and life long art supporter.
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
My educational background includes a BA in Art History from Wellesley College, and I have actively participated in property renovation and community building in Palo Alto, reflecting my commitment to improving our community through the arts.
Through my good fortune of serving on the Palo Alto Public Art Commission since 2017 (Chair from 2023 to 2024), I have gained significant experience and knowledge about the roles each of the city council, city staff, public art commission, and community members play in creating and supporting public art in Palo Alto. I hope to share this knowledge with the new generation of Public Art Commissioners, fostering future public art leadership.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
Since joining the Public Art Commission in 2017, I've engaged in numerous civic events in Palo Alto, leveraging my position to contribute to our city's cultural landscape. Beyond this, my decade-long tenure on a community bank's board and my legal expertise have enabled me to support community reinvestment, outreach programs, and provide pro bono legal services, including citizenship drives.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I'm driven by the belief that art fosters community, enhances communication, and cultivates the human spirit. Palo Alto's unique blend of suburban charm and international appeal, coupled with its diverse population, presents a rich canvas for public art to connect and enrich our community. My experiences as a resident and my appreciation for the artistic contributions from our community inspire my vision for the Public Art Commission to create inclusive spaces through diverse art projects.
Also I've been with the Palo Alto Public Art Commission since 2017, serving as Chair from 2023 to 2024. I hope to share my experiences with new members of the Public Art Commission and support the next generation of public art leaders in Palo Alto.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
The discussion around the mid-town poetry mural—its accidental acquisition, maintenance challenges, and emotional significance—taught me a lot about how much care goes into curating public art for a city.
Through the initiation of a new mural program in 2023 I learned how we can positively add and update public art pieces in public spaces.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I aim to champion projects that celebrate Palo Alto's history, such as using the redevelopment of Fry’s Electronics site as an opportunity to create meaningful public art that reflects its past as an orchard and cannery, and its legacy as a place supportive of diversity. Through public Application Questions
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art, we can educate, celebrate our diverse heritage, and foster dialogue within our community.
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
My engagement with the Public Art Master Plan has deepened my appreciation for its role in shaping Palo Alto's public art landscape. This plan's strategic vision ensures the continuation of a vibrant and engaging art scene across the city, enriching Palo Alto's cultural and social fabric.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Hsinya Shen
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/15/2024
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 13 March 2024, 3:21pm
Receipt number 13
Related form version 7
Name Ken Joye
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
Other: city staff
Personal Information
1 of 3
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation I work as a sculptor, began my practice in 2012. I have a single, long- term project: a series of wood carvings of human skulls, inspired by a 2002 exhibit at the California Academy of Sciences.
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I have served on a panel which selected an artist for the Boulware Park renovation currently underway.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
I currently am serving as the Neighborhood Preparedness Coordinator for the Ventura neighborhood (program beneath the Office of Emergency Services). I am a member of the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I am a working artist and have a sense for the creative process. I am an appreciator of public art and recognize that it is only placed in the community when the process is followed. I would like to contribute toward that end.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
I offered public input during the consideration of work at the Fry's site (Bayside Cannery). How would we acknowledge the accomplishments of a Chinese-American businessman in a neighborhood which had been the only non-redlined area of Palo Alto?
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
Frankly, I have no specific goal. My general goal would be to support the independence of selected artists to execute their vision without overly prescriptive input from the community.
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
I have opened the document in a separate browser tab but have not yet studied it. I will do so after completing this application.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Ken Joye
Application Questions
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Link to signature
Date Completed 03/13/2024
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 16 March 2024, 5:48pm
Receipt number 15
Related form version 7
Name Sonia Patwardhan
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
1 of 3
Item 2
Attachment D - Public Art
Commission Applications
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Art gallery owner and curator
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Undergrad in business followed by MBA in marketing
Worked in advertising, market research and brand management for 10 years for Heinz in Pittsburgh and on Unilever brands
Established Laasya Art in 2013 and running the art gallery since then. I represent a lot of artists from south Asia in the US and we work with clients from all over the US. One of the key benefits we provide which clients find very useful is art advisory services - we work with clients closely to recommend artworks for their spaces, given their aesthetic sensibility, space and price range. We mostly work in wall art and occasionally sculptures too. The idea is to make recommendations that speaks to them and is an extension of who they are as people, and works within their price range.
Our clients are from the Bay Area but all from other states within the US where we work remotely with clients via Zoom/FaceTime video calls.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
I have volunteered on an ongoing basis when my children were in PAUSD be it in the classroom going through math corrections on weekly basis for the entire academic year or teaching kids Bollywood dancing in class.
I have been part of the Art of Living community for almost 10 years now - it is a non profit that's present in over 150+ countries and teaches meditation and breath techniques to help cope with stress and promote overall wellbeing.
As a business, we consistently donate artworks to multiple non profits in the area to help raise money in their auctions - Maitri is one such organization and help victims of domestic violence.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I have been living in Palo Alto since 2012 and call this city my home now. I would like to contribute is some way if I can - I have a good eye for design and space and have been curating art for people's home for 11 years now and have over time become very good at it.
We have been in business 11 years now and represent about 30 artists, including wall art and sculptures across different mediums.
I have been working with artists as a collector (before becoming a curator) since 2008 now and can very quickly get a since of their credentials, quality of work, how to get the best out of them and how easy it will be to work with them.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
The painting of the garage door of the fire station is of interest - specifically what type of mural, what type of paint material, understanding how this door is used during work hours, if this is in a residential area and what the aesthetics are in the nearby location, what type of art may be pleasing - colors, theme, overall aesthetics, timelines, Application Questions
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the selection criteria of the artist who may be good options for this and so on. This is the type of thing I do often with clients but for their homes and it is always fascinating to convert a space from blank wall into one that has a voice through art.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
First and foremost, would be to have more high quality art at key locations in Palo Alto. Identify which of these locations are high priority locations and get some high quality (not necessarily expensive) art for these places. And then get it done in an efficient manner. I would like to be identify different artists, make a shortlist and help make it happen, very simply. We have a beautiful city. It would help a lot to add more art in public places here.
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
I do not have experience with this document.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Sonia Patwardhan
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/16/2024
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 8 February 2024, 2:21pm
Receipt number 6
Related form version 7
Name Tara de la Garza
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? No
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
1 of 3
Redacted
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 99 Packet Pg. 104 of 308
Item 2
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Commission Applications
Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Artist, Curator and Non Profit Founder
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I studied a BA in Fine Art at Curtin University in Western Australia am currently in a resident studio program at Cubberley in Palo Alto, CA My work is in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Watson Library, NYC. I have had two solo exhibitions at The Lodge Gallery in NYC. I also exhibit extensively throughout the US in museums and galleries such as Mass MOCA, Chicago Art Institute, Cornell University, San Diego Art Institute, Palo Alto Arts Center, Palace of Fine Arts SF, SF Design Week, numerous Spring/Break art fairs and at Context Miami.
I am self employed
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
I regularly host free workshops in my studio for my non profit (social practice) and as an artist at Cubberley
I am a member of ARTSRWC
I have created a pop up art space
I volunteer as a yoga instructor at San Mateo County Jail Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I have lots of experience with Public art, founding a non profit in NYC called No Longer Empty to bring art to empty storefronts. I have been commissioned to create public art. I have hosted two art fairs in my home town with audiences of 10,000 people
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
In the Nov 2023 meeting the developer Ahora asked for an architectural screen to be considered as their percent for the art component.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would like Palo Alto to be seen as an epicenter for public art in Silicon Valley and would work towards achieving that.
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
I have read the Public Art Master plan and like the recommendations especially to utilize and integrate the existing resources to make art integral to the city's planning efforts.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Application Questions
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Signature Name of signatory: Tara de la Garza
Link to signature
Date Completed 2/8/2024
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 25 January 2024, 8:41pm
Receipt number 4
Related form version 7
Name Vadim Axelrod
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
Yes
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
1 of 3
Redacted
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 102 Packet Pg. 107 of 308
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Commission Applications
Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Software Startup Founder
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Avid fan and occasional collector of art. Liberal arts undergraduate education (Pomona College) commissioning artwork from art students after graduation. Several art museum memberships and frequent visits to exhibits and lectures.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
First moved to Palo Alto in 1991. Served on Parks & Rec and on Economic Development commissions in San Carlos, CA and Rye Brook, NY. Stanford Peninsula Alumni Club board member, coach for several kids teams (softball, soccer, destination imagination).
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
As an avid art appreciator and owner of multiple properties in Palo Alto I hope to offer ideas and perspective on how to make our city even more beautiful, engaging and amazing.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
Fire station 4 art - the public participation and surveys conducted were a good way to raise awareness of upcoming projects (and constraints).
