EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO RUSS REICH UPON HIS RETIREMENT
WHEREAS, Russ Reich began his career with the City of Palo Alto as an intern in 1999 and has provided exemplary service to the community throughout his 25-plus year career in Planning and Development Services; and
WHEREAS, Russ served as liaison to the Architectural Review Board for multiple terms and facilitated the ARB Design Awards program in 2010 and 2015; and
WHEREAS, Russ made a positive impact throughout the community having managed hundreds of planning entitlement applications including Single -Family Individual Review s, Architectural Review Board reviews , Zone Changes, Subdivisions, Conditional Use Permits, Site and Design Reviews, Planned Community Developments, Home Improvement Exceptions, Variances, and Temporary Use Permits; and
WHEREAS, Russ has received recognition by professional organizations for his work in tree preservation and for his contributions to the City’s R-1 Zoning Technical Manual; and
WHEREAS, Russ held a leadership role in the department and was involved in hiring and training planning staff as the Planning Manager at the Development Center and was known for having provided excellent customer service; and
WHEREAS, Russ was able to nimbly transition from Planning Manager to the Development Center Manager position early in the pandemic when the teams were working remotely and he was able to lead the Project Coordination Team through the transition from a paper format to an online digital permit review and issuance process; and
WHEREAS, Russ is commended as a mentor who has trained many new planners who have advanced to higher level roles; and has earned the respect of his colleagues through his personable nature, depth of knowledge, and ability to collaborate with individuals across the organization and will be greatly missed.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Palo Alto hereby gratefully records and extends its sincere appreciation to Russ Reich for his dedication and excellent service rendered to the City.
PRESENTED: May 5, 2025
APPROVED:
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Mayor Ed Lauing
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Vice Mayor Vicki Veenker Councilmember Pat Burt
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Councilmember George Lu Councilmember Julie Lythcott-Haims
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Councilmember Keith Reckdahl Councilmember Greer Stone
ATTEST:
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City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
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City Manager City Attorney
Proclamation