CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, February 24, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. 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
General Public Comment for items not on the agenda will be accepted in person for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. General public comment will be heard for 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
Public comments for agendized items will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. Requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation or as determined by the Chair. 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 ‐ 5:40 PM)
1. Proclamation Expressing Appreciation for June Fleming AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:40 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak in‐person ONLY to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes depending on number of speakers. Public Comment is limited to 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (6:15 ‐ 6:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
2. Approval of Minutes from February 3, 2025, February 4, 2025, and February 10, 2025 Meeting
3. Authorize Transmittal of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Annual Progress Report to the Office of Planning and Research and the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report to the Department of Housing and Community Development.
4. Approval of two Professional Services Contracts 1) Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz and Associates (C25193598) in an Amount Not to Exceed $126,225 for Cubberley Project Public Opinion Research Services for a Period of 20 Months, 2) The Lew Edwards Group(C25193673) in an Amount Not to Exceed $138,375 for Public Communication Consulting Services related to the November 2026 General Obligation Bond Ballot Measure for a Period of 20 Months, and Approval of Budget Amendments in the General Fund and the Cubberley Property Infrastructure Fund; CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project
5. Authorization to Execute an Amendment to Legal Services Contract Number S23186556 with Law Office of Clare Gibson in the Amount of $75,000 for Construction Claims Dispute Resolution and Defense regarding the Public Safety Building, for a Total Not‐to‐ Exceed Amount of $310,000; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
6. Approval of Use of City Facilities and Staff Time to Support Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Palo Alto Mobility Hub Meetings and Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board/Caltrain Board of Directors Meeting; CEQA status – not a project.
7. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Section
18.08.040 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (The Zoning Map) to Change the Classification of Property Located at 3265 El Camino Real from Service Commercial (CS) Zone to Planned Community Zone (PC) for the Construction of a 100 Percent Affordable Housing Project (FIRST READING: February 10, 2025, PASSED 7‐0)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (6:20 ‐ 6:35 PM)
BREAK (15 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 8: 6:50 ‐ 7:30 PM, Item 9: 7:30 ‐ 9:00 PM, Item 10: 9:00 ‐ 10:30 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
8. Colleague’s Memo: Proposed Adoption of a Resolution Underscoring Council’s Commitment to Sustaining Palo Alto Values and Interests in the Face of Trump Administration Actions
9. Discuss the FY 2025 Mid‐Year Budget Review and Approve 1) FY 2025 Budget Amendments in Various Funds and 2) Amendments to the FY 2025 Table of Organization to add 2.00 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Positions and Eliminate 1.00 FTE Position and 3) Authorize overstrength of 1.00 FTE Fire Captain. CEQA Status – Not a Project.
10. Approval of the 2025 City Council Priority Objectives, as well as Committee Objectives and Workplans. CEQA Status ‐‐ Not a Project. Supplemental Report
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.
11. City of Palo Alto Monthly Investment Report January 2025 (Unaudited)
12. Investment Activity Report for the Second Quarter, Fiscal Year 2025
13. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ‐ 2024 Year End Report
14. Item 10 Supplemental Report
OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments for agendized items 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 for agendized items 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.
California Government Code §84308 , commonly referred to as the "Levine Act," prohibits an elected official of a local government agency from participating in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use if the official received a campaign contribution exceeding $500 from a party or participant, including their agents, to the proceeding within the last 12 months. A “license, permit, or other entitlement for use” includes most land use and planning approvals and the approval of contracts that are not subject to lowest responsible bid procedures and have a value over $50,000. A “party” is a person who files an application for, or is the subject of, a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use. A “participant” is a person who actively supports or opposes a particular decision in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use, and has a financial interest in the decision. The Levine Act incorporates the definition of “financial interest” in the Political Reform Act, which encompasses interests in business entities, real property, sources of income, sources of gifts, and personal finances that may be affected by the Council’s actions. If you qualify as a “party” or “participant” to a proceeding, and you have made a campaign contribution to a Council Member exceeding $500 made within the last 12 months, you must disclose the campaign contribution before making your comments.
1 February 24, 2025
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at
www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas
.
CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, February 24, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. 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
General Public Comment for items not on the agenda will be accepted in person for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. General public comment will be heard for 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
Public comments for agendized items will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. Requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation or as determined by the Chair. 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 ‐ 5:40 PM)
1. Proclamation Expressing Appreciation for June Fleming AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:40 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak in‐person ONLY to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes depending on number of speakers. Public Comment is limited to 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (6:15 ‐ 6:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
2. Approval of Minutes from February 3, 2025, February 4, 2025, and February 10, 2025 Meeting
3. Authorize Transmittal of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Annual Progress Report to the Office of Planning and Research and the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report to the Department of Housing and Community Development.
4. Approval of two Professional Services Contracts 1) Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz and Associates (C25193598) in an Amount Not to Exceed $126,225 for Cubberley Project Public Opinion Research Services for a Period of 20 Months, 2) The Lew Edwards Group(C25193673) in an Amount Not to Exceed $138,375 for Public Communication Consulting Services related to the November 2026 General Obligation Bond Ballot Measure for a Period of 20 Months, and Approval of Budget Amendments in the General Fund and the Cubberley Property Infrastructure Fund; CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project
5. Authorization to Execute an Amendment to Legal Services Contract Number S23186556 with Law Office of Clare Gibson in the Amount of $75,000 for Construction Claims Dispute Resolution and Defense regarding the Public Safety Building, for a Total Not‐to‐ Exceed Amount of $310,000; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
6. Approval of Use of City Facilities and Staff Time to Support Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Palo Alto Mobility Hub Meetings and Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board/Caltrain Board of Directors Meeting; CEQA status – not a project.
7. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Section
18.08.040 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (The Zoning Map) to Change the Classification of Property Located at 3265 El Camino Real from Service Commercial (CS) Zone to Planned Community Zone (PC) for the Construction of a 100 Percent Affordable Housing Project (FIRST READING: February 10, 2025, PASSED 7‐0)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (6:20 ‐ 6:35 PM)
BREAK (15 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 8: 6:50 ‐ 7:30 PM, Item 9: 7:30 ‐ 9:00 PM, Item 10: 9:00 ‐ 10:30 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
8. Colleague’s Memo: Proposed Adoption of a Resolution Underscoring Council’s Commitment to Sustaining Palo Alto Values and Interests in the Face of Trump Administration Actions
9. Discuss the FY 2025 Mid‐Year Budget Review and Approve 1) FY 2025 Budget Amendments in Various Funds and 2) Amendments to the FY 2025 Table of Organization to add 2.00 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Positions and Eliminate 1.00 FTE Position and 3) Authorize overstrength of 1.00 FTE Fire Captain. CEQA Status – Not a Project.
10. Approval of the 2025 City Council Priority Objectives, as well as Committee Objectives and Workplans. CEQA Status ‐‐ Not a Project. Supplemental Report
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.
11. City of Palo Alto Monthly Investment Report January 2025 (Unaudited)
12. Investment Activity Report for the Second Quarter, Fiscal Year 2025
13. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ‐ 2024 Year End Report
14. Item 10 Supplemental Report
OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments for agendized items 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 for agendized items 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.
California Government Code §84308 , commonly referred to as the "Levine Act," prohibits an elected official of a local government agency from participating in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use if the official received a campaign contribution exceeding $500 from a party or participant, including their agents, to the proceeding within the last 12 months. A “license, permit, or other entitlement for use” includes most land use and planning approvals and the approval of contracts that are not subject to lowest responsible bid procedures and have a value over $50,000. A “party” is a person who files an application for, or is the subject of, a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use. A “participant” is a person who actively supports or opposes a particular decision in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use, and has a financial interest in the decision. The Levine Act incorporates the definition of “financial interest” in the Political Reform Act, which encompasses interests in business entities, real property, sources of income, sources of gifts, and personal finances that may be affected by the Council’s actions. If you qualify as a “party” or “participant” to a proceeding, and you have made a campaign contribution to a Council Member exceeding $500 made within the last 12 months, you must disclose the campaign contribution before making your comments.
2 February 24, 2025
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at
www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas
.
CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, February 24, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. 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
General Public Comment for items not on the agenda will be accepted in person for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. General public comment will be heard for 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
Public comments for agendized items will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. Requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation or as determined by the Chair. 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 ‐ 5:40 PM)
1. Proclamation Expressing Appreciation for June Fleming AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:40 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak in‐person ONLY to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes depending on number of speakers. Public Comment is limited to 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (6:15 ‐ 6:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
2. Approval of Minutes from February 3, 2025, February 4, 2025, and February 10, 2025 Meeting
3. Authorize Transmittal of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Annual Progress Report to the Office of Planning and Research and the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report to the Department of Housing and Community Development.
4. Approval of two Professional Services Contracts 1) Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz and Associates (C25193598) in an Amount Not to Exceed $126,225 for Cubberley Project Public Opinion Research Services for a Period of 20 Months, 2) The Lew Edwards Group(C25193673) in an Amount Not to Exceed $138,375 for Public Communication Consulting Services related to the November 2026 General Obligation Bond Ballot Measure for a Period of 20 Months, and Approval of Budget Amendments in the General Fund and the Cubberley Property Infrastructure Fund; CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project
5. Authorization to Execute an Amendment to Legal Services Contract Number S23186556 with Law Office of Clare Gibson in the Amount of $75,000 for Construction Claims Dispute Resolution and Defense regarding the Public Safety Building, for a Total Not‐to‐ Exceed Amount of $310,000; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
6. Approval of Use of City Facilities and Staff Time to Support Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Palo Alto Mobility Hub Meetings and Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board/Caltrain Board of Directors Meeting; CEQA status – not a project.
7. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Section
18.08.040 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (The Zoning Map) to Change the Classification of Property Located at 3265 El Camino Real from Service Commercial (CS) Zone to Planned Community Zone (PC) for the Construction of a 100 Percent Affordable Housing Project (FIRST READING: February 10, 2025, PASSED 7‐0)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (6:20 ‐ 6:35 PM)
BREAK (15 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 8: 6:50 ‐ 7:30 PM, Item 9: 7:30 ‐ 9:00 PM, Item 10: 9:00 ‐ 10:30 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
8. Colleague’s Memo: Proposed Adoption of a Resolution Underscoring Council’s Commitment to Sustaining Palo Alto Values and Interests in the Face of Trump Administration Actions
9. Discuss the FY 2025 Mid‐Year Budget Review and Approve 1) FY 2025 Budget Amendments in Various Funds and 2) Amendments to the FY 2025 Table of Organization to add 2.00 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Positions and Eliminate 1.00 FTE Position and 3) Authorize overstrength of 1.00 FTE Fire Captain. CEQA Status – Not a Project.
10. Approval of the 2025 City Council Priority Objectives, as well as Committee Objectives and Workplans. CEQA Status ‐‐ Not a Project. Supplemental Report
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.
11. City of Palo Alto Monthly Investment Report January 2025 (Unaudited)
12. Investment Activity Report for the Second Quarter, Fiscal Year 2025
13. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ‐ 2024 Year End Report
14. Item 10 Supplemental Report
OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments for agendized items 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 for agendized items 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.
California Government Code §84308 , commonly referred to as the "Levine Act," prohibits an elected official of a local government agency from participating in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use if the official received a campaign contribution exceeding $500 from a party or participant, including their agents, to the proceeding within the last 12 months. A “license, permit, or other entitlement for use” includes most land use and planning approvals and the approval of contracts that are not subject to lowest responsible bid procedures and have a value over $50,000. A “party” is a person who files an application for, or is the subject of, a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use. A “participant” is a person who actively supports or opposes a particular decision in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use, and has a financial interest in the decision. The Levine Act incorporates the definition of “financial interest” in the Political Reform Act, which encompasses interests in business entities, real property, sources of income, sources of gifts, and personal finances that may be affected by the Council’s actions. If you qualify as a “party” or “participant” to a proceeding, and you have made a campaign contribution to a Council Member exceeding $500 made within the last 12 months, you must disclose the campaign contribution before making your comments.
3 February 24, 2025
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at
www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas
.
CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, February 24, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. 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
General Public Comment for items not on the agenda will be accepted in person for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. General public comment will be heard for 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
Public comments for agendized items will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. Requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation or as determined by the Chair. 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 ‐ 5:40 PM)
1. Proclamation Expressing Appreciation for June Fleming AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:40 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak in‐person ONLY to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes depending on number of speakers. Public Comment is limited to 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (6:15 ‐ 6:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
2. Approval of Minutes from February 3, 2025, February 4, 2025, and February 10, 2025 Meeting
3. Authorize Transmittal of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Annual Progress Report to the Office of Planning and Research and the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report to the Department of Housing and Community Development.
4. Approval of two Professional Services Contracts 1) Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz and Associates (C25193598) in an Amount Not to Exceed $126,225 for Cubberley Project Public Opinion Research Services for a Period of 20 Months, 2) The Lew Edwards Group(C25193673) in an Amount Not to Exceed $138,375 for Public Communication Consulting Services related to the November 2026 General Obligation Bond Ballot Measure for a Period of 20 Months, and Approval of Budget Amendments in the General Fund and the Cubberley Property Infrastructure Fund; CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project
5. Authorization to Execute an Amendment to Legal Services Contract Number S23186556 with Law Office of Clare Gibson in the Amount of $75,000 for Construction Claims Dispute Resolution and Defense regarding the Public Safety Building, for a Total Not‐to‐ Exceed Amount of $310,000; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
6. Approval of Use of City Facilities and Staff Time to Support Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Palo Alto Mobility Hub Meetings and Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board/Caltrain Board of Directors Meeting; CEQA status – not a project.
7. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Section
18.08.040 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (The Zoning Map) to Change the Classification of Property Located at 3265 El Camino Real from Service Commercial (CS) Zone to Planned Community Zone (PC) for the Construction of a 100 Percent Affordable Housing Project (FIRST READING: February 10, 2025, PASSED 7‐0)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (6:20 ‐ 6:35 PM)
BREAK (15 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 8: 6:50 ‐ 7:30 PM, Item 9: 7:30 ‐ 9:00 PM, Item 10: 9:00 ‐ 10:30 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
8. Colleague’s Memo: Proposed Adoption of a Resolution Underscoring Council’s Commitment to Sustaining Palo Alto Values and Interests in the Face of Trump Administration Actions
9. Discuss the FY 2025 Mid‐Year Budget Review and Approve 1) FY 2025 Budget Amendments in Various Funds and 2) Amendments to the FY 2025 Table of Organization to add 2.00 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Positions and Eliminate 1.00 FTE Position and 3) Authorize overstrength of 1.00 FTE Fire Captain. CEQA Status – Not a Project.
10. Approval of the 2025 City Council Priority Objectives, as well as Committee Objectives and Workplans. CEQA Status ‐‐ Not a Project. Supplemental Report
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.
11. City of Palo Alto Monthly Investment Report January 2025 (Unaudited)
12. Investment Activity Report for the Second Quarter, Fiscal Year 2025
13. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ‐ 2024 Year End Report
14. Item 10 Supplemental Report
OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments for agendized items 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 for agendized items 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.
California Government Code §84308 , commonly referred to as the "Levine Act," prohibits an elected official of a local government agency from participating in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use if the official received a campaign contribution exceeding $500 from a party or participant, including their agents, to the proceeding within the last 12 months. A “license, permit, or other entitlement for use” includes most land use and planning approvals and the approval of contracts that are not subject to lowest responsible bid procedures and have a value over $50,000. A “party” is a person who files an application for, or is the subject of, a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use. A “participant” is a person who actively supports or opposes a particular decision in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use, and has a financial interest in the decision. The Levine Act incorporates the definition of “financial interest” in the Political Reform Act, which encompasses interests in business entities, real property, sources of income, sources of gifts, and personal finances that may be affected by the Council’s actions. If you qualify as a “party” or “participant” to a proceeding, and you have made a campaign contribution to a Council Member exceeding $500 made within the last 12 months, you must disclose the campaign contribution before making your comments.
4 February 24, 2025
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at
www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas
.
CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, February 24, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. 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
General Public Comment for items not on the agenda will be accepted in person for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. General public comment will be heard for 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
Public comments for agendized items will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. Requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation or as determined by the Chair. 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 ‐ 5:40 PM)
1. Proclamation Expressing Appreciation for June Fleming AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:40 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak in‐person ONLY to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes depending on number of speakers. Public Comment is limited to 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (6:15 ‐ 6:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
2. Approval of Minutes from February 3, 2025, February 4, 2025, and February 10, 2025 Meeting
3. Authorize Transmittal of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Annual Progress Report to the Office of Planning and Research and the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report to the Department of Housing and Community Development.
4. Approval of two Professional Services Contracts 1) Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz and Associates (C25193598) in an Amount Not to Exceed $126,225 for Cubberley Project Public Opinion Research Services for a Period of 20 Months, 2) The Lew Edwards Group(C25193673) in an Amount Not to Exceed $138,375 for Public Communication Consulting Services related to the November 2026 General Obligation Bond Ballot Measure for a Period of 20 Months, and Approval of Budget Amendments in the General Fund and the Cubberley Property Infrastructure Fund; CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project
5. Authorization to Execute an Amendment to Legal Services Contract Number S23186556 with Law Office of Clare Gibson in the Amount of $75,000 for Construction Claims Dispute Resolution and Defense regarding the Public Safety Building, for a Total Not‐to‐ Exceed Amount of $310,000; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
6. Approval of Use of City Facilities and Staff Time to Support Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Palo Alto Mobility Hub Meetings and Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board/Caltrain Board of Directors Meeting; CEQA status – not a project.
7. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Section
18.08.040 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (The Zoning Map) to Change the Classification of Property Located at 3265 El Camino Real from Service Commercial (CS) Zone to Planned Community Zone (PC) for the Construction of a 100 Percent Affordable Housing Project (FIRST READING: February 10, 2025, PASSED 7‐0)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (6:20 ‐ 6:35 PM)
BREAK (15 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 8: 6:50 ‐ 7:30 PM, Item 9: 7:30 ‐ 9:00 PM, Item 10: 9:00 ‐ 10:30 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
8. Colleague’s Memo: Proposed Adoption of a Resolution Underscoring Council’s Commitment to Sustaining Palo Alto Values and Interests in the Face of Trump Administration Actions
9. Discuss the FY 2025 Mid‐Year Budget Review and Approve 1) FY 2025 Budget Amendments in Various Funds and 2) Amendments to the FY 2025 Table of Organization to add 2.00 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Positions and Eliminate 1.00 FTE Position and 3) Authorize overstrength of 1.00 FTE Fire Captain. CEQA Status – Not a Project.
10. Approval of the 2025 City Council Priority Objectives, as well as Committee Objectives and Workplans. CEQA Status ‐‐ Not a Project. Supplemental Report
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.
11. City of Palo Alto Monthly Investment Report January 2025 (Unaudited)
12. Investment Activity Report for the Second Quarter, Fiscal Year 2025
13. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ‐ 2024 Year End Report
14. Item 10 Supplemental Report
OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments for agendized items 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 for agendized items 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.
California Government Code §84308 , commonly referred to as the "Levine Act," prohibits an elected official of a local government agency from participating in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use if the official received a campaign contribution exceeding $500 from a party or participant, including their agents, to the proceeding within the last 12 months. A “license, permit, or other entitlement for use” includes most land use and planning approvals and the approval of contracts that are not subject to lowest responsible bid procedures and have a value over $50,000. A “party” is a person who files an application for, or is the subject of, a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use. A “participant” is a person who actively supports or opposes a particular decision in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use, and has a financial interest in the decision. The Levine Act incorporates the definition of “financial interest” in the Political Reform Act, which encompasses interests in business entities, real property, sources of income, sources of gifts, and personal finances that may be affected by the Council’s actions. If you qualify as a “party” or “participant” to a proceeding, and you have made a campaign contribution to a Council Member exceeding $500 made within the last 12 months, you must disclose the campaign contribution before making your comments.
5 February 24, 2025
Materials submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at
www.CityofPaloAlto.org/agendas
.
CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Monday, February 24, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference or in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. 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
General Public Comment for items not on the agenda will be accepted in person for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. General public comment will be heard for 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
Public comments for agendized items will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. Requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation or as determined by the Chair. 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 ‐ 5:40 PM)
1. Proclamation Expressing Appreciation for June Fleming AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5:40 ‐ 6:10 PM)
Members of the public may speak in‐person ONLY to any item NOT on the agenda. 1‐3 minutes depending on number of speakers. Public Comment is limited to 30 minutes. Additional public comments, if any, will be heard at the end of the agenda.
COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS (6:10 ‐ 6:15 PM) Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
CONSENT CALENDAR (6:15 ‐ 6:20 PM)
Items will be voted in one motion unless removed from the calendar by three Council Members.
2. Approval of Minutes from February 3, 2025, February 4, 2025, and February 10, 2025 Meeting
3. Authorize Transmittal of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Annual Progress Report to the Office of Planning and Research and the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report to the Department of Housing and Community Development.
4. Approval of two Professional Services Contracts 1) Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz and Associates (C25193598) in an Amount Not to Exceed $126,225 for Cubberley Project Public Opinion Research Services for a Period of 20 Months, 2) The Lew Edwards Group(C25193673) in an Amount Not to Exceed $138,375 for Public Communication Consulting Services related to the November 2026 General Obligation Bond Ballot Measure for a Period of 20 Months, and Approval of Budget Amendments in the General Fund and the Cubberley Property Infrastructure Fund; CEQA Status ‐ Not a Project
5. Authorization to Execute an Amendment to Legal Services Contract Number S23186556 with Law Office of Clare Gibson in the Amount of $75,000 for Construction Claims Dispute Resolution and Defense regarding the Public Safety Building, for a Total Not‐to‐ Exceed Amount of $310,000; CEQA Status – Not a Project.
6. Approval of Use of City Facilities and Staff Time to Support Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Palo Alto Mobility Hub Meetings and Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board/Caltrain Board of Directors Meeting; CEQA status – not a project.
7. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Section
18.08.040 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (The Zoning Map) to Change the Classification of Property Located at 3265 El Camino Real from Service Commercial (CS) Zone to Planned Community Zone (PC) for the Construction of a 100 Percent Affordable Housing Project (FIRST READING: February 10, 2025, PASSED 7‐0)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS (6:20 ‐ 6:35 PM)
BREAK (15 MINUTES)
ACTION ITEMS (Item 8: 6:50 ‐ 7:30 PM, Item 9: 7:30 ‐ 9:00 PM, Item 10: 9:00 ‐ 10:30 PM) Include: Report of Committees/Commissions, Ordinances and Resolutions, Public Hearings, Report of Officials, Unfinished Business and Council Matters.
8. Colleague’s Memo: Proposed Adoption of a Resolution Underscoring Council’s Commitment to Sustaining Palo Alto Values and Interests in the Face of Trump Administration Actions
9. Discuss the FY 2025 Mid‐Year Budget Review and Approve 1) FY 2025 Budget Amendments in Various Funds and 2) Amendments to the FY 2025 Table of Organization to add 2.00 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Positions and Eliminate 1.00 FTE Position and 3) Authorize overstrength of 1.00 FTE Fire Captain. CEQA Status – Not a Project.
10. Approval of the 2025 City Council Priority Objectives, as well as Committee Objectives and Workplans. CEQA Status ‐‐ Not a Project. Supplemental Report
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.
11. City of Palo Alto Monthly Investment Report January 2025 (Unaudited)
12. Investment Activity Report for the Second Quarter, Fiscal Year 2025
13. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ‐ 2024 Year End Report
14. Item 10 Supplemental Report
OTHER INFORMATION
Standing Committee Meetings this week
Public Comment Letters
Schedule of Meetings
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to [email protected].
2. For in person public comments please complete a speaker request card located on the table at the entrance to the Council Chambers and deliver it to the Clerk prior to discussion of the item.
3. Spoken public comments for agendized items 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 for agendized items 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.