The two public art murals on Cal Ave have added to the ambiance to the farmer's market and the caltrain users.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
As a first-time member of the Public Arts Commission board, I would aim to learn the specific near-term goals of the city and available artists and the upcoming goals of the board. I would like to see a lot of involvement from local artists and make sure there is representation from a variety of mediums represented while blending in and enhancing the ambiance of where the artwork is installed.
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
I first encountered the master plan during this application process.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Vadim Axelrod
Application Questions
2 of 3
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Commission Applications
Link to signature
Date Completed 01/25/2024
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Public Art Commission Application
Submitted on 17 March 2024, 11:14pm
Receipt number 17
Related form version 7
Name Yuri Chang
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Public Art
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
1 of 3
Redacted
Item 2: Staff Report Pg. 105 Packet Pg. 110 of 308
Item 2
Attachment D - Public Art
Commission Applications
Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation I am an independent scholar who is currently working on my book which is based on my PhD dissertation. I am also an IHSS provider for my disabled child, who has complex medical needs and developmental disabilities. I completed an internship at the Ewha University Museum as part of my master's degree in art history in South Korea.
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
My areas of expertise include modern and contemporary art, urbanism, public art, and government-sponsored international art exhibitions. I completed my Ph.D. in Art History from Binghamton University, State University of New York, in 2022, under the guidance of Dr. Tom McDonough. My doctoral thesis, titled "Negotiating Urban Identities:
International Art Events and the Cultural Identities of Korean Cities, 1988-1995," explores how various stakeholders, including city officials, local and international artists, curators, and business elites, negotiated to represent complex issues related to the identities of cities and their urban landscapes through exhibitions and public art. I also contributed to translation projects for publishing various anthologies on topics such as public art, feminism, and post-modernism and had one of my dissertation chapters published in a book and a scholarly journal.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations.
I have worked with various organizations to advocate for better accessibility and inclusion for disabled people. I have also organized several events to celebrate disability culture. I am an accessibility advisory committee member of Palo Alto City & Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, an executive board member at Palo Alto Community Advisory Committee for Special Education, and Juana Briones Elementary PTA Inclusion & Accessibility Representative. I have been teaching diversity, equity, and inclusion lessons to students at Juana Briones Elementary School, as well as leading training sessions for other adult volunteers as a site leader for the YMCA Project Cornerstone ABC Social Emotional Learning Program. I volunteered for the gallery service at the Cantor Art Center. I provided visitors with exhibition and museum information and assisted with the museum’s community outreach programs.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Public Art
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I have expertise in modern and contemporary art history, public art, and urbanism, which can aid in developing meaningful, site-specific public art projects that inspire our community. Additionally, I have organized several community building events to celebrate disability culture, diversity, and inclusion, and have actively engaged with various local organizations related to the PAUSD and the Palo Alto city government. I have collaborated with the Palo Alto City Library and Junior Museum and Zoo. With my community connections and partnerships with local organizations and the disability community, I can provide diverse perspectives from our community.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
I am interested in the King Artist residency, municipal building public art projects, and the Code: ART festival. As an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, I think the King Artist residency is an excellent program that encourages artistic dialogue on this subject. The municipal Application Questions
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building public art projects enhance the community’s environment. I look forward to the Fire Station 5 mural, as my kid’s school is right next door.
I was impressed by the Code: ART 2023 festival, which was the most inclusive and accessible art event for disabled individuals, including my child. The festival showcased our city's innovation and creativity by connecting art and technology and provided a full sensory experience that welcomed all bodies, including those with disabilities. This was a rarity for the disability community, as most art exhibits are not easily accessible or touchable. I look forward to the next Code: ART festival and would be thrilled to contribute to its development process.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Public Art Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I aim to amplify the voices of underserved communities, particularly the disability community, in public art. My goal is to improve the accessibility of public art to all community members, especially those who are often overlooked. Additionally, I seek to help find authentic and high-quality public art projects that represent the diversity and innovation of our city.
4. Public Art Commission Members work with the document listed below. If you have experience with this document, please describe that experience. Experience with this document is not required for selection.
I enjoyed reading the document. This document provides specific ideas about the visions and goals of the public art projects, the city’s identity, partners, stakeholders, funding resources, and the process of the works.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Yuri Chang 2024 CV.pdf
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Yuri Chang
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/17/2024
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Yuri Chang (Binghamton University, Art History)
CV 1
Yuri Chang, PhD
Educ
ation
2009
–2022 PhD, History and Theory of Art and Architecture
Binghamton University, The State University of New York Dissertation: Negotiating Urban Identities: International Art Events and the Cultural Identities of Korean Cities, 1988-1995
2002–2006 MA, Art History (Honor Thesis Award Recipient) Ewha Women’s University, Seoul, South Korea
Thesis: From Machine-Man to Cyborg: Human Image and Technology in Modern and Contemporary Art
1998–2002 BA, Art History and Clothing & Textile Design (double majors) Ewha Women’s University, Seoul, South Korea
Fel
lowships and Awards
Fellows
hips
May 2018 Student Conference Travel Grant, International Conference of NextGen Korean Studies Scholars, Nam Center for Korean Studies at the University of Michigan
Mar 22–24, 2017 Fellow of Dissertation Workshop, Association for Asian Studies (Mentors: Drs. Justin McDaniel, David Szanton, Mary Alice Haddad, and Ritu Khanduri)
Jun–Aug 2014 CKS Graduate Research Fellowship,
Center for Korean Studies at Binghamton University
Jul 1–5, 2013 Fellow of Korean Studies Dissertation Workshop, The Social Science Research Council and the Korea Foundation (Mentors: Drs. Robert Oppenheim, Jun Yoo, Jennifer Chun, and Serk-Bae Suh)
Fall 2013 Academy of Korean Studies Scholarship, Center for Korean Studies at Binghamton University
2010–2013 Teaching Assistantship, Binghamton University 2003 Research & Teaching Assistantship, Ewha Women’s University Awards
Fall 2013 Graduate Student Employees Union Professional Development Awards
Fall 2012 Graduate Student Employees Union Professional Development Awards
Spring 2012 Conference Travel Grant, Center for Korean Studies at Binghamton University
2003 Honor Thesis Award, Ewha Women’s University
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Yuri Chang (Binghamton University, Art History)
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Conference Presentations
May 11-12, 2018 “The Art of Rent in Gwangju: from City of Massacre to City of Art,” The 2018 International Conference of NextGen Korean Studies Scholars, Nam Center for Korean Studies at the University of Michigan
Feb 3, 2016 “Negotiating Urban Identities: Spectacles and Conflicts in the 1995 Gwangju Biennale” in the Session Here and Abroad: The
Globalization of K-Art and Other Myths, College Art Association (CAA) Annual Conference
Oct 24, 2013 “The Production of Space and Memory Politics in South Korea: The Olympic Sculpture Park and the Gwangju Biennale,” Invited Speaker for South Korean Literature, Film, and State-sponsored Visual Art conference, Asian and Asian American Studies and Center for Korean Studies at UC Berkeley
Apr 20, 2013 “Making Monuments: The Creation of Political Spaces and post- Gwangju Memories of South Korea,” Myth, Memory, and History:
New Approaches to an Elusive Past, The 35th Annual Warren and Beatrice Susman Graduate Conference, Rutgers University Apr 14, 2012 “Making a National Icon: Minjung, Olympics, Museum, and Nam June Paik,” Crossing the Boundaries XX: Icons, Binghamton University, The State University of New York
Mar 10, 2012 “The Seoul Olympics and Nam June Paik: The Imagined Future as a Spectacle of Deception,” Deception, The 12th Annual East Asian Studies Graduate Conference, University of Toronto
Mar 5, 2011 “The Market as Producer: Chinese Cultural Identity as Spectacle After Deng Xiaoping’s Economic Reform," Spectacle: The 11th Annual East Asian Studies Graduate Conference, University of Toronto Publications
Articles
2017
“Monumentalizing Gwangju: the 1st Gwangju Biennale and the Anti- biennale [Kwangju rŭl Kinyŏmhagi],” in Nanjie Yun, ed., Korean Contemporary Art: Since 1990 [Han'guk tongsidae misul: 1990-yŏn ihu], (Seoul: Sahoe P'yŏngnon, 2017)
2016 “Negotiating Urban Identities: Spectacles and Conflicts in the 1995 Gwangju Biennale,” Journal of History of Modern Art [Han'guk Misulsa Yŏngu], No. 40, December 2016, (Seoul: Korea
Association for History of Modern Art [Han'guk Misulsa Hyŏphoe]) Item 2
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Yuri Chang (Binghamton University, Art History)
CV 3
Translations (English to Korean)
2015 Patricia Phillips’s "Temporality and Public Art," in Nanjie Yun, ed, Public Art [Konggong misul], (Seoul: Noonbit, 2015).
