Public Meetings - Belmont, California

The Parks and Recreation Commission convened on October 1, 2025, to review summer youth program outcomes, discuss a new directional signpost project for Twin Pines Park, and receive updates on upcoming department events. The meeting featured staff presentations and commissioner discussions, with a focus on program improvements and community engagement. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the draft minutes from the September 3, 2025, meeting. Discussion Items - Youth and Teen Summer Program Recap: Michael Moran, Recreation Supervisor, presented a detailed recap of summer activities. Highlights included: - Aquatics program at Carmont High School served 550 youth swimmers, an increase from 531 last year, with swimmer aids rising from 4 to 13 volunteers. The program introduced revised swim lessons following American Red Cross standards and plans for adaptive and private lessons in 2026. - Camp SOAR, relocated to Barrett Community Center, maintained high enrollment with 837 participants and received positive family testimonials. The CIT program had 48 participants contributing 2100 volunteer hours. - Scholarships were awarded using donations from community organizations, and funds are allocated for future year-round scholarships. - Technology enhancements, such as digital check-in via ActiveNet, were implemented and praised for efficiency. - Commissioners expressed strong support for the programs, asked questions about capacity and pricing, and suggested addressing gaps for middle school-aged children. For example, commissioners noted the accessible price point for swim lessons and commended the leadership development opportunities in the CIT program. - Twin Pines Park Directional Signpost Discussion: Staff presented a whimsical directional signpost project for Twin Pines Park, seeking community input via survey on sign styles and destinations. Commissioners offered suggestions, such as including sister cities like Namur, Belgium, involving schools for input, and rotating themes. The project aims to enhance the park's gathering space. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 3 meeting minutes. - Directed staff to proceed with a community survey for the Twin Pines Park signpost project. - Noted planned changes for Camp SOAR, including extending hours from 5:00 PM to 5:30 PM starting in 2026. - Acknowledged positive feedback on summer programs and ongoing improvements based on data and community input.

The Belmont City Council met on September 23, 2025, at City Hall. Vice Mayor Robin Pang-Maganaris presided in place of Mayor Julia Mates. Councilmembers present: Cathy Jordan, Tom McCune, and Robin Pang-Maganaris. Councilmember Gina Latimerlo and Mayor Mates were absent. The meeting included five special presentations, approval of the consent calendar, an informational update on the Silicon Valley Clean Water (SVCW) Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and financing, and designation of a voting delegate for the League of California Cities Annual Conference. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – The Council approved the minutes from July 8, 2025, and August 26, 2025. - City Code Cleanup, Updates, and Enforcement Amendments – An ordinance was adopted to conform the City Code to organizational changes, update construction contracting award thresholds, streamline and repeal unneeded regulations, amend fireworks regulations, and add property management requirements. The motion passed 3–0. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the designated period. Discussion Items - Age‑Friendly Action Plan – Ann O’Brien of the Center for Age‑Friendly Excellence (CAFE) presented the plan, developed from a survey of 229 Belmont residents and seven focus groups. The plan covers eight domains of livability plus an added ninth domain (emergency services). Councilmembers thanked staff and CAFE, praising existing senior services and expressing support for the plan. - Fire Prevention Week Proclamation (October 5–11, 2025) – Carissa Workman, Fire Marshal for San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department, presented the theme “Charge into Fire Safety,” focused on lithium‑ion battery safety. Councilmember Tom McCune read the proclamation, which was presented to Ms. Workman. - Stormwater Awareness Week Proclamation (September 22–26, 2025) – Vice Mayor Pang-Maganaris read the proclamation. City Manager Afshin Oskoui introduced new Public Works Director Edric Kwon, who started on September 22, 2025. - Indigenous People’s Month Proclamation (October 2025) – Councilmember Cathy Jordan read the proclamation acknowledging the ancestral homeland of the Ramaytush Ohlone and urging recognition of Indigenous contributions. No representative accepted on behalf of the community. - Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation (October 2025) – Vice Mayor