Public Meetings - Belmont, California

Note: The meeting agenda listed the date as June 17, 2024, but the user-provided date for this summary is September 26, 2024. The summary reflects the later date as instructed. The Public Safety Committee met to receive the Police Chief’s quarterly update and to discuss the potential adoption of an Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) program. Public comments focused on privacy, scope, and accountability. The committee expressed support for starting a UAS program with careful oversight. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the minutes of November 13, 2023, and March 18, 2024, by motion. Public Comments & Testimony - Gina questioned why law enforcement would lead drone use for fire or public works, asked whether drones would be marked as police property, and expressed skepticism about the benefit for missing persons searches. - Michelle Peters raised concerns about the availability of police officers to pilot drones for other departments, potential scope creep, and whether the supervising sergeant would be trained as a pilot. She requested well-defined use cases. - Beth on Emster asked which local agencies already have drones, and whether a written policy would govern drone usage to prevent privacy violations and mission creep. Discussion Items Chief’s Quarterly Update - Chief reported promotions: Corporals Ed Berry and Michael Checky, and dispatcher Christy Wing (in training). - Recognitions: Professional Staff of the Year (Natalie), Officer of the Year (Michael Checky), Volunteer of the Year (Cindy Birch). - Training: 690 hours completed in the last quarter. - Major incident: O’Donnell Park homicide (May 24, 2024) – victim specifically targeted, multiple individuals involved, approximately 50 search warrants executed, ongoing investigation with multi-agency support. - Community outreach events held (flight safety day, Easter egg hunt, autism awareness month, etc.) and upcoming (disaster preparedness day, National Night Out, community academy, etc.). - Councilmember questions: de-escalation training discussed; license plate reader program update – policy posted online, still working through budget and state constraints. Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Presentation - Captain Armando presented potential benefits: accident reconstruction, critical incident monitoring (fires, open space), industrial accidents, missing persons searches. - Examples of successful use by other agencies: Tesla crash at Devil’s Slide, July 4th mortar detection, residential burglary suspect location. - Missed opportunities in Belmont: Paul Farmer missing person search, Barrett Center roof replacement, Laurel Creek fire, Christoph Lichke missing person case, fatal DUI hit-and-run. - Cost: Free training for 4 officers + 1 supervisor (hosted by a training group). One US-made drone estimated at $7,000 (original non-US estimate was $3,000); total startup $15,000. Redwood City budgeted $150,000 per year for a full program. - Policy: Existing UAS policy on transparency portal; FAA regulations require coordination with air traffic control due to proximity to SFO and San Carlos Airport. Flight logs will be maintained and subject to public records requests (with investigation-related redactions). - Committee discussion: Councilmember McCune noted infrared capabilities, flight time improvements (now 30–40 minutes), and asked about FAA regulations. Vice Mayor Lennon asked about number of officers trained, budget sharing across departments, and transparency. Chief and Captain clarified that pilots would be on duty to avoid overtime costs and that internal and external oversight exists. - Public comments answered: Drone use for missing persons can quickly clear an area, freeing resources; police will pilot drones for city departments due to 24/7 availability; policy governs use to prevent surveillance beyond authorized purposes. Key Outcomes - The committee received the Chief’s quarterly update and the UAS presentation with no formal vote. - Consensus to proceed with a phased UAS program: start with one drone, train 4 officers + 1 supervisor, and develop a clear policy with public transparency, including a public log of drone flights (subject to investigatory exceptions). - Staff will refine cost estimates and bring back a proposed policy for further committee input. - The committee acknowledged the need for independent verification of drone usage and committed to incorporating community feedback on privacy and accountability.