2009 Susan Squier’s "Reproducing the Posthuman Body: Ectogenetic Fetus, Surrogate Mother, Pregnant Man," in Nanjie Yun ed, Feminism and Art [Pʻeminijŭm kwa misul], (Seoul: Noonbit, 2009).
Teachi
ng Experience
Class Teachings
May 31–July 1, 2011 Mannequin, Robot and Cyborg: the Machine Aesthetics in
Visual Culture, Binghamton University, The State University of New York
Lectures
Apr 11, 2013 Humbugs for Highbrows: Marcel Duchamp’s Readymades, Binghamton University, The State University of New York Apr 20, 2012 Korean Modern Art: Negotiating Cultural Identity, Binghamton University, The State University of New York
Oct 26, 2011 Japanese Zen Art: The Enlightened Brush Stroke, Binghamton University, The State University of New York
Section Teachings
2013 Art History and Visual Culture
2012 Introduction to Art and Architecture in the Asian World 2011 Introduction to Art
2011 Constructs of Modernism
2010 Introduction to Architecture
2003 Introduction to Art
Organization Activities
2010–2013 Conference Organizing Committee of Crossing the Boundaries:
The Art History Graduate Conference at Binghamton
University
Fall 2012 Event Coordinator for the Undergraduate Art History Association, Binghamton University
Museum Experience
2008 Gallery Service, Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University 2002–2003 Intern for Special Exhibition Art in Comics, Comics in Art, Ewha Women’s University Art Museum
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Yuri Chang (Binghamton University, Art History)
CV 4
Volunteer Experience
2020–present YMCA Project Cornerstone ABC Social Emotional Learning Program Reader, Site Lead (2023–), Juana Briones
Elementary School
2019– present PTA Inclusion & Accessibility Representative, Juana Briones Elementary School
2017– present Executive Board Member, Palo Alto Community Advisory Committee for Special Education
2017– present Accessibility Advisory Committee Member, Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
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Planning & Transportation Commission
Application
Submitted on 15 March 2024, 9:08pm
Receipt number 46
Related form version 10
Name Ashish Bhattacharya
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Planning and City Website Personal Information
1 of 3
Item 2
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and Transportation
Commission Applications
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Transportation Commission?
Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Engineer
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I'm a Computer Engineering graduate and have taken management courses at Stanford and USC. I manage a large team at my cyber security company. I'm involved in planning, strategy and execution of large initiatives
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
I am an active member of Canopy which is spearheading the green revolution. I have assisted my daughter to run a farm to table non profit which helps farmers conney with local communities. I've been a model PA citizen for the past 17 years having put my children through education and participated in all relevant community activities.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Planning &
Transportation Commission and what experience would you bring to the position?
I want to improve the infrastructure in the city. The roads are in a very bad shape. There is a very big homelessness issue and we will need to build reasonable accommodations. Also I'm worried about the pedestrian accidents that happen regularly. I will find new means and ways to improve all of this through technology and outreach
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the Midpen Media Center.
Pedestrian safety
Biking lanes.
Overbridges on train intersections
Senior housing and safety
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Planning and Transportation Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
Better infrastructure
Use latest technology to improve driver and pedestrian safety Address homelessness and plan development of residential and commercial units
Improve roads and manage traffic congestion.
Children safety
4. Planning and Transportation Commission Members work
with the documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience.
Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
Palo Alto zoning code
El Camino real master plan
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If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Ashish Bhattacharya
Link to signature
Date Completed 3/15/2024
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Planning & Transportation Commission
Application
Submitted on 27 January 2024, 10:14am
Receipt number 41
Related form version 10
Name barton hechtman
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
Yes
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Planning and Other: I am a PTC Commissioner who's term is expiring.
Personal Information
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Transportation Commission?
Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Attorney
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I am a California-licensed attorney, specializing in land use, zoning and eminent domain law, since 1987. I am a member of the law firm Matteoni, O'Laughlin & Hechtman.
I have appeared before Planning Commissions, City Councils, and Boards of Supervisors well over one hundred times, primarily within Santa Clara County, but also in surrounding counties.
I was the assistant City Attorney for the City of Scotts Valley for three years ('91-'94) where my principal responsibilities were to advise the Planning Commission and Planning Staff.
I have been a PTC Commissioner since January of 2020.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Served on the Crescent Park Neighborhood Association Board of Directors for perhaps three years approximately twenty years ago.
Was a member of the Site Council for one or two years at Ohlone Elementary School more than fifteen years ago.
Was an AYSO referee for two or three years, an assistant basketball coach for NJB one year, and volunteered for various tasks with the Greenmeadow swim team and Palo Alto little league during the years our three kids were in those programs.
Served on the Board of Directors at Congregation Etz Chayim from 6/10 until 1/18, including two years as president of the Board. Active before, during and after my Board duty as a class parent, design committee member and in a variety of other roles.
Have been a PTC Commissioner since January of 2020
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Planning &
Transportation Commission and what experience would you bring to the position?
I have spent most of my career in work related to urban development.
The kind of planning issues faced by the PTC are at the core of my law practice.
In my land use work, I am often retained to assist with new residential and/or commercial projects, or use permits for new businesses. I frequently study the local jurisdiction's planning documents to help shape the project to fit the regulatory scheme, and sometimes seek to change the regulatory scheme to fit the project. Most of this work includes interaction with planning staff, and often, appearances before the local planning commission.
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Similarly, planning issues are at the heart of my eminent domain practice, because a condemnation case requires an analysis of the uses to which the land is adaptable under applicable regulations to determine its value.
I enjoy this work and for the past four years, I have used my knowledge to help Palo Alto make wise planning decisions. I would like to continue to do that for four more years.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the Midpen Media Center.
Since Castilleja last passed through the PTC on its way to completing its epic journey through our use permit amendment approval process, certainly the most important issue the PTC has wrestled with is the updated Housing Element.
I have no illusion that 6087 new residential units or anything remotely approaching that will get built by 2031, and I share the belief that the methodology by which the HCD arrived at that number is flawed. But the planning that is now legally required to make that volume of development a possibility is a Herculean task that has and will continue to occupy the PTC, the City Council and our planning staff.
I'm interested in this issue because this city is my city, these housing pressures are going to dramatically change my city, and the leaders of this city are going to have to decide whether we want that change thrust upon us, or will we shape that change by planning in a way that incentivizes and makes feasible the kind of change we want.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Planning and Transportation Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
If appointed, I would like to see the PTC achieve decision-making authority. Palo Alto is the only jurisdiction I am aware of (both in this County and in all the other Bay Area cities and counties I have worked in) where the planning commission is a purely advisory body. Providing the PTC with decision-making authority for appropriate types of decisions, subject to appeal to the City Council, will empower the Commission and provide a more rewarding experience for its commissioners. Additionally, I believe that the City Council will find that it results in a reduction in the City Council's workload (because most appealable decisions are not appealed) and more robust public participation at PTC hearings (since the decision might be final), without any reduction in the City Council's power (because PTC decisions can be appealed). I would help in that process by creating a matrix of the "review authority" in all other jurisdictions in this County to illuminate the options available.
4. Planning and Transportation Commission Members work
with the documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience.
Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
During my time as a PTC Commissioner, I think that the two areas to which the PTC has devoted the most time are zoning code amendments and the new Housing Element, which is part of the 2030 Comp Plan, we apply CEQA to every discretionary project, and I believe I have interacted with the other listed documents to a lesser extent.
Additionally, I have analogous experience with similar documents in numerous other Bay Area jurisdictions. I have worked extensively with general plans, specific plans, zoning codes, design guidelines, and overlays, and understand the hierarchy of these planning documents, how they work together, how to harmonize inconsistencies between them, and what happens when you can't.
A substantial part of my law practice involves representing applicants for discretionary governmental approvals; those require CEQA review. I have worked on projects involving every category of CEQA document and have defended governmental CEQA decisions in court on four occasions.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
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Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Barton Hechtman
Link to signature
Date Completed 01/27/2024
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Stormwater Management Oversight Committee
Application
Submitted on 17 March 2024, 10:18pm
Receipt number 5
Related form version 7
Name Ambika Pajjuri
Cell Phone Number 4085642130
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Storm Water Community Group Personal Information
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Management Oversight Commission?
Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation I am a Product Management leader that recently left my job at Amazon and am currently on a sabbatical. In ~9 years of experience at Amazon, I built products and teams at multiple organizations at Amazon (Amazon Retail, AWS and Amazon Devices) and we brought delightful products to market ranging from Amazon Echo (Alexa) to Augmented Reality experiences like virtual try-on of Lipstick using ML.
As a leader of the Product Management organizations I led teams with first defining the vision and then bringing the big picture concepts to life.
This needed robust prioritization (using data driven inputs from customers and clarity on business differentiation), collaboration with stakeholders across the organization and building the optimal strategy and right go to market. As a Palo Alto resident of over 15 years, I am looking to give back to the community through volunteering my time and apply my expertise gained through the corporate world.