Pang-Maganaris read the proclamation. Melissa Gibbs, Senior Manager of Legal Services for CORA (Community Overcoming Relationship Abuse), provided statistics: more than 1 in 3 women, 1 in 4 men, and 1 in 2 transgender individuals experience intimate partner violence; CORA provided more than 10,000 critical services and over $1 million in client cash assistance in the past year. She highlighted the 24‑hour hotline (1‑800‑300‑1080). - Silicon Valley Clean Water (SVCW) CIP Update and Financing – Matt Zuka (Authority Manager) and Matt Anderson (CFO) of SVCW presented an overview of the CIP, including conveyance system upgrades, plant rehabilitation, and new nutrient removal requirements driven by a 2022 algal bloom in San Francisco Bay. Over the next three years, $32.4 million is needed; Belmont’s 9.45% share is approximately $3.1 million. Jaime Trejo of PFM (financial advisor) presented the status of Belmont’s Sewer Treatment Facility Charge (STFC) fund. The current flat fee of $250 per year (unchanged since 2009) is no longer sustainable; the fund is projected to become negative around 2030‑2031. Staff indicated a Prop 218 rate‑increase process will likely be initiated within 12–18 months. Councilmembers acknowledged the need for careful communication and member‑agency collaboration. - Designation of Voting Delegate and Alternate for League of California Cities Annual Conference (October 8–10, 2025) – Staff recommended Mayor Julia Mates as voting delegate and City Manager Afshin Oskoui as alternate. A motion to that effect passed 3–0. - Councilmember and Staff Verbal Reports – Councilmember McCune reported on SBWMA (expanded polystyrene ban) and County Emergency Services Council (improvements to SMC Alerts). City Manager Oskoui announced employee appreciation, the city’s upcoming centennial, and the Happy Hydrants/utility box art application deadline of September 29, 2025. Key Outcomes - Adopted Ordinance – Code cleanup and enforcement ordinance approved 3–0. - Delegates Appointed – Mayor Mates (voting delegate) and City Manager Oskoui (alternate) for the Cal Cities conference. - Informational Update Received – SVCW CIP update accepted; staff to continue modeling funding scenarios and prepare for a future Prop 218 rate process for the STFC. - Proclamations Issued – Fire Prevention Week (Oct 5–11), Stormwater Awareness Week (Sept 22–26), Indigenous People’s Month (October), and Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October) were officially designated. - Meeting Adjourned at 8:49 PM.

The Belmont Planning Commission convened to approve prior minutes, review a single-family design review application, and conduct a public hearing on extensive zoning text amendments covering the corridor mixed-use district, parking regulations, housing element implementation, and procedural updates. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the meeting minutes from September 2, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - For item 7A: Mike Garude, a neighbor at 1121 Notre Dame Avenue, expressed support for the single-family design review project. - For item 7B: Brian, a resident with property adjacent to the CMU district, expressed concerns about inadequate protections for residential lots. He argued for larger setbacks and step-backs for taller buildings to mitigate impacts on neighboring homes. Discussion Items - Item 7A: Single-Family Design Review at 1131 Notre Dame Avenue: Commissioners discussed the proposal for an upper-story addition and accessory dwelling unit, noting the applicant's efforts to minimize privacy impacts on neighbors through window placement. - Item 7B: Zoning Text Amendments: Staff presented amendments to multiple sections of the zoning ordinance. Commissioners deliberated on: - Height increases in the CMU district (base height from 45 to 50 feet, community benefits height to 60 feet, and hotel incentives up to 65 feet with 2.5 FAR). - Concerns about residential care facilities in single-family zones and potential regulatory gaps. - Parking regulation consolidation and updates. - Procedural changes for ministerial housing project reviews, including timelines under state law (e.g., AB 130). - Design standards for parking garages and transitional yards. Key Outcomes - Item 7A: Approved the single-family design review (application 2025-0025) with a 5-0 vote. - Item 7B: Recommended approval of the zoning text amendments with a 5-0 vote, subject to modifications: - Staff to analyze and potentially add language limiting residential care facilities to single-family residences. - Enhance transitional yard requirements in section 9.7.5 to a minimum 15-foot setback and additional step-backs for taller floors. - Defer changes to 60-day ministerial review processes for further study, while supporting staff-level approval for 30-day urban infill projects. - Direct staff to develop design standards for parking garages in the CMU district.