California Government Code §84308 , commonly referred to as the "Levine Act," prohibits an elected official of a local government agency from participating in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use if the official received a campaign contribution exceeding $500 from a party or participant, including their agents, to the proceeding within the last 12 months. A “license, permit, or other entitlement for use” includes most land use and planning approvals and the approval of contracts that are not subject to lowest responsible bid procedures and have a value over $50,000. A “party” is a person who files an application for, or is the subject of, a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use. A “participant” is a person who actively supports or opposes a particular decision in a proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use, and has a financial interest in the decision. The Levine Act incorporates the definition of “financial interest” in the Political Reform Act, which encompasses interests in business entities, real property, sources of income, sources of gifts, and personal finances that may be affected by the Council’s actions. If you qualify as a “party” or “participant” to a proceeding, and you have made a campaign contribution to a Council Member exceeding $500 made within the last 12 months, you must disclose the campaign contribution before making your comments.
6 February 24, 2025
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: February 24, 2025
Report #:2501-4071
TITLE
Proclamation Expressing Appreciation for June Fleming
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Proclamation Expressing Appreciation for June Fleming APPROVED BY:
Mahealani Ah Yun
Item 1
Item 1 Staff Report
Item 1: Staff Report
Pg.
1 Packet Pg. 7 of 246
EXPRESSING APPRECIATION FOR JUNE FLEMING
WHEREAS, June Fleming was born on June 24, 1931 in Little Rock, Arkansas, and had a lifelong passion for education and service which led her to receive a bach elor’s degree from Talladega College in 1952, and a master’s degree from Drexel University in 1954; and
WHEREAS, Fleming served as an Associate Professor at Philander Smith College between 1960 and 1967 before she came to Palo Alto in 1968; and
WHEREAS, Fleming joined the city of Palo Alto in 1968 and served as the Director of Libraries until 1980.
She then went on to serve as Director of Social and Community Services and Assistant City Manager through 1992; and
WHEREAS, In 1992 the City Council appointed Fleming to City Manager and therefore Fleming made history in 1992 when she became Palo Alto’s first Black c ity manager as well as Palo Alto’s first female city manager; and
WHEREAS, Fleming played a leading role in regional efforts to reduce crime and improve flood control.
During her tenure as C ity Manager, she helped to shape the city’s annual budge t, spearheaded numerous local initiatives including the establishment of the Regional Enforcement Detail, known as the RED Team, a partnership between Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and East Palo Alto police officers to fight crime, and oversaw the creation of the Development Center, the city’s central hub for processing permits and development applications. Fleming was also instrumental in the formation of the San Franci squito Creek Joint Powers Authority, a regional agency that formed in the aftermath of the devastating February 1998 flood a nd that is charged with improving flood protection around the eponymous creek; and
WHEREAS, Fleming served as City Manager until 2000 when she retired and moved to Virginia with her husband Roscoe Lee Fleming, Jr.; and
WHEREAS, The City of Palo Alto mourns the passing of June Fleming, yet celebrates her extraordinary life and profound impact as a trailblazing leader.
NOW, THEREFORE I, Ed Lauing, Mayor of the City of Palo Alto, do hereby honor the life and legacy of June Fleming, who devoted decades as a public servant and advocate both in and outside of City Hall.
Presented: February 24, 2025
______________________________
Ed Lauing
Mayor
Proclamation
Item 1
Attachment A -
Proclamation Expressing
Appreciation for June
Fleming
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City Council
Staff Report
Report Type: CONSENT CALENDAR
Lead Department: City Clerk
Meeting Date: February 24, 2025
Report #:2502-4119
TITLE
Approval of Minutes from February 3, 2025, February 4, 2025, and February 10, 2025 Meetings
RECOMMENDATION
That the minutes be reviewed and approved.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: February 3, 2025 Draft Action Minutes
Attachment B: February 4, 2025 Draft Action Minutes
Attachment C: February 10, 2025 Draft Action Minutes
APPROVED BY:
Mahealani Ah Yun
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CITY COUNCIL
DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
Regular Meeting
February 3, 2025
The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date in the Council Chambers and by virtual teleconference at 5:30 P.M.
Present In Person: Burt, Lauing, Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl, Stone, Veenker Present Remotely:
Absent:
Special Orders of the Day
1. Interview Candidates for the Vacancies on the Planning and Transportation Commission Item Removed Off Agenda
NO ACTION
Agenda Changes, Additions and Deletions
Public Comment
Council Member Questions, Comments and Announcements
Consent Calendar
Councilmember Lythcott-Haims registered a no vote on Agenda Item Number 4.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Veenker moved, seconded by Council member Reckdahl to approve Agenda Item Numbers 2-6.
MOTION PASSED ITEMS 2-3, 5-6: 7-0
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DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Draft Action Minutes: 02/03/2025
MOTION PASSED ITEM 4: 6-1, Lythcott-Haims no
2. Approval of Minutes from January 13, 2025 Meeting
3. Appointment of 2025 Emergency Standby Council
4. Approval of Construction Contract No. C25191929 with Alex Kushner General Inc. in the Amount Not -to-Exceed $390,000 for the Temporary Fire Station 4 as part of the Fire Station 4 Replacement Capital Improvement Program project (PE -18004) and Authorization for the City Manager or Their Designee to Negotiate and Execute Change Orders for Related Additional but Unforeseen Work that May Develop During the Project Up to a Not-to-Exceed Amount of $39,000; CEQA Status – Exempt Under Section 15303
5. Authorize the City Manager or their Designee to Execute an Assistance Agreement with the United States Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) in the amount of $16,519,879 through January 31, 2030; CEQA Status – Not a project.
6. Approval of Three Professional Services Contracts for On-call Transportation Engineering and Planning Project Support Services, for a Four- Year Term: 1) Contract Number C25191149 with TJKM Transportation in the Amount Not -to-Exceed $300,000, 2) Contract Number C25192647 Wit h Fehr and Peers in the Amount Not- to-Exceed $800,000, and 3) Contract Number C25192646 With Kittelson and Associates in the Amount Not -to-Exceed $800,000; CEQA status - categorically exempt; specific projects will undergo environmental review as applicable.
City Manager Comments
Ed Shikada, City Manager
Action Items
7. Update and Potential Direction on Car -Free Street Improvements on California Avenue; CEQA status – CEQA review is currently underway on the projects as described in this report.
NO ACTION
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DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Draft Action Minutes: 02/03/2025
8. REINTRODUCED FIRST READING: Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning) and Title 21 (Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land) to Clarify Existing Regulations and to Implement State Housing Laws Adopted in 2023 and Earlier, Including Parking Requirements Near Transit Stations in Accordance with AB 2097. CEQA Status
-
Exempt Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3). (PREVIOUSLY INTRODUCED: November 12, 2024 PASSED 6- 1, Kou no; and Pulled from Consent Calendar on December 16, 2024)
M
OTION: Council member Burt moved, seconded by Council member Reckdahl to adopt the attached ordinance that clarifies existing land use regulations and implements State housings laws adopted in 2023 and earlier and direct staff to:
1. Come back with a 1st reading on Consent with an Ordinance consistent with Option 1, which would require ADA/EVCS parking based on the amount of voluntary parking provided on site; and
2. Refer to P lanning and Transportation Commission, in consultation with the Downtown Housing Committee, to make recommendation to the Council on how to best implement a set of ADA/ EVCS parking requirements aligned with Option 2 and incentives aligned with Option 1.
MOTION PASSED: 7-0
Closed Session
9. CONFERENCE WITH CITY ATTORNEY – POTENTIAL LITIGATION Subject: Calculation of Housing In-Lieu Fees for Sheridan Plaza, as set forth in December 18, 2024 Letter from David Van Atta
Authority: Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2) One Case, as Defendant MOTION: Vice Mayor Veenker moved, seconded by Mayor Lauing to go into Closed Session.
MOTION PASSED: 7-0
Council went into Closed Session at 9:20 P.M.
Council returned from Closed Session at 9:42 P.M.
Mayor Lauing announced no reportable action.
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DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Draft Action Minutes: 02/03/2025
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:43 P.M.
ATTEST: APPROVED:
____________________ ____________________
City Clerk Mayor NOTE: Action minutes are prepared in accordance with Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC)
2.04.160(a) and (b). Summary minutes (sense) are prepared in accordance with PAMC Section
2.04.160(c). Beginning in January 2018, in accordance with Ordinance No. 5423 , the City Council
found action minutes and the video/audio recordings of Council proceedings to be the official records of both Council and committee proceedings. These recordings are available on the City’s website.
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3, 2025 Draft Action
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CITY COUNCIL
DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
Special Meeting
February 4, 2025
The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date in the Council Chambers and by virtual teleconference at 5:30 P.M.
Present In Person: Burt, Lauing, Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl, Stone, Veenker Lythcott-Haims arrived at 5:36 p.m.
Present Remotely:
Absent:
Special Orders of the Day
1. Interview Candidates for the Vacancies on the Planning and Transportation Commission.
CEQA Status – Not a project.
NO ACTION
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 P.M.
ATTEST: APPROVED:
____________________ ____________________
City Clerk Mayor
NOTE: Action minutes are prepared in accordance with Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC)
2.04.160(a) and (b). Summary minutes (sense) are prepared in accordance with PAMC Section
2.04.160(c). Beginning in January 2018, in accordance with Ordinance No. 5423, the City Council found action minutes and the video/audio recordings of Council proceedings to be the official records of both Council and committee proceedings. These recordings are available on the City’s website.
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4, 2025 Draft Action
Minutes
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CITY COUNCIL
DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
Special Meeting
February 10, 2025
The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date in the Council Chambers and by virtual teleconference at 5:30 P.M.
Present In Person: Burt, Lauing, Lu, Lythcott-Haims, Reckdahl, Stone, Veenker Present Remotely:
Absent:
Special Orders of the Day
1. Santa Clara County 2024 Synopsys Championship Science Fair STEM Winners from Palo Alto
NO ACTION
2. Appointment of Candidates to the Planning and Transportation Commission MOTION: Councilmember Burt moved, seconded by Council member Stone, to appoint seat 5 effective immediately tabulating the two highest vote getters. If candidates receive a majority, they would be appointed to the two full year positions. The highest vote getter among those two will be appointed to seat 5.
MOTION PASSED: 7-0
Planning and Transportation Commission
First Roun d of Voting for T wo (2) vacancies on the Planning and Transportation Commission with full terms ending March 31, 2029.
Forest Olaf Peterson: Veenker, Lythcott-Haims, Lu
Daniel Hekier:
William Glazier:
Arthur Keller:
Kevin Ji: Reckdahl, Burt, Lythcott-Haims, Veenker, Stone, Lauing Salim Parak:
Thomas Kellerman: Lu
Declan King:
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10, 2025 Draft Action
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DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Draft Action Minutes: 2/10/25
Michael Regula:
Todd James: Reckdahl, Burt, Stone, Lauing
Candidate Kevin Ji receiving 6 votes is appoi nted to a full -term (Seat 5) expiring March 31, 2029.
Candidate Todd James receiving 4 votes is appointed to a full -term (Seat 6) expiring March 31, 2029.
First Round of Voting for One (1) vacancy on the Planning and Transportation Commission with a partial term ending March 31, 2026.
Forest Olaf Peterson: Stone, Lythcott-Haims, Veenker, Lu Daniel Hekier: Burt
William Glazier:
Arthur Keller:
Salim Parak:
Thomas Kellerman:
Michael Regula:
Terrance Holzemer: Reckdahl, Lauing
Henrik Morkner:
Candidate Forest Olaf Peterson receiving 4 votes is appointed to a partial term (Seat 4) expiring March 31, 2026.
Agenda Changes, Additions and Deletions
Public Comment
Council Member Questions, Comments and Announcements
Study Session
3. Housing and Homelessness in Palo Alto: Review of current efforts including the 2024 Gap Analysis Report, Update on Enforcement Work, Overview of Engagement Framework to Develop an Implementation Plan, and Discussion of Other Po tential Next Steps
Item 2
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10, 2025 Draft Action
Minutes
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DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Draft Action Minutes: 2/10/25
NO ACTION
Consent Calendar
MOTION: Council member Lu moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Veenker to approve Agenda Item Numbers 4-12.
MOTION PASSED: 7-0
4. Approval of Minutes from January 21, 2025 and January 25, 2025 Meetings
5. Approval of Contract Amendment Number 2 to Contract Number S24189598 with Good City Company in the Amount of $24,930 for a Stream Corridor Protection Ordinance Update; CEQA Status: Exempt Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3)
6. Approval of Contract Amendment Number Three to Contract Number C21177024 With Veolia Sustainable Buildings USA West, Inc. to Extend the Contract Time Through August 14, 2026 With No Change in the Amount Not -to-Exceed of $1,985,000 for the Commercial & Industrial Energy Efficiency Program. CEQA - Not a Project
7. Approval of Amendment Number Three (3) to Contract Number C19174648 with WaterSmart Software, Inc. (dba WaterSmart) for the WaterSmart Utilities Customer Portal, to Extend the Contract Term for 18 Months, for the Total N ot-to-Exceed Amount of $537,763 Over the Seven -Year Term; CEQA status – Exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15308.
8. Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Approve the Verified Emission Reduction (VER) Master Agreements with AQC Environment al Brokerage Services, Inc. and SCB Brokers, LLC and Authorizing the City Manager to Purchase VERs from AQC Environmental Brokerage Services, Inc. and SCB Brokers, LLC Under Specified Terms and Conditions During Calendar Years 2025 Through 2034, Inclusive, Subject to Limitations; CEQA Status: Not a Project, CEQA Guidelines 15378(b)(5)
9. Approval of Professional Services Contract Number C25189597 with Rutherford & Chekene in an Amount Not to Exceed $207,812 for Development of a Seismic Hazard Identification and Mitigation Program for a Period of Three Years. CEQA Status: Exempt under CEQA Guidelines 15262.
10. Approval of Two Professional Service Agreements: Contract No. C25190944A with 4Leaf, Inc. and Contract No. C25190944B with Park Engineering, Inc in the Aggregate Amount Not - to-Exceed $3.75 Million for a Period of Five Years for On -Call Field Inspections and Construction Management Services to Support Utilities Water, Gas, and Wastewater Capital Improvement Projects; CEQA Status: Not a project.
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DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Draft Action Minutes: 2/10/25
11. Adoption of a Resolution Amending the Conflict of Interest Code for Designated City Officers and Employees as Required by the Political Reform Act and Regulations of the Fair Political Practices Commission and Repealing Resolution Number 9937. CEQA Status -- Not a Project
12. SECOND READING: Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Various Chapters of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Implement the 2023 -2031 Housing Element (FIRST READING: January 21, 2025 PASSED 7-0)
City Manager Comments
Ed Shikada, City Manager
Recess City Council Meeting and Convene Public Improvement Corporation Meeting
Action Items
13. Approval of the FY 2024 Public Improvement Corporation’s Annual Financial Report; CEQA Status: Not a Project
MOTION: Board Member Stone moved, seconded by Board Member Veenker to approve the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Annual Financial Report for the Palo Alto Public Improvement Corporation.
MOTION PASSED: 7-0
Reconvene City Council Meeting
Action Items
14. PUBLIC HEARING: Objections to Weed Abatement at Affected Properties and Approval of Affected Property List for Commencing Weed Abatement in 2025; CEQA status – exempt MOTION: Mayor Lauing moved, seconded by Councilmember Lythcott-Haims to:
1. Adopt a determination that weed abatement activities in 2025, as described in Resolution 10201 (Attachment A) adopted by Council on December 2, 2024, are exempt under Class 8 (CEQA Guidelines section 15308);
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DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Draft Action Minutes: 2/10/25
2. Hold a Public Hearing to hear and consider any objections to the proposed destruction and removal of weeds in 2025 at the properties listed in Attachment B; and
3. Approve the final list of affected properties for weed abatement in 2025 (Attachment B) following the public hearing, and direct weed abatement activities to commence at those properties in accordance with Resolution 10201.
MOTION PASSED: 7-0
15. PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI -JUDICIAL. 3265 El Camino Real [24PLN -00012]: Approval of an Ordinance Rezoning the Subject Parcel From Commercial Service s (CS) to Planned Community Zoning (PC) and Adoption of a Record of Land Use Action to Construct a 100% Affordable, Five-Story, 55 Unit Residential Rental Project. Environmental Assessment: Initial Study/15183 Streamlined CEQA Review.
MOTION: Councilmember Stone moved, seconded by Council member Burt, to take the following actions:
1. Consider the Initial Study Checklist/Streamlined Environmental Review prepared in accordance with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15183;
2. Adopt the Ordinance in Attachment B amending the zone district from CS to PC; and
3. Approve the Record of Land Use Action in Attachment C, with the following additions:
a. Future residents shall be notified that if a future Residential Parking Permit (RP P) will be enacted, that they may be excluded from it; and b. The property manager shall provide an annual report to the City of the number of Palo Alto Unified School District employees that occupy the building and which unit types they are occupying.
4. Incorporate into the Regulatory Agreement:
a. Allow the Owner to designate the Low -Income Unit as a Moderate -Income Unit with a countervailing re -designation of a previously Moderate -Income Unit to Low-Income Unit; and
b. For PAUSD employees, if a tenant exceeds the maximum allowable income, they will be allowed to stay in the unit f or a period of six months or through the end of the school year, whichever is later, subject to legal review; and c. Include a preference for PAUSD employees; and
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DRAFT ACTION MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Draft Action Minutes: 2/10/25
d. Allow up to 2 low-income units to transition to 100% AMI.
MOTION PASSED: 7-0
AMENDMENTS INCORPORATED INTO THE MOTION WITH THE CONSENT OF THE MA KER AND
SECONDER
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 11:06 P.M.
ATTEST: APPROVED:
____________________ ____________________
City Clerk Mayor NOTE: Action minutes are prepared in accordance with Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC)
2.04.160(a) and (b). Summary minutes (sense) are prepared in accordance with PAMC Section
2.04.160(c). Beginning in January 2018, in accordance with Ordinance No. 5423 , the City Council
found action minutes and the video/audio recordings of Council proceedings to be the official records of both C ouncil and committee proceedings. These recordings are available on the City’s website.
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10, 2025 Draft Action
Minutes
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City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: CONSENT CALENDAR
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: February 24, 2025
Report #:2411-3795
TITLE
Authorize Transmittal of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Annual Progress Report to the Office of Planning and Research and the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report to the Department of Housing and Community Development.
RECOMMENDATION
The Planning and Transportation Commission and staff recommend City Council review the following State-mandated Annual Progress Reports and direct staff to submit them to the appropriate State authorities by April 1, 2025:
1. 2024 Comprehensive Plan Annual Progress Report (Attachment A) to the Office of Planning and Research (OPR); and
2. 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report (Attachments B and C) to the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides an update on the status of the 410 implementation programs contained in the Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan) and the 110 implementation programs in the 2023–2031 Housing Element (Housing Element), a chapter of the Comp Plan. The City is required to submit an annual progress report on the implementation progress of the Comp Plan and Housing Element annually by April 1.
With the program status updates in 2024, a total of 17 (4%) of the 410 Comp Plan programs have been, or are now complete, and 291 (71%) are considered ongoing tasks. The remaining 102 (25%) of the programs, the partially complete and pending programs, still need to be completed.
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For the Housing Element, certified in August 2024, the City has made progress on program implementation; approximately 56% of the programs are considered either complete or part of on-going operations, and 26% of the programs are considered in progress. See Attachment B and discussion below for more information about the Housing Element program implementation status.
On November 13, 2024, the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) reviewed the statuses of the Comp Plan and the Housing Element Implementation programs. There were no public comments and the PTC voted unanimously to recommend the Council review and transmit the annual reports to the relevant State entities by April 1, 2025.
BACKGROUND
This Annual Progress Report (APR) is for the seventh year of annual reporting since the adoption of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan in 2017 and for the second year of the 6th Cycle Housing Element. The City Council reviewed the 2023 annual reports on March 11, 2024.1 The PTC reviewed the 2024 APRs on November 13, 2024.
2030 Comprehensive Plan Implementation APR
The Comprehensive Plan Implementation APR is a State mandated report, required by Government Code Section 654003, and submittal is due by April 1 each year. The Government Code states that after a legislative body (City Council) adopts the Comp Plan, an annual review must be submitted to the City Council, the Office of Planning and Research (OPR), and the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on the status of the plan’s progress in implementing programs.
In addition to the State mandated annual reporting, the Palo Alto Municipal Code (Section
19.04.030)2 specifies that the PTC shall annually review the Comprehensive Plan “and recommend to the City Council such extensions, changes or additions to the plan as the commission may consider necessary in the view of any change in conditions.” The PTC did not recommend any extensions, changes, or additions to the plan this year. 2023-2031 Housing Element APR
The HCD requires an APR addressing the City’s progress in implementing the Housing Element.
The report is due by April 1. The report includes data on housing production and accomplishments toward the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) goals. The 2023 Housing Element APR, submitted in March 2024, was the first year of reporting on the implementation of the 6th Cycle Housing Element programs. 1 2024-03-11 City Council Agenda Packet
2 https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/paloalto/latest/paloalto_ca/0-0-0-82254 Item 3
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The 2024 Housing Element APR reflects the second year of the 6th Cycle Housing Element that was readopted by City Council on April 15, 2024, and certified by HCD on August 20, 2024.
HCD mandates that the APR for the Housing Element focus on three topics:
•Total number of net housing units produced or “permitted” by the City in a calendar year;
•Status of jurisdiction’s progress in addressing its RHNA; and •Status of the implementation of the Housing Element’s programs and goals.
Planning and Transportation Commission Review
On November 13, 2024, the PTC reviewed the Comp Plan and HE implementation programs.3 The PTC’s questions ranged from procedural review schedules to specific program implementation practices. The PTC unanimously approved staff’s recommendation to take the year-end statuses of programs to City Council in early Spring. The minutes for the November 13, 2024, PTC meeting are available here. 4
ANALYSIS
This section provides an overview of 2024 APRs for the Comp Plan and Housing Element and provides high-level summaries of the related data. See Attachments A and B for individual program details and information about the City’s RHNA progress.
Comprehensive Plan Program Implementation Status
The Comp Plan is intended to be a living document, to grow and evolve as local conditions change. The City Council’s role is to review the Comp Plan programs annually and consider any modifications that may be necessary. All amendments require public hearings by the PTC and City Council and evaluation of the potential impacts on Palo Alto’s physical environment, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Attachment A provides detailed status summaries of the 410 programs.
Staff assessed the implementation programs of the Comp Plan and reported on the following three aspects:
1. Completion Status
Staff have categorized programs as follows:
• Complete: Program implemented; tasks complete; no follow-up needed. • Partially Complete: Program implementation tasks in-progress. 3 2024-11-13 Planning & Transportation Commission Agenda Packet 4 2024-11-13 Planning & Transportation Commission Summary Minutes Item 3
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• Ongoing: Program activities ongoing as standard business practice. • Pending: Program implementation not started.
The table below indicates how many programs fall into each of these categories as of the end of December 2024 and compares this to the status at the end of 2023. Note that some programs that were considered ongoing in 2023 have since been either completed or partially completed, leading to an overall reduction in ongoing programs and an overall increase in completed and partially completed programs.
Table 1. Completion Status of the Comprehensive Plan Programs (through December 2024) Completion Status
Number of
Programs
(2023)
Percent of
Total
(2023)
Number of
Programs
(2024)
Percent of
Total
(2024)
Complete
Program implemented; tasks complete; no
follow-up needed
13 3% 17 4%
Ongoing
Program activities ongoing as standard
business practice
301 73% 292 71%
Partially Complete
Program implementation tasks in-progress 36 9% 52 13%
Pending
Program implementation not started 60 15% 49 12%
Total 410 100% 410 100%
Source: City of Palo Alto, Planning and Development Services, January 2025
2. Target Completion Date at Time of Comp Plan Adoption Comp Plan Implementation Programs priorities were identified in 2017 when the Plan was adopted. These priorities correlated to the timeframe within which the programs should be completed.