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
My professional education includes an MSEE degree from Columbia University and have taken various technical, product management and branding courses.
My most recent corporate work experience is at Amazon, where I was a GM that led product teams (product management, design and program management) at various orgs within Amazon over the last 9 years.
Relevant Professional Experience:
- I have completed the Board Readiness program administered by Neythri (https://neythri.org/) and am prepared to join non-profit and corporate boards as a director and advisory board member. I am also an advisory board member at a stealth startup.
- Prior to Amazon, I was an Entrepreneur and Product Management professional at various startups (Inquus/OpenStudy, KidSenz, Itron/Silverspring networks, 2Wire, Airvana)
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
I have been an active participant in volunteer organizations at school. I believe we need to get more women into STEM and leadership roles and some of my volunteer activities are reflective of this passion. A few activities I have been involved include:
- A registered Girl Scouts volunteer since 2012 to present - Currently volunteer for Space Cookies, a girls-only high school FRC (FIRST Robotics) robotics team.
- 2012-2024, Advisory Board member at WomenStartup, a Bay area organization focused on the empowerment of women entrepreneurs in technology, helping them grow and succeed in the technology sector. - 2011 - 2015 - Volunteer at YMCA Project Cornerstone
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Stormwater
Management Oversight Committee and what experience would I am passionate about using my expertise and experience to volunteer for community and environmental causes. Cleaning up waste and Application Questions
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you bring to the position? building sustainable solutions are critical for our planet's future. Palo Alto's Stormwater Management Committee particularly interests me.
I like California's strong focus on storm water quality and have followed some of the approaches and innovations. My skills will be useful in working with the committee to review and help shape strategies and proposals for projects funded by Stormwater Management Fees. To me, this is an opportunity to leverage my experience to help develop programs that manage pollution and also utilize storm water as a resource for more sustainable solutions.
I believe my skills in developing and implementing plans, along with my passion for environmental well-being, would make me a valuable asset to the committee. I'm eager to contribute to this role.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Storm Drain Oversight Committee that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
I am interested in what's being done to help alleviate flooding events like was expected with the new year's eve storm event. As one of the few cities that got the funding measure approved, I understand that we have started proactively fixing infrastructure issues by installing new storm systems and upgrading others. With climate change increased rainfall seems to have become a norm resulting in flooding issues in Palo Alto continuing each year. I am interested in seeing parallel processing of projects and also regularly including Green Stormwater Infra improvements happen. It will also be good to report on goals/forecasts vs accomplishments each year to show what is working and areas for improvement.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Storm Drain Oversight Committee achieve, and how would you help in the process?
With delayed projects and increased inflation, project costs keep rising. I would like to see if the committee can help reduce delays. For example, can the committee influence or recruit help to move Google dependencies if those are a source for delays? Another example is to identify combining projects if they garner more competitive bids. I also liked the examples presented by the staff of opportunistically putting in flap gates when possible to reduce flooding scenarios - given the long term benefits, I would ask the committee to recommend doing this as a goal for most ongoing infra projects to get more of these to happen in a planned way. Another improvement I can help with is to reporting on goals/forecasts vs accomplishments each year to analyze what is working and areas for improvement.
4. Storm Drain Oversight Committee Members work with the documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I do not have direct experience with these plans or budgets but have led and participated in rigorous planning and budgeting in my corporate job each year.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Ambika Pajjuri
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Link to signature
Date Completed 3/17/2024
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Stormwater Management Oversight Committee
Application
Submitted on 26 February 2024, 10:50am
Receipt number 3
Related form version 7
Name Gregory Bennett
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Storm Water Other: Instagram Personal Information
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Management Oversight Commission?
Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation I am currently an investor and non-profit executive, and I invest in and drive non-profit funding for climate change related technology.
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I hold a Bachelor's degree in International Political Economy, an interdisciplinary major from the University of Illinois at Champaign- Urbana. I have worked in finance for over ten years now, in various roles and in various countries. My LinkedIn (which is public) describes my work experience more effectively.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
I recently moved to Palo Alto, so I have not held any offices/volunteer positions here before. I have volunteered at numerous community focused activities since I was a teenager, a few of which include:
teaching SAT Prep to low income students, park clean up days, local summer festivals, citizen safety commissions/neighborhood watch.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Stormwater
Management Oversight Committee and what experience would you bring to the position?
Last winter, our property flooded due to an atmospheric river. The City of Palo Alto was excellent about letting residents know ahead of time and getting them prepared with sandbags, etc. I would like to lend my service to the city since they helped us ahead of time, and I'd like to add my experience in understanding the effects of climate change on our local watershed.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Storm Drain Oversight Committee that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
The management of the stormwater management fund and the implementation of the 2017 ballot measure improvements are very interesting to me - precisely because it is the business of the town being done!
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Storm Drain Oversight Committee achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would like to lend my skills to the administration of the stormwater management fund, and I would like to offer my experience to ensure that the most up to date climate science is being integrated into future stormwater management plans.
4. Storm Drain Oversight Committee Members work with the documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I have read and understand all of these documents.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
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Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Gregory Bennett
Link to signature
Date Completed 2/26/2024
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Stormwater Management Oversight Committee
Application
Submitted on 22 February 2024, 4:24pm
Receipt number 1
Related form version 7
Name Kevin Mayer
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Storm Water Other: Multiple sources Personal Information
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Management Oversight Commission?
Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Retired Environmental Engineer, US Environmental Protection Agency (Senior Superfund Project Manager); Project Management including planning, community involvement, regulatory and contract oversight.
Specialization in Groundwater and Stream Remediation, Hydrogeology, Water Chemistry and Treatment of Hazardous Chemicals
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
California Professional Engineer (Civil Engineering) License 54367 - Current, issued 1995
B.A. (1975) Rice University, Houston, TX, double major in Biology and Behavioral Sciences
M.S. (1980) University of Washington, College of Forest Resources, Seattle WA, (chemistry and microbiology of soil and water) M.S. (1989) Stanford University, Civil/ Environmental Engineering (groundwater contaminant transport and remediation) Admitted to PhD candidacy.
US Environmental Protection Agency, Pacific Southwest Region 1990- 2017, Superfund Senior Project Manager, primarily remediation (cleanup) of contaminated groundwater, also major stream water and soil cleanup projects. Expertise in federal and state regulations, large contracts, scientific and engineering planning and oversight, legal enforcement, formal and informal interagency work with federal, state (CA and NV), tribal and local entities, and major responsibilities for involving and communicating with local communities and media.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
(1990 -2017) Coordinated and participated in direct communication and face-to-face meetings with local communities in US EPA Superfund projects, forging strong ties and communication links with community members and organizations with extraordinarily positive results for both the community and the EPA projects. Leveraged resources and expertise to benefit community needs and priorities, which would not be possible without understanding the specific local community situation. (2018 - Present) ESV (Block Coordinator) in the Adobe Meadow neighborhood.
As a Palo Alto resident since January 1984 with two daughters in PAUSD (1996-2009), I volunteered with many youth and adult athletic organizations in soccer, running and bicycling.
(1980-1984) Project Coordinator with Seattle Metropolitan wastewater division (now King County) with responsibility for community communication for projects to reuse treatment solids as soil amendments.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Stormwater
Management Oversight Committee and what experience would you bring to the position?
I have no agenda to bring to the position. I offer objectivity, professionalism, and experience in many of the areas addressed in the reports and documents listed in part 4 below.
Since my retirement I have been interested in serving the community as a volunteer. Until recently, I was not able to make the structured time commitment. My career has been in public service, and this continues to be a personal priority.
Application Questions
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I am always delighted to learn in a wide spectrum of fields, and I know the importance of remaining open to unfamiliar perspectives as well as technical insights.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Storm Drain Oversight Committee that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
I prefer not to opine on specific issues until I am educated on the Committee's deliberations and actions.
During implementation in the "real world" there can be many specific issues and decisions which are appropriate topics for consideration and oversight. Observations from the actual residents can be invaluable.
Some examples from my own experience in Palo Alto: 1) Rain barrel use by a homeowner requires a certain dedication to maintain and operate year-after-year. 2)Common knowledge supports the assumption that dry wells (very local groundwater recharge) are inappropriate in our high water table and low permeability (clay/ 'Bay Mud') soils. Yet I was surprised at how effective it is at my own residence. 3) It is common sense to avoid contaminated groundwater plumes. On the other hand, some well-considered clean water input near plumes ("recharge", injection, groundwater "mounding") have benefited plume control at some major Superfund projects.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Storm Drain Oversight Committee achieve, and how would you help in the process?
Oversight is a serious responsibility. As mentioned above, there can be decisions to make within a large project which profit from community insight and involvement. I have found remarkable value in perspectives from people with tangential technical expertise and local experience. I fit this description and am open to seeking and accepting perspectives from other residents and professionals.