The Belmont City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included special presentations, approval of consent calendar items, public comments, and informational presentations on solid waste rates, the Grand Boulevard Initiative, and the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan update. All actions were passed unanimously (5-0) where votes were taken. Special Presentations - Proclamation Observing Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 – Oct 15, 2025): Mayor Julia Mates read a proclamation recognizing the contributions of Hispanic and Latinx Americans, with the theme "Pioneers of Change, Shaping the Future Together." - Proclamation Designating September 2025 as Suicide Prevention Month: The council designated September as Suicide Prevention Month, highlighting the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and encouraging community awareness. - Belmont Community Foundation (BCF) Imagine Together Festival Recap: BCF President Ulla presented a recap of the August 9, 2025 festival at Barrett Community Center, which drew an estimated 500–1,000 attendees. The festival showcased the need for a revitalized community center with nearly 200 people attending an architect's presentation. Goals included raising awareness, community building, and future fundraising. - Stanford University Contribution to Belmont: Lucy Wicks from Stanford presented a check to support the Barrett Community Center revitalization, acknowledging the partnership despite the Stanford at Belmont plan not moving forward. Council expressed gratitude and noted the enduring collaboration. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (June 10, 2025, and June 24, 2025): Approved with minor amendments noted by Councilmember Jordan. - Belmont City Code Cleanup, Updates, and Enforcement Amendments: Introduced an ordinance to conform city code to organizational changes, update construction contracting award thresholds, streamline regulations, amend fireworks rules, and add property management requirements. Council noted historical oddities (e.g., permits for fortune tellers, rock crushing). - Renewal of Agreement with City of Redwood City for Firearms Training Facility: Approved a 3-year renewal for use of Redwood City's training facility. - Belmont Village Bicycle Improvement Project – Plans and Specifications Approval: Approved plans, authorized advertisement for bids, and authorized the City Manager to execute a contract up to $211,520 plus a 10% contingency. All consent items passed 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Liu (Belmont Library): Shared upcoming library events including a wildfire preparedness talk (Sept 14), virtual poetry night (Sept 16), Mid-Autumn Festival concert (Sept 22), embroidery workshop (Sept 24), and screen printing for youth (Sept 26). Encouraged community attendance. - Public Comment on Climate Action Plan: Dojain from Build Up San Mateo County spoke about the Early Childhood Climate Action Plan, urging the city to consider vulnerable populations (children 0-5, child care providers) in climate resilience strategies. She provided a report to the council. Discussion Items - 10A: Review Solid Waste Rate Application and Revise Maximum Rates for 2026: Nisha Patel (Public Works Director) and Josiah Close (HDR) presented the annual rate review. The proposed maximum increase for regular services (Schedule L) is 1.45% (residential increase less than $1/month for most customers) and for additional services (Schedule Q) is 1.27%. The increase reflects a 0.92% base cost increase and 2.03% pass-through from disposal fees. Councilmember McCune noted the increase is manageable given new environmental laws. The council approved the resolution to move forward with Proposition 218 process and set a public hearing for November 25, 2025. Vote: 5-0. - 10B: Grand Boulevard Initiative (GBI) Update/Presentation: Cassie Halls (SAMTrans) and partners from Caltrans and SMCTA presented the GBI Action Plan, a long-range planning effort to modernize El Camino Real. The plan coordinates 15 jurisdictions and integrates local plans (e.g., Belmont’s Central El Camino Multimodal Plan). Implementation is 8-10 years away, with costs up to $750 million. Council members discussed safety, green landscaping, coordination with Santa Clara County, and the need for multimodal improvements. No action required; council provided initial feedback. - 10C: Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Update: Karen Clark (Management Analyst) and Olivia Mendoza (Rincon Consultants) presented the CAAP update. The 2023 greenhouse gas inventory shows 60% from on-road transportation and 39% from building natural gas. Belmont achieved a 28% reduction from 2005 levels by 2020 (exceeding 15% target), but emissions have plateaued 2021-2023. Key strategies include electrifying buildings and vehicles, reducing VMT, and improving resilience to extreme heat, wildfire, flooding, and sea level rise. A community workshop is scheduled for September 11, 2025. The plan aims to align with state targets (40% below 1990 by 2030, carbon neutrality by 2045). Council discussed education, incentives, coordination with commute.org, and the role of the city versus other entities. No action required. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Approved (5-0): All four items (minutes, code cleanup, training facility renewal, bicycle project) passed. - Solid Waste Rate Resolution Approved (5-0): Council adopted the resolution to revise maximum rates effective January 1, 2026, with a public hearing set for November 25, 2025. - Informational Presentations Heard: GBI and CAAP updates were received; no votes taken. Council feedback will inform ongoing work. - Public Hearing Set: November 25, 2025, for solid waste rate protests. - Next Steps: Climate Action Plan community workshop on September 11, 2025; CAAP adoption targeted for fall 2026.

