Public Meetings - Belmont, California

The Belmont Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, starting at 7:01 PM and adjourning at 7:33 PM. The meeting included approval of consent calendar items (meeting minutes), a public hearing for a single-family design review at 1530 Solana Drive, and updates from staff. All six commissioners were present. Consent Calendar - Item 5A – Minutes of January 6, 2026: Approved with two amendments: (1) striking the words "modest rate of" from a description of public comments on the Charles Armstrong School project, and (2) adding the phrase "while also not being located near a property line that abuts a residential lot" to the discussion of a comparison with Ralston Middle School's gym. Motion passed 6-0. - Item 5B – Minutes of January 20, 2026: Amended to specify that Commissioner Adam Kevich credited staff for outlining the TMA and job balance ratio, rather than attributing that to all commissioners. Motion passed 5-0 with one abstention. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public testified during the public hearing for Item 7A. No speaker slips in chambers, no Zoom raised hands, and no written comments were received. Discussion Items - Item 7A – 1530 Solana Drive Single-Family Design Review: Planner Ruiz presented the proposal for a two-story addition totaling 1,513 square feet (105 sq ft ground floor, 1,408 sq ft upper floor) to an existing 1,916 sq ft ranch-style home. The lot is 15,253 sq ft with a 35.4% slope. The proposed gross floor area of 3,429 sq ft is under the maximum 4,288 sq ft, and the floor area ratio of 0.225 is below the 0.344 limit. Setbacks are met (front 89 ft, sides 13 ft, rear 20 ft). Architect Michael Ryan explained the design focused on capturing downhill views and noted extensive iteration on the second-floor layout. Commissioners praised the articulation, site sensitivity, and mature landscaping. Commissioner Kramer suggested extending the entry roof for a dry path. Key Outcomes - Approval of 1530 Solana Drive Design Review: The commission unanimously approved the design review (motion passed 6-0). The decision is appealable within 10 calendar days. - Staff Updates: Director DeMello noted that the approved minutes from January 6 and January 20 will support upcoming City Council hearings: the Charles Armstrong School project is on the council's February 10 agenda, and the 1301 Shoreway project is tentatively scheduled for February 24. The commission appreciation dinner is scheduled for February 23 at Marvin Gardens.

The Belmont City Council met on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. After a closed session, the council addressed a full agenda including special presentations, approval of the consent calendar, a legislative update, a regional sea level rise protection project, and an interim staff appointment. All votes were 4–0 (Councilmember Pang Manganaris absent) except where noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent calendar (items A–D) with a single motion after clarifying questions. Councilmember Laudamerlo questioned the minutes for the vice mayor appointment and requested a correction; the city clerk will make the correction. Councilmember McCune asked about the intent of the new HAWK crossing at El Camino Real and Ralston. Public Works Director Edward Kwan explained it serves pedestrians and bicyclists from new housing developments (including affordable housing) to access transit. The city manager noted the crossing is part of the bike/ped master plan and complements a future underpass at O'Neill. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Comment on items not on the agenda: None. - Public Comment on Redwood Shores Sea Level Rise Protection Project (11B): Doug Beasley, president of the California Colleges Homeowners Association in Belmont Island Park, described the complex private levee maintenance situation. He stated that the master association (controlled by commercial members) is not acting on levee raises despite collecting fees, and the homeowners association lacks contractual authority to compel action. He requested city assistance. Discussion Items 6A – HIP Housing Annual Calendar Presentation - Lauren Borrow (HIP Housing Board Member) and James Simmons (Program Director) presented the 2026 calendar featuring artwork by children. HIP Housing serves over 4,000 individuals annually, housing 1,200 low-income households countywide, including 121 Belmont residents. Two local winners, Evelyn Chen and Adeline, read their poems about home. The council thanked them and presented City of Belmont awards. 6B – Introduction of Poet Laureate Greg McCullough - Parks and Recreation Director Bridget Shearer and Library representative Chris Liu introduced Greg McCullough as the new Poet Laureate for a three-year term. McCullough read his original poem “My Home is a Century Now” in honor of the city’s centennial. He plans to continue poetry nights, the MLK Jr. Poetry and Essay Contest, and engage youth through outreach. 