Public Meetings - Belmont, California

The Planning Commission met on July 1, 2025, at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. Commissioners present: Adam Kevich, Kramer, Twig, Jagala. Absent: Majeski and Chair Coolich. The meeting covered approval of minutes, two public hearings for single-family design reviews, and a staff update on future meetings. Both design review applications were approved unanimously (4-0). Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting minutes of June 3, 2025, as presented (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - 1505 Pine Knoll Drive: Multiple neighbors spoke in opposition. Evangeline Courtencamp Brown (1510 Pine Knoll) expressed distrust of the applicant (contractors/developers), alleged unpermitted grading and dumping of dirt, and objected to the scale. Leon and Jenny Courtencamp (1507) cited privacy invasion and inappropriate size, describing the proposed two-story as a "watchtower." Min Zhu (1501 Pine Knoll) submitted a written objection on June 28 citing concerns about unpermitted grading, solar access, privacy, construction disruption, and CEQA exemption status. Additional neighbors via Zoom (Jay Zoo, 1624 Mantanita) raised concerns about views and privacy. Neighbors at 1500 and 1511 Pine Knoll also expressed opposition through representatives. - 2942 San Juan Boulevard: No public comments were received via email or in person. The applicant (Mark and Anahita) indicated they were available for questions but did not make a presentation. Discussion Items - 1505 Pine Knoll Drive – Single-Family Design Review: Staff presented a proposal for a 409 sq ft ground-floor addition and a 1,646 sq ft second-story addition (total 2,055 sq ft) to an existing 1,302 sq ft home, resulting in 3,357 sq ft total (max allowed 3,362 sq ft). Lot size 6,356 sq ft, slope 10.95%, FAR 0.529. The project met all setbacks and height limit (28 ft). Staff noted that privacy and solar access are not criteria in the design review findings unless the project seeks a floor area exception. The applicant’s outreach summary indicated general support, but a late email raised concerns. The commission discussed the CEQA exemption (Class 3 – new construction of small structures), the grading concerns, and the adequacy of conditions of approval. The commission noted that privacy is not a finding under current code. After deliberation, Commissioner Twig moved to approve the resolution, seconded by Commissioner Adam Kevich. The motion passed 4-0. - 2942 San Juan Boulevard – Single-Family Design Review: Staff presented a proposal for a 602 sq ft second-story addition to an existing single-family residence, resulting in a total of 2,555 sq ft (max allowed 4,133 sq ft). The lot slope is 0.39 (staff noted a typo in the report). The design includes a "wedding cake" stepback. No questions or concerns from the commission. Commissioner Twig moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Jagala. The motion passed 4-0. Key Outcomes - 1505 Pine Knoll Drive: Approved (4-0). Decision appealable within 10 calendar days to the City Council. - 2942 San Juan Boulevard: Approved (4-0). Decision appealable within 10 calendar days to the City Council. - Consent Calendar: Approved minutes of June 3, 2025 (4-0). - Staff Update: No July meetings; next meeting scheduled for August 19, 2025.