The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting focused on updates for the Belmont Community Center project, a recap of the recent Imagine Together Festival, and the launch of public art initiatives for the city's upcoming centennial celebration. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from July 16, 2025 with a unanimous 6-0 vote. Discussion Items - Belmont Community Foundation Event Recap: Representatives from the Belmont Community Foundation presented a recap of the Imagine Together Festival, held to raise awareness and build community support for the new Belmont Community Center. The foundation stated the event successfully engaged the community, with estimated attendance of nearly 1,000 people. Commissioners expressed full support for the event and its goals, noting the positive energy and community excitement it generated. - Belmont Community Center Refresh Presentation: Architects from Group Four provided an update on the design and planning for the new Belmont Community Center, addressing frequent community questions regarding pools, dog parks, safety, noise, and timelines. Commissioners voiced strong support for the project and raised questions about safety features, accessibility, and ensuring the center serves all age groups. The architects emphasized the design's focus on multi-generational use, sustainability, and resilience as an emergency center. - Happy Hydrants and Utility Box Project: Staff introduced public art projects for Belmont's centennial, including refreshing 24 approved fire hydrants with new paintings and decorating a utility box in downtown Belmont. Commissioners supported the initiative, asked logistical questions about materials and community outreach, and appointed a two-commissioner selection committee to review artist applications. - Department Updates: The Parks and Recreation department provided updates on upcoming events, including movie nights, the Water Dog Run, a high school and college fair, the Diwali celebration, and the Belmont Boo Bash. Operational changes, such as adjusted Friday office hours, were also announced. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the consent calendar (6-0 vote). - Appointment of two commissioners to the ad-hoc committee for the happy hydrants and utility box art project selection. - Positive reception and continued support for the Belmont Community Center project, with design refinements ongoing.