Table 2. Completion Status of the Comprehensive Plan Programs by Target Completion Date (through December 2024)
Target Completion Date at Time of
Comp Plan Adoption
Number of
Programs Complete Ongoing Partially
Complete Pending
By 2022 97 7 62 21 7
2022-2027 93 4 43 20 26
After 2027 11 1 4 1 5
Continuous (not expected to be
completed) 209 5 183 10 11
Total Programs 410 17 292 52 49
Source: City of Palo Alto, Planning and Development Services, January 2025 Item 3
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Note: Please see November 13, 2024, PTC packet for an explanation of terminology changes.5
3. Level of Effort Required to Complete
For each Comp Plan program, the level of effort for program implementation is assessed annually. The level of effort reflects the magnitude and complexity of the program in terms of project size (e.g., small, medium, or large), required staffing, departmental planning, interdepartmental or cross jurisdictional involvement, and overall financial cost.
The levels of effort are as follows:
• Standard: Relatively lower level of effort to complete; can likely be accomplished with existing resources.
• Significant: Moderate level of effort required to complete; may require some additional resources.
• Substantial: High level of effort required to complete; very likely to require additional staffing, financial or other resources.
Table 3. Completion Status of the Comprehensive Plan Programs by Level of Effort for Programs Not Yet Completed (through December 2024)
Level of Effort to Complete Implementation Number of
Programs Ongoing Partially
Complete Pending
Standard
Relatively lower level of effort to complete;
can likely be accomplished with existing
resources
223 181 22 20
Significant
Moderate level of effort required to complete;
may require some additional resources
121 79 20 22
Substantial
High level of effort required to complete; very
likely to require additional staffing, financial
or other resources
49 32 10 7
Total 393 292 52 49
Source: City of Palo Alto, Planning and Development Services, January 2025 Note: Please see November 13, 2024, PTC packet for an explanation of terminology changes.6 Housing Element Program Implementation Status
In 2024, Planning & Development Services staff remained focused on tasks associated with the 6th Cycle Housing Element revision and readoption process based on HCD comments. The City Council readopted the 2023-2031 Housing Element on April 15, 2024, and HCD certified it on August 20, 2024.
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The Housing Element has 110 implementation program objectives that address a range of initiatives to support housing in the City. At this time, considerable progress has been made on program implementation. Of the 110 adopted program objectives, staff has addressed approximately 62 (56%). Many of these program objectives are part of ongoing operations. An additional 29 (26%) of the program objectives are considered in progress. The list of Housing Element programs is provided in Attachment B.
2024 Achievements Toward 2023-2031 RHNA
For the 2023-2031 RHNA cycle, the City’s allocation is 6,086 units. Table 4 shows the City’s progress in housing production as of December 31, 2024.
Table 4. City Progress Towards 2023-2031 RHNA Allocation (as of December 31, 2024) Income Level 2023-2031 RHNA
(by Income Level)
Total Units Permitted as
of December 2024
Total Remaining
RHNA
% of RHNA
Permitted
Extremely Low
Income 778 0 778 0.00%
Very Low Income 778 0 778 0.00%
Low Income 896 89 807 9.93%
Moderate 1,013 71 942 7.01%
Above Moderate 2,621 285 2336 10.87%
Total 6,086 445 5,641 7.31%
Source: City of Palo Alto, Planning and Development Services, December 2024 As of December 31, 2024, the City issued building permits for 445 units. Approximately 64% of these units were in the Above Moderate-Income category (223 accessory dwelling units and 27 single family homes).
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
There is no resource impact anticipated. Staff time to prepare and submit reports was contemplated in the allocation of resources to the department.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Members of the public had an opportunity to comment on the draft APR reports during the PTC hearing held on November 13, 2024. There were no public speakers for this item. Other than the required noticing for City Council and PTC meeting in a local paper and public media, staff did not perform any specific community outreach.
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ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This report on the City’s progress of the existing Implementation Chapter of the Comp Plan and the Housing Element is not a project requiring review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Comp Plan Implementation Program Status, 2024 Attachment B: 2023-2031 Housing Element Implementation Program Status, 2024 Attachment C: City’s RHNA Progress, 2024
APPROVED BY:
Jonathan Lait, Planning and Development Services Director Item 3
Item 3 Staff Report
Item 3: Staff Report
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Attachment A: Comprehensive Plan Implementation Program Status, 2024 Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Business & Economics Element
Goal B‐1: Businesses in Palo Alto that contribute to economic vitality, enhance the city’s physical environment, promote municipal revenues and provide needed local services.
The City continues to monitor the office / Research & Development growth. In 2024, there was a net gain of 2600 sq. ft. of office/R&D as of September 2024. The 2023 Staff Comment was provided as a mid‐year update in 2023 ‐ by the end of the 2023 calendar year there was a net gain of 93,920 sq. ft office / R&D.
Planning and
Development Services & Continuous Task
City Manager's Office
Implement and periodically amend an Economic Development Policy to guide business development in the City in a manner consistent with Policy L‐1.10.B.1.1 Standard Ongoing Ongoing
Goal B‐3: Careful management of City revenues and expenditures so that the fiscal health of the City is ensured and services are delivered efficiently and equitably.
The new business tax program has launched and both the business tax and business registry processes are active resulting in existing and new businesses providing updated information to the City annually along with fees either quarterly for the tax or annually for the registration.
Continue to refine tools, such as the Business Registry, as data sources on existing businesses, including the type of business, number of employees, size, location, and other metrics to track the diversity of Palo Alto businesses.
Administrative Services
DepartmentB3.2.1 Continuous Task Significant
Goal B‐4: The stimulation of diverse commercial, retail and professional service business opportunities through supportive business policies and a culture of innovation.
Revise zoning and other regulations as needed to encourage the preservation of space to accommodate Planning andB4.2.1 B4.2.2
B4.6.1
2022‐2027 Significant
Standard
Standard
Pending
Pending
Ongoing
Work has not commenced.
Work has not commenced.
small businesses, start‐ups and other services. Development Services Consider planning, regulatory, or other incentives to encourage property owners to include smaller office spaces in their buildings to serve small businesses, non‐ profit organizations, and independent professionals.
Planning and
Development Services 2022‐2027
Planning and The City continues to encourage Palo Alto residents, workers, and visitors to buy in Palo Alto through its Uplift Local campaign and opportunities for businesses to cross‐promote with City events.
Work with local merchants to encourage Palo Alto residents, workers, and visitors to buy in Palo Alto. Development Services & Continuous Task City Manager's Office
Study the overall viability of ground‐floor retail requirements in preserving retail space and creating an active street environment, including the types of locations where such requirements are most effective. Development Services Planning and The reports were presented to the PTC in 2024. Council reviewed the report per PTC and Council Retail Ad Hoc and directed staff to proceed with recommendations.B4.6.2 B4.6.3
2022‐2027 N/A Complete
OngoingMaintain distinct neighborhood shopping areas that are attractive, accessible, and convenient to nearby Planning and residents.
Goal B‐5: City regulations and operating procedures that provide certainty, predictability and flexibility and help businesses adapt to changing market conditions.
Continuous Task Standard This is an ongoing effort.
This is an ongoing effort.
Development Services
Regularly evaluate ways to improve coordination of the City’s environmental review, permitting, and inspection processes.
Planning and
Development ServicesB5.1.1
B5.1.2
Continuous Task Standard Ongoing
Objective Design Standards for housing development projects and for single‐family homes were approved in 2022. Ongoing improvements will be made as needed. SOFA CAP zone regulations will be updated in 2026 to include objective design standards.
Improve design guidelines to reduce ambiguity and more clearly articulate compatibility principles to the Planning and business community and to the public. 2022‐2027 Significant Partially CompleteDevelopment Services Staff is processing more Architectural Review applications over the counter including sign applications. These procedures were last updated in February 2024 to add additional items that can be processed OTC.
Planning and
Development ServicesB5.1.3
B5.1.4
Simplify the design review process for small‐scale changes to previously approved site plans and buildings. 2022‐2027 Significant Significant
Ongoing
Revise zoning and other regulations as needed to encourage the revitalization of aging retail structures and areas. Encourage the preservation of space to accommodate small, independent retail businesses and professional services.
Retail study was completed in 2024 and shared with the Retail Ad Hoc and Council. Council reviewed the report and adopted an interim ordinance in December 2024 with direction to staff to proceed with work on a permanent ordinance in 2025.
Planning and
Development Services Continuous Task Partially Complete Goal B‐6: Attractive, vibrant retail centers, each with a mix of uses and a distinctive character.
City Council approved City's Economic Development strategy in 2023. To progress on that strategy, the City continues collaborating with various stakeholders, including the Chamber of Commerce, University Avenue Downtown Businesses, California Avenue businesses, hoteliers, Stanford, and others to promote a strong business climate. Focused business support through programs like Uplift Local, public art installations, holiday events, and other ways to activate spaces will continue.
Planning and
Development Services & Continuous Task
City Manager's Office
Actively work with Downtown businesses, professional associations and the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce to retain successful retail businesses that contribute to the City’s goals for Downtown.B6.1.1 Standard Ongoing Goal B‐7: Thriving business employment districts at Stanford Research Park, Stanford Medical Center, East Bayshore/San Antonio Road Area and Bayshore Corridor that complement the City’s business and neighborhood centers.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Review policies and regulations guiding development at Stanford Research Park and revise them as needed to allow improved responsiveness to changing market conditions in a manner consistent with Policy L‐1.10.
The City Council adopted the Housing Element in May 2023 and adopted a revised Housing Element in April 2024 which was certified by the State in August 2024. Staff meets regularly with Stanford University regarding land use on an ongoing basis.
Planning and
Development ServicesB7.2.1 2022‐2027 Significant
Significant
Ongoing
Study the feasibility of a “transfer of development rights” (TDR) program and other measures that would provide greater development flexibility within Stanford Research Park without creating significant adverse traffic impacts or increasing the allowable floor area.
Planning and
Development ServicesB7.2.2 2022‐2027 Pending Work has not commenced.
Community Services & Facilities Element
Goal C‐1: Deliver community services effectively and efficiently.
No change from previous year reporting. City staff continues to work collaboratively with Palo Alto Community Child Care (PACCC) by managing service contracts with them in order to provide the best care possible.
Collaborate with Palo Alto Community Child Care (PACCC) to identify, develop, and promote high quality Community ServicesC.1.15.3 Continuous Task Standard Ongoingearly learning environments to serve all families in our community. Department The City supports Teen Leadership Groups, including the Art Center Teen Leadership Group (ACTL), Palo Alto Youth Council (PAYC), Teen Advisory Board (TAB), Teen Library Advisory Board (TLAB) and Teen Arts Council (TAC), as well as overseeing Think Fund, a supportive grant program for teens, and the makerspace, MakeX. The teen leadership groups give high school students in Palo Alto the opportunity to serve the teen community by acting as a voice toward action and change. The Teen Center at Mitchell Park Community Center is open for middle school students Monday – Friday from 3pm‐6pm, and now provides activities every Friday night for high School students from 6pm‐8pm. The Art Center continues to provide creative opportunities for teens through expanded teen classroom assistants and a larger, more engaged Art Center Teen Leadership (ACTL) group. In the past year, ACTL had 29 members. Participants were primarily from the Palo Alto schools, and attended artist talks and workshops, made holiday cards for Avenidas clients, organized and held a Teen Event with 75 teens in attendance, and exhibited their art at the Art Center. The City also continues to partner with local organizations support youth suicide prevention and mental health awareness through community education, outreach, and training; access to quality youth mental health services; and policy advocacy. The City also funds Youth Community Service's Connectedness Initiative.
Develop programs and activities for teens that strengthen leadership skills, encourage a culture of community service, inclusiveness, tolerance and acceptance of others.
Community Services
DepartmentC.1.17.2 Continuous Task Standard Ongoing
Support, promote, and publicize the provision of comprehensive senior services in coordination with senior service providers. Comprehensive services include addressing senior nutrition, mental health and transportation.
City continues to support Avenidas for a wide array of senior programming/services, La Comida for senior nutrition needs, and Senior Adult Legal Assistance for free legal services for seniors.
Community Services
DepartmentC.1.18.2
C.1.18.3
Continuous Task Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Establish a support program for caregivers of seniors and people with disabilities by partnering with private, nonprofit, faith‐based and public community service organizations.
Community Services
Department
This work is part of Avenidas contracted scope of services. The City has an agreement with Magical Bridge Foundation to programs for people with disabilities.2022‐2027 Explore a City solution to help residents and others to resolve questions and concerns and navigate the City’s community services and facilities.
Community Services
DepartmentC.1.2.2
C1.1.1
2022‐2027 Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
No Change from Previous Year
No change from Previous yearBased on identified needs, continue to provide and expand the provision of multilingual literature, program information and educational displays at public community facilities and parks.
Community Services
Department Continuous Task
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 The Palo Alto Art Center free‐admission exhibitions continue to showcase diverse cultural themes through art, engaging more than 20,000 diverse community members last fiscal year. In FY24, the Art Center presented the exhibition Boom Oaxaca, which celebrated the cultural traditions of Palo Alto’s sister city Oaxaca, Mexico. In Feast or Famine and What’s Cooking’? celebrated food traditions from countries as diverse as China, Vietnam, Mexico, and India, highlighting how food connects us to our identity and each other. With the support of the Friends of the Palo Alto Children’s Theatre, the Children’s Theatre commissioned new theatrical works supported by community collaborations and cross‐ cultural exchanges. In FY24, the Children’s Theatre produced an adaptation of The Velveteen Rabbit, in a version of the classic tale that featured all non‐binary roles, and aimed at teaching children about both having compassion for those who are different and coping with loss. Following The Velveteen Rabbit, The Children’s Theatre collaborated with local schools as well as the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo to produce the world premiere of Meerkats – the Musical, a new play that combined science learning and art.
Establish a cross‐cultural outreach program to engage residents of all ages, cultural, social and linguistic backgrounds in educational, recreational and cultural activities offered throughout the City of Palo Alto. Department Community ServicesC1.1.2 2022‐2027 Significant Ongoing
In cooperation with public and private businesses, non‐ profit organizations, and PAUSD, develop a service Community Services program that will coordinate the efforts of agencies providing services to families and youth in Palo Alto. DepartmentC1.12.1 Continuous Task Significant Ongoing This is an ongoing task.
This is an ongoing task.
Determine the potential for City shared use of PAUSD facilities for weekend, summer and evening use for community uses such as child care, libraries, recreational facilities, community meeting space, education, language education, health care, culture and computer resources.
Community Services
DepartmentC1.13.1
C1.15.1
2022‐2027 Significant
Standard
Pending
OngoingSupport and promote the provision of comprehensive child care services in Palo Alto by public and private Community Services City staff and the Early Care and Education Committee continue to work to support child care providers in the community.By 2022providers, including employers. Department Staff requested an allocation from the Child Care Trust Fund from Council in December of 2024 to re‐establish the Child Care Mini Grant Program. This program will provide small grants to support professional development opportunities for providers and the provision of professional services to assist them in addressing the specialized needs of children in their programs.
Utilize the Early Care and Education Committee to develop and update the Child Care Master Plan, and to connect providers and professionals working with families with young children, explore challenges and opportunities to programs and services for young children, and support early education programs in the Department community in their efforts to enhance quality.
Community ServicesC1.15.2 By 2022 Standard Ongoing
Community Services
DepartmentC1.15.4
C1.16.1
Explore opportunities to provide access to childcare for families of City employees. After 2027 Standard Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
This program is in place and ongoing.
This is an ongoing effort and the Community Services Department's nonprofit partners provide some support for these programs. The City Council approved funding for youth mental health support in the FY25 budget to help support these programs.
Identify funding sources for expanded outreach and increased involvement to support youth and teen leadership programs and events.
Community Services
Department 2022‐2027
The City continues to support Project Safety Net, now a 501(c)(3) and Youth Community Service, to support teen mental health programs. The Human Services Resource Allocation Process (HSRAP) has historically funded several organizations focusing on teen health. The City also funds Youth Community Service's Youth Connectedness Initiative. The City Council provided funding in FY25 in support of youth mental health.
Leverage available funding to pursue support of teen mental, physical, social and emotional health programs.
Community Services
DepartmentC1.16.2
C1.17.1
Continuous Task
By 2022
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
OngoingOptimize participation in such programs by increasing the number of locations where the programs are provided and by supporting transportation options to these locations.
Community Services
Department
Free Link rides are available to teens seeking to access places that support their mental health.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 In FY24, the Art Center engaged 2,305 children and youth in after‐school and weekend classes throughout the school year and in eight weeks of summer camps focused on drawing, painting, comics, ceramics, fashion design, jewelry and more. The Art Center continues to provide creative opportunities for teens through expanded teen classroom assistants and a larger, more engaged Art Center Teen Leadership (ACTL) group. In the past year, ACTL had 29 members. Participants were primarily from the Palo Alto schools, and attended artist talks and workshops, made holiday cards for Avenidas clients, organized and held a Teen Event with 75 teens in attendance, and exhibited their art at the Art Center. A value of more than $320,000! The Art Center’s summer intern program continues to provide meaningful work experience in the arts for diverse teens from around the country. Last year, diverse undergraduate interns and graduate fellows were from University of San Francisco, Museum Studies Masters Program; UC Riverside, George Washington University, University of Washington, Syracuse, Barnard, and the University of Miami. In FY24, the Children’s Theatre worked with the Friends of Palo Alto Children’s Theatre to provide more than $20,000 in paid internships to 53 teens, who were able gain hands on teaching and mentorship opportunities in both production and theatre classroom settings. In 2023 the Palo Alto Junior Museum established an internship position in the Zoo as a way of engaging youth from local low‐income neighborhoods that are interested in pursuing a carrier in the zoo and aquarium fields. This year staff is working with education nonprofits in East Palo Alto to recruit high‐school or college age youth for the position.
Community Services
DepartmentC1.17.3 Promote a diverse range of interests and vocations among programs offered to children, youth and teens. 2022‐2027 Standard Ongoing The Palo Alto Art Center engages seniors through our adult studio program (approximately 18% of adult studio class takers identify as 65 years or older), through our volunteer program (in FY24, approximately 400 active volunteers contributed more than 10,000 hours), and our outreach program funded by the Palo Alto Art Center that provides free art making opportunities to low‐income senior communities in Palo Alto.
Develop a program to engage the talents and skills that seniors possess that would provide volunteer opportunities throughout the City.
Community Services
DepartmentC1.18.1
C1.2.1
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
OngoingPeriodically review public information, outreach and community relations activities to evaluate effectiveness.
Community Services
Department No change from previous year reporting. This is an ongoing task.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 In FY24, the Art Center offered free use of Aira, an on‐demand app for use by people with vision impairment for live visual descriptions. The Art Center also purchased and promoted its accessible artmaking equipment, including an accessible potters’ wheel and easels.
Accessibility offerings are outlined on the Art Center’s access webpage, and also include social narratives for visiting our galleries and taking classes in our studios. Thanks to support from the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation, the Art Center can offer scholarships to East Palo Alto youth and low‐income seniors to reduce barriers to access classes and workshops. Community Services also continues to partner with Magical Bridge Foundation to offer inclusive programming for all‐abilities. Community Services also received approval to hire a .75 FTE Therapeutic Recreation Coordinator to provide access and inclusion support to the Department. In FY24, as part of the Children's Theatre's Magical Series Spectrum and Sensory Friendly offerings, developed in collaboration with the Magical Bridge Foundation, the Children’s Theatre offered Magical Series Sensory and Spectrum Friendly performances and classes, including acting, dance and music therapy offerings designed for differently abled participants. The Children’s Theatre Main Stage and Summer Hot Dog Series offered ASL designated performances, as well as a “Read‐Along” option for audiences, available at all performances. The Children’s Theatre also worked with PAUSD to offer free theatre classes in summer camps designed to serve to low‐income and traditionally under‐represented communities, as well as working in partnership with the Magical Bridge Foundation to provide free theatre and music classes in the “Magical Day Program,” a camp that serves participants with special needs who have aged out of traditional education programs.
Identify barriers to participation in City programming and facilities across gender, age, socioeconomic and ethnic groups and sexual identity and orientation, as well as mental and physical abilities, and adopt strategies to remove barriers to participation.
Community Services
DepartmentC1.2.3 By 2022 Significant Ongoing
The Palo Alto Art Center Foundation provides vital support to the Art Center to reach underserved communities. Thanks to the Foundation, Cultural Kaleidoscope, our artists‐in‐ the‐schools program, was offered free‐of‐charge in 34 Palo Alto and East Palo Alto classrooms to 816 students, fostering classroom learning through the arts in FY24. Thanks to the generosity of the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation, 22 scholarship Project Look school tours were provided, with bussing to East Palo Alto schools, allowing the participation of more than 500 students. In FY24, the Children’s Theatre worked with the Friends of Palo Alto Childrens Theatre to provide more than $20,000 in theatre field trip transportation grants to Title‐1 schools, as well as class and camp scholarships to low‐ income families. In FY24, Palo Alto Children’s Theatre continued to support the development of the Reparations Project, a national collaboration with The Breath Project and the Friends of Palo Alto Children’s Theatre, to encourage conversations around the topic of slavery reparations in educational and performing arts institutions, and was part of the Black Experience Festival in Mountain View, California. In addition to the Reparations Project, the theatre participated in a production about housing insecurity for the Black Experience Festival, and paid internships for Palo Alto teens were included in both projects. With funding from the Friends of the Junior Museum & Zoo the JMZ provided 22 scholarships to low income students to come to JMZ week‐long camps and one Summer Camp Assistant position. 113 after school programs (Science with a Twist) in East Palo Alto schools, 433 programs in five 5 Boys and Girls Clubs, 5 field trips to Palo Alto Open Space Preserves, and four field trips to the JMZ. With funding from Santa Clara County the JMZ provided 73 program for Title 1 schools in the county plus 14 field trips to Open Space Preserves with transportation, and One class’s field trip to the JMZ. With funding from First 5 Santa Clara the JMZ provided 65 “Mommy and Me” preschool programs in five family resource centers.
Community Services
DepartmentC1.2.4 Based on identified needs, expand program offerings to underserved groups. Continuous Task Substantial Ongoing Partner with agencies for support and improved access so that all can participate as appropriate in Palo Alto recreational programs.
Community Services
Department
Council approved funding for Magical Bridge Foundation to provide more programming in the community.C1.20.1 Continuous Task Standard Ongoing
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Staff is leading an effort to count unhoused members of the community for the Bienniel Point in Time Count, a national effort that requests that each community count and/or interview their unsheltered homeleess population. This is being done with the assistance of local serivces providers and community volunteers.
Increase awareness about caring and compassion for the unhoused and those who suffer from mental and/or physical conditions through educational programming in partnership with community and business organizations throughout the region.
Community Services
DepartmentC1.22.1 Continuous Task Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Work with Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties, the State of California, the federal government, non‐ profit agencies, business and other organizations to define roles and responsibilities in the comprehensive provision of permanent supportive housing and temporary shelter, food, clothing and transportation for those in need.
This is an ongoing task. The City continues to be involved local, regional, State and federal partners in this work. This fall, the City joined a new intercity unhoused response collaborative launched by Mountain View, to bring together cities to share information, partner and learn from one another.
Planning and
Development Services / Continuous Task
CMO
C1.22.2
No change from previous year reporting. This is an ongoing task. Community Services Department’s program areas regularly collect and review demographic information from program participants. The Parks, Trails, Open Space and Recreation Master Plan contains information on community needs.
Develop and implement a plan to collect and analyze data on demographics, use of community service facilities and needs of the community as related to parks, open spaces, recreation, arts and culture.