The Belmont City Council met on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at 7:00 PM (the agenda listed 6:00 PM, but the transcript indicates the public portion began at 7:00 PM) in the City Council Chambers at One Twin Pines Lane. The meeting included special presentations, consent business, a public hearing on a new memory care facility, and general business items. All votes were unanimous (5-0). Special Presentations - Indigenous Peoples' Day Proclamation: Mayor Mates read a proclamation declaring October 14, 2024, as Indigenous Peoples' Day, recognizing the historic and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples and the ancestral homeland of the Ramaytush Ohlone. Jonathan Cordero, Executive Director of the Association of Ramaytush Ohlone, accepted the proclamation, stating that such proclamations and land acknowledgments are making a difference in the community. - Fire Prevention Week Proclamation: The council proclaimed October 6–12, 2024, as Fire Prevention Week, with the theme "Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work for You." Fire Marshal Workman (recently promoted) accepted the proclamation and highlighted key safety messages: install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level; test monthly; replace alarms every 10 years. She invited the public to an open house on October 5th at Station 28 in Foster City. Consent Calendar - Response to Grand Jury Report on Restaurant Exteriors: Approved a response letter to the San Mateo County Civil Grand Jury report dated July 9, 2024, entitled "Restaurant Exteriors: The Neglected Space." - Silicon Valley Clean Water (SVCW) WIFIA Loan Amendments: Adopted a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute amendments to the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loans and associated documents. - Conflict of Interest Code Biannual Update: Approved a resolution revising the City’s Conflict of Interest Code and updating the appendix of designated employees. All consent items were approved by a single 5-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - William Blight (resident): Expressed frustration about a sewer pipe replacement demand from the Public Works Department. He stated that he and his wife are longtime residents with limited income (his wife is a teacher, he is a mechanic), and they cannot afford the $10,000 replacement cost. He claimed the issue was not urgent and that the city had not contacted him for two years before sending a threatening letter. He requested that the city work with him on a timeline that fits his financial situation. Public Hearing: 1041 Hill Street – New Memory Care Facility - Staff Presentation (Rob Gill, Senior Planner): The project proposes demolishing an existing skilled nursing facility and constructing a 24,806-square-foot, three-story memory care building with 42 beds (30 single and 6 companion units). The existing assisted living facility will remain. The plan development (PD) zoning amendment requires a two-step process: a Conceptual Development Plan and a Detailed Development Plan. The project includes a Conditional Use Permit, Design Review, Grading Permit, and Tree Removal Permit. Staff recommended introducing the ordinance (first reading) that night, with final approval (second reading and resolution) scheduled for October 8, 2024, contingent on resolving a fee dispute regarding impact fees. Staff noted that a settlement agreement on fees is expected to be in place by then. - Parking: The PD zoning requires 50 spaces; currently 41 exist. After construction, 34 spaces will remain due to reconfiguration, loss of seven spaces for fire control room, generator, etc. Staff found a hardship due to hillside constraints, and noted that memory care residents will not drive, reducing demand. A shuttle service and bicycle facilities are planned. - Council Discussion: Councilmember McCune expressed support, noting the essential need for such facilities. Councilmember Pang Manganaris asked about electric vehicle charging infrastructure (9 EV-ready spaces) and public art fees (the project will pay the fee or provide art on site). The project is CEQA-exempt under Infill Development Guidelines (15332). - Public Comment: None. - Action: The council voted 5-0 to introduce the ordinance (first reading). The project will return for final approval on October 8, 2024. General Business - Designation of Voting Delegate for League of California Cities Annual Conference (October 16–18, 2024): The council appointed Mayor Mates as voting delegate and City Manager as alternate. The city attorney noted that the delegates will vote on resolutions provided in the packet. No public comment. Motion passed 5-0. - Revised Master Employee Pay Schedule: Adopted a resolution approving revisions to the City's Master Employee Pay Schedule to comply with CalPERS regulations, including retroactive adjustments for 2023 and 2024 for the city attorney and city manager. Staff explained that the revisions were necessary to reflect pay scales approved at the previous meeting. Motion passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0 (three items). - 1041 Hill Street Memory Care Facility: Introduced ordinance (first reading) 5-0; final approval scheduled for October 8, 2024, with fee settlement to be finalized. - Voting Delegate: Mayor Mates appointed as delegate, City Manager as alternate for the Cal Cities conference. - Master Pay Schedule: Adopted 5-0. - Public Comment: Mr. Blight's sewer issue was noted; no formal action taken. Reports from Councilmembers and Staff - Councilmember Pang Manganaris reported attending a Bay Area Regional Collaborative meeting and a Silicon Valley Clean Water Commission meeting. - Mayor Mates reported on the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Board meeting, where Chief Thrusher announced his retirement effective December 31, 2024; the board will conduct an internal recruitment. She also noted updates from the San Mateo County Transit Authority (TA) strategic plan update, encouraging public input. - City Manager (via Community Development Director) reported on the successful Caltrain Grand Opening Community Event (September 22), the Coastal Cleanup Day (66 volunteers, 220 pounds of trash removed), and the issuance of a Notice of Preparation for the Harbor Industrial Area Specific Plan (environmental review); public comments due October 14, 2024. Adjournment The meeting adjourned to the next regular meeting on October 8, 2024.