The Belmont City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting began at 7:00 PM (following a 6:15 PM closed session on the City Manager's performance evaluation, with no reportable action). All five councilmembers were present. The council approved the consent calendar (including moving a public hearing item to consent), ratified fire code amendments and fire hazard severity zone maps for two jurisdictions, and received an update on the city's strategic communications plan. Special Presentations - Parks Make Life Better Proclamation: The council declared July 2025 as Parks Make Life Better Month. Parks and Recreation Director Brigitte Shearer presented photos highlighting department activities and staff. - Rethink Waste Trash to Art Contest Recognition: Emmy from Rethink Waste introduced Vincent, a 4th grader and contest winner, who showcased his sculpture of a football stadium made from recycled bottle caps, magazine clippings, and broken chopsticks. Vincent renamed it "Revised Stadium" to promote reuse. Councilmember Announcements - Councilmember Latimerlo recognized Communications Officer Elizabeth for receiving Rookie of the Year from the American Public Works Association Silicon Valley Chapter, and City Manager Afshin Oskoui for an Outstanding Service in a Public Agency award for over 40 years of service. - Councilmember McCune reminded residents to vote on movies in the park (dates: August 15, September 12, October 3) and announced the Summer Concert Series in Twin Pines Meadow (Sundays, June 15–July 13, 1–4 PM). Public Comments & Testimony Two speakers addressed the council on a matter not on the agenda: a parcel (APN 043-071-010) for which a certificate of compliance was applied for in 2023. - Neil Eisen, a retired attorney and partial owner, expressed frustration with the planning department's repeated missed deadlines and lack of response despite fees paid. He noted a meeting was scheduled for the next day. - Rick Lou spoke on behalf of his 93-year-old mother, the primary owner. He described purchasing the parcel at a 2009 U.S. Marshal auction (in which the city also acquired parcels) and stated that delays in the certificate are preventing them from selling the parcel to fund her care. He requested fair and timely consideration. Consent Calendar The council approved the consent calendar (Items A–F) by a 5-0 vote. Item 9A (1506 Williams Avenue easement vacation) was moved to the consent calendar on staff recommendation. The calendar included: - A: 2023 Pavement Rehabilitation Project – Notice of Completion ($3,087,974.24 construction cost, plus $200,000 transfer for closeout) - B: Twin Pines Park Belmont Creek Restoration – Deed restriction for Proposition 68 grant - C: ADA Improvement List FY 2023-24 (information only) - D: Final Parcel Map for 604, 608, 610 Harbor Boulevard (111,654 sq ft, 5-story apartment building) - E: Monthly Financial Reports for March and April 2025 - F: Approval of Minutes from May 13 and May 27, 2025 Staff recognized Sean Rose and public works staff for their work on the creek project and parcel map. Discussion Items 10A: Ratification of SMC Fire Code Amendments and LRA Fire Hazard Severity Zone Classifications Staff presented two related ordinances: one for the City of Belmont and one for the Belmont Fire Protection District. The new state-mandated maps categorize some previously very-high-hazard areas as moderate. The local amendments apply the same heightened safety standards (building construction and vegetation management) to moderate zones as were previously required in high/very high zones. Councilmember McCune confirmed the effect is to make local regulations stricter than state minimums. No public comment was offered. Actions taken: - As the City Council, a motion to introduce the ordinance (first reading) passed 5-0. - The council then recessed and reconvened as the Belmont Fire Protection District Board. The board approved the corresponding ordinance (first reading) by a 5-0 vote. - A second reading and adoption is scheduled for the July 8, 2025 meeting. 10B: Strategic Communications Plan Update and Adoption Communications Officer Elizabeth presented a summary of 2024-2025 accomplishments and the new 2025-2030 Strategic Communications Plan. Highlights included: - Launch of an internal communications intranet used 700+ times by 144 staff. - 311 My Belmont app launched in September 2024: 451 cases addressed across 1,286 devices. - Police Instagram launched with 315 followers. - Website: 24,800 users (+20% from prior year), 75,800 page views (+8%). - Social media reach increased 306% on Facebook (over 148,000 impressions) and 310% on Instagram (over 36,500 impressions). - Email marketing: 58,000+ subscribers, 73% average engagement. The plan focuses on two goals: building trust and deepening community dialogue. It targets five audience groups and emphasizes decentralized, collaborative execution. A website refresh is planned for early 2026, and a centennial celebration survey is open. Councilmembers provided feedback and suggestions: - Councilmember McCune asked about AI search tools (planned for future). - Vice Mayor Pang-Maganaris praised the multilingual efforts observed at a recent HIA meeting. - Councilmember Latimerlo suggested adding artistic sensibility to the "Belmont Promise" section, more emphasis on the website overhaul in the overview, warmer language for economic development, and mention of public safety forums. - Councilmember McCune recommended adding "building understanding" as a third major goal and expanding the fiscal sustainability outreach initiatives. He also encouraged more video storytelling and simple explanations of basic government operations (e.g., property tax allocation). No formal vote was required. Staff will incorporate feedback and present an updated plan for adoption. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar (including 9A) approved 5-0. - Ordinance introducing LRA fire code amendments for the City of Belmont passed 5-0 (first reading). - Ordinance for the Belmont Fire Protection District passed 5-0 (first reading). Both require second reading on July 8, 2025. - Strategic Communications Plan received council input; staff will revise and submit final version. - Next regular council meeting: Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

The City of Belmont City Council held a regular meeting on June 19, 2025, at 6:30 PM following a closed session. The meeting included a Juneteenth proclamation, public comments, approval of consent items, three public hearings on sewer and storm drainage fees, and adoption of the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget. The council voted unanimously on all items. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent calendar, which included routine items, by a 5-0 vote. Vice Mayor Pang Meganaris asked if the city had considered moving from Microsoft to Google Suites for cost savings. City Manager responded that after evaluation, staying with Microsoft through a state purchasing agreement was the most cost-effective option for the next three years. Councilmember McEwen expressed dissatisfaction with Microsoft but voted in favor, urging continued exploration of alternatives. Public Comments & Testimony - Marjorie Ruisy Dalgo (PG&E local government affairs representative) introduced herself as the new single point of contact for 21 peninsula jurisdictions, committing to serve constituents and leaving contact cards. - Chuck (Belmont Park Boosters representative) announced the start of the summer concert series in Twin Pines Park (Sundays, 1-4 PM, five concerts this year due to volunteer shortages). He thanked sponsors and noted improved wine and beer offerings, as well as raffle prizes. - Gerard (San Juan Hills area property owner) appealed to the council to investigate what he described as arbitrary and inconsistent decisions by city staff on land use issues, specifically regarding road improvement determinations and certificate of compliance requirements. He stated that staff had not provided explanations for differing treatment of his property versus others, and urged the council to hold staff accountable. - Max (property owner and attorney for a client) voiced concerns about delays in obtaining certificates of compliance for vacant parcels. He noted that his client's application (submitted August 2024, planning number 2025-003) and his own (submitted December 2024, number 2025-004) experienced similar delays in communication and processing. He stated that his client's property entered escrow that day and expressed concern that the city's slow processing could jeopardize the sale. Discussion Items - Budget Adoption for Fiscal Year 2025-2026: Finance Director Casaneda presented the proposed budget. Total operating budget (city and fire district): $80.8 million; total capital improvement: $13.5 million; citywide total: $94.3 million. Headcount remains at 144.75 FTE, with proposed reallocations. General fund revenues are budgeted $1.4 million lower than expenditures, covered by reserves. The city manager noted that the state legislature's budget version includes restoration of the $1.7 million VLF shortfall, but the governor must still sign. If restored, the reserve use would be reversed at mid-year review. The council discussed the Gann limit (spending cap from Prop 13), property tax sharing (Belmont receives only 7% of property tax dollars), and the need for a permanent VLF solution. The council also approved a comprehensive fee study for the next fiscal year. - Public Hearings on Sewer and Storm Drainage Fees: Three separate public hearings were held for the annual reports on collection of sewer service fees, sewer treatment facility charges, and storm drainage fees for FY 2025-26. All were duly noticed, no protests were received. The council approved each by 5-0 votes, authorizing the city clerk to file reports with the San Mateo County Tax Collector. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0 (Councilmembers Jordan, McEwen, Latimerlow, Vice Mayor Pang Meganaris, Mayor Mates voting yes). - Public Hearing 9A (Sewer Service Fees): Resolution approved 5-0. - Public Hearing 9B (Sewer Treatment Facility Charges): Resolution approved 5-0. - Public Hearing 9C (Storm Drainage Fees): Resolution approved 5-0. - Item 9D (Budget Adoption): The council adopted four resolutions: approving the FY 2025-2026 budget, approving the appropriations limit (Gann limit), reauthorizing the special library tax, and approving revisions to the master fee schedule. All passed 5-0.