Community Services
DepartmentC1.3.1
C1.6.1
2022‐2027
2022‐2027
Standard Ongoing
PendingEstablish a program to facilitate continuing corporate support for community services through contributions of funds, time, materials and expertise.
Community Services
Department
No change from previous year reporting. A formal program to facilitate corporate support has not been established. Corporate sponsorships for special events have been received.Significant Goal C‐2: Demonstrate a commitment to excellence and high quality service to the public among City of Palo Alto officials and employees.
Human Resources
Department
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.C2.2.1 Establish performance review criteria for City employees that consider the quality of service provided. 2022‐2027 Standard Standard
Partially Complete
OngoingPeriodically perform evaluations of City service delivery and develop strategies for continuous improvement. Use metrics and make information publicly available.
Community Services
Department
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.C2.2.2 Continuous Task Goal C‐3: Recognize the intrinsic value and everyday importance of our parks and community centers, libraries, civic buildings and cultural assets by investing in their maintenance and improvement.
The Citywide Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) and Electrification Assessment (EA) inspections have been completed. The data from the findings is being populated into Maintenance Connection. This data will allow staff to track and plan for deferred maintenance (catch‐up), regular maintenance (keep‐up), ADA Accessibility, Capital Renewals (New) and Energy and Sustainability (electrification) for future CIP projects and budgeting.
Administrative Services
Department/
OMB/PWD
C3.2.1 Develop a proactive Asset Management Program for infrastructure requirements and costs. 2022‐2027 Significant Ongoing Periodically evaluate how parks and recreational facilities are being used and develop strategies for improving their use overall.
Community Services
Department
This is an ongoing effort. Staff regularly analyze programs and solicit feedback from program participants to improve programs and provide desired amenities.C3.3.1 C3.3.2
Continuous Task
By 2022
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
OngoingStudy and recommend methods of private and public financing for improved park maintenance, rehabilitation, and construction of facilities, including those used for arts and culture.
Community Services
Department
Staff continue to partner with stakeholders to design and fundraise for a new and improved Greer skate park.
Public Works Staff continues to review all park facilities and determine where to upgrade systems to increase water efficiency. This includes appliances, fixtures, and irrigation systems. Once evaluated, staff will develop an implementation schedule. Non‐potable water conservations measures will be included where and when feasible.
Estimate the costs of retrofitting all park facilities with water efficient appliances, fixtures and irrigation systems and develop an implementation schedule to phase‐in use of non‐potable water conservations measures where and when feasible.
Department and
Community Services
Department
C3.3.3
C3.3.4
After 2027 Significant
Significant
Ongoing
Planning and
Development Services Continuous Task
and Community
Periodically assess the need to adjust parkland dedication or fees in lieu thereof to ensure they remain proportional to real estate values in Palo Alto.
New fees were adopted but there are follow up items with the Planning and Development Services Department.Partially complete
Goal C‐4: Plan for a future in which our parks, open spaces, libraries, public art, and community facilities thrive and adapt to the growth and change of Palo Alto.
Explore opportunities to dedicate City‐owned land as parkland to protect and preserve its community‐ serving purpose into the future.
Community Services
Department
Staff continue to review current parklands and determine which may be appropriate for future dedication.C4.1.1
C4.1.2
C4.1.3
By 2022 Standard Ongoing
Pending
Pending
Community Services
Department and
Planning and
Community Services
Department and
Planning and
Encourage dedication of new land for parks through regulations and incentives for new development and programs to solicit bequests of land within the city. 2022‐2027 After 2027
Significant
Substantial
This work has not been started due to staff priorities.
The Caltrain tracks have not been moved underground.Pursue opportunities to create linear parks over the Caltrain tracks in the event the tracks are moved below grade.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Community Services
C4.1.4 Explore ways to dedicate a portion of in‐lieu fees towards acquisition of parkland, not just improvements. Department and 2022‐2027 Significant Pending This work has not been started due to staff priorities.
Planning and
Use Cubberley Community Center as a critical and vital part of the City’s service delivery system while also Community Services Progress has been made on negotiating a purchase of a portion of Cubberley. The master planning effort will be re‐initiated in January 2025.C4.5.1 Continuous Task Substantial Ongoingplanning for its future. Department Goal C‐5: Sustain the health, well‐being, recreation, and safety of residents and visitors, and improve the quality, quantity, and affordability of social services for all community members, including children, youth, teens, seniors, the unhoused, and people with disabilities.
In the FY24 budget process, the Council allocated an additional $200k for Human Resource Community Services
Department
Allocation Process grants, which provide grants to local non‐profits that support health and well‐being to vulnerable members of the community. In general, nearly all of CSD's programs and services support the well‐being of the public.
C5.1.1 Allocate resources to create and support initiatives to increase the health and well‐being of the public. Continuous Task Standard Ongoing Establish a community‐sourced online clearinghouse of information and activities related to health promotion in the community.
Community Services
Department
Community resources related to health and wellness have been provided through the City Manager’s Office as part of Uplift Local and communication and on the City's website.C5.1.2 Continuous Task Standard Ongoing In FY24, the Art Center continued to distribute its Social and Emotional Toolkit to community members throughout the City. The Art Center also continues to provide free artmaking experiences to a variety of city and community events, including the May Fete celebration, and Chili Cook Off. Free Family Days throughout the year at the Art Center draw hundreds of participants. The Teen Center has incorporated wellness topics and activities.
Incorporate health and well‐being topics, including arts and culture, into existing events and programs at Community ServicesC5.6.1 Continuous Task Standard OngoingCity‐ owned park and recreation facilities. Department In FY24, the Children’s Theatre continued to serve all PAUSD K‐2 Elementary School students with a Dance in Schools program, an 8‐week onsite get‐up‐and‐move curriculum that promotes physical fitness and positive self‐esteem.
Work with schools and community organizations to provide programs that educate residents, workers and visitors on health and well‐being topics.
Community Services
DepartmentC5.6.2
C5.9.1
Continuous Task Significant
Significant
Ongoing
Ongoing
This is an ongoing effort. The Community Services Department continues to manage the City's community garden program. There are currently five community gardens in the program ‐ Arastradero Garden is currently a leased/partnership site with the owner.
Identify existing and potential indoor and outdoor locations for community gardens and farmers markets Community Services at City‐owned or leased facilities and spaces. 2022‐2027Department Governance Chapter
Goal G‐1: Effective opportunities for public participation in local government.
Planning and
Development ServicesG1.1.1 Consider making data available at a transactional level on the Open Data Portal. Continuous Task Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
This is an ongoing effort.
Staff has implemented quarterly neighborhood town hall meetings in partnership with neighborhood groups. All meeting materials are available online at www.cityofpaloalto.org/engage. There are also other topic‐specific community engagement meetings that occur throughout the year.
City Council & City
Clerk’s OfficeG1.2.1 Continue to hold regular, Town Hall‐style meetings in neighborhoods.
Staff presented community engagement activities as part of the adoption of the 2024 Council Priorities/Work Plans. Staff presented a series of community engagement approaches and gained input on the City's overall approach. Several efforts are underway including hosting one Neighborhood Town Hall in each quarter of the calendar year.
Council also receives a quarterly update on work completed.
Periodically review the suite of engagement options used to solicit citizen input and expertise on policy issues.G1.2.2
G1.2.3
City Manager’s Office
City Manager’s Office
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Continue to rely on neighborhood organizations, the City website, local media, online technologies and other communication platforms to keep residents informed of current issues and to encourage citizen engagement.
This is an ongoing task and staff continues to implement this goal.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
14 Packet Pg. 34 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 A virtual receptionist in the City Hall Lobby assists the public with their service needs and this continues to be available, in addition to service assistance at the Revenue Collections and Utilities service counters. In terms of other communications focus areas, staff manages an interactive platform that shares information with the public and also supports new ways to engage the community on topic specific efforts including Fiber and Sustainability. Staff continues using the lobby screens to share City information, implemented a process to distribute printed materials to City facilities for public information, mailed postcards to residents informing them of the Neighborhood Town Halls, and during the storm season in addition to all digital ways to share information, staff recorded updates on the City’s public information line to share storm impacts and updates.
Staff hosted a City Hall Open House and staff is currently recruiting for a information service staff member to connect community members at City Hall with information and services.
Provide access to communications technologies at City facilities, including public libraries and City Hall, and explore innovative locations for communication.G1.2.4 City Manager’s Office Continuous Task Significant Ongoing We continue to release City Council staff reports up to 10 days prior to City Council meetings, with the exception of amended agenda items which are provided on the Thursdays before the meeting (latest).
Continue to release City Council staff reports to the public up to 10 days prior to Council hearings to increase public awareness of City decision‐making.G1.2.5 City Clerk’s Office Continuous Task Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
ongoing
Ongoing
Goal G‐2: Informed and involved civic, cultural, environmental, social service and neighborhood organizations and residents.
Continue to offer the use of City facilities to non‐profit civic, environmental, cultural, neighborhood and social service organizations for meetings and events at discounted or complimentary rates and via sponsorship programs.
G2.2.1 City Manager’s Office
City Manager's Office
This is an ongoing effort.
Goal G‐4: Active involvement of local citizens as volunteers.
The City continues to collaborate with established Advisory Groups to enhance policy development and foster information sharing. To promote transparency in nonprofit funding, the City will now regularly report on available funding opportunities as well as the nonprofits awarded service and lease contracts. Additionally, the City will strengthen communication channels with nonprofit partners who hold active contracts, helping to amplify their services to the broader community.
Continue and expand volunteer opportunities and the community’s awareness of public and nonprofit organizations serving the City.G4.1.1
G4.1.2
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
The City continues to collaborate with established Advisory Groups to enhance policy development and foster information sharing. To promote transparency in nonprofit funding, the City will now regularly report on available funding opportunities as well as the nonprofits awarded service and lease contracts. Additionally, the City will strengthen communication channels with nonprofit partners who hold active contracts, helping to amplify their services to the broader community.
Publicly recognize the efforts of individuals, groups, and businesses that provide volunteer services within the City. City Manager’s Office
City Manager’s OfficeCoordinate with the Palo Alto Unified School District to develop classroom‐based leadership, governance and civic participation programs.
This is an ongoing task. The City regularly meets with PAUSD leadership and discusses recent issues of interest to both organizations.G4.1.3
G4.1.4
2022‐2027
2022‐2027
Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
City Manager’s Office
and Community
Services Department
Support the transition from school‐based volunteering to civic participation via outreach to parent volunteers and student leaders. This is an ongoing task.
No change from last year's reporting. Staff continues to send a digital welcome message to new residents and finalized a new welcome message that is both digital and in print formats. The City's website, provides a comprehensive look at resident related information. The website includes a digital welcome packet and new resident resources are now available both at www.cityofpaloalto.org/residents and a new "My Neighborhood" map that highlights services available near a resident's home at www.cityofpaloalto.org/residents/my‐neighborhood
Coordinate with the real estate community to develop a welcome package for new residents, containing City resources, information and ways to contribute to livability.G4.1.5 City Manager’s Office 2022‐2027 Significant Partially complete
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
15 Packet Pg. 35 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Goal G‐6: More clearly defined procedures, standards, and expectations for development review.
Provide clear information across multiple communications platforms to guide citizens and businesses through the City review and approval process.
Planning and
Development Services
This is an ongoing effort. Development project submittal checklists are being updated on a regular basis on the City's webpage.G6.2.1 Continuous Task Standard Ongoing Continuous improvements to the Online Permitting System (OPS) including:
‐Launched a pilot program for over the counter residenꢀal MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) permits
‐Integrated online building permit applicaꢀon form to the online permiꢁng process ‐Launched instant permits for kitchen/bath remodel applicaꢀons ‐Launched staff‐level pilot program an Arꢀficial Intelligence (AI) firm to analyze AI capabilities in the plan review process
G6.2.2 Continue and expand customer‐oriented process improvement efforts. All Departments Continuous Task Standard Ongoing ‐Published building permit checklists for more complete applicaꢀons (reducing the iniꢀal back and forth between staff and the applicant)
Use the pre‐screening process to obtain early feedback from the City Council and the community regarding ordinance changes intended to facilitate specific development proposals.
Planning and
Development ServicesG6.2.3 Continuous Task N/A Complete This is required by PAMC Title 18 Chapter 18.79.
Land Use and Community Design Element
Goal L‐1: A compact and resilient city providing residents and visitors with attractive neighborhoods, work places, shopping districts, public facilities, and open The code enforcement team as completed its initial goal to enhance the gas leaf blower program by adopting the ordinance in June of 2023. Moving forward, the code enforcement has and will continue to proactive patrol neighborhoods, respond to complaints and utilize established tools to accomplish the goal of bringing forth compliance with banning the use of gas leaf blowers.
Review regulatory tools available to the City and identify actions to enhance and preserve the livability of residential neighborhoods and the vitality of commercial and employment districts, including improved code enforcement practices.
Planning and
Development ServicesL1.6.1
L1.8.1
By 2022 Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Maintain and update as appropriate the 1985 Land Use Policies Agreement that sets forth the land use policies of the City, Santa Clara County, and Stanford University with regard to Stanford unincorporated lands.
Planning and
Development Services
An update to the Stanford University Community Plan was adopted in October 2023.
However, the plan didn't change the 1985 land use policies agreement/protocol.Continuous Task Goal L‐2: An enhanced sense of “community” with development designed to foster public life, meet citywide needs and embrace the principles of sustainability.
Explore whether there are appropriate locations to allow small‐scale neighborhood‐serving retail facilities Planning and Staff continues to promote neighborhood‐serving retail as part of both current planning and long‐range planning projects.L2.2.1
L2.4.1
2022‐2027 Standard
N/A
Ongoingsuch as coffee shops and corner stores in residential areas. Development Services Amend the Housing Element to increase housing sites along San Antonio Road between Middlefield Road Planning and By 2022 Completeand East Charleston Road and increase residential densities in Downtown and the California Avenue. Development Services As part of the Housing Element update, a proposed program is included to engage in discussions with Stanford Shopping Center in preparation for the next Housing Element Cycle in 2031. See Program 1.5 in the adopted 2023‐2031 Housing Element. The outreach and engagement hasn't begun yet. Staff will meet with representatives of the Stanford Shopping Center in Q2 2025.
Allow housing at Stanford Shopping Center, provided that adequate parking and vibrant retail is maintained and no reduction of retail square footage results from the new housing.
Planning and
Development ServicesL2.4.2
L2.4.3
By 2022
By 2022
Standard
standard
Partially Complete
partially complete
Stanford owned parcels along El Camino Real have been included in the housing sites inventory. Staff continues to explore possibilities of multi family housing in Research Park area with the ordinance to amend Conditional Use Permit (CUP) on Residential use in the Research Park Zone except for properties subject to or impacted by the City’s hazardous materials ordinance‐ see Program 1.5 in the adopted 2023‐2031 Housing Element. The Council will review the ordinance changes in January 2025.
Allow housing on the El Camino Real frontage of the Stanford Research Park. Explore multi‐family housing Planning and elsewhere in Stanford Research Park and near the SUMC. Development Services
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
16 Packet Pg. 36 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Assess non‐residential development potential in the Community Commercial, Service Commercial and Downtown Commercial Districts (CC, CS and CD) and the Neighborhood Commercial District (CN), and convert non‐retail commercial FAR to residential FAR, where appropriate. Conversion to residential capacity should not be considered in Town and Country Village.
Council continues to review Planned Home Zoning (PHZ) prescreening converting commercially used land to housing. This includes a PHZ project (70 Encina) on a Town and Country Center parking lot that is not owned by Town and Country.
Planning and
Development ServicesL2.4.4 By 2022
By 2022
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Update the municipal code to include zoning changes that allow a mix of retail and residential uses but no office uses. The intent of these changes would be to encourage a mix of land uses that contributes to the vitality and walkability of commercial centers and transit corridors.
Retail study was completed in 2024 and shared with the Retail Ad Hoc and Council. Council reviewed the report and adopted an interim ordinance in December 2024 with direction to staff to proceed with work on a permanent ordinance in 2025.
Planning and
Development ServicesL2.4.5 Partially Complete
Explore changing the Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) ordinances for both buildings of historic significance and for seismic retrofits so that transferred development rights may only be used for residential capacity.
Planning and
Development Services
This program has not been explored yet. It may be explored as part of the Downtown Housing Plan.L2.4.6
L2.4.7
L2.4.8
2022‐2027
By 2022
Standard
N/A
Pending
WRT was awarded the contract to work on the Downtown Housing Plan and the project is currently in its assessment phase. First Community Open House is scheduled for the 10/10/24.
Planning and
Development ServicesExplore mechanisms for increasing multi‐family housing density near multimodal transit centers. Complete CompleteIdentify development opportunities for BMR and more affordable market rate housing on publicly owned Planning and properties in a way that is integrated with and enhances existing neighborhoods. By 2022 N/ADevelopment Services Collaborate with PAUSD in exploring opportunities to build housing that is affordable to school district employees.
Planning and
Development Services
Planning and
L2.5.1
L2.7.1
Continuous Task
By 2022
standard
N/A
ongoing In 2024, no new housing opportunities were identified.
Review development standards to discourage the net loss of housing units. CompleteDevelopment Services In 2024, the City launched its new rental registry program to collect data on the current rental market landscape and to inform future housing policies. Staff also brought a Fair Chance Housing policy discussion to the Housing ad hoc committee, the HRC and City Council. Staff also brought an anti rent gouging policy discussion to the housing ad hoc committee. Further, the City has contracted with Project Sentinel to provide Fair Housing and Mediation services.
Planning and
Development ServicesL2.8.1 Conduct a study to evaluate various possible tools for preventing displacement of existing residents. 2022‐2027 Significant Partially Complete Develop and implement a system to inventory the characteristics of existing housing units and track changes in those characteristics on a regular basis. Make the information publicly available.
Planning and
Development Services
The newly launched rental registry program serves to collect key housing inventory data for rental units on properties containing three or more residential rental units.L2.8.2 2022‐2027 Significant Significant
Partially Complete
OngoingCollaborate with PAUSD to plan for space to accommodate future school expansions or new school sites, Planning and and evaluate zoning space to accommodate new schools. Development Services No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.L2.10.1 Continuous Task Goal L‐3: Safe, attractive residential neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and within walking distance of shopping, services, schools, and/or other public gathering places.
Evaluate and implement strategies to prevent conversion of residential and neighborhood‐serving retail Planning andL3.2.1 Continuous Task N/A N/A
Complete
Complete
space to office or short‐term vacation rentals. Development Services Develop a program to assess and manage both the positive and negative impacts of basement construction in single family homes on the community and the environment, including:
‐environment, such as potential impacts to the tree canopy, groundwater supply or quality, and soil compaction.
Planning and
Development Services
and Public WorksL.3.5.1 By 2022
‐Safety issues such surface flooding increased groundwater intrusion with sea level rise, emergency access Department and egress, or sewage backflows.
Goal L‐4: Inviting pedestrian scale centers that offer a variety of retail and commercial services and provide focal points and community gathering places for the city’s residential neighborhoods and employment districts.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
17 Packet Pg. 37 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 The Planning and Transportation reviewed consultant retail recommendations on May 8, 2024 and August 14, 2024. The PTC identified near‐, mid‐ and long‐term retail zoning recommendations. The Council’s Retail Committee reviewed the recommendation on September 18, 2024. In December 2024 the Ad Hoc’s recommendation was shared with the full Council along with an interim ordinance. Direction was given to proceed with a permanent ordinance, and include a comprehensive update to the City’s zoning code as an objective for Council consideration in 2025 work plan.
Study the overall viability of ground‐floor retail requirements in preserving retail space and creating an active street environment, including the types of locations where such requirements are most effective. Development Services Planning andL4.2.1 2022‐2027 Significant Ongoing
Evaluate the effectiveness of formula retail limits adopted for California Avenue. Develop incentives for local small businesses where warranted.
Planning and
Development ServicesL4.2.2
L4.2.3
2022‐2027 significant
significant
ongoing See above. This is being evaluated as part of the citywide retail zoning strategy.
Planning and
Development Services
Significant progress here as part of changes to retail use adopted by Council in November 2024.Explore and potentially support new, creative and innovative retail in Palo Alto. By 2022 Partially Complete The Public Art Program launched its fourth round of ArtLift Grants commissioning twenty Palo Alto and Bay Area artists to transform utility boxes into distinctive works of art throughout commercial corridors and residential neighborhoods of Palo Alto. Public Art also commissioned Bay Area and California‐based artists to create five site‐specific murals, including works for the Cubberley Community Center and Fire Station #4 in south Palo Alto and three murals to be painted in the downtown district. Current King Artist in Residence, whose residency project is focused on the lived experiences of the LGBTQAI+ community members in Palo Alto is developing a temporary site specific artwork to be exhibited for a period of up to a year at King Plaza in front of the Palo Alto City Hall. Additionally, six artists and artist teams will be commissioned in January 2024 to create temporary interactive media artworks for the Code:ART festival in downtown Palo Alto scheduled to take place October 16‐18, 2025. Additional public art projects in parks and public spaces underway including Boulware Park, the exterior of Fire Station 4, and the exterior and interior of the new Public Safety Building.
Study the feasibility of using public and private funds to provide and maintain landscaping and public spaces such as parks, plazas, sidewalks and public art within commercial areas.
Community Services
DepartmentL4.4.1 2022‐2027 Standard Ongoing
Planning and
Development Services Continuous Task
and Department of
This is an ongoing effort. Planning recently approved restrooms at Rinconada, Ramos and Boulware Parks and Cubberley Fields.L4.4.2
L4.4.3
Through public/private cooperation, provide well‐ signed, clean, and accessible restrooms. Standard Ongoing Ongoing
Public Works Department along with The City Manager's Office has started working on the University Avenue and California Avenue streetscape improvement projects to enhance economic vitality of the two streets. The goal of these projects is to reduce congestion, maximize pedestrian and bicycle use, creation of inviting outdoor dining/patio places, installing gateway and wayfinding signages, and develop branding programs, among other things.
Collaborate with merchants to enhance the appearance of streets and sidewalks within all Centers.
Encourage the formation of business improvement districts and undertake a proactive program of maintenance, repair, landscaping and enhancement.
Department of Public
Works Continuous Task Significant
For University Avenue Streetscape project, per Council direction in December 2023, staff and its consultants conducted additional outreach discussions and Retail Committee meetings to refine project goals, vision, and design concepts. Per Council discussion in June 2023, staff continued with further outreach to Retail Committee and Stakeholder Working group. In the next few months, staff plans to refine concepts in line with Council direction and consensus from the community to recommend a preferred concept to Council later this year.
Identify priority street improvements that could make a substantial contribution to the character of Centers, such as widening sidewalks, narrowing travel lanes, creating medians, restriping to allow diagonal parking, and planting trees.
L4.4.4 Office of Transportation By 2022 Significant Ongoing Revise zoning and other regulations as needed to encourage the preservation of space to accommodate Planning andL4.5.1 L4.5.2
2022‐2027
2022‐2027
Significant
Standard
pending
pending
Work has not commenced.
Work has not commenced.
small businesses, start‐ups and other services. Development Services Consider planning, regulatory, or other incentives to encourage property owners to include smaller office spaces in their buildings to serve small businesses, non‐profit organizations, and independent professionals.
Planning and
Development Services
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
18 Packet Pg. 38 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Explore increasing hotel FAR from 2.0 to 3.0 in the University Avenue/Downtown area and 2.5 in areas outside of Downtown.
Planning and
Development ServicesL.4.6.1 2022‐2027 Significant Pending Work has not commenced.
Project kicked‐off in March 2024 with WRT hired as the primary consultant. The project is currently in its assessment phase with project team studying the data, organizing stakeholder interviews, and recruiting members of the Community Advisory Group. The Council approved revisions to the Project Boundary on the 23rd of September 2024 to include additional sites from the Housing Element Opportunity Sites Inventory List. The first community open house to formulate the vision of the Plan is scheduled for the 10th of October 2024.