4. Storm Drain Oversight Committee Members work with the documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I have read and considered these reports and documents which provide a thorough background on the analyses and priorities already developed and in place. The City Council's policy of moving forward on decisions rather than revisiting deliberations is laudable. I respect the expertise of professional staff and outside consultants and do not want to second guess their foundational work.
These documents do leave open questions, particularly regarding implementation of general and aspirational goals. Staff, not the oversight committee, should be the lead in exploring options in filling these gaps.
Direction and advice from the community-based Committee must be strongly considered if projects are to have serious prospects of short- or long-term success.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Kevin P Mayer
Link to signature
Date Completed 02/22/2024
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Stormwater Management Oversight Committee
Application
Submitted on 22 February 2024, 5:05pm
Receipt number 2
Related form version 7
Name Ronald Owes
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Storm Water Other: currently a member of this commision Personal Information
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Management Oversight Commission?
Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation retired Professional Civil Engineer
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
University of Washington BSCE, 1968, MSCE, 1971, Licensed Civil Engineer (PE), Instructor in Environmental Engineering at University of Washington, 1973, Practiced in Civil/Environmental Engineering for over 40 years as a Partner in Harper/Owes, as a Senior Vice President of HDR, etc, and as an expert witness in over 20 legal cases dealing with environmental issues.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
I am a current commission member Palo Alto's Storm Water Management Oversight Commission, and a City of Palo Alto Emergency Services Volunteer
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Stormwater
Management Oversight Committee and what experience would you bring to the position?
I am presently serving on this Committee and believe this experience allows me to utilize my background and experience to help the City of Palo Alto.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Storm Drain Oversight Committee that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it.
The annual audit and the role of this commiittee are important to understand.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Storm Drain Oversight Committee achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would like to help the committee understand if storm water expenditures are appropriate.
4. Storm Drain Oversight Committee Members work with the documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I am concerned with loss of permeability and green infrastructure required in these plans and measures as changes in the city's development occur.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Application Questions
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Signature Name of signatory: Ronald Owes
Uploaded signature image: rons sig.jpg
Date Completed 2/22/2024
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Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 5 March 2024, 1:16am
Receipt number 40
Related form version 8
Name Abraham Bagherjeiran
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
Yes
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory Commission?
City Website
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Applied Researcher, Artificial Intelligence
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I am a Sr Director of Applied Research at eBay where I lead e- commerce search ranking. I have a PhD in Computer Science and specialize in machine learning. I am a member of the Association of Computing Machines, and industry professional group. I was an adjunct faculty member of Northeastern University, Silicon Valley, in the computer science department. For my undergraduate degree I minored in Electrical Power Technology. I own an electric vehicle and am a residential customer of the Palo Alto utilities.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
I am President of the Palo Verde Elementary PTA.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I am a regular customer of the Palo Alto utilities. I bring a strong analytical background to decisions. As a customer, I am interested in lowering costs while improving the quality of service.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the Midpen Media Center.
I am interested in the standing goal of preparing the gas supply for winter. I was hit with a $4000 gas bill in January 2023 and would very much like to do what I can to make sure something like that does not happen again.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would like the commission to change usage calculations to be more accurate, especially in light of fluctuating supply prices.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I have signed up for the fiber to home project a few years ago and am familiar with that plan.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and Yes
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Commissions Handbook.
Signature Name of signatory: Abraham Bagherjeiran
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/05/2024
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Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 17 March 2024, 11:19pm
Receipt number 44
Related form version 8
Name Ambika Pajjuri
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory Commission?
Community Group
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Product Management leader: A Product Management leader, I recently left my job at Amazon and am currently on a sabbatical. In ~9 years of experience at Amazon, I built products and teams at multiple organizations at Amazon (Amazon Retail, AWS and Amazon Devices) and we brought delightful products to market ranging from Amazon Echo (Alexa) to Augmented Reality experiences like virtual try-on of Lipstick using ML. Previously I worked at Itron on smart meter networks and demand forecasting. As a leader of the Product organizations I led teams with first defining the vision and then bringing the big picture concepts to life with robust prioritization (using data driven inputs from customers and clarity on business differentiation), collaboration with stakeholders across the organization and building the optimal strategy and right go to market. As a Palo Alto resident of over 15 years, I am looking to give back to the community through volunteering my time and apply my expertise gained through the corporate world.
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
My professional education includes an MSEE degree from Columbia University and have taken various technical, product management and branding courses.
My most recent corporate work experience is at Amazon, where I was a GM that led product teams (product management, design and program management) at various orgs within Amazon over the last 9 years.
Relevant Professional Experience:
- I have completed the Board Readiness program administered by Neythri (https://neythri.org/) and am prepared to join non-profit and corporate boards as a director and advisory board member. I am also an advisory board member at a stealth startup.
- Prior to Amazon, I was an Entrepreneur and Product Management professional at various startups (Inquus/OpenStudy, KidSenz, Itron/Silver Spring Networks, 2Wire, Airvana). My work at Itron on smart meter networks and demand forecasting gave me insights into Utilities and related regulation.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
I have been an active participant in volunteer organizations at school. I believe we need to get more women into STEM and leadership roles and some of my volunteer activities are reflective of this passion. A few activities I have been involved include:
- A registered Girl Scouts volunteer since 2012 to present - Currently volunteer for Space Cookies, a girls-only high school FRC (FIRST Robotics) robotics team.
- 2012-2024, Advisory Board member at WomenStartup, a Bay area organization focused on the empowerment of women entrepreneurs in technology, helping them grow and succeed in the technology sector. - 2011 - 2015 - Volunteer at YMCA Project Cornerstone
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory Commission and what experience would you bring to the
I am passionate about leveraging my experience to contribute to a sustainable future. Palo Alto's Utilities Advisory Commission particularly Application Questions
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position? interests me. My skills can be valuable in advising the City Council on long-range planning for our utilities, including water conservation and environmental impact. This aligns with my desire for innovative solutions.
My proven ability in developing and implementing plans, coupled with my interest in sustainability and prior experience at Itron that pioneered smart meters for utilities, makes me a strong candidate. I'm eager to contribute!
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the Midpen Media Center.
I am interested in the issue that was discussed when presenting the recommendation to amended Palo Alto CLEAN Program Rules and Requirements, Handbook, and Power Purchase Agreement. It was clear that there is a need to make it easy to sell power generated from Solar programs and to entice more participants for the Clean Programs. I am interested in improving the program and potentially revamping it to attract more participants
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
My goals would include making it easier to participate in the Palo Alto CLEAN program for apartments and buildings with options for Solar roofs. These establishments could decide to add a solar roof if the program is enticing. Another goal would be to evaluate improving the Fiber-to-the-Premise projects by intentionally combining them with other projects like Storm Water System upgrades and new infrastructure projects.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I do not have direct experience with these plans but have led and participated in rigorous planning and roadmapping of products and services in my corporate job each year.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Ambika Pajjuri
Link to signature
Date Completed 3/17/2024
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Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 17 March 2024, 11:09pm
Receipt number 41
Related form version 8
Name Chris Tucher
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
No
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory Commission?
Palo Alto Weekly
City Website
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Consultant & board member
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Education: Harvard Business School, MBA
Consultant to healthcare and electric battery start-ups Boards:
-Kirkwood Mountain Public Utility District
-Embarcadero Media Foundation (i.e., Palo Alto Weekly news group) Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
In 2024, I was elected to the board of the Kirkwood Mountain Public Utilities District (five candidates, one empty seat, on the public ballot Nov'23 in Alpine County, CA). The KMPUD is responsible for delivering power, water and waste-water services to all residential and commercial customers in Kirkwood, as well as snow removal services. This ties in with my commitment to community service and my interest in utilities, especially electricity.
In 2024, I was appointed to the new non-profit board of Embarcadero Media (aka Palo Alto Weekly). This ties in with my keen interest in local journalism (I began my career as a reporter and a newspaper publisher) and my commitment to the Palo Alto community.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
After a career in tech and health-tech, I've recently begun working in the field of energy and public utilities, with a special interest in electric grid modernization. Since first applying for UAC in 2023, I subsequently ran for and won a seat on the board of the public utility district in Kirkwood, CA (near Tahoe), which provides electric, gas, water and waste-water serves to all residential and commercial customers of this Lake Tahoe community (Vail Corp. is the largest customer), in addition to snow removal services.
My top interest on the commission would be issues around energy usage, power sourcing and the electrical grid. That said, my interest extends to all aspects of Palo Alto utilities, including gas pricing, fiber- broadband plan and water management.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the Midpen Media Center.
Grid modernization: There seems to be lack of clarity around several key issues, just a few of which are:
-Timeframe appears to be 5yrs to completion (residential areas), but only after a 2yr planning phase, so that completion isn’t until 2030. Is that unreasonably long?