The Public Safety Committee met on Monday, June 16, 2025 at 2:30 PM in the Emergency Operations Center at City Hall, Belmont. The meeting included a certificate of commendation, a traffic update, the chief's report, and discussions on transparency regarding drones and automated license plate readers. Consent Calendar - The Committee approved the minutes of the February 24, 2025 meeting by motion. No discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - A speaker announced a "Summer in the Park" event at Twin Pines on Sunday, June 22, 2025, inviting the public and committee members. Discussion Items - Certificate of Commendation: Detective Antoine Abinader was honored for his five-year tenure as a School Resource Officer (SRO) from May 2020 to May 2025. He was praised for his dedication, positive presence, and impact on school safety. He will return to patrol. - Traffic Update (Captain Armando): - Presented 2022 California traffic statistics: a statewide increase in fatalities; Belmont ranked 47 out of 90 similar-sized cities (mid-range). - 61% increase in bicycle fatalities statewide; Belmont ranked 12 out of 90, but noted this was baseline data before grant-funded efforts began in 2023. - 77% of pedestrian serious injuries occur in dark conditions (9 PM – 3 AM). - DUI arrests in Belmont were 5,790, considered high due to El Camino Real. - Educational enforcement included a successful "Coffee with a Cop" at Pete's Coffee; next one scheduled July 7 or 8, 2025. - Distracted driving: using a phone triples crash risk (not doubles); second violation within 36 months adds a point to driving record. - The city received approval for a third year of the Office of Traffic Safety grant (approximately $47,000) for enforcement. - A joint pedestrian/bicycle safety enforcement detail with the Sheriff's Office was planned for that week. - Committee members expressed interest in sharing distracted driving statistics on social media. - Chief's Report: - Recognized three employees: Volunteer of the Year Dolores Quig, Officer of the Year Sacope Tonguilala, Professional Staff Member of the Year Jennifer Fedstrom (dispatcher). - Acknowledged retired Sergeant Scott Fagley for 37 years of service (including per diem dispatcher). - Ian Crow was convicted on 33 felony counts and sentenced to 334 years for a kidnapping case. - Suspect identified in the Advantage Park homicide; active arrest warrant. - Awarded a one-year mental health grant from BHRS (San Mateo County) for a dual response model (clinician + officer), starting July 2025. Currently facing challenges in recruiting a fully licensed clinician. - Provided transparency update on Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) and drones. The public-facing portal shows vague reasons, but internal audit includes case numbers; the department audits outside agency use. For drones, every flight is logged with reason; used for events like graduations (Carlmont) and Easter egg hunt (assisted in locating missing children). - Upcoming community events: Community Academy (fall), Coffee with a Cop (July 8), National Night Out (August 5), and Belmont Centennial (2026). - Discussed the weekly "No Kings" protest: approximately 300-350 attendees were peaceful; police took a laid-back ambassador approach, did not deploy drones. Committee member reported positive interactions between protestors and police. - Questions clarified that banners cannot be fixed to structures; drones are not used for protests unless situation escalates to emergencies. Key Outcomes - Approved consent calendar (minutes). - Received and discussed the traffic update and chief's report; no formal actions required. - The third year of the OTS grant was approved externally; committee noted with appreciation. - The department will continue seeking a licensed mental health clinician for the dual response program. - Upcoming events and enforcement activities were announced.