6C – Mosquito & Vector Control Annual Update - Brian Weber, District Manager of San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control, presented 2025 statistics: 199 total calls from Belmont, including 131 yellow jacket removals, 37 rodent-related calls, and 9 mosquito-related calls. The district performed 758 inspections and 200 treatments. No West Nile virus was detected. Services are free to residents. Councilmember McCune raised a concern about a neglected swimming pool where vector control placed mosquito fish but the homeowner was not required to fix or remove the pool; Weber noted enforcement gaps between his agency and code enforcement. Mayor Mates encouraged residents to use the district’s tick identification service. 8 – Council Member Announcements - Councilmember Laudamerlo announced: the second round of the “Happy Hydrant” painting program (applications due March 2); Lunar New Year Celebration on February 8 at Twin Pines Senior Center; Coffee with the Cop on February 11; Chamber ribbon cutting for Shoot 360 on February 26. Mayor Mates noted that January 27 is International Holocaust Remembrance Day (81st anniversary of Auschwitz liberation) and reaffirmed the city’s commitment to rejecting hate and protecting civil rights. 11A – State Legislative Advocacy Platform 2026 Update - Dane Hutchings of California Public Policy Group presented the proposed updates to the city’s state and federal legislative platform. Key issues: SB 79 cleanup (transit-oriented development) with timing challenges for local alternative plans; attacks on impact development fees; proposed bills to curb institutional investor home purchases; and Brown Act and CEQA changes. The council specifically supported adding language about incentives for “good actor” cities that meet housing goals. The platform was reaffirmed by a 4–0 vote. 11B – Redwood Shores Sea Level Rise Protection Project - Edward Kwan (Public Works Director) and Elizabeth Wada introduced a presentation by Chuck Anderson (Schafnocker, consultant) and Summer Bundy (One Shoreline). The project, led by Redwood City, aims to raise the levee around Redwood Shores to meet FEMA requirements and address sea level rise. The existing levee is already too low (elevations 10–12 feet; FEMA requires two feet freeboard above a 100-year tide). The January 3, 2026 tide was the second-highest on record. A portion of the project along Belmont Creek is needed to prevent “end around” flooding. Redwood City also offered to include Belmont’s Island Park area in the project at an incremental cost. Anderson recommended a “catch-up” study (30% design) funded by Belmont to align with Redwood City’s schedule. Council expressed interest in proceeding with the catch-up study and exploring cost-sharing agreements. Public comment from Doug Beasley detailed the private levee maintenance challenges in Island Park. 11C – CalPERS 180-Day Waiting Period Exception for Interim Administrative Services Director - City Attorney Scott Rennie presented a resolution to waive the 180-day waiting period for Ann Ritzma to serve as interim Administrative Services Director while a permanent recruitment is underway. The council approved the exception by a 4–0 vote. 12 – Verbal Reports from Council and Staff - Subcommittee & JPA Reports: Councilmember McCune reported on the BRSSD middle school realignment (three scenarios under consideration) and the first Housing & Long Range Planning Subcommittee meeting. Councilmember Laudamerlo reported: Peninsula Clean Energy rates dropped 10% below PG&E; PGE rates also decreased. Rethink Waste board discussed battery recycling with special orange bags placed on trash carts. The Fire Board elected Councilmember Rob Newsom (San Mateo) as chair. Library JPA will have new county representatives. - City Manager Report: Tom Hagan introduced a video recap of the Belmont Creek restoration project ribbon-cutting ceremony, highlighting 500 feet of restored creek, 2,000 new native plants, and multi-agency collaboration. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 4–0. - Legislative Platform (11A): Reaffirmed with added language supporting good-actor incentives; approved 4–0. - Sea Level Rise Project (11B): Council directed staff to proceed with a 30% catch-up study for Island Park and to return with cost estimates and a framework for cost-sharing and long-term maintenance. Public engagement with affected residents will be conducted. - CalPERS Exception (11C): Approved 4–0. - Closed Session: Direction given to legal counsel to defend the city in Belmont Village Community Association v. City of Belmont (San Mateo Superior Court 26 CIV00463), which challenges the council’s approval of the 580 Masonic Project. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:30 PM, following the mayor’s remarks honoring Renee Good and Alex Predi and reaffirming the city’s commitment to human and constitutional rights.