This was a joint special meeting of the Belmont Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation Commission, held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, beginning at 7:00 PM and adjourning at 9:27 PM. The meeting included a study session on the Belmont Signage & Wayfinding Project, followed by the regular Planning Commission agenda consisting of consent calendar approval of minutes, a public hearing for a single-family design review at 3411 Plateau Drive, and an EIR scoping session for the Harbor Industrial Area Specific Plan. No community forum comments were received. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Minutes (August 20, 2024): Approved unanimously (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Signage & Wayfinding Project: No public comments were offered. - 3411 Plateau Drive Design Review: No public comments were offered. - HIA EIR Scoping Session: Two speakers addressed the commission: - Leslie Wombach (NAMI San Mateo County, retired architect, former planning commissioner): Advocated for increased supportive housing for people with serious mental illness and a better balance of housing versus commercial-industrial development in the HIA plan. - Caroline Purr (Homeview neighborhood resident, former planning commissioner): Expressed concerns about impacts to Homeview from the proposed 3.9 million sq ft non-residential and 303 new residential units, including effects on aesthetics, air quality, noise, traffic, parking, safety (especially regarding gates at O’Neill/Harbor), park overuse (O’Donnell Park), and utility/flooding issues. She requested that the EIR address these with mitigations such as building height limits, transitions, and green space. Discussion Items Study Session: Belmont Signage & Wayfinding Project - Staff and Hunt Design (consultant Jen Bressler) presented a citywide signage and wayfinding program to create a cohesive system using brand colors, natural materials, and directional signs. The program concentrates on Ralston Avenue, El Camino Real, Alameda de las Pulgas, Old County Road, and select neighborhood entrances. Two color palettes (blue for downtown/civic areas, green for residential/parks) were proposed, but many commissioners opposed splitting the city. Other discussion points included: - Use of banners, pedestrian maps, bike signage, and monuments. - Destinations: Civic Center, train station, library, parks—schools were suggested but not yet included. - Cost estimates: directional signs $2,000–$2,500 each; monument signs $10,000–$20,000; total program $75,000–$150,000. - Concerns about the blue-green split creating a divisive east-west identity, preference for a single color or more than two colors. - Desire to prioritize bike and pedestrian signage over car-oriented signs. - Interest in making monuments more artistic and less utilitarian. - Need for exact sign location lists for public review. - No action taken; feedback to be synthesized for city council adoption later in 2024. Public Hearing: 3411 Plateau Drive – Single Family Design Review - Staff presented a proposal for a 975 sq ft total addition (499 sq ft ground floor, 476 sq ft second floor) to an existing 1,846 sq ft home, resulting in 2,808 sq ft total (3,500 sq ft maximum allowed). The lot is 7,000 sq ft with 5.8% slope. Setbacks are within code. Materials include charcoal tile roof, cedar siding, and stock colors. Staff recommended approval. The architect (Mike) attended via Zoom but had no additional comments. - The commission unanimously approved the design review (5-0). EIR Scoping Session – Harbor Industrial Area Specific Plan - Kevin Gardner (Good City Company) presented the purpose of scoping for the program EIR. The HIA is a 62-acre unincorporated area adjacent to Belmont Village. The plan proposes up to 3.9 million sq ft non-residential (increase from 1.3 million) and 303 new residential units (plus 250 existing multi-family and a 91-unit mobile home park). The EIR will study environmental impacts, alternatives, and mitigation. Public comment period runs through October 14, 2024. Commission input included: - Desire to study an alternative that includes full remediation of existing pollution to allow residential uses in areas currently zoned non-residential, to provide cost/feasibility data. - Emphasis on including cumulative noise, traffic, and utility impacts on adjacent neighborhoods (e.g., Homeview). - Need for robust outreach to the mobile home park community. - No formal action taken; comments will inform the draft EIR. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved August 20, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0). - 3411 Plateau Drive: Approved single-family design review (5-0). The decision is appealable within 10 calendar days. - Signage & Wayfinding: Commission feedback will be incorporated; the project is expected to go to city council later in 2024. - HIA EIR Scoping: Public and commission comments on scope (including alternatives for residential feasibility) will be considered as the draft EIR is prepared, with a 45-day public review period anticipated in 2025.