The Belmont Planning Commission convened on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Commissioners Adam Kavich, Kramer, Twig, and Jadala were present; Chair Coolidge and Vice Chair Majeski were absent. The agenda included public hearings for two single-family design reviews and a presentation on the City's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) update. Public Hearings 2914 San Juan Boulevard - Single-Family Design Review - Project Overview: Staff presented a proposal to add a 135-square-foot ground floor addition and a 732-square-foot upper floor addition to an existing residence, bringing the total square footage to 3,113. The project meets all setback and floor area ratio (FAR) requirements. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Statement: The applicant described the project as a straightforward upgrade to open the floor plan, add a guest bathroom, a master suite, and an office, stating the design complied with city zoning criteria. - Commissioner Deliberation: Commissioners confirmed they had conducted site visits and agreed the project was well-designed and met all applicable design standards. - Outcome: A motion to approve the design review passed unanimously (4-0). 1641 Francis Avenue - Single-Family Design Review - Project Overview: Staff outlined a proposal for a 52-square-foot ground-floor addition and a new 1,156-square-foot second story (1,208 total square feet), resulting in a total floor area of 2,873 square feet. The design features board and batten siding and stone veneer. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Statement: The homeowner explained the need for more space for their children and visiting parents and detailed extensive outreach efforts with neighbors to offset the second story to avoid window conflicts and mitigate view impacts. - Commissioner Deliberation: One commissioner expressed concern that the proposed board-and-batten siding was not consistent with the predominantly stucco homes in the neighborhood but acknowledged the thorough outreach documentation. Other commissioners felt the project handled the volume well and met the required findings. - Outcome: A motion to approve the design review passed unanimously (4-0). Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Update - Presentation: Consultants from Rincon Consultants presented an update on the City's CAAP. Key points included: 52% of emissions come from on-road transportation, 40% from natural gas use in buildings (electricity only accounts for 1% due to Peninsula Clean Energy). Belmont has achieved a 28% reduction from 1990 levels, exceeding its 2020 target. The new plan must align with state targets: 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 (SB 32) and carbon neutrality by 2045 (AB 1279). The current trajectory is not sufficient to meet these goals. Key strategies focus on electrifying existing buildings (heat pumps), reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and electrifying vehicles, and improving waste diversion. AB 130 limits local reach codes until 2031, and federal incentives (IRA) are uncertain, though state funding (Prop 4) remains a key resource. - Commissioner Questions and Discussion: Commissioners discussed the feasibility of electrification with 100-amp panels and new technologies (battery-powered induction stoves, smart circuits). The relative merits of weatherization versus heat pump installation were discussed. Commissioners asked about regional transportation collaboration and the lack of specific data on bike lane usage, urging a stronger focus on connected, safe bike infrastructure. The challenges of electrifying the city fleet under state Advanced Clean Fleets rules were also discussed. - Public Comment: Dow Jane Pay, a Belmont resident and representative of Build Up San Mateo County, urged the City to explicitly address the vulnerability of young children and child care facilities to extreme heat and wildfire smoke in its climate planning. She referenced her organization's San Mateo County Early Childhood Climate Action Plan. - Outcome: The presentation was received by the commission. No formal action was taken. The plan will be presented to the City Council on September 9, followed by a community workshop on September 11. Key Outcomes - Approved (4-0): Single-family design review at 2914 San Juan Boulevard. - Approved (4-0): Single-family design review at 1641 Francis Avenue. - Received: Presentation on the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan update. Public comment encouraged the inclusion of early childhood considerations in the plan. - Upcoming Dates: City Council presentation on the CAAP (September 9, 2025), Community Workshop (September 11, 2025).

The Belmont City Council reconvened after a summer recess for a regular meeting covering special presentations, public comments, routine approvals, and detailed updates on community polling and long-range planning initiatives. The council received positive feedback on city services and discussed future projects. Consent Calendar - Routine items were approved unanimously with a 5-0 vote. Council members discussed traffic signal timing issues on El Camino and Ralston (Item D) and expressed support for the O'Neill undercrossing feasibility study (Item F). Public Comments & Testimony - William Blight, a long-term resident, complained about harassment by a public works employee and demanded action from the council. - Giuliano Carlini, representing AYSO, thanked the city for its support. In a separate comment on the consent calendar, he opposed the O'Neill undercrossing project, arguing it would not promote mode shift from cars to bikes and advocated for protected bike lanes on Ralston and Alameda instead. - Dennis (last name not specified) also opposed the O'Neill undercrossing, calling it unnecessary and costly. - Jim Howard praised the council's efforts and expressed support for a community center project. Discussion Items - Special Presentations: The police department recapped the successful National Night Out event, highlighting community engagement. The San Mateo Daily Journal was honored with a proclamation for its 25 years of service, with editor John Mays praising the council's collaborative work. - Community Polling Results (Item 10A): Brian Gottby presented survey data showing high satisfaction with quality of life (90%) and city services (80%), along with improved support for a community center measure (63.3%). The council discussed potential ballot initiatives and timelines. - Long-Range Planning Update (Item 10B): Laura Russell provided a comprehensive update on initiatives including the Harbor Industrial Area, zoning amendments, safety element update, housing element implementation, climate action plan, and transit-oriented communities policy. Staff emphasized adapting to state law changes and maintaining local vision. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved unanimously (5-0). - No formal actions were taken on the presentations; they were received for information. The council directed staff to proceed with community engagement and further analysis on planning items.