The Belmont Parks and Recreation Commission met on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at City Council Chambers. The meeting focused on a recommendation to select a design consultant for the Oak Knoll Improvement Project, a proposed pocket park at the end of Oak Knoll Drive. The commission also approved consent calendar items, heard public comments, and received updates on centennial events and department activities. All six commissioners present voted unanimously on both agenda items. Consent Calendar - December 3, 2025 Draft Minutes – Approved unanimously (6-0) as presented, with no commissioners requesting separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Henry – Expressed passionate support for the project, noting he originally brought the opportunity to the city's attention a few years ago and recently moved to Pine Street. He thanked the commission for their efforts and highlighted continued interest from young families. - Oliver – Expressed surprise at the level of investment (professional planners, architects, contractors) but appreciated the funding. He offered to volunteer time and effort, and noted he lives just a few houses from the site and has two young children. - Mimi – Expressed excitement and support, living downhill from the proposed area and walking there often. She has children and sees the park as a destination for neighborhood meetups. She thanked Henry for his advocacy and looked forward to participating in next steps. - Chair Emkin acknowledged the positive feedback and explained that city development costs reflect the need for safety, proper regulations, and thorough processes. Discussion Items - Oak Knoll Improvement Project Design Consultant Recommendation – Staff reported that a subcommittee (Commissioners Michaels, Whitmore, Parks Manager Matt Ward, and Chair Emkin) reviewed three proposals for designing a roughly 3,000-square-foot cul-de-sac space at the end of Oak Knoll Drive. The site is not a designated park but identified as an opportunity in the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan. The subcommittee independently scored proposals on professionalism, quality, pricing, and one additional factor (not recalled). They reached consensus to recommend Calendar and Associates as the design consultant. Calendar’s proposal was described as complete, professional, cost-effective, and aligned with Belmont’s character. It emphasized community engagement at the site (walk-and-talk sessions) and allowed for additional presentations if needed. Commissioners noted Calendar’s previous work on the Northfield project and that the lack of on-site irrigation would limit amenities but mature trees would be preserved. Discussion also touched on future park naming opportunities (e.g., Oak Knoll Park) and the possibility of community input in naming. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Calendar and Associates – Approved unanimously (6-0). This allows staff to begin contract approval and schedule next steps, including neighborhood meetings and community input sessions. - Funds Budgeted – The project funds are already budgeted; no additional appropriation needed. - Consent Calendar Approved – Unanimous approval of December 3, 2025, minutes. Other Business & Updates - Department Updates – Highlights included: the Santa Firehouse event (new Santa, Grinch appearance, toy donations); completion of some Happy Hydrants; reopened applications for Happy Hydrant and utility box painting (part of centennial); summer hiring for camp counselors, pool managers, lifeguards, and swim instructors (applications close end of February); centennial swag shop now live (shirts, hats, jackets); upcoming events: Music & Open Mic Night (Jan 24), MLK Poetry & Essay Contest (deadline Feb 2), Lunar New Year Celebration (Feb 8), Superstars & Sweetheart Dance (Feb 13, registration low). - Centennial Celebrations – The commission announced a “100 Celebrations” initiative encouraging residents to host small gatherings (backyard picnics, block parties) and register them; the city will provide napkins and swag. A walking tour, parade details, and a model of the Belmont School for Boys (to be displayed at City Hall) are in development. Podcasts featuring oral histories of Belmont residents are being uploaded. - Park Boosters – Acknowledged for funding a new speaker/microphone set for city events. - Meeting Schedule – This was the consolidated meeting for January and February; the next regular meeting is the first Wednesday in March (which will also be the last meeting for the outgoing youth commissioner, who was thanked for service).