Planning and
Development ServicesL4.8.1 Prepare a Coordinated Area Plan for Downtown. Continuous Task Significant Ongoing Public Works, Office of
Transportation, PDS
Planning and
Development Services & Continuous Task
Office of Transportation
Planning and
L4.8.2
L4.9.1
L4.9.2
Study the feasibility of converting parts of University Avenue to a pedestrian zone.
While preserving adequate parking to meet demand, identify strategies to reuse surface parking lots.
Explore adding additional Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for retail at Stanford Shopping Center. 2022‐2027 Substantial
Standard
standard
Partially Complete
Ongoing
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024.
Due to other parking program priorities, there are no substantial actions to report at this time.
2022‐2027 Pending Work has not commenced.Development Services Prepare a coordinated area plan for the North Ventura area and surrounding California Avenue area. The plan should describe a vision for the future of the North Ventura area as a walkable neighborhood with multi‐ family housing, ground floor retail, a public park, creek improvements, and an interconnected street grid. It should guide the development of the California Avenue area as a well‐designed mixed use district with diverse land uses and a network of pedestrian‐oriented streets.
Planning and
Development Services
Completed for the North Ventura Area (not for the area surrounding California Avenue).
NVCAP adopted by the City Council on 8/5/2024.L4.10.1 Continuous Task N/A Complete Create regulations for the California Avenue area that encourage the retention or rehabilitation of smaller Planning andL4.10.2 L4.16.1
2022‐2027 significant
standard
Pending
ongoing
Project commencement is pending the availability of resources.
This is an ongoing task.
buildings to provide spaces for existing retail, particularly local, small businesses. Development Services Maintain distinct neighborhood shopping areas that are attractive, accessible and convenient to nearby Planning and Continuous Taskresidents. Development Services Goal L‐5: High quality employment districts, each with their own distinctive character and each contributing to the character of the city as a whole.
Explore with Stanford University various development options for adding to the Stanford Research Park a diverse mix of uses, including residential, commercial hotel, conference center, commercial space for small businesses and start‐ups, retail, transit hub, and other community‐supporting services that are compatible with the existing uses, to create a vibrant innovation‐oriented community.
Planning and
Development ServicesL5.1.1 2022‐2027 standard ongoing The City meets regularly with Stanford University regarding land use on an ongoing basis.
Goal L‐6: Well‐designed buildings that create coherent development patterns and enhance city streets and public spaces.
The Architectural Review Board (ARB) awards event was conducted in September 2022 due to the pandemic. The next awards will be held in 2025. The Historic Resources Board (HRB) is looking to start its own awards program.
Promote awards programs and other forms of public recognition for projects of architectural merit that contribute positively to the community.
Planning and
Development ServicesL6.1.1
L6.3.1
Continuous Task Standard
Standard
Ongoing
OngoingDevelop guidelines for bird‐friendly building design that minimizes hazards for birds and reduces the potential for collisions.
Planning and
Development Services
A recommendation hearing with PTC was conducted in October 2024; adoption hearing with the City Council is tentatively scheduled for early 2025 (updated Jan 2025/KC)2022‐2027 Modify design standards for mixed use projects to promote a pedestrian‐friendly relationship to the street, including elements such as screened parking or underground parking, street‐facing windows and Planning and Objective Design Standards were adopted by Council in June 2022 for Title 18 zoning districts. Work on SOFA standards are planned for 2025.L6.6.1 L6.7.1
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
entries, and porches, windows, bays and balconies along public ways, and landscaping, and trees along the street. Avoid blank or solid walls at street level.
Development Services
Planning and
Development Services
This is an ongoing effort. The City's Objective Design Standards provide useful guidance in the implementation of this program.Implement architectural standards to assure they effectively address land use transitions.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
19 Packet Pg. 39 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Goal L‐7: Conservation and preservation of Palo Alto’s historic buildings, sites, and districts.
If a proposed project would substantially affect the exterior of a potential historic resource that has not been evaluated for inclusion into the City’s Historic Resources Inventory, City staff shall consider whether it is eligible for inclusion in State or federal registers prior to the issuance of a demolition or alterations permit. Minor exterior improvements that do not affect the architectural integrity of potentially historic buildings shall be exempt from consideration. Examples of minor improvements may include repair or replacement of features in kind, or other changes that do not alter character‐defining features of the building.”
Policy L 7.2 implementation continues. Historic Review Board (HRB) is reviewing recommendations for nominations of properties to the local inventory and to add the properties found California Register and National Register Eligible during and since the 1998‐2000 history survey, following public outreach.
Program for
Policy L7.2
Planning and
Development Services Continuous Task Standard Ongoing
Update and maintain the City’s Historic Resource Inventory to include historic resources that are eligible for local, State, or federal listing. Historic resources may consist of a single building or structure or a district.
Planning and
Development Services
Inventory update project began in 2023 with the Historic Reconnaise Survey and is expected to complete with Council's designation of some properties to the inventory.L7.1.1 L7.1.2
L7.8.1
Continuous Task
2022‐2027
By 2022
Standard
Significant
Significant
Ongoing
Pending
Ongoing
Reassess the Historic Preservation Ordinance to ensure its effectiveness in the maintenance and preservation of historic resources, particularly in the University Avenue/Downtown area.
Planning and
Development Services
The ordinance needs to be reassessed since it does not protect properties found eligible for National and California Register. Work has not commenced on this program.
Promote and expand available incentives for the retention and rehabilitation of buildings with historic merit in all zones and revise existing zoning and permit regulations to minimize constraints to adaptive reuse.
Planning and
Development Services Staff is looking at incentives for retention and rehabilitation when resources are identified.
Planning and
Development Services & By 2022
Department of Public
The Public Works Department and Planning and Development Services Department are monitoring the deconstruction ordinance for approved demolitions.L7.8.2 L7.8.3
L7.12.1
Create incentives to encourage salvage and reuse of discarded historic building materials. Standard Standard
Significant
Ongoing
Ongoing
Pending
Seek additional innovative ways to apply current codes and ordinances to older buildings. Use the State Historical Building Code for designated historic buildings.
Planning and
Development Services
Staff routinely applies the California Historical Building Code to qualified projects as applicable.Continuous Task
Review parking exceptions for historic buildings in the Zoning Code to determine if there is an effective balance between historic preservation and meeting parking needs.
Planning and
Development Services After 2027
After 2027
Work has not commenced.
Goal L‐9: Attractive, inviting public spaces and streets that enhance the image and character of the city.
Planning and
Development Services
Planning and
L9.1.1 Evaluate existing zoning code setback requirements to ensure they are appropriate for scenic routes. Significant Standard
Pending
Ongoing
Work has not commenced.
Review standards for streets and signage and update as needed to foster natural, tree‐lined streets with a minimum of signage.L9.3.1 Development Services, 2022‐2027 This program is ongoing. There are no updates to report at this time.
Office of Transportation
Planning and Development Services analyzes open space opportunities as a part of its area plans. In 2024, the NVCAP was adopted and laid the groundwork for several new open spaces. It will also be considered as part of the recently launched Downtown Housing Plan and the upcoming San Antonio Area Plan.
Analyze existing neighborhoods and determine where publicly accessible shared, outdoor gathering spaces are below the citywide standard. Create new public spaces, including public squares, parks and informal gathering spaces in these neighborhoods.
Planning and
Development ServicesL9.6.1
L9.7.1
2022‐2027 Substantial
Standard
Partially Complete
Pending
Develop a strategy to enhance gateway sites with special landscaping, art, public spaces and/or public buildings. Emphasize the creek bridges and riparian settings at the entrances to the City over Adobe Creek and San Francisquito Creek.
Planning and
Development Services Continuous Task Work has not commenced.
Planning and
Development Services,
Office of Transportation 2022‐2027
& Department of Public
Works
Staff continues to successfully encourage the planting of native trees and low water use plantings through the use of the ARB findings modified in the 2016 code update (including a focus on regional, indigenous, drought tolerant species). The new Tree Protection Ordinance (Title 8 of PAMC) includes added emphasis on use of native, drought tolerant and climate adapted tree species.
Establish incentives to encourage native trees and low water use plantings in new development throughout the city.L9.8.1 Standard
Standard
Ongoing
OngoingContinue the citywide undergrounding of utility wires. Minimize the impacts of undergrounding on street tree root systems and planting areas.
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.L9.10.1 City of Palo Alto Utilities Continuous Task
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
20 Packet Pg. 40 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Encourage the use of compact and well‐designed utility elements, such as transformers, switching devices, backflow preventers and telecommunications infrastructure. Place these elements in locations that will minimize their visual intrusion.
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.L9.10.2 City of Palo Alto Utilities Continuous Task standard Ongoing Ongoing
The Infrastructure Blue Ribbon Committee’s findings resulted in City Council’s adoption of the 2014 Council Infrastructure Plan, including ten priority projects. Implementation of the plan is underway, with four of the projects completed, two projects in construction and others in the design process.
Implement the findings of the City’s Infrastructure Blue Ribbon Committee and its emphasis for rebuilding Department of Public our civic spaces.L9.11.1 Continuous Task SubstantialWorks City of Palo Alto Utilities
& Planning and
Development Services
City of Palo Alto
Identify City‐owned properties where combinations of wireless facilities can be co‐located, assuming appropriate lease agreements are in place.L9.11.2
L9.12.1
2022‐2027 N/A Complete
OngoingCoordinate with regional utility providers on activities that would impact their infrastructure and right‐of‐ Utilities, Planning and Continuous Task Standard Coordination is ongoing on a project by project basis, as needed.
Project is pending FAA funding.
way. Development Services
and Department of
Goal L‐10: Maintain an economically viable local airport with minimal environmental impacts.
Relocate the terminal building away from the Runway 31 clear zone and closer to the hangars, allowing for construction of a replacement terminal.
Department of Public
WorksL10.1.1 After 2027 Substantial
Significant
Pending
Update the Airport Layout Plan in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration requirements, as needed, while ensuring conformance with the Baylands Master Plan to the maximum extent feasible.
Department of Public
Works
City Council provided feed back in Sept 2024. Additional, public outreach is required, and additional funding is likely to be required.L10.1.2 2022‐2027 Partially Complete Department of Public
WorksL10.1.3
L10.3.1
Identify and pursue funding to address maintenance, safety and security improvements needed at PAO. Continuous Task By 2022
Standard
Standard
Ongoing There are no updates to report at this time.
In 2024, the Airport entered into an agreement with a flight tracking software to monitor compliance with voluntary noise abatement procedures. Staff is in the process of implementing the software.
Establish and implement a system for processing, tracking and reporting noise complaints regarding local Department of Public Partially Completeairport operations on an annual basis, Works Work with the airport to pursue opportunities to enhance the open space and habitat value of the airport. These include:
‐Maintaining native grasses;
‐Reconstructing levees to protect the
airport from sea level rise while
enhancing public access and habitat
conservation; and
Community Services
Department and
Department of Public
Works
Staff will review the proposed opportunities and collaborate to determine potential future measures.L10.3.2 Continuous Task Significant Pending
‐Evaluating the introduction of
burrowing owl habitat.
This program is subject to federal wildlife hazard requirements and guidelines for airports.
Continue to provide a bicycle/pedestrian path adjacent to Embarcadero Road, consistent with the Baylands Master Plan and open space character of the Baylands subject to federal and State airport regulations.
Department of Public
Works and Office of
Transportation
L10.4.1 Continuous Task Standard Ongoing No change from 2023 Natural Environment Element
Goal N‐1: Protect, conserve and enhance Palo Alto’s citywide system of open space, including connected and accessible natural and urban habitats, ecosystems, and natural resources, providing a source of public health, natural beauty and enjoyment for Palo Alto residents.
Develop Comprehensive Resource Conservation Plans for the Pearson Arastradero Preserve, Esther Clark Community Services Staff are currently collaborating on a Baylands comprehensive conservation plan. Once complete, this will be reviewed.N1.1.1
N1.3.1
N1.3.2
2022‐2027
By 2022
Substantial
Standard
Pending
Ongoing
Ongoing
Preserve, and Foothills Park to steward the protection of local ecosystems. Department Planning and
Development Services
The parcels under Williamson Act contract are reviewed by the City Council every year and extended for an additional one year term if the property owners choses to continue it.Work to maintain Williamson Act agricultural preserve contracts within the City.
Department of Public
Works and Office of
Transportation
This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time. The updated Tree and Landscape Technical Manual that is scheduled to be published in CY25 includes details on the advantages of using native plants and low impact landscape designs.
Provide information and support programs that encourage residents to enhance their private yards with native plant species and low impact landscaping. Continuous Task Significant
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
21 Packet Pg. 41 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Periodically review California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) thresholds of significance regarding special status species to identify changes in listed species recommended by professionally recognized scientific experts.
Planning and
Development ServicesN1.4.1 Continuous Task Standard
Standard
Ongoing This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time.
Explore the feasibility of expanding the use of overlay tools such as the Site and Design (D) Review Combining District or similar development review and restriction tools to protect special‐status species and their habitats from development.
Work has begun on three different environmentally focused ordinances, which are expected to be adopted by the end of the year: Bird Safe Design Standards (see also L6.3.1), Dark Sky Ordinance, and Stream Corridor Protection (see also N3.3.1).
Planning and
Development ServicesN1.4.2
N1.1.2
2022‐2027 Partially Complete
This is an ongoing outreach and educational item to promote and support the EEC and Open Space Areas. The Art Center continues to support the City’s focus on environmental sustainability, continuing to work on our climate action plan and to make steps to promote a more sustainable ceramics studio. Exhibitions on few in FY24 highlighted the connections between food and sustainability, including In Feast or Famine and those elements were reinforced in our K‐5 school tour program Project Look.
Promote and support ecosystem protection and environmental education programs in Palo Alto and neighboring school districts.
Community Services
Department By 2022 Standard Ongoing
This is an ongoing task, there are no changes form previous years reporting. Annually plants approx. 10,000 native plants to support endangered species the Ridgway's rail and the saltmarsh harvest mouse at the Baylands Nature Preserve.
Community Services
DepartmentN1.4.3
N1.5.1
N1.6.1
N1.7.1
N1.7.2
Assess opportunities to expand habitats of special – status species within publicly‐owned open spaces. Continuous Task Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Standard
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
The Baylands Tide Gate seismic retrofit and rehabilitation project is tentatively scheduled for September 2025 by Valley Water. Sluice gate operation will continue to manage water levels and ensure habitat protection and establishment.
Maintain the value of local wetlands as habitats by ensuring adequate flow from the Bay and minimizing Community Services effluent. Department
Continue to coordinate City review, particularly by Planning, Public Works and Community Services Departments, of projects that might impact the City’s foothills and hillside areas.
Planning and
Development Services This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time.
No change from previous year reporting. This is an ongoing task.Examine and improve existing management practices, including the provision of access to open space for Community Services City vehicles and equipment, to ensure that natural resources are protected. Department Protect wildlife in public open space areas by improving litter collection, restricting the use of non‐ recyclable plastics, prohibiting the feeding of wild, feral and stray animals in open space, and enforcing dog leash laws.
Community Services
Department
Open Space staff continue to enforce the existing no feeding wild life rules and the dog leash laws. This continues to be an ongoing task.
Provide information about responsible behavior in environmentally‐sensitive areas through signage, pamphlets and documents on the City’s website.
Community Services
Department
Improved signage to educate visitors on leash laws, litter, and use of E‐Bikes in respective areas throughout parks and open spaces. This continues to be an ongoing task.N1.7.3 N1.7.4
N1.10.1
Continuous Task
By 2022
Standard
Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Pending
Ongoing
Community Services
DepartmentReview and map existing easements and maintenance roads for potential trails and trail connections. Work has not commenced due to staff priorities.
Use City funds and seek additional sources of funding, including State and federal programs, to finance open space acquisition, maintenance or conservation.
Community Services
Department
City General funds were authorized for FY 24‐25. Fuel reduction Eucalyptus removal work has begun at Esther Clark Park Open Space.Continuous Task Create mechanisms to monitor, assess and respond quickly to land acquisition opportunities that would expand or connect the City’s system of parks and open spaces, and establish a long‐term funding strategy for acquisition that would enable the City to move quickly when opportunities arise.
Community Services
DepartmentN1.10.2 By 2022 Substantial
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
No change from previous year reporting. This is an ongoing task.
This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time.
Goal N‐2: A thriving urban forest that provides public health, ecological, economic, and aesthetic benefits for Palo Alto.
Explore ways to prevent and ameliorate damage to trees and tree roots by above and below ground infrastructure and buildings.
Department of Public
WorksN2.1.1 Continuous Task
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
22 Packet Pg. 42 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 This is an ongoing program. In 2024 a review of recent updates to the Tree Protection Ordinance was completed with minor changes recommended and adopted by council.
Initial review and potential update to the Urban Forest Master Plan is scheduled to begin in CY2025.
Periodically update the UFMP and Tree Protection Ordinance to ensure policies and regulations remain relevant set leading standards for tree health practices.
Department of Public
WorksN2.2.1 Continuous Task Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Planning and This is an ongoing task. Collaborative review with Urban Forestry staff of major projects is conducted through Architectural Review Board. Detailed requirements and best practices for soils included in landscape projects are included in the upcoming Tree and Landscape Technical Manual.
Promote landscape design that optimizes soil volume, porosity, structure and health, as well the location, Development Services shape and configuration of soil beds.N2.4.1 2022‐2027and Department of Public Works
This is an ongoing program. Summer time watering of newly planted street trees by city staff continues. City staff is also exploring the potential of succession planting in areas with large numbers of trees approaching the end of viable life span.
Maintain and irrigate healthy trees in parks, open space, parking lots, and City rights‐of‐way, while identifying and replacing unhealthy trees in those areas.
Department of Public
WorksN2.7.1
N2.7.2
By 2022 Significant
Significant
Ongoing
OngoingDepartment of Public
Works
This is an ongoing program. Annual summer time watering of newly planted street trees by city staff continues.Continue to invest in the care, irrigation and monitoring of street trees during drought conditions. Continuous Task Actively pursue funding for tree planting to increase canopy cover significantly across the city, avoid a net loss of canopy at the neighborhood level, and attain canopy size targets in parks, open space, parking lots, and City rights‐of‐way.
Department of Public
WorksN2.7.3
N2.9.1
Continuous Task Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time.
This is an ongoing program. Increased penalties associated with damage to and unauthorized removal of protected trees are included in Title 8 of Palo Alto Municipal Code. Additionally, changes to the administrative penalty schedule related to Title 8 code violations went into effect in FY24.
Department of Public
WorksIncrease awareness, severity and enforcement of penalties for tree damage. 2022‐2027 2022‐2027
Develop a program for using the City’s Urban Forestry Fund to replace trees lost to public improvement and infrastructure projects, with replanting occurring onsite or as close to the original site as is ecologically appropriate.
Department of Public
WorksN2.9.2 Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time.
Planning and
Development Services Continuous Task
and Department of
This is an ongoing requirement as part of the architectural review and other development review processes. Replacement trees are required to ensure ‘no net loss of canopy’.N2.10.1 Continue to require replacement of trees, including street trees lost to new development.
Planning and
Development Services
and Department of
Public Works
As part of the update of the Tree and Landscape Technical Manual, consider expanding tree protections to include additional mature trees and provide criteria for making site‐specific determinations of trees that should be protected.
The Tree and Landscape Technical Manual is in the process of being finalized and will be submitted to the City Manager for review and approval in FY25. Expanded protections for mature trees are now included in Title 8 of Palo Alto Municipal Code.
N2.10.2
N2.10.3
N2.11.1
By 2022 Standard
N/A
Partially Complete
Complete
Planning and
Consider revisions to the appeals process to increase transparency regarding tree removals and expanded Development Services After 2027 2022‐2027
Title 8 of Palo Alto Municipal Code includes an appeals process that is now active.opportunities for community members to appeal the removal of trees. and Department of Public Works
There are no substantial actions to report at this time. Staff have begun case studies on several residential blocks to better determine timing and costs associated with replacing street trees reaching the end of their lifespan. Progress city wide will be limited if the program is undertaken without additional resources.
Department of Public
WorksDevelop a transparent and publicly accessible street tree removal and replacement schedule.
Develop a program to replace unhealthy public trees over time.
Significant Pending
Department of Public
WorksN2.11.2
N2.12.1
2022‐2027
2022‐2027
Significant
Significant
Ongoing
Pending
This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time.
There are no substantial actions to report at this time.Explore ways to leverage the fact that Palo Alto’s urban forest alleviates climate change by capturing and Department of Public storing carbon dioxide. Works
The South Palo Alto Tree Planting Program continues to be implemented by our non‐profit partner organization. The city has also created a preferred and restricted species list that has been incorporated into the Canopy online tree tool to prioritize locally native and climate resilient species.
Work with local nonprofits to establish one or more tree planting programs that are consistent with the UFMP, and rely on locally native, resilient species. Review existing tree planting guidelines to ensure they achieve these objectives.
Department of Public
WorksN2.13.1 By 2022 Significant Partially Complete
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
23 Packet Pg. 43 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 There are no substantial actions to report at this time. Efforts to provide education regarding landscape, maintenance, and irrigation practices that protect the urban forest and wildlife species is scheduled to begin in FY25 as part of the Tree and Landscape Technical Manual update outreach.
Provide on‐going education for City staff, residents, and developers regarding landscape, maintenance, and irrigation practices that protect the urban forest and wildlife species.
Department of Public
WorksN2.13.2 Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Standard
Pending
Ongoing
Pending
The Tree Protection Ordinance includes notification requirements for maintenance of protected trees. As part of this process, tree owners are informed of basic tree care best practices and are provided with links to more detailed information. The yet to be published Tree and Landscape Technical Manual will also provide basic best practices information on tree and landscape installation and maintenance.
Planning and
Development Services
and Department of
Public Works
N2.13.3
N2.13.4
Involve tree owners in tree maintenance programs.
Cooperate with the Palo Alto Unified School District, Stanford University, Caltrain, Caltrans, Pacific Gas & Electric, and other public and private entities to ensure that their tree planting, tree removal, and maintenance practices are consistent with City guidelines.
Department of Public
Works
There are no substantial actions to report at this time. Progress will begin once the updated Tree and Landscape Technical Manual is published.
Goal N‐3: Conservation of both natural and channelized creeks and riparian areas as open space amenities, natural habitat areas, and elements of community design.
Update the Stream Corridor Protection Ordinance to explore 150 feet as the desired stream setback along natural creeks in open space and rural areas west of Foothill Expressway. This 150‐foot setback would prohibit the siting of buildings and other structures, impervious surfaces, outdoor activity areas and ornamental landscaped areas within 150 feet of the top of a creek bank. Allow passive or intermittent outdoor activities and pedestrian, equestrian and bicycle pathways along natural creeks where there are adequate setbacks to protect the natural riparian environment. Within the setback area, provide a border A community meeting is scheduled for February 2025. Staff will bring back the updated ordinance for PTC recommendation in early 2025. Currently, an adoption hearing with the City Council is anticipated in June 2025.
Planning and
Development ServicesN3.3.1 of native riparian vegetation at least 30 feet along the creek bank.
The update to the Stream Protection Ordinance should establish:
By 2022 Standard Ongoing
‐Design recommendations for development or redevelopment of sites within the setback, consistent with basic creek habitat objectives and significant net improvements in the condition of the creek. ‐Conditions under which single‐family property and existing development are exempt from the 150‐foot setback
‐Appropriate setbacks and creek conservation measures for undeveloped parcels.
Examine the development regulations of the Stream Corridor Protection Ordinance, with stakeholder involvement to establish appropriate setback requirements that reflect the varying natural and channelized conditions along creeks east of Foothill Expressway. Ensure that opportunities to provide an enhanced riparian setback along urban creeks as properties are redeveloped or improved are included in this evaluation.