The Belmont City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, a new citizen reporting app launch, adoption of the revised Housing Element, a solid waste rate increase, certification of an EIR for a stormwater detention basin, and employment agreement amendments for the City Attorney and City Manager. Consent Calendar - Items A-E Approved with Recusal: The council approved minutes, a Banking Services Contract Amendment with Wells Fargo Bank (Councilmember McHugh recused), a Demolition Notice of Completion ($106,390), and a Measure A fund appropriation ($28,990) for the Ralston Avenue Adaptive Signal Control Technology System Project. - Item C (0 Longfellow Drive Permanent Encroachment Agreement): Initially pulled for further discussion after two residents spoke in opposition. Staff explained the encroachment is within unused public right-of-way and does not affect the roadway. The motion passed 5-0. - Item F (Belmont Library Exterior Improvement): Pulled from consent by staff; not voted on. Public Comments & Testimony - On Consent Item C (0 Longfellow Drive): Two Longfellow Drive residents opposed the permanent encroachment of a retaining wall into the public right-of-way, citing narrow streets, safety concerns for emergency vehicles and school buses, and disruption to the neighborhood. Staff responded that the wall is 7 feet 5.5 inches into the right-of-way but not into the roadway, leaving 4 feet 5.5 inches to the curb, and all operational departments approved access. Discussion Items - Adoption of the Revised Housing Element 2023-2031 (11A): Deputy Community Development Director Laura Russell and Assistant City Manager Cathy Kleinbaum presented. After state review and a July 2024 letter deeming the revised element compliant, the council repealed the January 2023 version and adopted the revised element, including new policies to affirmatively further fair housing (AFFH) and more conservative site inventory assumptions. The planning commission had unanimously recommended approval. The council voted 5-0 to adopt. - Solid Waste Rate Application for 2025 (12A): Public Works Director Nisha Patel and HDR consultant Sean Korn presented. The maximum rate increase for regularly scheduled services (Schedule L) is 2.04%, with a $0.82-$2.89 monthly increase per cart size depending on cart size. Additional services (Schedule Q) increase by 3.77%. The formula is CPI-driven with pass-through disposal costs. The council set a public protest hearing for November 12, 2024, and adopted the resolution 5-0. - Twin Pines Park Stormwater Detention Basin EIR Certification (12B): Project manager Sean Rose, design manager Meryl Taylor, and environmental scientist Darcy Kramman presented. The project involves an underground detention facility (up to 9 acre-feet) to reduce downstream flooding on Belmont Creek. The EIR identified a significant unavoidable impact on tribal cultural resources (Muakma tribe) but includes a mitigation monitoring plan and statement of overriding considerations. Phase one (5 acre-feet) has a $2 million funding shortfall; phase two (9 acre-feet) has a $10 million shortfall. The council certified the EIR, adopted mitigation measures, and approved the project 5-0. - First Amendment to City Attorney Employment Agreement (12C) and Second Amendment to City Manager Employment Agreement (12D): The council adopted resolutions establishing new compensation retroactive to October 2023 and October 2024 for the City Attorney and to September 2023 and September 2024 for the City Manager, based on subcommittee review of surveys and CPI. Both motions passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent Calendar items A-E (with recusal on B and separate discussion on C). - Adopted: Revised Housing Element 2023-2031 (5-0). - Adopted: Resolution stating intent to revise solid waste maximum rates for 2025, setting public hearing for November 12, 2024 (5-0). - Certified: Final EIR for Twin Pines Park Stormwater Detention Basin, adopted Statement of Overriding Considerations and Mitigation Monitoring Program (5-0). - Approved: Employment agreement amendments for City Attorney Scott Rennie and City Manager Afshin Oskoui (both 5-0).

The Parks and Recreation Commission met on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers, One Twin Pines Lane, and virtually via Zoom. The meeting covered routine approvals, a detailed presentation on the ADLP Corridor Improvement Project and its MTC Complete Streets checklist, a summer program recap, and departmental updates. No formal votes were taken on business items; the consent calendar was approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - The draft minutes from the July 17, 2024 meeting were approved by a unanimous voice vote (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Juliano (community member and cyclist) spoke during the Community Forum. He expressed frustration that the city does not adequately support cycling infrastructure despite stated goals of reducing global warming and increasing mode shift. He noted that only $21,000 out of $1.5 million spent on the Ralston phase three project went to protected bike lanes, and that Belmont remains one of the scariest places he bikes. He argued that safety must trump convenience and that mode shift is the only way to reduce congestion. - During the ADLP discussion, Juliano submitted a speaker slip and spoke again. He claimed the proposed median did not come from public workshops (he attended all) and called it a bad idea that takes up space that should go to protected bike lanes. He stated he spent 15–20 hours observing the corridor and saw no jaywalking. He urged the commission to move the anti-jaywalking feature to protect the bike lane instead. Discussion Items MTC Complete Streets