The Belmont Planning Commission held a public hearing on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to consider a major office and life science development at 1301 Shoreway Road. The project includes two buildings totaling 542,035 square feet, a nine-level parking garage, and public trail amenities. The commission unanimously recommended certification of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR), approval of the rezoning and development agreement, and approval of the detailed development plan and related permits. Discussion Items - Project Overview: Staff and applicant presented the 6.9-acre site, currently occupied by a vacant 149,000 sq ft office building. The proposed development includes two buildings (8 stories and 7 stories), a parking garage, and a publicly accessible trail along Belmont Creek with a sports court, bike parking, and seating. The project seeks a Planned Unit Development (PUD) rezoning to allow life science uses, taller building heights (up to 135 feet), and higher floor area ratio (FAR). A development agreement includes $6.3 million in community benefits (escalating to $7 million in years 8–10), public art contributions, labor requirements (30% San Mateo County construction workforce), and maintenance of outdoor amenities. - Environmental Review: The final EIR, published January 8, 2026, found that all potential impacts can be mitigated to less-than-significant levels. Seven comments were received during the draft EIR period, focusing on sea level rise and biological resources; responses were provided. - Commissioner Questions: Commissioners inquired about retaining all regional commercial uses (staff explained flexibility for future uses), lab readiness (loading docks, high floor-to-floor heights, BSL-3 capability), public access (5 vehicle and 10 bicycle parking spaces at trailhead), tree removal (157 trees removed, 166 planted, 141 native), and the 10-year entitlement timeline (due to high vacancy in office/life science markets). The applicant noted the project was originally designed for lab use with air handling on the roof. - Public Comment: No public speakers appeared in chambers, via Zoom, or submitted written comments. Key Outcomes - Certification of EIR: Motion to recommend City Council certify the final EIR and adopt findings and mitigation monitoring program. Passed 5-0. - Rezoning and Development Agreement: Motion to recommend approval of rezoning from Regional Commercial to Planned Unit Development, zoning map amendment, conceptual development plan, and development agreement. Passed 5-0. (Note: The third recital in the resolution incorrectly referenced January 20, 2025; corrected to 2026.) - Detailed Plans and Permits: Motion to recommend approval of the detailed development plan, conditional use permit, design review, grading plan, and tree removal permit. Passed 5-0. (Same typographical error noted in second recital.) - Next Steps: The recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council, tentatively scheduled for February 24, 2026. The next Planning Commission meeting is February 3, 2026.

The Belmont Planning Commission convened at 7:02 PM on January 6, 2026, to discuss and hear public testimony on a major development proposal by Charles Armstrong School at 1405 Solana Drive. The project sought approvals for a new academic wing (Phase 1), an athletic building (Phase 2), an enrollment increase from 260 to 290 students, and extended operational hours. After hours of deliberation, the commission split their recommendation: they voted 6-0 to recommend approval of the Conceptual Development Plan (CDP) for the entire project, but failed to reach a majority on the Detailed Development Plan (DDP) and associated permits, primarily due to unresolved concerns about the Phase 2 gymnasium. The matter will be forwarded to the City Council with a note of the commission's divided stance. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Minutes (December 16, 2025): The minutes were approved with a vote of 5-0-1 (Commissioner Majeski abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - Opposition: Numerous residents spoke against the expansion, citing increased traffic congestion, public safety risks (especially regarding fire truck access and narrow streets), loss of protected trees (39 trees proposed for removal), noise, and the precedent set by a similar, much smaller proposal denied in 2005. Several neighbors from San Carlos expressed particular concern about the gymnasium being placed within 18 feet of their property lines, creating a 22-foot blank wall. Residents argued the school had outgrown its site and should consider a satellite campus or relocation. - Support: Supporters included a former planning commissioner (who regretted the 2005 denial), parents of current and former students, a local soccer league representative, and a Chamber of Commerce member. They emphasized the school's transformative mission for dyslexic students, its responsible traffic management (staggered drop-offs, staffed supervision), and its positive community partnerships (shared use of McDougall Park, parking for the public, and a voluntary $100,000 contribution for park improvements). Several speakers noted that the modest 30-student increase would not substantially worsen traffic compared to nearby large schools. - Neutral: A few residents acknowledged the school's value but requested further study on the gym's design, tree replacement details, and long-term community impacts. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Principal Planner Jeremy Plana-Ruiz and Community Development Director Carlos DeMello presented the project details: two phases (academic wing 11,900 sq ft; athletic building 11,126 sq ft), a 30-student enrollment increase, staff expansion to 85, and a one-for-one tree replacement plan (39 trees removed, 44 new trees planted). The project qualifies for a Class 3 CEQA categorical exemption (minor alteration of an existing school). Outreach included a National Night Out, a community meeting, and study sessions with the Planning Commission and City Council in late 2025. - Applicant Presentation: Head of School Neil Tuck, architect Sarah Nyes, and board members Kelly Sortino and Mark Moore explained the need for space to support dyslexic learners: specialty classrooms (art, music, maker space), a gym for student athletics, a kitchen for meal service, and facilities to match typical middle schools. They outlined traffic management plans (two drop-off loops, staff supervision) and committed to continued coordination with the City for joint use of fields and the future gym. - Commissioner Questions: Commissioners probed parking adequacy (85 spaces for 85 staff, plus overflow capacity), the setback of the gym from property lines (18.5 feet), tree removal and replacement (existing trees in poor health or in conflict with construction), the spatial feasibility of alternative gym locations (constrained by fire lane, drop-off areas, and easements), and the CEQA classification (10 classrooms plus gym – staff argued the gym is not a classroom per CEQA guidelines). Parks and Recreation Director Bridget Sherer confirmed strong existing partnerships with Armstrong for field use and noted no anticipated conflicts from the proposed 12 weekend events or extended hours. Key Outcomes - Conceptual Development Plan (CDP) Resolution: The commission voted 6-0 to recommend City Council approval of the CDP, which encompasses both Phase 1 and Phase 2, including the gymnasium. - Detailed Development Plan (DDP) and Associated Permits (Conditional Use Permit, Design Review, Grading Plan, Tree Removal Permit): The commission did not adopt this resolution. A motion to amend the DDP to strike Phase 2 (the gym) failed (2-4). A subsequent motion to approve the DDP as written also failed for lack of a second. The commission will forward to the City Council a split recommendation: majority support for Phase 1 (academic wing) but unresolved concerns about Phase 2, particularly the gym's mass, proximity to residences, and landscaping. The council is expected to consider the project at its January 27, 2026 meeting. - Next Steps: The City Council will hold a public hearing on January 27, 2026, to make a final decision on all entitlements. The commission's deliberations and the divided vote will be included in the record.

The Belmont Planning Commission met on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 7:01 PM and adjourned at 7:19 PM. The commission approved a single-family design review for 2028 Lion Avenue and received updates on upcoming meetings. Commissioners Majeski and Kramer were absent; a quorum of four members was present. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Minutes (November 4, 2025): The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the November 4, 2025 meeting (4-0 vote). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made in chambers, via Zoom, or submitted in writing for any agenda item. Discussion Items - Single-Family Design Review – 2028 Lion Avenue: Staff Planner Ruiz presented the proposal for an 893-square-foot addition (65 sq ft ground floor, 828 sq ft new upper story) on a 4,016 sq ft lot with 14% slope. The proposed gross floor area of 2,061 sq ft is below the maximum of 2,072 sq ft. Setbacks: front 20 ft (required 15 ft), right side 6 ft (required 6 ft), left side 5 ft 6 inches (permitted under Section 9.6.3.B for legal nonconforming walls), rear 20 ft 1 inch (required 15 ft). The design features a standing seam metal roof, gray and navy blue cement board siding, black-framed windows, and articulation using daylight planes and prescribed articulation (50% front, 30% side/rear). Staff recommended approval. The applicant, a long-time resident, expressed excitement to add space for their family of four. Commissioners praised the thorough neighborhood outreach, considerate use of the nonconforming side setback only for the stairwell, and inclusion of neighboring properties in all renderings. Key Outcomes - Approval of 2028 Lion Avenue Design Review: The commission voted 4-0 to approve the single-family design review (Application No. 2025-0029). The decision is appealable within 10 calendar days. - Next Meeting Announcement: The next meeting is scheduled for January 6, 2026, with a single item: the Charles Armstrong School project. The agenda packet will be released on December 23, 2025, due to the holiday shutdown. Public comment deadline for that meeting is 4:00 PM on January 5, 2026. - Commissioner Recruitment: Application deadline for commission vacancies (including terms of Commissioners Twig and Adam Kevich) is January 9, 2026. Applications can be filed through the City Clerk’s office.

