Resolution
EXPRESSING APPRECIATION AND GRATITUDE TO
GREG LIN TANAKA FOR SERVING ON CITY COUNCIL
WHEREAS, Greg Lin Tanaka was first elected to the Palo Alto City Council in 2016 and was re-elected in 2020; and
WHEREAS, throughout his tenure, Greg worked with diverse stakeholder groups such as the Friends of the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo, Historic Resources Board, Human Relations Committee, Lytton Gardens, VTA Grand Blvd, Valley Water District, Palo Alto Unified School District Board of Education, Rail Committee, Silicon Valley Board of Realtors, Art Commission, Art Center Foundation, Transportation Management Association, etc. while balancing neighborhood interests with economic vitality; and
WHEREAS, Greg demonstrated his commitment to transparency and accessibility by hosting weekly office hour sessions throughout his tenure to provide residents an open channel to engage with a councilmember, voice thei r concerns, share feedback, and discuss community issues in a collaborative and approachable setting ensuring their voices were heard in council deliberations; and
WHEREAS, In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, Greg worked diligently to support efforts aimed at revitalizing the local economy. As Liaison to the Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Business and Professional Association, and other key organizations, he focused on fostering collaboration and encouraging growth in the city’s tech and innovation sectors. Greg emphasized data -driven decision-making to promote effective resource allocation and supported fiscally responsible policies; and
WHEREAS, Greg has consistently advocated for innovative engineering sciences that promote equitable access and drive Palo Alto toward the latest technologies. His work is focused on improving the quality of life for residents by advancing sustainable and inclusive solutions. Greg has worked to strengthen Palo Alto’s position as a center for technology and innovation by encouraging the inclusion of software development in the City’s Comprehensive Plan and organizing educational webinars to inform the community about technological advancements and challenges; and
WHEREAS, Greg has contributed to enhancing Palo Alto's livability by supporting projects like the California Avenue Streetscape Project, which improved pedestrian and bicycle access. He also advocated for the closure of California Avenue to vehicular traffic, helpi ng to create a vibrant public space that benefited local businesses. Additionally, Greg proposed transportation initiatives, including a scooter share program, to address last mile challenges; and
WHEREAS, Greg chaired the Finance Committee and Policy and Services Committee , championing fiscal responsibility, transparency, and innovative governance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Palo Alto does hereby honor and express its gratitude to Councilmember Greg Lin Tanaka for his long-term public service, and records the appreciation of the Council, residents, and businesses for his service and commitment as a Palo Alto Councilmember.
ADOPTED: January 6, 2025
APPROVED:
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Mayor Greer Stone
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Vice Mayor Ed Lauing Council Member Pat Burt
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Council Member Lydia Kou Council Member Julie Lythcott - Haims
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Council Member Greg Tanaka Council Member Vicki Veenker
ATTEST:
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City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
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City Manager City Attorney