A community meeting is scheduled for February 2025. Staff will bring back the updated ordinance for PTC recommendation in early 2025. Currently, an adoption hearing with the City Council is anticipated in June 2025.
Planning and
Development ServicesN3.3.2
N3.3.3
By 2022 Standard Ongoing
Ongoing
For all creeks, update the Stream Corridor Protection Ordinance to minimize impacts on wildlife by:
Limiꢀng the development of recreaꢀonal trails to one side of natural riparian corridors.
Requiring careful design of lighꢀng surrounding natural riparian corridors to maximize the distance between nighttime lighting and riparian corridors
Planning and A recommendation hearing for the updated lighting ordinance with PTC was conducted in October 2024; adoption hearing with the City Council is tentatively scheduled for early 2025
Development Services
and Department of
Public Works
By 2022 Significant
and direct lighting away from the riparian corridor.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
24 Packet Pg. 44 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Develop a community creek stewardship program to promote existing creek clean‐up days, organize new Department of Public Continue to work with Grassroots Ecology who manage a creek stewardship and education program.N3.4.1 2022‐2027 Significant
Significant
Ongoingevents, and increase appreciation of riparian corridors. Works Review and update the Grading Ordinance to ensure that it adequately protects creeks from the erosion and sedimentation impacts of grading. Department of Public WorksN3.6.1
N3.8.1
N3.8.2
2022‐2027 Partially Complete Target adoption for Stormwater ordinance is early 2025 Work with the SCVWD to develop a maintenance, restoration and enhancement improvement program that preserves flood protection while preserving riparian habitat, and identifies specific stretches of Department of Public Limited progress has been made, except for the work on the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan.2022‐2027 Significant
Standard
Standard
Partially completecorridor to be restored or daylighted, standards to be achieved, and sources of funding. Include provisions Works for tree and vegetation planting to enhance natural habitat and shade cover.
Participate cooperatively in the JPA to achieve increased flood protection, habitat preservation, enhancement and improved recreational opportunities along San Francisquito Creek.
Department of Public
Works Continuous Task Ongoing This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time.
Goal N‐4: Water resources and infrastructure that are managed to sustain plant and animal life, support urban activities, and protect public health and safety.
The City, in partnership with Valley Water, offers a suite of water efficiency programs including landscape conversion rebates, indoor and outdoor survey kits, graywater laundry to landscape rebates, irrigation system rebates and rain barrel rebates. The City offers a variety of workshops on water efficiency and plant care throughout the year.
City of Palo Alto Utilities
N4.2.1 Educate customers on efficient water use (indoor and outdoor), tree care, and landscaping options. & Department of Public Continuous Task Works
Ongoing
City of Palo Alto Utilities
& Department of Public By 2022
Works
In July 2022, the City initiated a One Water Plan that will analyze all water sources within the City. Preliminary results were presented to the Utilities Advisory Commission in June 2024. The report is expected to be complete by the end of the calendar year.
Study the supply and quality of local groundwater aquifers to better understand their utility as natural water storage.N4.5.1
N4.5.2
Standard
Standard
Partially Complete
Ongoing
City of Palo Alto
Utilities, Department of Continuous Task
Public Works & Office of
Work with local public agencies to educate residents regarding the public health, fire, and overall quality of life risks associated with long‐term drought.
The 2023 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan describes the risks from drought and this information is posted on the city's website.
Staff continues to educate residents on this through the implementation of the Stormwater Rebate Program (in partnership with Valley Water), inter‐departmental coordination with Utilities (workshops, outreach efforts). Staff conducted outreach in 2024, and schedules outreach annually.
Department of Public
WorksN4.6.1 Encourage residents to use rain barrels or other rainwater reuse systems. By 2022 Standard Ongoing Support and participate in the work of the SCVWD to prepare a high‐quality groundwater management plan that will address groundwater supply and quality, including, as appropriate:
‐An understanding of subsurface hydrology,
‐Strategies to reduce depletion,
‐Opportunities to recharge groundwater, including through use of recycled water and extracted groundwater,
Department of Public
Works
City staff continues to work with Valley Water on the monitoring of groundwater and map the toxic plumes in our region.N4.7.1 By 2022 Standard Ongoing ‐Methods to ensure that uncontaminated, toxin‐free groundwater is used in a manner that benefits the community, for example in irrigation of parks, street cleaning, and dust suppression, ‐An approach to metering extracted groundwater.
Support the SCVWD and the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) to implement their mandate Department of PublicN4.7.2 N4.7.3
By 2022 Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time.to protect groundwater from the adverse impacts of urban uses. Works Work with the SCVWD and RWQCB to identify and map key groundwater recharge and stormwater management areas for use in land use planning and permitting and the protection of groundwater resources.
Staff is implementing the City's Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) plan and is evaluating the best locations for GSI in the future and how to maintain the features to protect groundwater resources.
Department of Public
Works Continuous Task
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
25 Packet Pg. 45 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Research and promote new construction techniques and recharge strategies developed to reduce subsurface and surface water impacts and comply with City dewatering policies.
Department of Public
WorksN4.8.1 Continuous Task
By 2022
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
This on hold due to staff constraints
Explore appropriate ways to monitor all excavations and other projects to ensure that dewatering does not result in recharge into the aquifer where needed.
Department of Public
WorksN4.8.2 This is an ongoing effort.
Monitor and implement practices for reducing water pollution. Examples include state‐of‐the‐art best management practices (BMPs), land use planning approaches, and construction of modern stormwater management facilities.
Stormwater ordinance anticipated to be adopted mid‐2025. Stormwater Program in Environmental Services addresses implementation of requirements such as construction of green stormwater infrastructure and best management practices at businesses.
Department of Public
WorksN4.10.1 Continuous Task Substantial Ongoing
Continue public education programs on water quality issues, including BMPs for residents, businesses, contractors, and City employees.
Department of Public
Works
This work continues via flyers, tabling, bill inserts, targeted messages, social media, and the website.N4.10.2
N4.10.3
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard Ongoing
Ongoing
Stormwater ordinance anticipated to be adopted mid 2025. Stormwater Program in Environmental Services manages a spill response investigation program and coordinates with Fire and Public Works Public Services to ensure appropriate cleanup and reporting.
Implement swift and rigorous spill response, cleanup, and follow‐up investigation procedures to reduce the impacts of toxic spills on the city’s creeks and San Francisco Bay.
Department of Public
Works Significant
Stormwater ordinance anticipated to be adopted early 2025. Stormwater Program in Environmental Services oversees a construction program to ensure appropriate stormwater best management practices at construction sites.
Increase monitoring and enforcement of existing prohibitions on materials and practices known to impact Department of Public local water quality, such as use of copper, in the design and construction industries. WorksN4.10.4 N4.11.1
N4.12.1
N4.12.2
N4.12.3
Continuous Task
2022‐2027
Significant
Standard
Standard
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Evaluate neighborhoods where parking controls may hinder street sweeping and recommend any changes Department of Public that are needed. Works Pending Work has not commenced due to other pending items having higher priorities.
Continue to implement the City's Integrated Pest Management PolicyImplement the City’s Integrated Pest Management Policy with periodic assessments of pesticide use and Department of Public Continuous Task By 2022
Ongoinguse of BMPs to reduce pesticide applications and toxicity, and maximize non‐chemical control. Works The draft updated Tree and Landscape Technical Manual is scheduled to be released for department feedback and public comment before the end of 2024, with a final draft released in 2025.
Revise the City’s Tree and Landscape Technical Manual to include stronger requirements for least‐toxic practices in the landscape permitting process.
Department of Public
Works Partially Complete
OngoingPromote the value of toxin‐free landscape management, and educate residents about the impacts of common fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides and pesticides on local water quality.
Department of Public
Works
This is an ongoing effort. Staff continues to educate residents and businesses regarding proper pest control.Continuous Task
Staff continues to educate residents on this through the implementation of the Stormwater Rebate Program (in partnership with Valley Water), inter‐departmental coordination with Utilities (workshops, outreach efforts). Will conduct outreach campaign in October 2024.
Promote the use of permeable paving materials or other design solutions that allow for natural percolation and site drainage through a Storm Water Rebate Program and other incentives.
Department of Public
WorksN4.13.1 By 2022 Standard Ongoing
Develop and implement a green stormwater infrastructure plan with the goal to treat and infiltrate stormwater.
Department of Public
WorksN4.13.2
N4.13.3
By 2022
By 2022
Substantial
Significant
Ongoing
Ongoing
Currently implementing the Green Stormwater Infrastructure Plan.
Mitigate flooding through improved surface permeability or paved areas, and stormwater capture and storage.
Department of Public
Works
Currently implementing the Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Plan. Began work on large GSI project to capture diverted flows from storm drain system.
Projects that require a building permit are reviewed by Public Works staff to verify that the proposed runoff from project sites is equal to or less than the existing runoff. Any excess flow must be detained or retained on‐site.
Establish a standardized process for evaluating the impacts of development on the storm drainage system, including point source discharge, base flow and peak flow.
Department of Public
WorksN4.14.1
N4.14.2
N4.15.1
By 2022 Standard Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Complete improvements to the storm drainage system consistent with the priorities outlined in the City's Department of Public Storm Drainage Master Plan, as amended.
Storm Drainage Master Plan projects are being implemented through the Capital Improvement Program using funding from the Stormwater Management Fee.Continuous Task Continuous Task
Substantial
Significant
Works
Work with commercial and industrial dischargers to identify and implement pollution prevention measures and BMPs to eliminate or reduce the discharge of metals and other pollutants of concern.
Department of Public
Works
Environmental Services conducts inspections at industrial and commercial businesses and requires and educates about best management practices.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
26 Packet Pg. 46 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Encourage commercial dischargers to consistently go beyond minimum requirements of the Clean Bay Business Program.
Department of Public
WorksN4.15.2 Continuous Task Standard Partially Complete Target adoption for Stormwater ordinance is mid‐2025 Design complete for the Outfall Project. Substantial completion of construction for the Primary Sedimentation Tank Rehabilitation Project and construction started for the Secondary Treatment process and 12KV loop project.
Department of Public
WorksN4.16.1
N4.16.2
Implement approved recommendations based on the Long‐Term Facilities Plan prepared for the RWQCP. Continuous Task Substantial Ongoing A Sea Level Rise vulnerability assessment is complete and RWQCP is iteratively raising all electrical and other equipment to adapt to 100 year storm and future sea level rise. Sea level rise adaptation is included in the RWQCP Long Range Facility Plan Update.
Develop a plan to address ongoing operations of the RWQCP taking potential sea level rise and growth in Department of Public 2022‐2027 Substantial Ongoingsurrounding communities into account. Works Council accepted the Northwest County Recycled Water Strategic Plan in 2020. A plan to coordinate the installation of purple pipe when streets are open has not been developed and is not currently in the work plan.
Evaluate the expansion of existing recycled water infrastructure to serve a larger area. Develop a plan to install “purple pipe” when streets are opened for other infrastructure work.N4.17.1 N4.17.2
N4.17.3
City of Palo Alto Utilities 2022‐2027 Significant
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Evaluate the possibility of using recycled water as an emergency water supply. City of Palo Alto Utilities After 2027 Ongoing Using recycled water as an emergency water supply is not under consideration.
In July 2022, the City initiated a One Water Plan that will analyze all water sources within the City. Preliminary results were presented to the Utilities Advisory Commission in June 2024. The report is expected to be complete by the end of the calendar year.
Investigate ways to reuse non‐traditional water sources including recycled, gray, black and storm water. City of Palo Alto Utilities Continuous Task Partially Complete Goal N‐5: Clean, healthful air for Palo Alto and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Planning and
Development ServicesN5.1.1 Provide City input on significant proposals for air quality legislation and state implementation plans. Continuous Task By 2022
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Planning Department works with the City lobbyist to identify issues and provides ideas.
Implement BAAQMD recommended standards for the design of buildings near heavily travelled roads, in Planning and Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) standards are implemented through the CEQA process.N5.1.2 order to minimize exposure to auto‐related emissions. Development Services Explore adopting new standards that target the reduction of very fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is Planning andN5.1.3 By 2022 Standard Ongoing PM2.5 standards are implemented through the CEQA process.associated with increased impacts on health. Development Services Promote understanding of the impacts of extended idling on air quality, for residents, auto‐dependent businesses, and schools.
Planning and
Development ServicesN5.2.1
N5.2.2
N5.3.1
2022‐2027 Standard
Standard
Standard
Pending
Pending
Ongoing
Work has not commenced.
Work has not commenced.Consider adopting and enforcing penalties for drivers that idle for longer than 3‐5 minutes. Office of Transportation 2022‐2027 Cooperatively work with Santa Clara County and the BAAQMD to ensure that mining and industrial operations mitigate environmental and health impacts.
Planning and
Development Services
Industrial operations are mitigated through the CEQA process. There are no mining resources within the City limits.Continuous Task
Monitor particulate emissions at local California Air Resources Board monitoring stations and make the information easily available to citizens.
Planning and
Development Services
Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) provides monitoring information on their webpage ‐ http://www.baaqmd.gov/about‐air‐quality/current‐air‐quality.N5.3.2 N5.3.3
N5.3.4
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Promote understanding of the health impacts of particulate emissions and provide information to residents and businesses about steps they can take to reduce particulate emissions, such as reducing or eliminating wood burning or using low emission alternatives to wood‐burning stoves and fireplaces.
Planning and
Development Services
Current Planning staff continues to implement CEQA but does not conduct additional outreach or education around this topic.
Explore feasible and cost‐effective opportunities to reduce concrete and asphalt use by the City, in parks Department of Public and other public projects. There are no substantial actions to report at this time.
Staff implements the City's noise ordinance.
Works
Goal N‐6: An environment that minimizes the adverse impacts of noise.
Continue working to reduce noise impacts created by events and activities taking place in communities adjoining Palo Alto.
Planning and
Development ServicesN6.3.1
N6.3.2
Continuous Task Standard
Standard
Ongoing
PendingDepartment of Public
Works
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.Evaluate the feasibility of adopting noise criteria in the purchase of new City vehicles and equipment. 2022‐2027
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
27 Packet Pg. 47 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Update the Noise Ordinance, as needed, to provide for clear interpretation of the regulations, to review Planning andN6.3.3 By 2022 Standard Standard
Partially Complete Residential portion has been updated.the effectiveness of existing standards, and to ensure that regulations address contemporary issues. Development Services Update noise impact review procedures in the Noise Ordinance and the Zoning Code to address appropriate requirements for analysis and thresholds for impacts on residential land uses and publicly‐ owned conservation land.
Planning and
Development ServicesN6.7.1 By 2022 Partially Complete Residential portion has been updated.
The code enforcement team as completed its initial goal to enhance the gas leaf blower program by adopting the ordinance in June of 2023. Moving forward, the code enforcement has and will continue to proactive patrol neighborhoods, respond to complaints and utilize established tools to accomplish the goal of bringing forth compliance with banning the use of gas leaf blowers.
Evaluate changes to the Noise Ordinance to further reduce the impacts of noise from leaf blowers and residential power equipment.
Planning and
Development ServicesN6.10.1 2022‐2027 N/A Complete
Ongoing
Ongoing
For larger development projects that demand intensive construction periods and/or use equipment that could create vibration impacts, such as the Stanford University Medical Center or major grade separation projects, require a vibration impact analysis, as well as formal, ongoing monitoring and reporting of noise levels throughout the entire construction process pertinent to industry standards. The monitoring plan should identify hours of operation and could include information on the monitoring locations, durations and regularity, the instrumentation to be used and appropriate noise control measures to ensure compliance with the noise
Construction noise and vibration are reviewed as part of the CEQA process. Mitigation measures, including limited hours of operation, are used to reduce noise and vibration impacts.
Planning and
Development ServicesN6.11.1 Continuous Task Standard
ordinance.
Continue working to reduce noise associated with operations of the Palo Alto Airport. Also, ensure compliance with the land use compatibility standards for community noise environments, shown in Table Department of Public N‐ 1, by prohibiting incompatible land use development within the 60 dBA CNEL noise contours of the airport.
N6.12.1 Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard No updates at this time.Works
Participate in appropriate public forums and engage with other governmental agencies and representatives to ensure that activities at airports in the region do not negatively affect noise levels in Palo Alto.
Airport staff continue to review current flight procedures at the Palo Alto Airport.
However, the airport has limited staffing to review regional flight patterns not related to the Palo Alto Airport.
Department of Public
WorksN6.12.2
N6.13.1
Substantial
Standard
Ongoing
Staff procured the services of the Consultant to prepare design plans, specifications, and cost estimates. The 100% design plans are now complete. City submitted the project plans for approval of Caltrain's and requested their concurrence on submitting GO‐88B application to the CPUC.
Encourage the Peninsula Corridors Joint Powers Board to pursue technologies and grade separations that would reduce or eliminate the need for train horns/whistles in communities served by rail service. Office of Transportation Continuous Task Partially Complete City procured the services of the consultant to conduct the study. The initial study report was reviewed by the Rail Committee in August 2024. A diagnostic meeting consisting of staff from CPUC, FRA, Caltrain and City was conucted in October 2024. The conceptual plans for the required improvements are currently being developed.
Evaluate changing at‐grade rail crossings so that they qualify as Quiet Zones based on Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) rules and guidelines in order to mitigate the effects of train horn noise without adversely affecting safety at railroad crossings.
N6.13.2
N6.13.3
Office of Transportation By 2022
Office of Transportation
Substantial Partially Complete
Participate in future environmental review of the California High‐Speed Rail (HSR) Project, planned to utilize existing Caltrain track through Palo Alto, to ensure that it adheres to noise and vibration mitigation measures.
By 2022 N/A Complete
Ongoing
& Planning Department
Goal N‐7: A clean, efficient energy supply that makes use of cost‐effective renewable resources.
Meet customer electricity needs with least total cost resources after careful assessment of environmental cost and benefits.
Implementation of the REC Exchange Program during CY 2024 has yielded approximately $10.9M in net revenue to be used to fund local decarbonization programs.N7.1.1 City of Palo Alto Utilities Continuous Task Standard
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
28 Packet Pg. 48 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 City of Palo Alto Utilities
and Department of
Public Works
Promote the adoption of cost‐effective, renewable energy technologies from diverse renewable fuel sources by all customers.
Implementation of the REC Exchange Program during CY 2024 has yielded approximately $10.9M in net revenue to be used to fund local decarbonization programs.N7.2.1 By 2022 Standard Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Assess the feasibility of using life cycle analysis and total cost of ownership analysis for public and private projects, funded by the project proponent, in order to minimize the consumption of energy, the production of greenhouse gases, including GHG emissions of construction materials and demolition and costs over the life of the project.
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.N7.2.2 N7.4.1
City of Palo Alto Utilities By 2022
Development Services staff worked collaboratively with Sustainability team to bring for the adoption of a new Green Building Standards Code and Energy Reach Code that complies with Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals finding that the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) preempts state and local building codes that impermissibly regulate energy use by products covered by EPCA, like natural gas appliances. The next update will be in 2025 when we adopt the 2025 California Energy Code and Green Building Standards Code.
Continue timely incorporation of State and federal energy efficiency standards and policies in relevant City Planning and codes, regulations and procedures, and higher local efficiency standards that are cost‐effective. Development Services Continuous Task Significant Ongoing No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.N7.4.2 N7.4.3
N7.4.4
Implement cost effective energy efficiency programs for all customers, including low income customers. City of Palo Alto Utilities Continuous Task Standard Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Incorporate cost‐effective energy conservation measures into construction, maintenance, and City operation and procurement practices.
Department of Public
Works
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.Continuous Task Implement gas and electric rate structures that encourage efficient use of resources while meeting State law requirements that rates be based on the cost of service.
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.City of Palo Alto Utilities 2022‐2027 No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.N7.4.5 N7.5.1
Continue to provide public education programs addressing energy conservation and efficiency. City of Palo Alto Utilities Continuous Task Standard N/A
Ongoing
Monitor professional and medically‐sound research and studies on light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). City of Palo Alto Utilities 2022‐2027 Complete Complete Development Services staff worked collaboratively with Sustainability team to bring for the adoption of a new Green Building Standards Code and Energy Reach Code that complies with Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals finding that the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) preempts state and local building codes that impermissibly regulate energy use by products covered by EPCA, like natural gas appliances. The next update will be in 2025 when we adopt the 2025 California Energy Code and Green Building Standards Code.
Explore changes to building and zoning codes to incorporate solar energy, energy storage and other energy efficiency measures into major development projects, including City‐owned projects.
Planning and
Development ServicesN7.6.1 By 2022
By 2022
Significant Ongoing
Promote use of the top floors of new and existing structured automobile garages for installation of photovoltaic panels and green roofs.
Planning and
Development ServicesN7.6.2
N7.6.3
N7.7.1
Standard
Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
This effort is ongoing.
City of Palo Alto
Utilities, Planning and Continuous Task
Development Services
This effort is linked to measure N7.6.1. See update on N7.6.1. Development Services launched the use of SolarAPP+ for qualifying residential PV and ESS projects via our instant permitting process.
Promote solar energy in individual private projects.
Evaluate the potential for a cost‐effective plan for transitioning to a completely carbon‐neutral natural gas supply.
Staff monitors the market for innovative green product availability and price. The Carbon Neutral Gas Plan using carbon offsets was reaffirmed by Council in December 2020.City of Palo Alto Utilities By 2022
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
29 Packet Pg. 49 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 The Business Energy Advisor program launched in August 2022 providing energy assessments to small to medium businesses, had a surge in participation as a result of tenacious outreach and promotions with in‐person visits to over 300 businesses in CY2024.
As of September 2024, 15 project completed total enrolled 91 since launch.
The Business Electrification Technical Assistance Program (BE TAP) was also launched in August 2022. This program offers free electrification assessment and technical assistance to implement building electrification projects to a variety of business types including but not limited to hotels, restaurants, churches, and office buildings. To date, program outreach activities have included in‐person visits, call campaigns, e‐newsletters, and utility bill inserts As of September 2024, there are 79 businesses enrolled in BETAP, 3 projects completed and 8 projects in the pipeline.
N7.7.2 Explore the transition of existing buildings from gas to electric or solar water and space heating. City of Palo Alto Utilities By 2022 Standard Ongoing Evaluate energy efficient approaches for the treatment and reuse of organic waste that maximize resource recovery and reduce greenhouse gas generation at the RWQCP located in Palo Alto and the Palo Alto Landfill.
Reuse organic waste from the RWQCP; currently create Class A biosolids products and send a portion of the organics through an anaerobic digester to convert organics into a resource.
Department of Public
WorksN7.8.1 2022‐2027 Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Goal N‐8: Actively support regional efforts to reduce our contribution to climate change while adapting to the effects of climate change on land uses and city services.
Participate in cooperative planning with regional and local public agencies, including on the Sustainable Office of Sustainability, Public Works, and Office of Emergency Services participated in regional working groups, including Santa Clara County. This aligns with the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) goals and key actions as well as the 2023 ‐ 2025 S/CAP Work Plan.
Office of Sustainability
and Office of Emergency Continuous Task
Services
Communities Strategy, on issues related to climate change, such as greenhouse gas reduction, water supply reliability, sea level rise, fire protection services, emergency medical services, and emergency response planning.
N8.1.1
N8.1.2
Office of Sustainability,
City of Palo Alto Utilities
Department and
Planning and
Development Services
Department
On June 3, 2024, the City Council adopted the One Margin code ordinance, in light of the temporary moratorium on enforcement of Palo Alto’s current all‐electric new construction requirement. The City Council reviewed the Second Reading of the Ordinance on June 17, 2024. As required by state law, the ordinance was sent to the California Energy Commission for review and approval and was approved September 11, 2024.