The Measure I Advisory Committee convened on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM at City Hall, One Twin Pines Lane, 2nd Floor, Suite 210 - EOC, and via Zoom. The meeting covered routine approvals, committee leadership elections, and an informational update on the FY 2025-26 proposed budget and capital improvement projects funded by Measure I sales tax. Consent Calendar - Draft Minutes: The minutes of the Measure I Advisory Committee Meeting of November 15, 2024, were approved unanimously by voice vote with no amendments. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Committee Orientation: Director Castaneda provided a brief orientation, noting that the committee meets twice a year and that the spring meeting includes chair rotation. - Selection of Chairperson/Vice-Chairperson: The committee nominated and elected Committee Member Tupo as Chair and Committee Member Kong as Vice-Chair. The vote for Chair was unanimous (5 ayes, 0 nays), with a roll call recording aye votes from all present members. The Vice-Chair selection was similarly approved by voice vote with all members in favor. - FY 2025-26 Proposed Budget Update & Measure I Capital Improvement Update: Presentations by Director Castaneda and Senior Civil Engineer Bojana Palatnik. - Sales Tax Collections: Since Measure I began in April 2017, sales tax collections have softened and flattened following a bump in FY 2020-21 and FY 2021-22 driven by luxury auto purchases. Current year collections are estimated to be flat compared to the prior year. Projections show modest, muted growth due to a slowdown in the auto industry (Belmont's top sales tax performer) and cooling in building construction. - Fund Commitments: To date, $8 million has been committed to active projects ($7.3 million for streets, $0.7 million for storm projects). The five-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) adds another $10 million commitment ($9.3 million streets, $0.7 million storm). - Long-Term Financial Plan: The committee reviewed a financial plan showing projected negative fund balances in the first few years of the five-year outlook, returning to positive in the last two years. Staff clarified that the plan reflects fund commitments (planned projects) rather than actual annual spending. Actual spending will be updated as projects proceed. Chair Tupo and members discussed the commitment versus spending timeline, and staff explained the three-year pavement maintenance cycle (slurry seal, mill & fill, reconstruction) and the summer construction window. - Pavement Condition Index (PCI): The city's PCI improved from 56 ten years ago to 71 currently, attributed to Measure I funding. The 2025 pavement projects will further improve streets currently rated poor or very poor (red/orange on the PCI map). - Street Selection Process: Selection is based on PCI, number of neighbor complaints, and accident history. Value engineering is applied to each project, with staff examining subsurface conditions to avoid unnecessary reconstruction. In the prior year, this saved 21% compared to pavement management program estimates; for the 2025 pavement project, bids came in 18% lower. - Current and Planned Work: Current fiscal year work includes a South Trail project (bids opened, construction starting next month, completion expected in September). Planned work for next fiscal year includes storm main rehabilitation before paving streets, coordination with utility agencies (PG&E, Mid-Peninsula Water District), and in-house street maintenance (273 tons of asphalt, 145 potholes repaired, over 2,010 USA markouts in the current fiscal year to date). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously. - Chair and Vice-Chair Elections: Committee Member Tupo elected Chair, Committee Member Kong elected Vice-Chair. - Next Meeting: Fall 2025 (date TBD) to review the FY 2024-25 Measure I audit results. The committee will review the independent auditor's opinion and recommend approval of the annual report. - Meeting Adjournment: The committee moved to adjourn with no further business.