Checklist – ADLP Corridor Improvement Project - Presentation: Tracy Scremolia (Assistant Public Works Director/City Engineer) and Josh (Senior Engineer, new to the city) presented. The Alameda de las Pulgas (ADLP) Corridor Improvement Project is a multi‑agency effort involving Belmont, San Carlos, and two school districts. The 2014 corridor traffic study was approved by City Council in 2018. Design funding was secured in 2022; two community workshops were held. The project is at 65% design. Major improvements include three mini‑roundabouts (replacing stop signs), a new signal at Common Drive, repaving from Ralston to San Carlos city limits, new sidewalks, driveways, curb ramps, crosswalks (ADA compliant), Class 2 and Class 3 bike lanes, raised median, and green infrastructure (bioretention) for stormwater. Construction cost estimated at over $10 million. The city is applying for MTC Active Transportation Program Cycle 7 funding, which requires a Complete Streets checklist review with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC). No action was required from the commission; only feedback. - Commissioner Questions and Comments: - Commissioner Wetmore asked about construction timeline (could start once fully funded, likely summer break, total 2 years) and whether bike lanes would be protected (no barriers due to parallel parking). - Commissioner Hill raised safety concerns about kids crossing at the roundabout, merging of bikes into traffic, and the need for education. He also asked about parking width (12–15 feet travel lane with 2‑foot buffer). - Commissioner Wang noted that if funding is only partial, the project may not be phased but would wait for full funding. - Commissioner Whitmore questioned the median’s necessity (brought up by workshop stakeholders) and suggested moving it to protect the bike lane. She also noted that a bus option now exists via SamTrans, potentially reducing car trips. - Commissioner Lee suggested inviting students to participate in future design discussions. - Commissioner Emkin raised concerns about bike safety at drop‑off zones, where cars would cross the bike lane. He urged more protection for cyclists. - Commissioner Fox asked about red curbs for daylighting and whether crosswalks would have flashing signals (e.g., HAWK). Staff said they would look into it but currently no HAWK signals beyond the signalized intersection. - Chair Michaels summarized that the median and bike lane safety were primary concerns, and staff agreed to review meeting minutes from the workshops and potentially re‑observe the corridor to reconsider the median placement. No formal action was taken. Youth and Teen Summer Program Recap - Presentation: Danielle Giuliashi, Recreation Coordinator, provided a recap. Camp SOAR (Summer Outdoor Adventure Recreation) for grades K–5 ran 8 am–5 pm with extended care. In 2024, there were 837 total enrollments (84% Belmont residents), up from 810 in 2023, 722 in 2022, and 792 in 2019. 30 part‑time staff (17 returning, 20 residents). 48 Counselor‑in‑Training (CIT) youth accepted from 68 applicants, contributing 2,136 volunteer hours; 7 graduated to paid staff. Inclusion camp was fully funded for the first time (previously via grant), with 25 total signups across 5 weeks, 4 dedicated staff serving campers with autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and hypotonia. Scholarships totaled $3,000 awarded from $8,625 in donations (from Water Dog Run, Community Foundation, Rotary, and community donations); 600 went to Camp SOAR, 2,400 to contractor camps. 15 weeks of discounted camp were awarded ($200/week for up to 4 weeks). 241 contractor camp sessions were offered (increase from 2023), with 3,612 enrollments (also increase). July events included water dog hikes, mobile recreation, Belmont Blooms (85 participants), and a bingo card. Fall preview: movies in the parks (Super Mario Bros., Matilda, Encanto), Friday Night Hangout, High School Fair, Diwali celebration, Trunk or Treat, Letters to Santa, Winter Wonderland Workshop, and Santa at the Firehouse. - Commissioner Comments: Commissioners praised the program, noting the CIT development, inclusion camp, scholarship expansion, and the “cozy corner” idea for sensory breaks. Commissioners also appreciated the training staff received on emotional regulation and inclusion. No action was required. Department Updates - Anne Marie presented updates: Belmont Blooms event was successful; mobile recreation intergenerational event with seniors and campers; staff photo for Parks Make Life Better Month; aquatics programs; senior center Olympic games and field trips (Roaring Camp, Santa Cruz); movies in the park with new activities; senior police pizza lunch with emergency preparedness presentation; Trunk or Treat sign‑ups open; centennial website live (Belmont.gov/100years); upcoming Community Center Conversation (Sept 12); Friday Night Hangout; rescheduled anti‑Semitism/Islamophobia speaker session (likely in Foster City); Belmont Creek Restoration Project on track for summer 2025; Salsen Trail repair delayed to spring 2025 due to additional permits near waterway. A holiday craft fair vendor registration sold out in 45 minutes. Commissioners had no further questions. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (7‑0). - ADLP Corridor Improvement Project: No formal vote taken; staff received extensive feedback from commissioners and the public. Staff agreed to review workshop minutes and re‑observe the corridor to evaluate the median placement and explore ways to improve bike lane safety. No immediate action required. - Youth and Teen Summer Program Recap: Received by commission; no action required. Staff noted plans to implement a sensory room for all campers next summer based on parent feedback.