Pursue or exceed State goals of achieving zero net carbon for residential buildings by 2020 and commercial buildings by 2030, without compromising the urban forest. By 2022 Standard Standard
Ongoing
In June 2023, the 2022 Sustainability and Climate Action Plan was adopted, the Comprehensive Plan Environmental Impact Report Addendum: Update to the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan was certified, and Council accepted the 2023‐2025 S/CAP Workplan. Staff completed the 2022 Greenhouse Gas Inventory, which will be brought to Council in October 2024. Staff completed a 2023 Greenhouse Gas Inventory.
There are no plans to update the S/CAP in 2024, as it was just adopted last year.
Periodically update the S/CAP consistent with the update schedule in the approved S/CAP; this update shall include an updated greenhouse gas inventory and updated short, medium, and long‐term emissions Office of Sustainability 2022‐2027 reduction goals.
N8.2.1 Partially Complete
A Sea Level Rise vulnerability assessment is complete and RWQCP is iteratively raising all electrical and other equipment to adapt to 100 year storm and future sea level rise. Staff anticipates a proposal from Santa Clara County Office of Sustainability to partner on a sea level rise planning effort, and staff are exploring how to include sea level rise and shallow ground water conditions into project review in parallel.
Protect the Municipal Services Center, Utility Control Center, and RWQCP from the impacts of sea level rise.
Department of Public
WorksN8.3.1 2022‐2027 Substantial Ongoing
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 A United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) cost/benefit analysis determined that there is no federal interest in funding Palo Alto shoreline improvements at this time, and that improvements would not be needed until approximately 2060. Valley Water and Shoreline II partners (Caltrans and the Cities of Palo Alto and Mountain View) developed an agency factsheetand Frequently Asked Questions for staff/public use and identified possible trigger points for when restarting an analysis could occur. Staff are now anticipating a proposal from Santa Clara County Office of Sustainability for next steps in developing a subrgional sea level rise adaptation plan now that SB272 (Laird): Sea Level Rise Planning and Adaptation requirements are known‐‐likely starting with regional vulnerability assessment. City of Palo Alto staff will coordinate the development of its Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan to align with these and other regional planning efforts.ꢂ Prepare response strategies that address sea level rise, increased flooding, landslides, soil erosion, storm events and other events related to climate change. Include strategies to respond to the impacts of sea level rise on Palo Alto’s levee system.
N8.4.1 Office of Sustainability By 2022 Substantial Pending Despite longer‐term regional planning horizons for sea level rise, staff are working on several near‐term goals.ꢂThese efforts include rolling out the use of web‐based GIS maps which depict future sea level rise and shallow groundwater changes for use in City project planning,and including sea level rise in long range planning for the Regional Water Quality Control Plant and Palo Alto Airport.
Safety Element
Goal S‐1: A safe community that is aware of risks and prepared for emergencies.
Expand public education programs that help and encourage each household in the City to be prepared to be self‐sufficient, with enough stored water and food to support the entire household for at least one week after a major earthquake, flood, terrorism event, COVID‐19 pandemic or other major disaster.
OES works with the City Manager's Office to provide community updates periodically across a number of mediums including City Manager comments, Uplift Local, Palo Alto Medium blog, Utility Inserts, and social media posts. The OES Preparedness webpage also provides this information. We attempt to expand our public education to all groups in the Palo Alto community.
Office of Emergency
ServicesS1.1.1
S1.1.2
By 2022
By 2022
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Office of Emergency Services (OES) continues to manage the ESV program, there are currently over 800 registered volunteers. OES apportions funds annually to support this program including an annual community event, monthly training sessions, quarterly leader meetings, and several exercises per year.
Office of Emergency
ServicesContinue to implement and fund the Emergency Services Volunteer program.
Throughout the year, Office of Emergency Services (OES) conducts emergency drills with key stakeholders that include seminars, communications tests, table‐top exercises, functional, and full scale exercises.
Conduct emergency hazard drills with key stakeholder organizations across the community to improve preparedness for known threats and hazards.
Office of Emergency
ServicesS1.1.3
S1.1.4
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Significant
Significant
Ongoing
Ongoing
No public safety fairs were planned in this reporting period, instead OES participated in several citywide events to promote preparedness including the May Fete, MSC Open House, PAPD National Night Out, and the City Hall Open House.
Support an annual community public safety fair to educate and engage the public on preparedness and offer the opportunity to buy emergency disaster supplies for home and vehicle.
Office of Emergency
Services
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
31 Packet Pg. 51 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Encourage local businesses and other organizations to have disaster preparedness, communication, mitigation and recovery plans in place.
Office of Emergency
Services
OES works with businesses upon request to assist in preparedness planning. The OES website includes preparedness related information for businesses as well.S1.1.5 Continuous Task Standard N/A
Ongoing
Develop accessible, attractive marketing materials to promote involvement in community crime safety programs.
Office of Emergency
ServicesS1.2.1
S1.3.1
Continuous Task Complete
Office of Emergency Services (OES) maintains expertise and serves as a resource for Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) https://www.ncpc.org/resources/home‐ neighborhood‐safety/crime‐prevention‐through‐environmental‐design‐training‐program/ and other safety and security best practices, in particular, for Critical Infrastructure and Key Resources (CIKR). OES is assisting City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) with site protection and resilience matters. OES is assisting Department of Public Works and Police Department with the Public Safety Building.
Planning and
Development Services &
Office of Emergency
Services
Explore the use of urban design principles to increase safety and prevent crime in Palo Alto. Continuous Task Standard Ongoing Support programs such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Good Neighbor Next Door, which incentivizes home purchase for first responders with discounts.
Planning and
Development ServicesS1.3.2
S1.4.1
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Pending
Ongoing
Staff is not aware of any progress on this program's implementation as of 2024.
Webpage activeMake data available to maintain an accurate, up to date, and complete real‐time local crime mapping function to promote neighborhood safety. Police Department Promote neighborhood security by providing crime prevention information and training to residents, and continuing to fund resident involvement in neighborhood safety programs such as “Know Your Neighbor” Police Department and OES provides BPC certification courses as part of our ESV program 3 times a year in which we encourage Neighborhood Watch activities. OES also encourages the use of "Know Your Neighbor" grants by ESV members for block level parties.
S1.5.1
S1.5.2
grants and Block Preparedness
Coordinators.
Office of Emergency
Services
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
OngoingCollaborate with the Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD), other school districts in the city, private schools, businesses, non‐profits, and local faith‐based organizations provide community safety education. Police Department No change.
Encourage the PAUSD to develop secure school facilities and collaborate with Emergency Services Volunteers on disaster preparedness activities; emergency disaster planning, exercises and drills; and disaster recovery.
Office of Emergency
Services
OES and PAPD maintain contact with PAUSD and are available to provide support when requested by PAUSD.S1.5.3
S1.5.4
S1.6.1
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard Ongoing
Pending
Ongoing
Continue to support and encourage participation in Police Department programs to introduce youth to the importance and benefits of local law enforcement. Police Department Police Department
Substantial
Substantial
No plan for program
Enhance public safety department training for evolving challenges, such as small‐ to large‐scale human threats, interacting with individuals with mental illness, and non‐lethal alternatives.
Staff is working with Santa Clara County Behavioral Health Services (SCCO Behavioral Health) to hire a clinician. One PERT officer working solo.
Support the PAPD in implementing and maintaining approved technologies for data gathering, surveillance, and recording interactions with the public. Incorporate best practices in use policies with special consideration in ensuring the programs protect the public’s privacy rights and civil liberties, in accordance with current legislation. Ensure transparency by communicating new equipment implementation, usage, privacy considerations, and retention of data.
S1.6.2
S1.6.3
Police Department
Police Department
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
AB 481 report given to Council annually.
AB 481 report given to Council annually.Communicate transparently with the community regarding adoption of new PAPD equipment and/or tactics while balancing the need for operational security.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Regularly monitor and review the level of public safety staffing and satellite police station locations required for efficient local service delivery.S1.7.1 Police Department Continuous Task Standard Ongoing No change Design the new Public Safety building to meet essential service standards, the needs of the public safety Department of Public departments and be resilient against known threats and hazards. WorksS1.7.2 S1.7.3
By 2022 Substantial Ongoing Construction started in spring 2021 and is expected to be completed in fall 2024.
OES remains proficient in the use of the Everbridge software system, that provides the AlertSCC mass notification functionality. OES also can provide notifications via Next door, and in working with City communications managers ‐ proliferate such messages on other social mediums.
Provide community notifications in the event of emergency using the best available methods and explore Office of Emergency Continuous Task Significant Ongoingnew technologies for emergency public information and warnings. Services S1.8.1
S1.9.1
Update Palo Alto’s 2001 Terrorism Response Plan. Office of Emergency By 2022 By 2022
N/A Complete
Develop an Infrastructure Master Plan that projects the future needs of streets, underground utilities, and all City assets and plans for the incorporation of new technology that improves efficiency and effectiveness.
Department of Public
Works
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.Substantial Partially Complete OES will update the EOP in FY24/24 Q3. This process started in August 2024 and we anticipate this will take approximately eight months to complete. This update will take incorporate new legislative measures, emergency management, best practices, and whole community involvement. The updated plan will be posted on the City of Palo Alto website.
Office of Emergency
ServicesS1.10.1
S1.10.2
Regularly update and make publicly available the City of Palo Alto Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). Continuous Task Significant Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
OES continues to participate in regional planning efforts including the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI), the Mutual Aid Regional Advisory Committee (MARAC), and Santa Clara County Operational Area Signatories Committee, and the Santa Clara County Emergency Managers Association ‐ among others. OES continues to lead the San Francisquito Creek Multi‐Agency Coordination (SFC MAC) group as well as the Silicon Valley Homeland Security Coordination Group (SV‐HSCG).
Participate in local and regional planning efforts to mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies.
Office of Emergency
Services Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Annually, Office of Emergency Services updates the status of Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) projects. The City updated the LHMP in 2023, with Council adoption occurring in October 2024, as part of the Santa Clara County multi‐jurisdictional planning process.
Implement the mitigation strategies and guidelines provided by the LHMP, including those that address evolving hazards resulting from climate change.
Office of Emergency
ServicesS1.10.3
S1.12.1
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
OES, PAPD, and PAFD implement multi‐agency coordination by integrating agencies into response efforts through mutual aid systems. This is done in keeping with the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the State of California Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS). This is done for both internal city departments, as well as for multi‐jurisdictional incidents or events.
Encourage multiagency coordination in case of incidents that cross disciplinary or jurisdictional boundaries Office of Emergency or coordination that involves complex incident management scenarios. Services Continuous Task Explore the establishment of mutually‐beneficial cooperative agreements between Palo Alto’s police and Police Department & No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.S1.12.2 S1.13.1
2022‐2027 Standard Ongoing
Ongoing
fire departments and those of neighboring cities. Fire Department No staff comments were received related to this program but staff did provide updated level of effort rating and completion status info.Identify solutions to add an additional power line to Palo Alto to ensure redundancy. City of Palo Alto Utilities By 2022 Substantial Explore incentives to adopt emerging, residential off‐ grid capabilities and technologies, including back‐up power sources vital in the event of natural disasters or other threats.
No staff comments were received related to this program but staff did provide updated level of effort rating and completion status info.S1.13.2 S1.13.3
City of Palo Alto Utilities 2022‐2027
City of Palo Alto Utilities Continuous Task
significant
Significant
Ongoing
OngoingContinue citywide efforts to underground utility wires to limit injury, loss of life, and damage to property in the event of human‐made or natural disasters.
No staff comments were received related to this program but staff did provide updated level of effort rating and completion status info.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
33 Packet Pg. 53 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Enhance the safety of City‐owned natural gas pipeline operations. Work with customers, public safety officials, and industry leaders to ensure the safe delivery of natural gas throughout the service area.
Provide safety information to all residents on City‐owned natural gas distribution pipelines.
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.S1.13.4 City of Palo Alto Utilities Continuous Task Significant standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
City of Palo Alto UtilitiesProvide off‐grid and/or backup power sources for critical City facilities to ensure uninterrupted power during emergencies and disasters.
No staff comments were received related to this program but staff did provide updated level of effort rating and completion status info.S1.13.5 and Department of Public Works
Continuous Task
Goal S‐2: Protection of life, ecosystems and property from natural hazards and disasters, including earthquake, landslide, flooding, and fire.
Planning and
Development Services
We created a RFP for this scope of services and are reviewing the two responses that we received.S2.5.1 Periodically review and update the City’s Seismic Hazard Ordinance. Continuous Task By 2022
Significant
Significant
Ongoing
OngoingContinue to provide incentives for seismic retrofits of structures throughout the city, particularly those building types that would affect the most people in the event of an earthquake.
Planning and
Development ServicesS2.5.2 This effort is linked to measure S2.5.1. See update on S2.5.1.
Planning and
Development ServicesS2.6.1
S2.6.2
Encourage efforts by individual neighborhood or block‐ level groups to pool resources for seismic retrofits. 2022‐2027 Significant Significant
Ongoing
Ongoing
This effort is linked to measure S2.5.1. See update on S2.5.1.
This effort is linked to measure S2.5.1. See update on S2.5.1.Continue to use a seismic bonus and a TDR Ordinance for seismic retrofits for eligible structures in the Commercial Downtown (CD) zone.
Planning and
Development Services Continuous Task
Evaluate the TDR Ordinance so that transferred development rights may be used for residential development on the receiver sites.
Planning and
Development ServicesS2.6.3
S2.6.4
Continuous Task Standard
Standard
Pending
Pending
Work has not commenced.
Work has not commenced.Study the possibility of revising the transfer of development rights program to encourage seismic retrofits.
Planning and
Development Services 2022‐2027
Explore the use of Community Development Block Grants, Palo Alto Housing Funds and other sources of Planning and funding to support owners of lower income and senior housing to retrofit seismically‐unsafe construction. Development ServicesS2.6.5 S2.7.1
S2.7.2
By 2022 Standard
Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
This is an ongoing program, no updates to report at this time.
This effort is linked to measure S2.5.1. See update on S2.5.1.
As part of the construction permitting process for proposed new and redeveloped buildings in areas of identified hazard shown on MapS‐2, structures that would affect the most people in a seismic event Planning and By 2022require submittal to the City of a geotechnical/seismic report that identifies specific risks and appropriate Development Services mitigation measures.
Review and update, as appropriate, City code requirements for excavation, grading, filling and construction to ensure that they conform to currently accepted and adopted State standards.
Department of Public
Works
The code requirements are currently up‐to‐date. Staff will continue to monitor accepted and adopted standards and update code as needed.2022‐2027 Utilize the results of Palo Alto’s Seismic Hazards Identification Program and inventory of potentially Planning and S2.7.3
S2.8.1
S2.8.2
seismically vulnerable building types to establish priorities and consider incentives to encourage structural Development Services By 2022 Significant Substantial
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
This effort is linked to measure S2.5.1. See update on S2.5.1. retrofits. and Building Services
Implement flood mitigation requirements of FEMA in Special Flood Hazard Areas as illustrated on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
Department of Public
Works
All private and public development projects within the Special Flood Hazard Areas are reviewed for compliance with FEMA regulations.Continuous Task Continuous TaskContinue participating in FEMA’s Community Rating System to reduce flood insurance for local residents Department of Public and businesses and strive to improve Palo Alto’s rating in order to lower the cost of flood insurance.
City of Palo Alto continues to participate in the Community Rating System and to evaluate opportunities to improve the rating.Works
Collaborate with the San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority and the Santa Clara Valley Water District on environmentally‐sensitive efforts to stabilize, restore, maintain and provide one percent (100‐ year) flood protection adjacent to San Francisquito Creek.
Department of Public
Works
The Highway 101 to Bay project was completed in 2018. The Upstream of Highway 101 project is currently in the Design Development and Entitlements process.S2.8.3 Continuous Task Substantial Ongoing
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
34 Packet Pg. 54 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Staff received 100% design and cost estimates for Newell Road Bridge in March 2023. All regulatory permits and construction easements were obtained in May 2024. Staff is working to obtain right‐of‐way certification from Caltrans in October with bidding of the project anticipated to be in early 2025 and construction to start in summer 2025. Staff continues to work with the San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Board (SFCJPA) member agencies to coordinate other Reach 2 projects with the Newell Road Bridge replacement project. The remaining Reach 2 projects (top of bank, creek‐widening, Pope‐Chaucer Bridge Replacement) are on hold pending creek model redesign based on recent winter storm results.
Work with East Palo Alto, Santa Clara Valley Water District and San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority on efforts to increase the flows within the San Francisquito Creek possible solutions include replacing the City‐owned Newell Road Bridge and Francisquito Creek. District‐owned Pope Chaucer Street Works Department of PublicS2.8.4 By 2022
By 2022
Substantial
Standard
ongoing
Ongoing
Bridge.
Department of Public
Works
No staff comments were received related to this program's implementation in 2024. Level of Effort and Completion status assumed to be the same as last year.S2.10.1 Keep basement restrictions up to date with changing flood hazard zones.
Review development standards applicable in areas susceptible to flooding from sea level rise, including east of Highway 101, West Bayshore and East Meadow Circle, the area east of San Antonio Road and north of East Charleston, and implement shoreline development regulations to ensure that new development is protected from potential impacts of flooding resulting from sea level rise and significant Department of Public This is still an on going effort. Development standards have not been implemented for flooding due to sea level riseS2.11.1 By 2022 Significant Ongoingstorm events. Regulations should be consistent with the Baylands Master Plan, as amended, and may include new shoreline setback requirements, limits on lot line adjustments to avoid the creation of vulnerable shoreline lots, and/or triggers for relocation or removal of existing structures based on changing site conditions and other factors.
Works
Study appropriate restrictions on underground construction in areas outside of flood zones, as shown on Map S‐5, to accommodate expected higher groundwater levels due to sea level rise and minimize consequent flooding of underground construction.
Department of Public
WorksS2.11.2 By 2022 Standard Pending Appropriate standards and restrictions have not been implemented.
Work cooperatively with the Santa Clara Valley Water District and the San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority to provide flood protection from high tide events on San Francisco Bay, taking into account the Department of Public The City of Palo Alto continues to work with the project team to plan for projects such as tide gate replacement and levee improvements in anticipation of future sea level rise.S2.12.1 S2.12.2
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Substantial
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
impacts of future sea level rise, to provide one percent (100‐year) flood protection from tidal flooding, Works while being sensitive to preserving and protecting the natural environment.
Work with regional, State, and federal agencies to develop additional strategies to adapt to flood hazards Department of Public to existing or new development and infrastructure, including support for environmentally sensitive levees. Works A horizontal levee enhancement design is complete planning on construction in 2025 Study to be completed within 1 year.Regularly review and update the Fire Department’s operations, training facilities and programs to ensure consistency with current standards and Best Management Practices.S2.13.1 S2.13.2
Fire Department
Fire Department
Continuous Task
By 2022
standard ongoing
Explore technological tools, such as cameras or remote sensors, to identify smoke or fires and initiate response as quickly as possible.
N5 sensors installed in the WUI area. Policy and procedures for monitoring to be established. Collaboration with Stanford, Woodside and Palo Alto.Significant Partially complete
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
35 Packet Pg. 55 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Regularly review and fund updates to the Palo Alto Foothills Fire Management Plan to ensure consistency with current standards and Best Management Practices.S2.14.1 Fire Department Fire Department
2022‐2027 Substantial Ongoing Draft FFMP submitted by Carol Rice (contractor).
Implement the Foothills Fire Management Plan to balance conservation of natural resources with reduction of fire hazards especially in open space areas.S2.14.2 S2.14.3
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Substantial
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Draft FFMP submitted by Carol Rice (contractor).
This is an ongoing effort.Planning and
Development ServicesMinimize fire hazards by maintaining low density zoning in wildland fire hazard areas.
Work collaboratively with other jurisdictions and agencies to reduce wildfire hazards in and around Palo Alto, with an emphasis on effective vegetation management and mutual aid agreements.S2.14.4 S2.14.5
S2.15.1
Fire Department Continuous Task
By 2022
Significant
Significant
significant
Ongoing
Ongoing
ongoing
Collaboration with Stanford University and Woodside Fire on N5 sensor install.
Consider implementation of CAL FIRE recommended programs in educating and involving the local community to diminish potential loss caused by wildfire and identify prevention measures to reduce those Fire Department risks.
Contract with FireSafe Council for roadside clearance work. Moving forward with multi year contract with Fire Safe Council for work outlined in FFMP.
The department has reviewed its in‐county aid agreements as is actively working with San Mateo agencies to update those agreements. The department is also proposing service delivery modifications this year
Evaluate measures for optimal service delivery to improve efficiency; develop automatic or mutual aid agreements with other jurisdictions, including Stanford, to improve efficiencies. Fire Department 2022‐2027 S2.15.2
S2.15.3
Upgrade fire stations so that all remain fully functional following earthquakes.
Periodically update the Fire Department Standards of Cover document.
Fire Department
Fire Department
Continuous Task significant
significant
Ongoing
ongoing
Fire Station 4 project is going through plan check
Dept. is updating its strategic plan and proposing service delivery changes. Once known, the process can be completed.2022‐2027
Provide public education on fire safety, including wildland and structural fire prevention, evacuation routes and guidelines for clearance of landscaping and other hazards around structures.
Current programs: Annual WUI informational community meeting, annual Fire Prevention Week Open House, Community Hands only CPR classesS2.16.1 Fire Department Continuous Task Standard ongoing Goal S‐3: An environment free of the damaging effects of human‐caused threats and hazardous materials.
Continue City permitting procedures for commercial and industrial storage, use, and handling of hazardous materials and regulate the commercial use of hazardous materials that may present a risk of off‐site health or safety effects.
Added additional Hazmat program staffing including 2 Hazmat Inspectors, 1 Assistant Fire Marshal, 1 Administrative Asst. IIIS3.1.1 Fire Department Continuous Task By 2022
Significant ongoing
Minimize the risks of biohazards in Palo Alto, including Level 4 biohazards, by continuing to review and update, as necessary, local regulations regarding use, handling and disposal.
Added additional Hazmat program staffing including 2 Hazmat Inspectors, 1 Assistant Fire Marshal, 1 Administrative Asst. IIIS3.1.2
S3.1.3
S3.1.4
Fire Department
Planning and
Development Services By 2022
and Department of
Significant
Standard
Significant
ongoing
Ongoing
pending
Strengthen development review requirements and construction standards for projects on sites with groundwater contamination. This is an ongoing effort.
Establish protocols to monitor the movement of hazardous materials on Palo Alto roadways and respond effectively to spills via established truck and construction routes. Fire Department Fire Department
2022‐2027 With addition of staffing, work on this goal can start in January.
Work with non‐profit organizations to provide information to the public regarding pesticides and other commonly used hazardous materials, environmentally preferable alternatives, and safe recycling and disposal practices to all user groups.
S3.1.5 Continuous Task Standard pending With addition of staffing, work on this goal can start in January.
Continue providing regular household hazardous waste collection events at the Palo Alto Regional Water Department of Public The City provides input when requested. There are no substantial actions to report currently.S3.1.6
S3.1.7
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Quality Control Plant and strive to make these programs more convenient and accessible to residents. Works Department of Public
WorksContinue to allow small quantity generators to dispose of hazardous waste at cost. Program continues to be available to small businesses.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
36 Packet Pg. 56 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Continue to educate residents on the proper disposal of pharmaceutical and household hazardous waste.
Encourage proper disposal of medications through pharmacies or drug take‐back programs rather than flushing.
Department of Public
Works
Advertising pharmaceutical disposal options and providing locations to residents is a continuous effort.S3.1.8 Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Pending
Ongoing
No accidents or spills occurred during this reporting period. OES has not established a process to track this action in a meaningful way as yet. We anticipate having more coordination with freight carriers in the coming year.
Work with the freight industry to monitor the contents of freight trains intersecting Palo Alto for potentially hazardous materials, and to establish accountability for accidents and spills.