The council held its final regular meeting of 2025 on December 9, 2025. The meeting featured presentations of community service awards, the swearing-in of two new police officers, proclamations for the outgoing poet laureate and retiring administrative services director, a centennial planning update, the year-in-review video, and several actions including appointment of the 2026 vice mayor, adoption of intergovernmental assignments, and reappointment to the vector control district. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent calendar (6 items) as a block, including the second reading of the zoning ordinance implementing the 2023-2031 Housing Element (Ordinance No. 360 amendment) and approval of electric vehicle charger installations at three city sites. (Councilmember Latimerlo recused himself from item 8F due to living within 500 feet.) Public Comments & Testimony - On non-agenda items: Giuliano Carlini (spoke as resident) expressed concerns about Ralston Avenue being on the county’s high injury network and urged quick-build safety improvements for cyclists and pedestrians. He criticized past staff rejections of his proposals. - On consent calendar (zoning ordinance): Brian Singh (resident) urged council to adopt the Planning Commission's recommended 15-foot setback (plus 5 feet per floor) for commercial zones adjacent to residential, instead of staff's 10-foot setback. He argued staff's recommendation would allow a 74-degree daylight plane vs. typical 45-60 degrees in other cities. - On consent calendar (parking/cycling): Giuliano Carlini also commented that the zoning ordinance should reduce car parking minimums near transit and improve bicycle parking standards (including for cargo bikes and e-bikes), and called for a bike rack at City Hall. Discussion Items - Community Service and Beautiful Belmont Awards (before 7 p.m.): Recognized residential winner Jonathan Penn and Lisa Meltzerpen (1010 Notre Dame Ave) and commercial winners Jolly's Old Fashioned Teas Ice Cream, Salon 1322, and Amara Restaurant. Community Service Awards went to Clarissa Nafster (absent, birthday) and Carl Middlestat (nominated by five individuals) for decades of volunteer service. - State Legislative Update: Assemblymember Diane Pappen provided an overview of the state budget (projected $18 billion deficit), vehicle license fee shortfall affecting San Mateo County ($114 million, received two-thirds), and key bills: AB60 (banning musk in cosmetics), land conservation stewardship, paratransit eligibility reform, Caltrain energy compensation (AB 650), housing element process reform (AB 650, vetoed but will reintroduce), data center water usage (vetoed), and Prop 4 climate bond ($10 billion, 40% to underserved communities). She also discussed Cap-and-Trade extension to 2045. - Oath of Office for Police Officers: Fernanda Ramirez and Xavier Childs were sworn in. - Proclamation for Outgoing Poet Laureate Monica Corday: Recognized her four years of service, including Project Poetry 360, virtual poetry nights with up to 50 attendees, and community events. She recited an original poem, "An Immigrant's Praise Song for Belmont." - Proclamation for Retiring Administrative Services Director Anne Ritzma: Recognized her leadership in HR, IT, and organizational development programs (BOLD, Know & Grow). She thanked the city and her wife. - Centennial Planning Update (2026): Parks and Rec Director Bridget Shearer presented plans: banners on Ralston, a signature event on October 24, 2026 (parade, picnic), community-hosted events with stipends, historical walking tours, oral history recordings, time capsule, art project, Happy Hydrants, and sponsorship opportunities. Budget from sponsors and city funds. - Year in Review Video: Highlighted accomplishments: 162 affordable housing units under construction, 268 more approved; police responded to 20,000 calls, 400 arrests; Public Works paved 2.5 miles of road, PCI rose to 71; Parks & Rec served 4,673 senior meals, 837 campers; Finance received state and national awards; Community Development processed 1,425 building permits; Fire engine 14 purchased. - Appointment of Vice Mayor and IGR Assignments: Council appointed Kathy Jordan as Vice Mayor for 2026 per protocol. Approved intergovernmental committee assignments and created a new ad hoc Housing and Long-Range Planning subcommittee (Councilmembers Jordan and Latimerlo appointed). Discussion included caveats to minimize staff time. - Reappointment to Mosquito and Vector Control District: Council reappointed Chuck Cotton for a four-year term (2026-2029), as requested by Cotton. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 5-0 (with Latimerlo recused from item 8F). - Vice Mayor appointment – Councilmember Kathy Jordan elected Vice Mayor for 2026 (unanimous). - Intergovernmental assignments approved as presented (unanimous). - New ad hoc housing subcommittee created; Councilmembers Jordan and Latimerlo appointed (unanimous). - Chuck Cotton reappointed to Vector Control District for four-year term (unanimous). - Council announcements: Holiday events (Santa at Firehouse Dec 11, Santa Parade Dec 18, Local Spot Sip & Shop Dec 18). Commission applications due Jan 9, 2026.