The Belmont City Council held a regular meeting on June 10, 2025, at City Hall, beginning with a closed session at 6:30 PM and the public session at 7:00 PM. The council approved a proclamation recognizing Juneteenth, adopted the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget and related fees, and unanimously approved consent calendar items and three annual sewer/storm fee reports. Public comment focused on concerns about city staff handling of planning and certificate of compliance applications. Special Presentations - Juneteenth Proclamation: Mayor Julia Mates read and presented a proclamation designating June 19, 2025, as Juneteenth Independence Day, urging the community to raise awareness of African American history and heritage. - PG&E Representative Introduction: A new PG&E local government affairs representative introduced themselves as the single point of contact for Belmont and surrounding jurisdictions. - Summer Concert Series Announcement: Chuck, representing the Belmont Park Boosters, announced the 2025 summer concert series in Twin Pines Park, running Sundays from 1–4 PM starting June 15. The series has been reduced from seven to five concerts due to volunteer shortages. Sponsors include Stanford, Davino, and Recology. A wine and beer upgrade was noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Gerard (property owner in San Juan Hills area): Appealed to the council to investigate what he described as arbitrary and inconsistent decisions by city planning staff regarding improved road frontage determinations and certificate of compliance requirements. He stated that staff refused to explain inconsistencies and lacked transparency. - Max (property owner and representative for a client): Voiced concerns over prolonged delays in processing certificate of compliance applications submitted in August 2024 (client) and December 2024 (own). He noted both applications had not progressed, and communication from planners was deficient. He stated his client's property entered escrow that day, and delays could jeopardize the sale. Consent Calendar - 8A. Three-Year Microsoft Enterprise Agreement: Authorized the City Manager to execute a $311,550 agreement ($103,850/year) with Crayon Software Experts, LLC. Vice Mayor Pang-Maganaris asked if the city had considered migrating to Google Suites for cost savings. Councilmember McCune criticized Microsoft as inferior but did not vote against the item. Approved 5-0. - 8B. Permanent Encroachment Agreement: Authorized a retaining wall encroachment at 716 Alameda de las Pulgas. Approved 5-0. Discussion Items - 9A. Sewer Service Fees FY 2025-26: Public Works Director Nisha Patel presented the annual report for collection on the tax roll. No majority protest was received. Approved 5-0. - 9B. Sewer Treatment Facility Charges FY 2025-26: Same process for Silicon Valley Clean Water charges. No protests. Approved 5-0. - 9C. Storm Drainage Fees FY 2025-26: Same process for NPDES Storm Water Compliance Program fees. No protests. Approved 5-0. - 9D. Adopt Budget and Related Items for FY 2025-26: Finance Director Grace Castaneda presented the budget. Highlights: - Total operating budget: $80.8 million (city + fire district). - Capital improvement: $13.5 million; five-year CIP plan: $61.9 million. - General fund revenues are budgeted $1.4 million below expenditures, covered by reserves. A potential $1.7 million Vehicle License Fee (VLF) reimbursement from the state (included in the legislative budget but not yet signed by the governor) could restore the gap. - City Manager Afshin Oskoui noted the city’s state delegation successfully advocated for VLF restoration, but a permanent solution is needed. - A worst-case scenario showed fund balance declines over 10 years if VLF is not backfilled. - Resolutions adopted: operating budget for city and fire district (144.75 FTEs), GANN appropriations limit (based on Prop 13 formula), special library tax (unchanged), and revisions to the Master Revenue Schedule (fee adjustments: CPI 1.3%, building fees 6%, and a planned comprehensive fee study). - Councilmembers expressed appreciation for state delegation efforts and emphasized the need for a permanent VLF fix. The mayor noted that Belmont receives only 7% of each property tax dollar for the general fund. The council moved to adopt the three resolutions; the transcript ends before the vote is recorded, but no opposition was voiced and the agenda recommended adoption. Key Outcomes - Juneteenth Proclamation was read and formally presented. - Consent Calendar (Microsoft agreement and encroachment) approved 5-0. - Sewer service fees, treatment facility charges, and storm drainage fees all approved 5-0 with no public protests. - Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget and related resolutions were discussed and moved for adoption; the final vote is presumed unanimous based on the discussion and agenda recommendation (transcript cut). - The council directed staff to continue pursuing a permanent solution to the VLF shortfall and to conduct a comprehensive fee study.