The Belmont Planning Commission met on August 21, 2024, in the Emergency Operations Center at City Hall. The meeting addressed several agenda items, including a revised Housing Element, a Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Belmont Stanford Campus, a proposed memory care facility at 1041 Hill Street, and a single-family design review at 2704 Wemberly Drive. All votes were final, with recommendations to the City Council where applicable. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the July 16, 2024, meeting with a correction (changing "Chair Coolidge" to "Vice Chair Majeski" in item 7A). Motion passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3 (Community Forum): No public comments. - Item 7A (Housing Element): No public comments. - Item 7B (Stanford Campus DEIR): Three public speakers addressed the draft EIR. - John Rogers (South Road) questioned the relationship between parking spaces and projected population, noting traffic concerns on Ralston Avenue. - Margaret Judila (Ralston Avenue) sought clarification on building heights (75 feet vs. stories) and requested that the campus be open on weekends. - Joseph (last name not given) raised concerns that doubling parking spaces contradicts Transportation Demand Management goals. - Item 7C (1041 Hill Street): One in-person speaker (Susan) asked about increased traffic from visitors. After the public hearing closed, a late Zoom comment from Etienne McGrands (925 South Road) expressed concerns about noise from memory care residents affecting nearby homes. - Item 7D (2704 Wemberly Drive): No public comments. Discussion Items - Housing Element Update (Item 7A): Staff presented the revised 2023-2031 Housing Element, which had been certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). Key changes included more conservative density assumptions, additional policies to affirmatively further fair housing (AFFH), and a restructured document. Commissioners discussed Belmont's diversity statistics, the feasibility of meeting very low-income housing targets, and the impact of ADU policies. The commission voted unanimously to recommend the City Council adopt the revised Housing Element. - Stanford Campus DEIR (Item 7B): Staff and consultants from Placeworks presented an overview of the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the proposed redevelopment of the NDNU campus. The DEIR analyzed 18 environmental topics, with significant impacts identified in areas such as air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, transportation, and wildfire. Mitigation measures were proposed to reduce all impacts to less-than-significant levels. The project would be implemented over 30 years with no specific building plans yet. Commissioners asked questions about climate change modeling, the relationship between building area and population, and the adequacy of the geotechnical analysis for the 1041 Hill Street project. No vote was taken; the public comment period remains open until September 16, 2024. - 1041 Hill Street - Memory Care Facility (Item 7C): Staff presented a request to demolish an existing skilled nursing facility and construct a three-story, 36-unit memory care building. The project required a Planned Development Zone Amendment, Conceptual Development Plan, Detailed Development Plan, Conditional Use Permit, Design Review, Grading Permit, Tree Removal Permit, and Encroachment Permit. The applicant argued that the parking reduction (from 41 to 34 spaces) was justified because memory care residents do not drive. Commissioners discussed geotechnical concerns (a late comment about seismic hazard mapping), parking adequacy, and operational issues on the existing site. The commission approved the project 6-0-1 (Commissioner Majeski abstained) with conditions, recommending City Council approval. - 2704 Wemberly Drive - Single-Family Design Review (Item 7D): Staff presented a proposal to demolish an existing 3,160-square-foot home and build a new 3,776-square-foot two-story residence on an 11,839-square-foot lot. The project complied with the large-lot floor area ratio calculation. The design was well-articulated with stone veneer and varied massing. The commission approved the design review unanimously (6-0, with Commissioner Meyer recused). Key Outcomes - Item 7A (Housing Element): The commission voted 7-0 to recommend that the City Council adopt the revised 2023-2031 Housing Element, repealing the previously adopted version. The item will go to the City Council on September 10, 2024. - Item 7B (Stanford Campus DEIR): No decision was made. The public comment period for the draft EIR runs through September 16, 2024. Written comments may be submitted to stanfordndnu@belmont.gov. - Item 7C (1041 Hill Street): The commission approved the project in a 6-0-1 vote (Commissioner Majeski abstained), recommending City Council approval. The item is tentatively scheduled for the September 10, 2024, City Council meeting. - Item 7D (2704 Wemberly Drive): The commission approved the single-family design review in a 6-0 vote (Commissioner Meyer recused). The decision is not appealable within 10 calendar days. - Future Meetings: The September 3, 2024, Planning Commission meeting is likely to be cancelled. The September 17, 2024, meeting will be a joint session with the Parks and Recreation Commission to review the city's wayfinding program and may include a scoping meeting for the Harbor Industrial Area Specific Plan Environmental Impact Report.