The Parks and Recreation Commission met on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 3:00 PM in City Council Chambers. Commissioners discussed facility rental updates, appointed a subcommittee for the Oak Knoll improvement project, reviewed open space volunteer procedures, and received department updates. The meeting included public comments and a consent calendar approval. Consent Calendar - November 5, 2025 Draft Minutes: Approved unanimously (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Rosemary (Belmont resident for 29 years, Senior Center volunteer): Expressed concern that the Senior Advisory Committee has not met or had a quorum for a long time, leaving seniors without a voice. She advocated for an age-friendly community where seniors feel respected, valued, and engaged. Chair Emkin acknowledged the comment but noted the commission could not discuss non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Facility Rental Update (presented by Karina Cortez, Facilities Program Coordinator): - Overview of five facilities and picnic areas, with high peak rental periods (April–October). - Notable increase in rentals at the sports complex; factors include cost, location, parking, and more city/county meetings. - Upgrades: new lighter tables (6-foot rectangular and 60-inch round), outdoor patio lighting at lodge and cottage, hiring/training building attendants (currently 7, seeking 2 more). - Enhanced customer experience: informative emails, checklists, cleaning kits. - Picnic usage down due to Creek Restoration Project closing Redwood site. - Wedding Fair in the Park: 35 vendors in 2025 (highest), attendance similar to 2024; 2026 fair scheduled April 12. - Twin Pines Art Center at the Manor: New volunteer community arts curator Heather Birnbaum Harris launched music/open mic night (October, 30 attendees), Obscure Movie Club (first: Joe vs. the Volcano on January 3), painting class (Feb 28, spotlight on Vincent van Gogh), author readings (March 28). Events free, aimed at adults, held Saturday evenings. - Commissioners asked about rental trends, security requirements (required for events with alcohol and 150 people), additional amenities (horseshoes, volleyball), corporate event facilitation, and marketing for art programs. - Appointment of Subcommittee for Oak Knoll Improvement Project (presented by staff): - The city plans a modest 3,000 sq ft play space in an undeveloped public right-of-way on Oak Knoll Drive, identified as high priority in the Parks and Recreation Open Space Master Plan due to lacking public amenity. - Budgeted in FY 25-26 capital improvement fund; three design proposals received based on staff, public, and commission comments. - Staff recommended two commissioners be appointed to a subcommittee to review proposals and return in January with a recommendation. - Commissioners Whitmore and Michaels volunteered and were appointed to the subcommittee. No public comments. - Open Space Volunteer Update (presented by staff): - Goals: improve coordination, documentation, collaboration, and consistent procedures for vegetation and trail maintenance. - Procedure: community organizations must contact Parks & Rec, submit plans, get written approval, sign waivers, document work with before/after photos. - Trail and vegetation maintenance rules: approved standards only; modifications prohibited; invasive removal limited to within 5 feet of trails; debris removal by city vehicle access. - Unauthorized work prohibited. Staff noted issues with over-eager volunteers creating trail features, pruning, or expanding trails. - Commissioners discussed barriers to volunteering (many steps, lack of marketing, website issues), need for tiered project types, training (e.g., identifying invasive species, poison oak), and recognition of long-time volunteers like Barry Stevens (Chaparral Trail). - Suggestions: create example projects, reduce friction, use video tutorials, improve volunteer page (Belmont.gov/volunteer has broken links, unclear forms), and promote 311 app for reporting issues. - Staff noted decline in volunteer interest but welcomed community ideas (e.g., free volleyball clinics, art programs). - Other Business & Department Updates (presented by staff): - Holiday Craft Fair (Nov 22) successful. - Belmont Creek Ribbon Cutting (Dec 3) celebrated completion of restoration project; new usable park spaces created. - Salson Trail: delayed opening due to weather; mitigation measures (guardrails, rocks) in place; trail to open end of day Dec 4; additional planting (30 oak trees) in January. - Off-leash hours at Barrett ended; dog off-leash allowed at Cipriani dog park; off-leash resumes March 1. - Commission applications open until Jan 9. - Upcoming events: Letter to Santa (drop-off until soon), Youth Advisory Committee food drive (through Jan 16), Santa at the Firehouse (Dec 11, sensory event 5-5:30, traditional 5:30-7:30), MLK Poetry and Essay Contest (submissions Jan 5-Feb 2). - Belmont 100 Centennial: banners up, swag shop opening January 1, storytelling project starting Dec 15. - Next commission meeting: January 21, 2026 (combined January/February meeting). Key Outcomes - Consent calendar (November draft minutes) approved 6-0. - Commissioners Whitmore and Michaels appointed to the Oak Knoll subcommittee; they will review design proposals and report back in January 2026. - Facility updates and open space volunteer procedures noted with suggestions for improvement. - Salson Trail to open end of day December 4, 2025. - Meeting adjourned; next regular meeting January 21, 2026.

This is the regular Planning Commission meeting for the City of Belmont, held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 7:01 PM. All six commissioners were present except Commissioner Jadala recused herself for the first item. The meeting included no consent calendar or study session items. Two public hearings were conducted: a single-family design review and tree removal permit at 1502 Escondido Way (approved 5-0) and a single-family design review at 1140 Academy Avenue (approved 6-0). No public comments were received on any agenda item. Staff provided updates on upcoming meetings. Consent Calendar - No items listed. Public Comments & Testimony - Community Forum: No members of the public spoke. - Item 7A (1502 Escondido Way): No public comments in chambers or via Zoom. - Item 7B (1140 Academy Avenue): No public comments in chambers or via Zoom. Discussion Items - Item 7A – Single Family Design Review & Tree Removal Permit (1502 Escondido Way): Staff presented a proposal for a 1,077 sq ft ground-floor addition to an existing 1,891 sq ft home on a 13,326 sq ft lot (slope 17.24%), resulting in a total of 2,968 sq ft (maximum allowed: 3,999 sq ft). Four trees (three incense cedars and one deodar cedar) were proposed for removal to accommodate the addition and a new sewer lateral. Staff recommended approval, noting compliance with setbacks and design guidelines. The homeowner/applicant, Gavin, and architect Jesse spoke in favor, highlighting their growing family. During commission deliberation, questions were raised about the city's sidewalk installation policy (a standard condition of approval, with potential exemption through Public Works) and the necessity of removing the tree impeding the sewer lateral. No public opposition was heard. Commissioner Jadala recused herself due to proximity to the property. A motion to approve the design review and tree removal permit passed 5-0. - Item 7B – Single Family Design Review (1140 Academy Avenue): Staff presented a proposal for a 697 sq ft ground-floor addition and a 303 sq ft second-story addition (total 1,000 sq ft) to an existing 1,707 sq ft home on a 6,050 sq ft lot (slope 14.16%), resulting in a total of 2,777 sq ft (maximum allowed: 3,122 sq ft). Materials include light gray stucco, horizontal fiber cement plank, and stone veneer. The homeowner, Stephanie Perry, expressed gratitude and noted the remodel is for her growing family. A commissioner asked about the ADU entrance location (side of the house). Staff recommended approval. No public comments were received. The commission found the design well-articulated and consistent with guidelines. A motion to approve passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Item 7A approved (5-0-1): Single-family design review and tree removal permit for 1502 Escondido Way (Application 2025-0043). Appeals may be filed within 10 calendar days. - Item 7B approved (6-0): Single-family design review for 1140 Academy Avenue (Application 2025-0046). Appeals may be filed within 10 calendar days. - Upcoming Meetings: Staff announced the final City Council meeting of the year on December 9, the next Planning Commission meeting on December 16 (including minutes adoption and a single-family design review), and a public hearing on entitlements for the Charles Armstrong project at the January 6, 2026 meeting.