The Belmont Audit Committee met on June 5, 2025 at 1:00 PM in City Hall Conference Room 360 to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget and recommend approval to the City Council. The meeting included a detailed presentation by Finance Director Castaneda and Budget Manager Joanne, highlighting key revenue and expenditure projections, long-term fiscal challenges, and capital improvement plans. Consent Calendar - The Committee approved the minutes of the regular meeting of April 21, 2025 by unanimous consent. Discussion Items - FY 2025-26 Budget Review: Budget Manager Joanne presented the proposed budget, noting total operating expenses of $80.8 million (including fire), CIP of $13.5 million, and a citywide total of $94.3 million. Headcount remains at 144.75. The general fund shows resources of $32.9 million against requirements of $34.3 million, a $1.4 million deficit, but the Vehicle License Fee (VLF) swap of $1.7 million from the state is not budgeted; if received, the deficit would be eliminated. - Revenue Detail: Property tax accounts for 40% of general fund resources, with secured property tax (63% of property tax) primarily from residential properties. The VLF and ERAF (Educational Revenue Augmentation Fund) make up 18% and 19% respectively; without full VLF payback, the city faces significant risk. - Long-Term Forecast: Without VLF payback, the city projects a $30 million loss over 10 years, and reserves (currently $28-29 million) would fall below the 33% reserve policy limit in 2030-31. - Capital Improvement Plan: $13.5 million budgeted for FY 2025-26, with 90% for street, sewer, and storm projects. Major projects include St. James Pump Station and two street projects over $1 million. Over five years, $62 million in CIP is planned. - Fire District: The committee noted that the fire district budget is separate and stable, with $16 million set aside next year for fire station capital reserves (growing to $24 million in five years) and legacy costs for the previous fire JPA. Key Outcomes - The committee voted to recommend approval of the FY 2025-26 budget to the City Council for the June 10, 2025 meeting. - The committee discussed the fall 2025 meeting calendar, which will review the FY 2024-25 audit results, tentatively scheduled for November (last meeting of the month).

The Belmont Planning Commission met on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of consent calendar items, two public hearings, and a general business item. All agenda items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes for April 1, 2025 and April 15, 2025 (motion passed 5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Max Reinhardt submitted an email expressing concerns over the city's certificates of compliance process for vacant lots, citing slow action, lack of communication, and high costs. The comment was noted during the Community Forum. Discussion Items - 1702 Pine Knoll – Single Family Design Review: Staff presented a proposal for a 1,247 square foot addition (205 sq ft ground floor, 1,042 sq ft second story) to an existing single-family residence, resulting in a total gross floor area of 3,414 sq ft (below the 3,500 sq ft maximum). The project met all setback and height requirements. The applicant and homeowners spoke in support. No public comments were received. Commissioners had no questions and praised the design. Motion to approve passed 5-0. - 1510 Folger Drive & APN 044-353-080 – Conditional Use Permit & Design Review: Staff presented a revised proposal by the Mid-Peninsula Water District to renovate an existing two-story building for use as an emergency operations center (EOC) and construct a 1,210 square foot detached storage shed. Compared to the April 2025 meeting, the zoning change was dropped; the property remains R1B. The accessory building height was reduced from 17 to 15 feet, and square footage was reduced by 16 to meet the maximum floor area of 4,500 sq ft. Improvements include EV charging stations, an emergency generator, and landscaping. Commissioners discussed the existing razor wire fence, future expansion possibilities, and the lot merger. No public comments were received. Motion to approve passed 6-0 (Chair Coolidge present). - Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Consistency: Staff presented the annual resolution to find the CIP consistent with the Belmont 2035 General Plan and Belmont Village Specific Plan. A commissioner requested adding language for consistency with the San Juan Hills Area Plan and Western Hills Area Plan. Staff agreed to amend the resolution. Motion to approve with the added language passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar minutes approved (5-0). - 1702 Pine Knoll Single Family Design Review approved (5-0). - 1510 Folger Drive Conditional Use Permit and Design Review approved (6-0). - FY 2025-2026 CIP consistency resolution approved with amendments to include San Juan Hills and Western Hills area plans (6-0). - The meeting adjourned at 8:02 PM.