The Belmont Planning Commission convened for a regular meeting with a packed agenda focused on development projects. The session included public comments on open space funding, a routine consent calendar approval, and two public hearings. The first hearing was a minor addition requiring commission review due to a 1971 planned development ordinance. The second and more significant hearing concerned a major 140-unit apartment development at 500-580 Masonic Way, which was processed under state-mandated "by-right" rules, limiting the commission's discretion. Despite extensive public opposition primarily related to traffic, loss of commercial services, and building scale, the commission approved both projects, acknowledging the legal constraints imposed by state housing laws. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting minutes from July 1, 2025, by a vote of 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Victor Garza (Open Space Proposal): Proposed that the city use approximately $5.4 million in expected park impact and Quimby Act fees from the Masonic Way development to acquire his HRO2-zoned hillside land for permanent open space, arguing it would provide better value than cash payments. - On Masonic Way Project (Item 7B): Over a dozen residents, primarily from the Sterling Downs neighborhood, voiced strong opposition. Concerns included: increased traffic congestion and safety, especially for children walking to Nesbitt Elementary; loss of existing commercial services (restaurant, preschool, nail salon); the building's height and scale being incompatible with the neighborhood; insufficient parking; construction disruption; and groundwater/subsidence risks. No public comments were made in support of the project. Discussion Items - Item 7A - 2876 Wakefield Drive: A conditional use permit and single-family design review for a minor 52 sq ft addition (22 sq ft upper floor, 30 sq ft lower floor). Staff explained the review was required due to a 1971 Planned Development (Hallmark West) ordinance mandating commission approval for any second-story addition. Commissioners questioned the antiquated rule but had no objections to the project itself. - Item 7B - 500-580 Masonic Way: A major 140-unit, 5-story apartment building with 25 affordable units. Staff's detailed presentation covered: - The project's "by-right" processing status under state housing laws (SB 330, Density Bonus Law), which mandates approval if objective standards are met and limits environmental review (CEQA). - The legal framework, including how density bonus calculations (from a 70-unit "base project") allowed 140 units and required waivers for certain development standards like building bulk. - A review of requested entitlements: design review, grading plan, tree removal, affordable housing plan, and transportation demand management (TDM) plan. - Key project details: 138 parking spaces (more than legally required), 142 bicycle spaces, ground-floor residential uses (no commercial/retail), and a design featuring a U-shape, gabled roofs, and a community garden. - Staff recommended approval, noting the project complied with objective standards. - The applicant, Prometheus Real Estate Group, presented the design philosophy, emphasizing craftsmanship, natural materials, and activation of the streetscape, though the ground-floor uses were limited to residential lobbies and a gym. Key Outcomes - Item 7A - 2876 Wakefield Drive: Approved unanimously (6-0). - Item 7B - 500-580 Masonic Way: Approved by a vote of 5-1 (Commissioner Twig opposed). The resolution granted all requested by-right entitlements and density bonus waivers. Commissioners expressed frustration with state laws that eroded local control, prevented requiring ground-floor commercial use, and resulted in what they saw as inadequate affordable housing percentages. They directed that construction and traffic safety plans be shared with the school district and nearby residents. - Other Business: Noted a future meeting on September 2nd with a climate action plan update and single-family design review.