The Belmont City Council met on July 23, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a closed session (report deferred to September 10), public comments, council announcements, consent calendar approval, and three major general business items: an update on the Stanford Belmont Campus conceptual development plan and development agreement, proposed zoning text amendments for the Corridor Mixed Use (CMU) district, and an informational update on an unmanned aerial system (drone) program. The council provided direction on all three items but took no final actions, as 11A and 11B were informational/direction items, and 11C was informational. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent calendar (items A-D: meeting minutes, June 2024 monthly financial reports, purchasing ordinance, and Amendment No. 5 to the 4Leaf service agreement for $100,000, bringing the total not-to-exceed amount to $449,865) by a 5-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Juliano Carlini (on non-agenda items) expressed frustration with the council's lack of action on transit and bike infrastructure, noting that neighboring cities such as Palo Alto and San Carlos are making progress while Belmont has not. He urged the council to lead on protected bike lanes and pedestrian safety on El Camino Real. - Beth Martin, President of Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU), expressed support for the Stanford project and appreciation for the collaboration, noting that the sisters of Notre Dame are delighted that the land will remain an academic site. - Giuliano Carlini (on 11A) cautioned about Stanford's contentious relationship with Palo Alto and urged careful negotiation. He raised concerns about the proposed doubling of permitted parking spots over the actual number today, and the need for strong transportation demand management (TDM) and mode shift that benefits the entire Belmont community. - Griel Walsh (on 11A) asked about the future of the chapel on the NDNU campus, requesting its protection and preservation. - Margaret Jadala (on 11A) expressed concern about a potential second entrance to Corette Field and increased traffic, noting that current parking at the field works well. - Neil Patel (on 11B) spoke in support of the zoning amendments, representing his family's hotel on El Camino Real since 1975. He shared their vision to expand the hotel and noted the collaboration with city staff. - Giuliano Carlini (on 11B) supported the zoning changes, emphasizing the need for density near transit and suggesting the city set parking maximums rather than minimums. - Giuliano Carlini (on 11C) spoke about the drone program, urging caution on privacy and civil liberties, and recommended using American-made drones. Discussion Items - Stanford Belmont Campus Conceptual Development Plan and Development Agreement (11A): Staff and Stanford presented updates on the 30-year plan to redevelop the 46-acre NDNU campus for academic and academic-support uses. The city manager highlighted significant community benefits, including $19-22 million in contributions. Stanford's presentation emphasized design principles (greenway, ridgewalk, creekside node) and proposed 700,000 square feet of development with 50-200 housing units, preserving three historic buildings. The council discussed transportation improvements ($2 million for Ralston corridor), affordable housing (20% of non-student housing), and community benefits. Councilmembers expressed strong support but requested more detail on transportation funding, higher contributions for the Barrett Community Center, and educational partnerships with BRSSD. The council provided direction to staff to continue negotiations. - Zoning Text Amendments – CMU District, Parking, and By-Right Processing (11B): Staff presented proposed amendments to increase base height from 45 to 50 feet to encourage ground-floor commercial uses, 60 feet for community benefits (with council approval), and 65 feet for hotels (with separate hotel development standards). Also proposed consolidating parking requirements into one section, modernizing parking measures, and moving by-right housing project approvals from planning commission to staff. Councilmembers generally supported the proposals, with suggestions for additional flexibility, step-back requirements, and clearer public outreach for by-right projects. The council directed staff to draft the formal ordinance and bring it to the planning commission and council for public hearing. - Informational Update on Unmanned Aerial System (Drone) Program (11C): A police captain presented use cases for a drone, including accident reconstruction, critical incident monitoring, fire management, missing persons searches, and public works inspections. Cost estimates were approximately $15,000 startup with $2,000-3,000 yearly maintenance. Councilmembers expressed support but requested more robust information on privacy safeguards, data retention policies, and transparency reporting. The council asked staff to return with a revised policy and deployment reporting. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0. - Stanford Campus (11A): Council provided direction to staff to continue negotiations with Stanford, emphasizing greater transportation funding and specific community benefits (e.g., Barrett Community Center, educational access). No vote taken. - Zoning Amendments (11B): Council directed staff to draft formal amendments incorporating feedback (e.g., step-back requirements, hotel development standards, relaxed parking minima). Return to planning commission and council for public hearing. - Drone Program (11C): Council indicated support pending further details on privacy, data retention, and transparency. Staff to return with a revised policy and estimated deployment reporting. - Closed Session: Report deferred to the September 10, 2024 council meeting.