The Belmont City Council met on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included special presentations, public comments, approval of a consent calendar item, and discussion of three major general business items: the Central El Camino Real Multimodal Plan, a $1 million affordable housing contribution for 678 Ralston Avenue, and the introduction of the proposed Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget. The council voted 3-2 to approve the affordable housing loan. Consent Calendar - Approved a Service Agreement with Group 4 Architecture, Research + Planning, Inc. for the Belmont Community Center Master Plan Refresh in an amount not to exceed $106,846. The motion passed unanimously (5-0). Special Presentations - Officers of the Year Presentation: Police Chief Ken Stenquist recognized Volunteer of the Year Dolores Quig (absent), Professional Services Employee of the Year Jennifer Fedstrom (dispatcher), and Officer of the Year Sacope Tongawila. Tongawila was praised for his compassion and work on the CARE team and will become a school resource officer in fall 2025. - Pride Month Proclamation: Mayor Julia Mates read a proclamation declaring June 2025 as Pride Month in Belmont, with a Progress Pride flag raising scheduled for June 3, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Trout spoke in support of ICE cooperation and against immigration, and made anti-LGBTQ+ statements, calling pride a sin. He also referenced biblical prophecy. - Juliana Carlini rebutted Trout, stating his views do not represent Belmont or Christianity. She requested the council consider creating a bike and pedestrian committee and agendize discussion of the 10192 connector project, which she argued would increase congestion and cut-through traffic. Discussion Items - Central El Camino Real Multimodal Plan (10A): Representatives from SamTrans presented an 8.5-mile study from San Mateo to Redwood City, aimed at improving safety, active transportation, and transit reliability on El Camino. The plan builds on previous local plans. Public engagement runs through July 13, 2025, with pop-ups and an online survey. The council received the presentation; no action was required. - 678 Ralston Ave Affordable Housing Contribution (10B): The council considered a resolution authorizing a $1 million loan from the city’s Affordable Housing Fund to CRP Affordable Housing for a 65-unit, 100% affordable housing project (The Bridge at Ralston). The project was approved under SB35 and is seven stories with 65 units (including 33 two- and three-bedroom units) and 19 parking spaces. The loan is structured as a residual receipts loan with a 55-year affordability term. Council debated the project’s height, parking, and process. Councilmember McCune opposed because the developer used state law to bypass city standards. Councilmember Pang-Maganaris voted no due to process concerns. The motion passed 3-2 (Jordan, Latimerlo, Mates yes; McCune, Pang-Maganaris no). - Introduction of Proposed FY2025-26 Budget (10C): Finance Director Grace Castaneda presented the budget. The total citywide operating budget is proposed at $80.8 million ($66.1 million city + $14.7 million fire district), with a $13.5 million capital improvement plan, for a total of $94.3 million. The general fund shows a $1.4 million gap, requiring a draw on reserves, primarily due to the state’s refusal to reimburse the Vehicle License Fee (VLF) shortfall of $1.7 million. Without the VLF reimbursement, the city projects a $30 million loss over 10 years and reserves falling below the 33% target by FY2030-31. Department heads presented highlights. The public hearing and adoption are scheduled for June 10, 2025. No action was taken; the council provided feedback and expressed support for the budget direction. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 5-0. - Approved Resolution authorizing up to $1 million loan for 678 Ralston affordable housing project (3-2). - Received Central El Camino Real Multimodal Plan presentation; no action. - Received and discussed FY2025-26 budget introduction; public hearing set for June 10, 2025. - Councilmember announcements included: Pride flag raising June 3, Twin Pines Park Creek Restoration groundbreaking June 3, summer concert series starting June 15, firefighter contract approval (3% COLA plus equity adjustments), and updates on Caltrain’s long-range plan and county affordable housing challenges.