Office of Emergency
ServicesS3.6.1
S3.6.2
No change from previous year reporting. This is an ongoing task. Project Safety Net, now a 501(c)(3) and its partners continue to collaborate and educate the community. The City remains committed to participating and supporting Project Safety Net and youth mental health.
Work with Caltrain and the PAUSD, to educate students and the public on the dangers of rail trespass and Community Services the benefits of suicide support services available in Palo Alto. Department Encourage residential and commercial food waste reduction through incentives, educational outreach and Department of Public This work continues and is increasing as it is a key activity, to approach Zero Waste. Will expand ordinance requirements to improve diversion of organic waste.S3.8.1 S3.8.2
Continuous Task
Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
programs. Works
Department of Public
Works
Will continue to review rates to ensure that this program charges the correct amount for the service.To the extent allowed by law, use refuse rate structures that incentivize waste reduction.
Continue to work with CalRecycle and the Department of Toxic Substances Control to develop and promote long‐term solid waste management, such as environmentally responsible recycling programs, composting of food waste and other organics, and citywide electronics and digital hardware recycling efforts.
Department of Public
WorksS3.8.3 Continuous Task Standard Ongoing This work continues and new campaigns are cycled through.
Department of Public
WorksS3.9.1
S3.9.2
Periodically review and update the adopted Construction and Debris program. Continuous Task Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Monitoring the new requirement in this area that was adopted in July 2020.
This is an ongoing task.
Educate Palo Alto residents and developers about available incentives to use environmentally friendly deconstruction activities to minimize our carbon footprint, and to save natural resources, as well as space in our landfills.
Department of Public
Works
Support efforts to enforce extended producer responsibility for solid waste to reduce waste produced from manufacturing, shipping, packaging and the entire life‐cycle of the product.S3.10.1 S3.12.1
Office of Sustainability Continuous Task Standard Ongoing Ongoing
This is an ongoing task.
This is an ongoing task.Complete an inventory of the City’s digital infrastructure to locate vulnerabilities and gaps in system redundancies and develop recommendations for improved cybersecurity. City of Palo Alto Utilities 2022‐2027 Significant Staff is deploying a pilot to determine how to align the electric grid modernization with fiber‐to‐the‐premises to minimize and streamline engineering design work, pole replacements, noise disruption, and construction activity in the neighborhoods. The pilot is scheduled to be completed by June 2025.
Establish criteria for the installation of high security telecommunications technology in new local government projects.S3.12.2
S3.12.3
City of Palo Alto Utilities 2022‐2027 Substantial
Significant
Partially Complete
Partially Complete
OES is moving forward to establish a Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network (AREDN) to provide a limited wi‐fi mesh across the City that ESV members can utilize in a widespread emergency. This is a multiphased project. Phase 1 ‐ establishing a network backbone to cover Palo Alto is complete. Phase 2 ‐ create 4 mesh nodes to provide an limited mesh is underway. Phase 3 ‐ expand the mesh to additional carrier sites will be initiated in CY25.
This project is moving forward while a more comprehensive and dedicated public safety wife network is considered.
City of Palo Alto Utilities
and Office of Emergency By 2022
Services
Establish a wi‐fi network that will be available to public safety responders and Emergency Service Volunteers in the event of power interruption during an emergency or disaster.
Transportation Element
Goal T‐1: Create a sustainable transportation system, complemented by a mix of land uses, that emphasizes walking, bicycling, use of public transportation, and other methods to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the use of single occupancy motor vehicles.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Create a long‐term education program to change the travel habits of residents, visitors, shoppers, and workers by informing them about transportation alternatives, incentives, and impacts. Work with the PAUSD and with other public and private interests, such as the Chamber of Commerce and Commuter Wallet partners, to develop and implement this program.
OOT staff is hired and focusing on grant‐funded bicycle safety work and micro mobility program.T1.2.1 Office of Transportation Continuous Task Office of Transportation Continuous Task
Standard
Standard
Partially Complete
This is an ongoing effort by city staff and council members appointed to various boards and commissions. City staff successfully requested that Measure B funding for innovative transit be allowed to fund continuing programs and not just the launch of these programs.
Advocate for improved connectivity to transit to serve workers who live in the South Bay and work in Palo Alto.T1.2.2 Ongoing
Formalize TDM requirements by ordinance and require new developments above a certain size threshold to prepare and implement a TDM plan to meet specific performance standards. Require regular monitoring/reporting and provide for enforcement with meaningful penalties for non‐compliance. The ordinance should also:
‐Establish a list of effective TDM measures that include transit promotion, prepaid transit passes, commuter checks, car sharing, carpooling, parking cash‐out, bicycle lockers and showers, shuttles to Caltrain, requiring TMA membership and education and outreach to support the use of these modes. ‐Allow property owners to achieve reductions by contributing to citywide or employment district shuttles or other proven transportation programs that are not directly under the property owner’s control. ‐Provide a system for incorporating alternative measures as new ideas for TDM are developed. ‐Establish a mechanism to monitor the success of TDM measures and track the cumulative reduction of peak hour motor vehicle trips. TDM measures
should at a minimum achieve the following: reduction in peak hour motor vehicle trips, with a focus on single‐occupant vehicle trips. Reductions should be based on the rates included in the Institute of Transportation Engineers’ Trip Generation Manual for the appropriate land use category and size:
45 percent reduction in the Downtown district
Newly recruited OOT staff is focusing on grant‐funded bicycle safety work and micro mobility program.T1.2.3 Office of Transportation By 2022 Significant Partially Complete 35 percent reduction in the California Avenue area
30 percent reduction in the Stanford Research Park
30 percent reduction in the El Camino Real Corridor
20 percent reduction in other areas of the city
‐Require new development projects to pay a Transportation Impact Fee for all those peak‐hour motor vehicle trips that cannot be reduced via TDM measures. Fees collected would be used for capital improvements aimed at reducing vehicle trips and traffic congestion. ‐Ensure a stable, sustained funding source to support implementation of TDM measures.
Evaluate the performance of pilot programs implemented by the Palo Alto Transportation Management Association and pursue expansion from Downtown to California Avenue and other areas of the city when Office of Transportation Continuous Task appropriate.
The City Council receives Palo Alto Transportation Management Association Annual Reports. For FY25, Council allocated $200K to the TMA for outreach citywide.T1.2.4 T1.2.5
Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Planning and
Site City facilities near high‐capacity transit and revise existing regulations, policies, and programs to encourage telecommuting, satellite office concepts, and work‐at‐home options.
Development Services,
Office of Transportation
& Human Resources
No staff comments were received related to this program but staff did provide updated level of effort rating and completion status info.Continuous Task Partially Complete No change, where appropriate, Planning and Development Services includes Transportation Management Association (TMA) membership in development conditions.
The TMA conducts ongoing outreach to employers, and the TMA's mode shift survey now doubles as an outreach tool.
T1.2.6
T1.3.1
Pursue full participation of Palo Alto employers in the TMA. Office of Transportation Continuous Task Significant Significant
Ongoing
Ongoing
This program is ongoing in conjunction with City of Palo Alto Utilities and Office of Transportation. Staff are currently developing an E‐mobility Strategic Plan that include electric vehicles.
Develop an electric vehicle promotion program that identifies policy and technical issues, barriers and opportunities to the expansion of electric vehicles. Office of Sustainability 2022‐2027
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
38 Packet Pg. 58 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Use low‐emission vehicles for the Palo Alto Free Shuttle and work with transit providers, including SamTrans and VTA, to encourage the adoption of electric, fuel cell or other zero emission vehicles. Also work with private bus and shuttle providers, delivery companies, and ride services.
The on‐demand transit service vendor is currently operating electric and hybrid vehicles in Palo Alto.T1.3.2 Office of Transportation 2022‐2027 Substantial Partially complete Planning and
Development ServicesT1.4.1
T1.4.2
Update the Zoning Code to ensure compatibility with the electric vehicle infrastructure requirements. Continuous Task N/A Complete Ongoing
Periodically review requirements for electric and plug‐ in vehicle infrastructure in new construction.
Consider and periodically review requirements for electric and plug‐in infrastructure for remodels.
Consider costs to the City, including identifying payment options.
Office of Sustainability
and City of Palo Alto
Utilities Department
This program is ongoing in conjunction with City of Palo Alto Utilities and Planning & Development.Continuous Task Standard
Collaborate with transit providers, including Caltrain, bus operators and rideshare companies, to develop first/last mile connection strategies that boost the use of transit and shuttle service for local errands and Office of Transportation By 2022 commuting.
The on‐demand transit service vendor is currently operating electric and hybrid vehicles in Palo Alto. While staff have received grant funding to convert the remaining hybrid vehicles to electric, long‐term funding of this service has not been identified.
T1.6.1
T1.6.2
Standard
Standard
Partially complete
OngoingContinue to work with Caltrain, Amtrak, and public bus operators to expand bicycle storage on public transit vehicles and at transit hubs during both peak and off‐peak hours. Office of Transportation Continuous Task No updates to report at this time.
VTA is leading a project and coordinating with other transit partners in developing a master plan for the Transit Master Plan. The plan is in preliminary stage to develop the scope of work. In addition, Stanford is working on a ballot measure for securing land titles to construct direct access between El Camino Real and Bus Terminal. The Quarry Road Extension project was passed by the voters. See
Collaborate with Stanford University, VTA, Caltrain and other agencies to pursue improvements to the Palo Alto Transit Center area aimed at enhancing pedestrian experience and improving circulation and access for all modes, including direct access to El Camino Real for transit vehicles.
T1.11.1
T1.11.2
Office of Transportation Continuous Task Substantial
Substantial
Ongoing
Pending
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Transportation/Transportation‐ Projects/Quarry‐Road‐Transit‐Connection‐at‐El‐Camino‐Park In collaboration with Caltrain and Stanford Research Park, pursue expansion of service to the California Avenue Caltrain Station and creation of an enhanced transit center at the Station, including connections to VTA bus service, the Palo Alto Free Shuttle, the Marguerite, and other private shuttles serving the Research Park.
No updates to report at this time. In the long term, a California Ave Transit Center plan is needed to address this program.Office of Transportation 2022‐2027 VTA's 2025 Transit Service Plan provides roughly the same frequency and coverage as 2024, with some adjustments for less productive routes.T1.12.1 T1.12.2
Strongly recommend that VTA maintain existing service and coverage levels in Palo Alto. Office of Transportation Continuous Task Office of Transportation By 2022
Standard Ongoing
OngoingWork with VTA to expand VTA express bus service routes to serve the Stanford Research Park, California Avenue, Stanford University, and Downtown. Significant No change to report.
Caltrans will initiate a Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan for El Camino Real in the coming months, and will include VTA and local jurisdictions. This plan will include transit, biking, walking, and vehicle considerations. Transit signal priority, bus boarding islands, and queue jump lanes are likely strategies to be included.
Work with VTA to study the feasibility of, and if warranted provide, traffic signal prioritization for buses at Palo Alto intersections, focusing first on regional transit routes. Also, advocate for bus service improvements on El Camino Real such as queue jump lanes and curbside platforms.
T1.12.3
T1.13.1
Office of Transportation By 2022 Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
The pilot on‐demand transit service vendor is currently operating electric and hybrid vehicles in Palo Alto and offers fare incentives. While staff have won grant funds to convert the fleet to all‐electric vehicles, long‐term funding of this service has not been identified.
The Transportation Management Association (TMA) continues to subsidize ridesharing and transit for downtown service workers.
Investigate a pilot program to subsidize a taxi, rideshare, or transit program for Palo Altans to get to/from downtown, including offering education and incentives to encourage users. Office of Transportation 2022‐2027
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
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Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Evaluate the shuttle system in collaboration with community members, people with special needs, and PAUSD to:
‐Evaluate current routes and ridership;
‐Identify potential service improvements, including new or modified routes; expanded schedules that accommodate daytime, evening, and weekend demand; facilitating transit connections, and improvements to the safety and appearance of shuttle stops; ‐Explore partnerships with other services that could complement and supplement the Palo Alto Shuttle; ‐Develop clear and engaging materials to explain and promote shuttle use with the purpose of reducing barriers to use; and
The on‐demand transit service vendor is currently operating electric and hybrid vehicles in Palo Alto. This pilot project provides transit service to most of Palo Alto on weekdays from 7am to 7pm. While staff won grant funding to convert to an all‐electric fleet, long‐term funding of this service has not been identified.
T1.14.1 Office of Transportation Continuous Task Substantial Ongoing ‐Establish a schedule for regular evaluation and reporting to optimize shuttle system use and effectiveness.
Continue regular surveys of bicycle use across the city, by collecting bicycle counts on important and potential bicycle corridors.
Ongoing as part of City of Palo Alto's Bicycle + Pedestrian Transportation Plan (BPTP) implementation.T1.16.1
T1.16.2
Office of Transportation Continuous Task Significant
Significant
Ongoing
No change from last year's reporting. Staff continues to send a digital welcome message to new residents and finalized a new welcome message that is both digital and in print formats. The City's website, provides a comprehensive look at resident related information. The website includes a digital welcome packet and new resident resources are now available both at www.cityofpaloalto.org/residents and a new "My Neighborhood" map that highlights services available near a resident's home at www.cityofpaloalto.org/residents/my‐neighborhood
Consider marketing strategies such as a recurring Palo Alto Open Streets program of events, potentially in coordination with local business groups, which would include street closures and programming. City Manager’s Office 2022‐2027 Partially complete Encourage private schools to develop Walk and Roll Maps as part of Transportation Demand Management strategies to reduce vehicle trips.
This is an ongoing effort. Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School developed their own map in 2014.T1.16.3
T1.16.4
Office of Transportation Continuous Task Standard
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Participate in local and regional encouragement events such as Palo Alto Walks and Rolls, Bike to Work Day, and Bike Palo Alto! that encourages a culture of bicycling and walking as alternatives to single occupant vehicle trips.
Office of Transportation 2022‐2027 Coordination with City staff and various event sponsors is ongoing.
City‐wide street surveys are completed biennially and include pavement inspections of bike lanes and bike boulevards. Installation of video detection equipment is included with street maintenance projects when
Adjust the street evaluation criteria of the City's Pavement Management Program to ensure that areas of the road used by bicyclists are maintained at the same standards as, or at standards higher than, areas used by motor vehicles. Include bicycle and e‐bike detection in intersection upgrades.
Department of Public
WorksT1.19.1
T1.19.2
2022‐2027 Standard Ongoing
Ongoing
appropriate.
Prioritize investments for enhanced pedestrian access and bicycle use within Palo Alto and to/from surrounding communities, including by incorporating improvements from related City plans, for example Department of Public the 2012 Bicycle + Pedestrian Transportation Plan and the Parks, Trails & Open Space Master Plan, as amended, into the Capital Improvements Program.
Continuous Task
After 2027
Substantial This program is ongoing. There are no substantial actions to report at this time.Works Increase the number of east‐west pedestrian and bicycle crossings across Alma Street and the Caltrain corridor, particularly south of Oregon Expressway.
Department of Public
Works
The project to determine the location of two bike/pedestrian crossings of the rail corridor south of Oregon Expressway began in September 2024.T1.19.3 T1.19.4
Substantial
Standard
Partially Complete
Partially CompleteEncourage the use of bike sharing, and the provision of required infrastructure throughout Palo Alto, especially at transit stations and stops, job centers, community centers, and other destinations.
Newly recruited OOT staff is focusing on grant‐funded bicycle safety work and micro mobility (bikeshare/e‐scooter) program.Office of Transportation Continuous Task
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
40 Packet Pg. 60 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Improve amenities such as seating, lighting, bicycle parking, street trees, public art, and interpretive stations along bicycle and pedestrian paths and in City parks to encourage walking and cycling and enhance the feeling of safety.
Office of Transportation
and Department of
Public Works
T1.19.5 Continuous Task Substantial
Significant
Ongoing
Ongoing
There are no substantial actions to report at this time. Ongoing as opportunities arise.
This program is ongoing. There are no updates to report at this time.Collect, analyze and report transportation data through surveys and other methods on a regular basis.
Track progress on build‐out of the 2012 Bicycle + Pedestrian Transportation Plan network.T1.22.1 T1.25.1
Office of Transportation Continuous Task
Office of Transportation Continuous Task
As part of the effort to reduce traffic congestion, regularly evaluate the City’s current Transportation Impact Fee and modify as needed to implement transportation infrastructure improvements.
Modifications to the impact fee program should be structured in keeping with the City’s desire to require new development to reduce peak hour motor vehicle contributions to the provision of transit services, shuttles, carpool/ rideshare incentives, and similar programs.
Standard Ongoing
Ongoing
No updates to report at this time.
Executed a funding agreement with FRA for $6.0 Million funding for Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Phase for Churchill Avenue, Meadow Drive, & Charleston Road Grade Separations. In addition City was awarded a $23.79 Million for final design for the same crossings.
In collaboration with regional agencies and neighboring jurisdictions, identify and pursue funding for rail corridor improvements and grade separation.T1.26.1 Office of Transportation By 2022 Significant Goal T‐2: Decrease delay, congestion, and vehicle miles travelled with a priority on our worst intersections and our peak commute times, including school traffic.
T2.1.1 Implement computerized traffic management systems to improve traffic flow when feasible. Office of Transportation Continuous Task Substantial Significant
Ongoing
Ongoing
Intend to be partial to mostly complete by end of 2024.
Implement a program to monitor, coordinate, and optimize traffic signal timing a minimum of every two years along arterial and residential arterial streets.
Numerous projects in process. On‐going monitoring is limited and subject to staffing availabilityT2.1.2 Office of Transportation Continuous Task Work in partnership with the Palo Alto TMA and Stanford University to aggregate data and realize measurable reductions in single‐occupant vehicle commuting to and from Downtown and in the Stanford Office of Transportation Continuous Task Research Park.
This program is ongoing. For FY25, Council allocated to the TMA $200K for citywide outreach.T2.2.1
T2.3.1
Significant
Significant
Ongoing
Pending
When adopting new CEQA significance thresholds for VMT for compliance with SB 743 (2013), adopt standards for vehicular LOS analysis for use in evaluating the consistency of a proposed project with the Comprehensive Plan, and also explore desired standards for MMLOS, which includes motor vehicle LOS, at signalized intersections.
Office of Transportation By 2022
Office of Transportation By 2022
No updates to report at this time.
Methodologies for Multimodal Level of Service (MMLOS) are neither standardized nor widely used. Level of stress analysis of the bicycle and pedestrian network is anticipated in the current update of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan. This analysis will inform development review by staff.
Revise protocols for reviewing office, commercial, and multi‐family residential development proposals to evaluate multimodal level of service and identify gaps in the low stress bicycle and pedestrian network.T2.4.1 Standard Pending Ongoing
Goal T‐3: Maintain an efficient roadway network for all users.
Continue to use best practices in roadway design that are consistent with complete streets principles and the Urban Forest Master Plan, focusing on bicycle and pedestrian safety and multi‐modal uses. Consider opportunities to incorporate best practices from the National Association of City Transportation Officials guidelines for urban streets and bikeways, tailored to the Palo Alto context.
Office of Transportation
& Department of Public By 2022
Works
T3.5.1 Significant No updates to report at this time.
Department of Public
T3.5.2 Establish procedures for considering the effects of street design on emergency vehicle response time. Works & Palo Alto Police Department &
Continuous Task Standard Ongoing
Ongoing
No changes.
Support increased public transit, traffic management and parking solutions to ensure safe, convenient access to and from the Stanford Shopping Center/ Medical Center area.T3.10.1 Office of Transportation Continuous Task Substantial The Quarry Road Extension project was approved by the voters.
Item 3
Attachment A - Comp Plan
Implementation Program Status,
2024
Item 3: Staff Report
Pg.
41 Packet Pg. 61 of 246
Target
Completion Date
at Comp Plan
Adoption
2024 Completion
Status
(as of December
31, 2024)
2024 Level of
Effort to
Complete
Program
Number Program Text Lead Department Staff Comments 2024 Provide safe, convenient pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connections between the Stanford Shopping Center/Medical Center areas and housing along the Sand Hill Road/Quarry Road corridors to Palo Alto Transit Center, Downtown Palo Alto, and other primary destinations.
T3.10.3 Office of Transportation Continuous Task Substantial Significant
Partially Complete
Partially Complete
The Quarry Road Extension project was approved by the voters.
Pursue extension of Quarry Road for transit, pedestrians and bicyclists to access the Palo Alto Transit Center from El Camino Real. Also study the feasibility of another pedestrian and bicycle underpass of Caltrain at Everett Street.T3.10.4 Office of Transportation 2022‐2027 The Quarry Road Extension project was approved by the voters.
Staff completed the additional studies, including updates to the plans, profiles, sections, and renderings for the Rail Committee and the City Council Review. The Rail Committee reviewed and recommended the City Council for elimination of Trench Alternatives at Meadow and Charleston Road crossings. The City Council reviewed and directed staff to initiate Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Phase with Partial Underpass Alternative and bike/ped undercrossing at Seale Ave as preferred alternative and Closure as backup alternative. For Meadow and Charleston, city council directed to move forward the underpass and hybrid options to review in early phase of PE & Environmental.
Undertake studies and outreach necessary to advance grade separation of Caltrain to become a “shovel ready” project and strongly advocate for adequate State, regional, and federal funding for design and construction of railroad grade separations.
T3.15.1 Office of Transportation By 2022 Substantial ongoing Staff presented to the Rail committee on the alternative location of crossings for Churchill Underpass option. Rail Committee after review of the crossings recommended Council to select Seale Avenue crossing. The Council at the June 10th meeting selected and directed staff to pursue the Seale Avenue Crossing for Churchill Partial Underpass alternative.
T3.15.2
T3.17.1
T3.17.2
Conduct a study to evaluate the implications of grade separation on bicycle and pedestrian circulation. Office of Transportation By 2022 Office of Transportation By 2022
Significant
Significant
Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
The conceptual plans for the improvements required for implementing quiet zone at this location were completed. Staff is working on completing the final plans and seek permits to construct necessary improvements.
Complete a Palo Alto Avenue crossing study to identify potential near‐term safety and accessibility improvements.
Staff worked with Caltrain to develop the project plans for enhanced fencing to replace existing 7 feet fencing with 9 feet fencing with winglet between Churchill Avenue and Palo Alto Station. Caltrain has completed the project design and currently working on the procurement of the contractor services to construct these improvements.
Work with Caltrain to ensure that the rail tracks are safe and secure with adequate fencing and barriers. Office of Transportation By 2022 Goal T‐4: Protect local streets that contribute to neighborhood character and provide a range of local transportation options.
Periodically evaluate residential areas for traffic impacts and use the results of that evaluation to prioritize traffic calming measures.T4.2.1 Office of Transportation Continuous Task Standard Ongoing Ongoing
Staff evaluates traffic calming requests on first come first serve bases.
Use landscaping and other improvements to establish clear “gateways” at the points where the Oregon Department of Public Expressway, University Avenue and Embarcadero Road transition from freeways to neighborhoods. WorksT4.4.1 After 2027 Substantial This is an ongoing effort. There are no substantial actions to report at this time.
Goal T‐5: Encourage attractive, convenient, efficient and innovative parking solutions for all users.
We received the 23‐24 Annual Mode Share Report on time, results get incorporated into a Annual Report for Council. SUMC did not meet 2024 goals, but fees only apply if they also do not meet 2025 goals.
T3.10.2 Implement and monitor Development Agreement traffic mitigations at Stanford Medical Center. Office of Transportation Continuous Task Standard Standard
Ongoing
Ongoing
Planning andEvaluate the need to update parking standards in the municipal code, based on local conditions, different users’ needs and baseline parking need. Allow the use of parking lifts for Office/R&D and multifamily housing as appropriate.
Development Services
and Office of
Additional recommendations will be presented along with the development of a commercial pilot process. Parking lifts are allowed for office, R&D and multifamily projects.T5.1.1 By 2022 Transportation