City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: CONSENT CALENDAR
Lead Department: Administrative Services
Meeting Date: May 18, 2026
Report #:2601-5855
TITLE
Adoption of a Resolution Vacating a Portion of a Public Utility Easement at 590 Maybell Avenue; CEQA Status – Exempt under Cal. Code Regs. Title 14, Section 15305
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached resolution ordering the summary vacation of a portion of a public utility easement located on the residential property at 590 Maybell Avenue in Palo Alto, CA.
ANALYSIS
The public utility easement affecting the property at 590 Maybell Avenue was dedicated for public utility purposes as shown on the map recorded on June 2, 1948, in Book 18 of Maps at
The Real Estate Division in the Administrative Services Department received the property trustee’s request that a portion of this easement be vacated. The City’s Utilities, Planning, Public Works Departments and City Attorney’s Office, have reviewed and approved the vacation of this portion of the easement. The proposed action would reduce the width of the existing 10-foot easement down to 5 feet. The 5-foot portion being vacated is excess and no longer needed for public utility purposes. Therefore, this portion of the easement may be vacated in accordance with the summary proceeding authorized in Section 8333 of the California Streets and Highways Code.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
The Summary Easement Vacation processing fee of $3,295, as set forth in the FY 2026 Municipal Fee Schedule, has been paid by the property trustee.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
The Real Estate Division in the Administrative Services Department collaborated with the property trustee and their representatives, the City’s Utilities, Planning, Public Works Departments and City Attorney’s Office, for necessary reviews of language and exhibits.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Council action on the summary vacation of the public service easement is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Title 14, California Code of Regulations, Section 15305 as a minor alteration in land use limitations.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Resolution Vacating a Portion of a Public Service Easement at 590 Maybell Avenue
APPROVED BY:
Lauren Lai, Administrative Services Director