The Belmont Parks and Recreation Commission held a regular meeting on July 17, 2024, at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The main agenda item was a brainstorming discussion on planning Belmont's centennial celebration, scheduled for October 2026. The commission also approved the consent calendar and received departmental updates. Consent Calendar - Approved the June 5, 2024 draft minutes by a unanimous vote (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Terry Cook, a former city clerk and councilmember, spoke from personal experience on the 75th anniversary committee. She recommended forming a community-driven committee with seed funding from the city council, and suggested reaching out to other cities (e.g., Millbrae, Burlingame, San Carlos) for ideas. She also noted that the historical society has resources from past celebrations. Discussion Items - Belmont's Centennial Celebration Discussion – Staff presented historical context, inspiration from other cities, and a series of open-ended questions about scope, funding, and community involvement. Commissioners then engaged in a free-form brainstorming session, generating a wide range of ideas including: - Historical walks, tours, and photo stops - Incorporating historical elements (sites like Ralston Hall, activities like golf, media like stories and photos) - Putting a "100-year lens" on existing events (e.g., water dog run, concerts, tree giveaways) - Gamification (e.g., 26-mile walking challenge, passport stamps for events) - Permanent installations (art mural, centennial tree, time capsule) - Community involvement via schools, organizations, and a possible commission for a centennial song or book - A large culminating event like a parade down Ralston Avenue or a trip to a Giants game - Using the centennial to advance other city goals (e.g., community center, bike connectivity) No formal decisions were made; the session was intended to generate ideas and gather input before forming a community committee. Department Updates - Camp Sor is in week five with strong attendance, including field trips and special activities. - Aquatics session three starts next week; drop-in and lap swim continue. - Parks Make Life Better Month – Parks bingo launched; mobile recreation events (next at Twin Pines Park on July 23). - Water Dog hikes – Next hike July 18 (2:30-3:30 PM); evening off-leash hours end August 9. - Upcoming events: Summer concert series (two remaining), Belmont Blooms gardening event (July 20), DEI talk on combating Islamophobia and anti-Semitism (July 24 – registration needed to avoid cancellation), Movies in the Parks (Super Mario Bros. on August 16). Key Outcomes - No votes were taken on the centennial discussion; the commission will continue gathering community input and likely form a committee in the future. - The consent calendar was approved unanimously. - Staff noted that the DEI event on July 24 is at risk of cancellation due to low registration; a call was made for community members to register if interested.

The Belmont Planning Commission met on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of prior meeting minutes, a public hearing for a single-family design review and tree permit at 3711 Naughton Avenue, and an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) scoping session for the proposed 1301 Shoreway project. Chair Coolidge and Commissioner Twig were absent. Commissioners Meyer, Garovich, Kramer, Adam Kavich, and Vice Chair Majeski were present. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Minutes (November 21, 2023 and June 4, 2024): The commission voted separately on each set of minutes. The November 21, 2023 minutes were approved 4-1 (Commissioner Kavich abstained, not having been on the commission at that time) with two absent. The June 4, 2024 minutes were approved 4-1 (Commissioner Meyer abstained) with two absent. Public Comments & Testimony - 1301 Shoreway EIR Scoping: Nels DeLander, representing Carbers Local 217, spoke in favor of the project being built by a responsible general contractor that uses apprenticeships, provides healthcare, and pays a living wage, emphasizing safety and worker welfare. - Written comments were received from the Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Sierra Club (concerned about biosafety levels—recommending no higher than BSL-2), and a resident (Rona Conendrum) expressing concerns about market saturation, traffic, and building heights. Discussion Items - 3711 Naughton Avenue - Single-Family Design Review & Tree Permit: Staff presented a proposal for a 127-square-foot ground floor addition and a 742-square-foot second story (869 total square feet), plus removal of a protected 38-inch suburban elm deemed in poor health and structurally unsafe. The applicant, Alex Zhang of Alex Sang Architects, described the design and addressed neighbor concerns about view blockage by providing elevation diagrams. The project met setback requirements and FAR limits. The commission found the design well-articulated and compliant with guidelines. No public comments were received. The commission approved Resolution 2024-009, 5-0, with the decision appealable within 10 calendar days. - 1301 Shoreway EIR Scoping: The commission received a presentation from Tad Stern (Kimley Horn) on the CEQA process, project description (two office/life sciences buildings, 7-8 stories, 540,000+ square feet, adjacent to Belmont Creek and Bay Trail), and the 37-day Notice of Preparation (NOP) public comment period ending July 26, 2024. Commissioners discussed the need to study light pollution, bird strikes, recreation impacts on the Bay Trail, energy use, noise mitigation from Highway 101, biosafety levels, and potential LEED certification. No decision was made; the session was for gathering input on the EIR scope. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Two sets of meeting minutes were approved with separate votes (details above). - 3711 Naughton Avenue Approved: The single-family design review and tree removal permit were approved unanimously (5-0). The decision is appealable for 10 calendar days. - 1301 Shoreway EIR Scoping: The public comment period remains open until July 26, 2024. The commission provided feedback on additional topics to include in the EIR. The draft EIR is expected for public review in September–October 2024, with final EIR and hearings in early 2025. - Future Meeting Dates: Staff announced that the August 6, 2024 meeting would be rescheduled due to National Night Out; alternative dates (August 5 or 8) were proposed. Commissioners were asked to confirm availability for those dates and the regular August 20 meeting.