-Household load 15+ years in future: Do we have solid assumptions and scenarios for load trends? Might load actually fall as "self consumption" and microgrid storage rises?
-How do important future technologies like grid-level battery storage or vehicle-to-grid fit into CPAU's modernization plan?
-What it will take for CPAU to persuasively educate residents on implementing solar and "self consumption" methods (e.g., battery, grid forming inverter) in their homes?
Grid modernization and CPAU’s planning process -- incl. transmitter Application Questions
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upgrades, staffing challenges, load monitoring -- are important to me because (1) the cost will be vast ($80M+?) and (2) our grid will be vital to enabling the city's sustainability goals.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I realize the commission has a broad set of goals. I'll just call out two:
1) Ensure CPA has a good plan for grid modernization, based on well- reasoned assumptions, flexible scenarios, and clear short-term milestones. We need a “grid for tomorrow” that can support more robust transmission and better load management to allow for, among other things, hourly renewable energy matching (not year-end true-ups); smart use of battery storage (incl. Solar+Storage PPAs); vehicle-to-grid two- way charging and the complex billing issues that accompany it. 2) Enable CPA to hit its 2030 energy and sustainability goals ... because today, in my view, the community seems not to have much confidence, or clear understanding of how, we will do that.
I think I can help toward these goals because I have executive leadership experience, because I have at least a modest understanding of the technical and budgetary aspects, and because I can communicate well.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
I have read and reviewed these documents but have no other experience with them.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Chris Tucher
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/16/2024
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Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 2 March 2023, 9:02am
Receipt number 33
Related form version 6
Name Richard Craig
Address
City
Postal Code
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory Commission?
Palo Alto Weekly
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Technical Education: BS Berkeley Physics, PhD UCLA Electrical Engineering
Technical Work Experience: 5 years Laser Research, 5 years Laser product engineering
Management Experience: 25 year managing (CEO & President) multiple public and private companies in areas related to light. For two of these companies the primary value was improved energy efficiency of lighting.
Vast experience dealing with Government agencies is many different roles. Comfortable with all aspects of budgets and finance. Skilled at listening to complex problems.
Company/Employer Name Retired
Occupation Technical Manager
Is your Company/Employer your current one or last? Last Employer Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
No current involvement in civic organization.
Personal and Job Experience
1. What is it about the Utilities Advisory Commission that is compatible with your experience and of specific interest to you, and why?
We face difficult and interesting problems. I view this opportunity as a way to contribute to solutions.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the Midpen Media Center.
I currently have two areas of interest. The need to phase out natural gas and the move to the all electric household seems both quite important and very tricky to fairly execute. I want to know more. Palo Alto has been talking about fiber optic access for as long as I have lived here (33 years). I would love to see progress on this topic.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
My goals are very generic, improve the vision and working of my city. I cannot take a position on specific projects without more learning.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
None
Application Questions
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If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Richard Craig
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/02/2023
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Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 22 February 2024, 12:14pm
Receipt number 39
Related form version 8
Name Sean Holman
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory Commission?
Community Group
City Website
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Technology (Software)
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I have a BS in Computer Science from the Univ. of Maryland. While my background is in software engineering, I have worked for 10+ years with public utilities and cities on energy sustainability (primarily during my time at Opower). I am now working with a company called Kaluza focused on helping energy retailers to change their business model and serve their customers to support a carbon neutral future.
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Duveneck PTA
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
One of the things I I love about Palo Alto is our community based approach. I care deeply about our shared energy future, data security and my community here in Palo Alto. We have the means to do great things here and I'd like to help serve that purpose. Our energy systems are rapidly evolving and as an engineer I am fascinated to learn and consider how to make the best choice for the people in our community and our planet.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the Midpen Media Center.
Recent issues of particular interest to me are our cyber security and data protection strategies (as an engineer with background working on these topics) and the Electric Grid Modernization plan. I think the plan is the key to having a strategy for electrification but also for creating an equitable future grid.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I am particularly interested in evolving a long term strategy that adapts to the changes needed for further electrification and that supports programs that considers the needs of all members of the community including renters (like myself) and lower income households.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
From my work with Opower I am familiar with utility strategic plans and integrated resource plans. We were particularly focused on building energy efficiency programs and metrics into those plans.
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If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Sean.Holman.Resume.pdf
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Sean Holman
Link to signature
Date Completed 02/22/2024
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VERIZON – San Jose, CA – 2016-2018
Currently at 121M+ subscribers as the largest wireless carrier in the U.S. 5G Solutions Strategy & Engineering Manager
Retained by Verizon following its purchase of Sensity to accelerate product development on multi-access edge computing.
Founded an engineering team and provided leadership for the Sustainable City Solutions Group. Formulated and deployed solutions using ML, Kubernetes, computer vision, real-time sensors, and vehicle-to-infrastructure technologies. ◆ Awarded patent for an interface to aggregate real-time curb usage and availability data. Applied for patent based on work with MapQuest, securing a patent to benefit Verizon on immediate and future goals. ◆ Launched some of the first 5G solutions in major cities in partnership with Intel, Samsung, and others, including New York, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Seattle.
SENSITY SYSTEMS – Sunnyvale, CA – 2014-2016
Specializing in a smart lighting IoT network and API developer platform NetSense that enables conversions to energy-saving LEDs.
Director, Solutions Architecture
Hired to lead the Solutions Architecture function and team. Managed multiple global partner integration and deployment activities with Cisco, Verizon, and GE. Assisted cities in leveraging LED lighting solutions to save energy and create an open IoT sensor platform in 35+ cities, including Dubai, Copenhagen, Tel Aviv, Guangzhou, Seattle, and Kansas City. ◆ Contributed to the $350M acquisition of Sensity Systems by Verizon through role as Technical Expert in the Verizon partnership. Delivered demonstrations that highlighted the viability of Sensity’s product offering. ◆ Accelerated the launch of 30+ new U.S. and international deployments with Cisco Systems, working closely with cities to ensure successful rollouts and mitigate/resolve issues. ◆ Spearheaded a 50+% reduction in pilot scoping and delivery times while leading the expansion to international deployments.
OPOWER – 2008-2013
Software platform that helps the world’s largest utilities transform their customer experience and facilitate energy savings.
Director, Solutions Architecture (2011-2013)
Customer Success Manager (2009-2011)
Data Engineer (2008-2009)
Hired as the company’s 12 th employee and progressed rapidly through increasingly responsible positions. As Director of Solutions Architecture, built and managed a global Solutions Architecture team within the Sales organization as the business grew from $1M to $150M ARR. Served as the primary customer point of contact and managed the program design/measurement functions. As Data Engineer, accelerated and scaled ETL process, data QA and deployment timelines. ◆ Spearheaded launch of Opower platform at 16 utility partners (initially worth $30M+), including Exelon, EDF, and National Grid. Redefined the company’s demos and product storytelling to customers. ◆ Created a scalable ETL process and data pipelines to ingest utility data and automate data quality analysis. ◆ Reduced implementation times by 35% through rollout of a project management system.
ADDITIONAL POSITIONS:
Software Engineer, ATG (2007-2008) – Developed click-to-call technology that powered online sales conversions at leading companies, including Amazon, Best Buy, American Airlines, Dell, TD Bank, and 500+ additional companies.
Team Leader, U.S Department of State (2003-2007) – Led software deployments onsite at 20+ embassies and consulates.
Software Engineer, Sun Microsystems/ Scient / Aspex (1999-2003) – Focused on Java and web application development and managed production Oracle databases. Customers included MLB, Chase, Verizon, DoD and others.
EDUCATION & SKILLS
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND – College Park, MD Professional Training – Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate , Deep Learning Specialization (Andrew Ng), Coursera Technology Skills – Systems Architecture, API Design, ETL/ELT, Enterprise Software, Authentication, applied ML, TensorFlow, IoT, Kubernetes, PostgreSQL, Redis, PostGIS, BigQuery, JavaScript/Typescript, Python, Go, Java, Google Cloud Platform, AWS Lambda, Jira, Git, ArgoCD
Patents/Honors – Patent: Obtainment and display of real-time information for a set of block-faces. Issued Mar 16, 2021; Banneker Key Scholarship (full merit-based academic scholarship) Item 2
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Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 18 March 2024, 1:40am
Receipt number 45
Related form version 8
Name Utsav Gupta
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident? Yes
Address
City
Postal Code
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices
No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below: I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website Occupation Startup Co-CEO
Please list your relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
EDUCATION
Georgetown University Law Center, JD, 2015
UC San Diego, BS in Bioengineering: Biotechnology and BA in Political Science, 2011
SELECTED WORK EXPERIENCE
Co-CEO, Filarion, Inc. - working in spatial computing and artificial intelligence, 2021-present
Previously a patent litigator at Tensegrity Law Group and Dechert LLP from 2015-2021. One litigation involved understanding internet service provider technology.