This meeting primarily focused on the introduction of new software for tennis and pickleball court reservations and a detailed presentation on refreshing the master plan for the Belmont Community Center at Barrett. The commission also reviewed a preliminary proposal for a public art initiative to celebrate Belmont's upcoming centennial and received departmental updates on summer programs and projects. Consent Calendar - Commissioners unanimously approved the draft minutes from the June 4, 2025, meeting with a 6-0 vote. Discussion Items Tennis and Pickleball Court Reservation Software - Staff introduced a new reservation platform, Rec, to replace the current system (Acuity). The new system aims to address issues with bots, booking limits, user experience, and data reporting. - Lindsay from Rec Technologies provided a demonstration. Key features include mobile verification to prevent bots, custom booking limits (two per day, six per week, up to seven days in advance), a live calendar accessible via QR codes at courts, and a 2-hour buffer to prevent same-day reservations from displacing players already at the courts. - Commissioners expressed support for the modernization and asked numerous questions. Topics included cancellation notifications, integration with other city registration systems, check-in validation to combat no-shows, priority for residents versus non-residents, and the system's capabilities beyond court bookings (e.g., picnic rentals, leagues). - The system is scheduled to launch on September 1, 2025, with a marketing push to current users. Belmont Community Center Master Plan Refresh - Group 4 Architecture presented an update to the 2019 conceptual design for a new community center at the Barrett site. The refresh aims to validate programming needs, incorporate new recreation trends, and align with funding realities. - The presentation covered best practices (community-driven, holistic wellness, accessibility, adaptable spaces, sustainable design, efficient operations), regional context, benchmarking against other facilities, and potential program elements. - The design explores a "base building" program (approx. 20,000 sq ft for multi-generational spaces, preschool, teen areas) with optional add-ons for a gymnasium and/or an aquatics center. - Key considerations discussed included: sustainable/net-zero energy goals, the facility's role as a community "third place" and resiliency hub, parking and transportation (with emphasis on reducing car trips), operational costs (especially for a pool), and the potential for phased construction to keep existing programs running. - Commissioners provided feedback, expressing excitement and support for a comprehensive, inclusive facility. They emphasized the importance of alternative transportation, dog-friendly spaces, flexible and adaptable design, and connections to Belmont's history. - A community event to showcase the plans is scheduled for August 9th at Barrett. Centennial Public Art Initiative Proposal - Intern Yu Chen presented a preliminary framework for a public art project to celebrate Belmont's 100th anniversary in 2026. The proposal centers on themes of community/collaboration, nature/environment, and education/legacy. - The vision involves a series of interconnected murals and installations across the city (e.g., Twin Pines Park, Caltrain station area, Ralston Avenue, library) to create an "art trail." The project would be guided by a new public art collaborative and funded through the city's existing public art fee. - Commissioners were highly supportive of the creative and community-focused proposal. Suggestions included incorporating digital elements, student and community contributions, three-dimensional or immersive installations, and linking the art to other centennial celebrations like a community picnic. Public Comments & Testimony - Two community members spoke during the Community Center agenda item to advocate for the continuation and expansion of off-leash dog hours at Barrett, requesting weekend hours and review of the field watering schedule. They emphasized the program's importance for building community among residents. - A city staff member announced the August 9th "Imagine Together" festival at Barrett to engage the community on the Community Center plans. Department Updates - Summer programs (Camp Sore, aquatics, Lemonade Day) are underway and successful. - The final Summer Concert of the season was well-attended. - The "Belmont Belongs" chatty bench program is launching to foster community connections in parks. - The Twin Pines Park renovation and Ralston Trail repair projects are progressing, with trail closures expected in early August. - Upcoming events include a senior scam seminar, mobile recreation events, a movie in the park ("Inside Out 2"), and the Water Dog Run in September. Key Outcomes - Approval of Prior Minutes: Consent calendar item passed 6-0. - Software Direction: Commission received the presentation on the Rec reservation platform positively. Staff directed to proceed with the September 1 launch. - Community Center Planning: Commission received the master plan refresh presentation. The project will move forward with further community engagement (August 9 event) and detailed programming/cost reconciliation. - Public Art Initiative: Commission expressed strong support for the centennial art proposal concept. Staff directed to proceed with forming a public art collaborative and developing the project framework further. - Next Meeting: The next Parks and Recreation Commission meeting is scheduled for September 2025.