Student Counsel, Appellate Litigation Clinic, Georgetown University Law Center, 2014-2015
Clerk, United States Senate Judiciary Committee, 2013
PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATIONS
California Bar
Patent Bar
Admitted in the following U.S. courts: Federal Circuit, Ninth Circuit, Northern District of California, Central District of California Please see LinkedIn for further information:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/utsavgupta/
Please describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any offices held.
Board of Visitors, Georgetown University Law Center, 2023-current South Bay Chair, Northern California Alumni Board, Georgetown University, 2019-current
SELECTED PREVIOUS COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:
Member, SF Bay Area IP Inn of Court, 2017-18
Board of Governors, Georgetown University Alumni Association, 2014-15 President, South Asian Law Students Association at Georgetown Law, 2014-15
Georgetown International Environmental Law Review (now Georgetown Environmental Law Review), 2014-15
Director of Alumni Initiatives and Delegate, Student Bar Association at Georgetown Law, 2014-15
Board, Student Intellectual Property Law Association, 2014-15 President, Associated Students of UC San Diego, 2009-2010 Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I’d like to help as I can with the city's FTTP plans. The UAC has done a great job leading this effort. I am excited for Phase 1 and the planned Dec 2024 start. Once available, how can we best encourage residents to use the service and meet our projected take-rate, so that we can expand the service to remaining residents? I have litigated networking and internet service patent disputes and have some understanding of the technology.
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My interest also extends to water quality. Palo Alto has excellent water.
How can we explore options to continue to improve the health of our water, particularly to address any trace contaminants that may pose health risks, such as forever chemicals and microplastics? On microplastics, there have been proposals to help reduce their infiltration into the water supply, including by Samsung at CES 2023 with filters compatible with their washing machines (clothes are a large source of microplastics). What options are there and what can we do as a city?
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the Midpen Media Center.
The SCADA and AMI cybersecurity presentation that came before the Commission on February 7, 2024, was of particular interest, where I was happy to see there is a focus on being prepared for *when* a cyberattack happens. Along with my technology interests, I have had an appreciation for cybersecurity and how to secure endpoints like user devices (that is, how to prevent attacks on the human layer). Having witnessed these sophisticated phishing attacks successfully unfold against sharp and technologically colleagues, these issues will only become harder to prevent and more prevalent with the distribution and democratization of generative artificial intelligence.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you help in the process?
I would like to see FTTP eventually offered to every resident in Palo Alto.
High-bandwidth applications are the future. It has always astonished me that large, commercial ISPS provided legacy service despite Palo Alto as a center of innovation in the Silicon Valley. I even investigated running my own fiber installation to this condo building downtown, or using a line- of-sight 1G or 10G microwave dish connection from 3000 El Camino (Palo Alto Square) (unfortunately, no line-of-sight). To help achieve reaching everyone, I believe I can help be an advocate for FTTP and why our residents should use community fiber. including performance aspects like cost, shared vs unshared connections, latency, bandwidth, jitter, reliability, and most importantly upload speeds.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is not required for selection.
Having an interest in community fiber, I have reviewed the FTTP Master Plan a few times from curiosity. I have also reviewed the City of Palo Alto Special Meeting on September 19, 2022, at that time concerning FTTP and the corresponding UAC Sub-Committee Recommendations presentation and corresponding report "Joint Study Session With City Council and Utilities Advisory Commission (UAC) Regarding Fiber-to- the-Premises Efforts."
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Utsav Gupta
Link to signature
Date Completed 03/18/2024
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City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: STUDY SESSION
Lead Department: Transportation
Meeting Date: April 1, 2024
Report #:2401-2535
TITLE
Study Session: Palo Alto Link One-Year Service Evaluation and Report; CEQA status – not a project.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council receive a report and provide feedback on Palo Alto Link one-year performance results and funding strategy options aligned with desired long-term program goals.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Palo Alto Link, a pilot program funded by an Innovative Transit Grant from the Santa Clara County Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), has reached an impressive milestone, marking its first year of operation with notable achievements. Operated in partnership with Via, also known as Nomad Transit Services, this on-demand, shared-ride service has been a cornerstone in addressing the city's first-/last-mile connectivity challenges, providing an environmentally - friendly alternative to private vehicle use.
In its inaugural year, the Palo Alto Link completed over 50,000 rides, serving an average of 900 unique riders monthly, with an average wait time of just 13.8 minutes. This service, particularly beneficial to vulnerable and transit-dependent populations, has seen a 54% growth in ride completions, demonstrating its critical role in the community's mobility ecosystem.
Feedback gathered through an extensive rider survey highlights the service's impact on enhancing equity, affordability, and sustainability within Palo Alto. Remarkably, 46% of respondents reported having no access to a personal vehicle, underscoring the service's role in bridging mobility gaps. Moreover, the Link's operational efficiency and sustainability have been augmented by its partnership with Stanford Research Park (SRP), which has not only contributed significantly to the program's funding but also increased its utilization among the park's employees.
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As the pilot program progresses into its final year, staff are exploring various strategies to sustain and enhance the service beyond its pilot phase. This includes assessing additional funding options and potential expansions in service hours to meet community needs better.
The upcoming fiscal challenges and opportunities underscore the necessity for strategic partnerships and innovative funding mechanisms to ensure the Palo Alto Link's continued success and expansion.
The original Innovative Transit grant funding provides funding until May 2024, but with funding from the SRP and an additional grant awarded through Transportation Fund for Clean Air (TFCA) program there is enough funding to continue service until October 2025. As the City begins its second and final year of the service, staff is seeking feedback on the program operation thus far, any changes for the coming year, and financial implications of continuing this service beyond the pilot period.
BACKGROUND
Palo Alto Link is operated by microtransit vendor Via, aka Nomad Transit Services, and operates Monday - Friday, for a 10-hour service span 8:00 am-6:00 pm. The service operates within most of the City, with exceptions only to the east and west ends that house large open spaces and conservation lands. PAL is utilizing a ten (10) vehicle fleet to provide virtually positioned pick-up and drop-off locations within an acceptable walking distance with the help of a web application.
Door-to-door service is available for riders who may require extra assistance. The service addresses first-/last-mile challenges in Palo Alto and provides a convenient and affordable transportation option for residents, employees, and vulnerable/transit-dependent populations.
The current cost of a trip is $3.50 per ride with additional passengers costing $1.75 each.
Youth, low-income, disabled, and seniors pay a reduced fare of $1.00 per ride. Rides to and from the Stanford Research Park are free.
Palo Alto Link has provided on-demand transit service within the City of Palo Alto since March 7, 2023, utilizing Valley Transportation Authority Measure B funds designated for innovative transit projects. Those funds and trip fares provide an initial budget for 18 months of service.
Additional funding from Stanford Research Park extended the pilot service to two years and expanded service to the Research Park. Following the expenditure of these initial funds, either additional partners or City funds will be needed to continue the service.
The prior Palo Alto transit service, the Palo Alto Crosstown Shuttle, was terminated in FY 2020, following four years of declining ridership. In FY 2020, the Crosstown shuttle carried 39,377 riders, and was terminated in April 2020, with an average monthly ridership of 3,938 per month. Unlike the previous shuttle's fixed-route service, the Palo Alto Link significantly expands service coverage, offering comprehensive access to all Palo Alto residents rather than limiting it to those residing or traveling along a predetermined path. The Crosstown shuttle was previously contracted for $379,782 per year.
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ANALYSIS
Performance Highlights
In the first 12 months of service (March 2023 - February 2024), Link completed 50,219 rides, served nearly 900 unique riders per month and had an average wait time of 13.8 minutes.
Rider Growth
Completed rides steadily grew month over month, increasing by 54% over the first twelve months. Link continues to attract new riders while maintaining a strong engaged rider base, where approximately 75% of trips are taken by returning riders, and the average rider takes more than 5 trips per month. This fast rider adoption demonstrates that Link is providing a crucial means of transportation throughout Palo Alto, especially to key community resources such as major employers, transit stations, and local schools, as detailed further in the later location sections.
Survey Findings
Between September - October 2023, 265 Link riders provided their feedback through an in-app survey. The survey revealed the following key takeaways regarding rider sentiment:
•Equity. Vulnerable and transit-dependent riders were impacted the most by Link: 46% of respondents do not have access to a personal vehicle and 43% qualify for discounted fares (50% of discounted fares were for seniors and low-income riders). •Affordability. Many riders noted that the service provided an affordable way to reach jobs and medical appointments and gave riders with mobility limitations “greater independence”.
•Sustainability. Link has encouraged riders to choose shared transit, with 52% of riders reporting that they would have otherwise used high-emission private vehicle travel. Not only does Link unlock mobility for riders without single occupancy vehicles (SOVs), but residents also reported that the service enables them to reduce or forgo car ownership. As one rider stated, “Link was a key part of my decision to not purchase a car upon moving to Palo Alto.”
History of Link’s SRP Partnership
Stanford Research Park (SRP), a business park hosting many of the largest employers in the city, committed to investing $31,000 per month (for a total of $744,000) in Palo Alto Link, given the service’s focus on facilitating commutes to and from the SRP businesses. The SRP investment represents 21% of the total funding amount for the Palo Alto Link pilot program, with the remaining funds coming from the City. In return, the City set up the Link service to be completely free for all trips to/from SRP (relative to the standard adult fare of $3.50 per trip). A trip counts as an SRP trip if it starts or ends within the green area within the broader blue Link service area shown below.
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SRP Link Trip Data & Performance
Link’s partnership with SRP has demonstrated that providing flexible commuter options supports employees in returning to the office and connecting to other destinations in the surrounding community. From March 2023 through February 2024, trips to/from SRP made up over 28% of all Link trips. Thanks to the high quality of service, SRP trips continue to grow over time, making up nearly 35% of all trips in January.
Of the 30 businesses located within SRP, 11 were among the top 25 Link pick-up and drop-off locations, with the top locations being Stanford Medicine, Tesla, Rubrik, HP, and Lockheed Martin. Reviewing an in-depth analysis of the times of pick-ups and drop-offs, staff also see that the Link service remains complimentary to SRP’s existing Caltrain shuttles.
Future SRP Support
SRP has expressed its support for continuing Link and investing in the ongoing operation of the service. The City is in discussions with SRP to determine the amount that they would like to commit to Palo Alto Link moving forward.
SRP has also identified potential improvements that would even better serve their employers, including expanded service hours to better meet commuting needs. In particular, SRP hosts evening events that often end after Link has concluded. Staff have also identified several “whitelist” points that may help facilitate reduced wait times at specific employer headquarters. Staff believes that more targeted marketing and outreach to companies within Item 3
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SRP could also facilitate increased use of the service.
Other Top Locations & Prospective Partners
Beyond facilitating commutes for SRP employees, Palo Alto Link connects riders to key community sites, centers of employment, and transportation hubs. Table 1 summarizes the top pick-up and drop-off locations.
Table 1: Palo Alto Link Top Locations, March 2023 – January 2024 Top Location % of all Link Trips
(average March - Jan)
Stanford Research Park 27%
(~30-35% in recent months)
Palo Alto & Gunn High Schools collectively 15%
(PA High School = 9%;
Gunn = 4%)
Stanford Mall 4%
Caltrain Stations (Palo Alto and CalAve Stations collectively) 2% Cubberley Community Center 1.6%
Fletcher, Green, JLS Middle Schools 2%
Stanford Hospital 1.4%
Source: Via
The Palo Alto and Via teams have hosted a series of meetings with different community stakeholders including Stanford Research Park, Tesla, Stanford Mall, the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association (TMA), and Stanford University. To better understand the particular mobility needs of specific stakeholders, staff have conducted outreach to the following private partners:
1. Schools: Palo Alto Unified School District, Stanford University
2. Retail: Stanford Mall, Palo Alto Transportation Management Association, Town & Country
3. Community and Senior Facilities: Channing House, Cubberley Community Center.
Outreach will determine whether stakeholders are willing to commit funds towards the ongoing operation of Palo Alto Link.
Seniors continue to represent a key ridership demographic for Link. As such, local entities such as Channing House have offered to contribute financially to the service to continue providing mobility access for their residents to attend medical appointments, go grocery shopping, and keep in touch with their friends and families. Staff are continuing to explore partnerships with organizations like Channing House and other listed above which may be able and willing to contribute financially to the existing Link service.
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Future Scenarios for Consideration
Remaining Program Budget
The budget for this pilot program was $2,601,550, including $2,000,000 from the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) and up to $744,000 from the Stanford Research Park.
From March 2023 through January 2024, the City has spent $1,533,557 in fares, grant funds, start-up costs, and SRP support to operate the service. With the remaining budget of $1,067,993, Link could continue operating through August 2024, assuming operations with the current level of service. The City has been awarded a Transportation Fund for Clean Air (TFCA) grant which will provide $441,000 in additional funding which is expected to extend service through November 2024 and replace hybrid wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV) to electric models. Transitioning to an all EV fleet entails some additional costs that have been built into all the funding scenarios described below.
Funding Scenarios
Additional funds will be needed to continue service operation through the end of the 2024-25 fiscal year (through June 2025). The exact amount required to operate through June 2025 will depend on the level of investment that the City decides to put into the service including decision on the level of service provided. Staff have outlined four potential scenarios in Table 2 below, followed by more detailed descriptions of each.
Table 2: Potential Funding Scenarios for FY25
Scenario Description 12-Month Cost
(Jul '24 - Jun '25)
Net Funding Gap*
(additional $ above
remaining budget
estimated)
A. Current Service
Level
Increase supply by 5% to meet
organic demand growth
$1,800,000 $1,000,000
B. Service Hour
Extension + Supply
Growth
Scenario A plus extend the
weekday schedule by 3 hours
$2,300,000 $1,500,000
Source: Via and City of Palo Alto
*The funding gap equals the total cost to implement each scenario through June 2025, minus the remaining funds in the pilot budget, minus the following new funds that will be available to invest in the service:
1. $441,000 of awarded funds through Santa Clara County’s Transportation Fund for Clean Air (TFCA) grant program
2. $31,000 per month from Stanford Research Park
3. $4,000 per month in fare revenue (FY 2024 current monthly average)
Scenario A: Current Service Level
To maintain the current level of service, this scenario increases supply by at least 5% to ensure Item 3
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that the Link program can continue operating in a way that meets the needs of the community.
This assumes a forecasted increase in demand growth is supported by a 5% increase in supply (vehicle service hours), which would require an additional investment of $1,000,000, and would allow Link to absorb an expected demand increase of 5-10% over the coming year while continuing to meet customer expectations for quality of service.
Scenario B: Service Hour Extension
Beyond supporting organic demand growth within the current service parameters, the City could pursue minor service expansions in response to community feedback. As highlighted below, Link riders are eager for the service to expand in terms of operating hours and coverage area. While future geographic expansion may be desirable, this scenario extends the service schedule as the top-priority expansion for Link in the coming year.
Specifically, this extends the weekday schedule by 3 hours (1 hour in the AM and 2 hours in the PM) to capture anticipated demand in the morning and evening commute hours:
•Current Link Schedule: Monday - Friday 8 AM - 6 PM
•Proposed Link Schedule: Monday - Friday 7 AM - 8 PM
The cost of extending the service schedule as described above, combined with the cost of increasing supply by 5% to support organic demand growth, Scenario B would require an additional $1,500,000.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
Additional funding for maintaining the current service level has been incorporated as a proposal for the FY2025 Proposed General Fund Operating Budget. Staff continues to explore additional strategic partners as well as additional grant opportunities to reduce the City’s cost. Funding structure and summary of budget requirements will be developed based on the City Council’s input and direction regarding future service levels desired. This budget allocation is part of the Office of Transportation Operating Budget, to be reviewed as part of the FY 2025 Budget process with the Finance Committee in May.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Public engagement is ongoing since the program launched on March 7. Stakeholders targeted for notification of the service include Caltrain riders, commuters to Palo Alto, service providers targeting older adults, senior living communities, youth service providers, neighborhood groups, etc. Community engagement and marketing activities have included a project webpage on the City’s website, flyer/brochure distribution, targeted presentations to special groups (i.e. senior living communities), tabling at community events and destinations (MSC Open House, Earth Day events, Farmer’s Market, Caltrain stations, grocery stores) and social media campaigns (NextDoor, Facebook, Uplift Local, local newspapers, City blog posts, etc.). Stanford Item 3
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Research Park has also been providing notification to and engagement with their stakeholders to encourage ridership.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Council action on this item is not a project as defined by CEQA because the necessary agreements to continue service with partner agencies and identification of government funding mechanisms or fiscal activity do not involve any commitment to any specific project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment. CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(4). The Council has already found that Palo Alto Link is not a project as defined by CEQA under CEQA guidelines 15061(b)(3).
APPROVED BY:
Philip Kamhi, Chief Transportation Official
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City Council
Staff Report
Report Type: CONSENT CALENDAR
Lead Department: City Clerk
Meeting Date: April 1, 2024
Report #:2403-2764
TITLE
Approval of Minutes from March 11, 2024 Meeting
RECOMMENDATION
That the minutes be reviewed and approved.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: March 11, 2024 Draft Action Minutes
APPROVED BY:
Mahealani Ah Yun
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CITY COUNCIL
DRAFT ACTION MINUTES