Public Meetings - Berkeley, California

The Berkeley City Council met on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM in a hybrid format. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, public comments on non-agenda matters (primarily the Ohlone Park encampment), a consent calendar with numerous items including the second reading of the Middle Housing ordinance, and an action calendar item on zoning technical edits. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Item A (Continued from June 26, 2025): Second reading of Ordinance No. 7,978-N.S. amending the Zoning Ordinance and General Plan to encourage “middle housing” in low-density residential districts (R-1, R-1A, R-2, R-2A, MU-R), effective November 1, 2025. First reading vote was all ayes. Adopted unanimously. - Item 1: Second reading of Ordinance 7,974-N.S. suspending the effective date of the coordinated pricing algorithms ban until March 2026. Unanimous. - Item 2: Second reading of Ordinance 7,975-N.S. setting FY 2026 Measure GG tax rate: $0.06695/sq ft for dwelling units, $0.10132/sq ft for other property. Unanimous. - Item 3: Second reading of Ordinance 7,976-N.S. setting FY 2026 Measure FF tax rate at $0.1299/sq ft. Unanimous. - Item 4: Second reading of Ordinance 7,977-N.S. adopting FY 2026 Annual Appropriations Ordinance ($829,213,359 gross; $687,764,462 net). Unanimous. - Item 5: First reading of ordinance designating Assistant City Attorney as at-will. Unanimous. - Item 6: Resolutions authorizing contracts with RLH & Associates ($300,000), Ezer Consulting ($150,000), and GD Financials ($150,000) for financial consulting. Unanimous. - Item 7: Approval of formal bid solicitations and RFPs. Unanimous. - Item 8: Resolution authorizing grant application to California Fire Safe Council for up to $225,000/year for FY25-27 for an Alameda County coordinator. Unanimous. - Item 9: Resolution amending SEIU-CSU MOU Exhibits A-D with updated hourly pay rates. Unanimous. - Item 10: Resolution amending SEIU-MC Section 32 probationary period for Public Safety Dispatchers. Unanimous. - Item 11: Resolution approving contract with Team Ghilotti for South Cove West Lot repaving, not to exceed $1,884,641. Unanimous. - Item 12: First reading of ordinance amending lease with Yoonaco, Inc. (Hana Japan) at 235 University Ave, extending term to June 30, 2026, rent $7,868/month. Unanimous. - Item 13: Resolutions for plan checking contracts: Coastland|DCCM ($1,000,000), Telesis Engineers ($1,500,000), West Coast Code Consultants ($2,000,000). Unanimous. - Item 14: Resolution amending contract with FirstCarbon Solutions for CEQA compliance on Solid Waste & Recycling Transfer Station, increasing from $650,000 to $725,000. Unanimous. - Item 15: Resolutions for tire service contracts with Don’s Tire Service ($400,000) and Morgan Tire ($400,000). Unanimous. - Item 16: Resolution for vehicle washing contract with Kept Companies dba Fleetwash ($300,000). Unanimous. - Item 17: Resolution for FY 2025 Drainage Improvements contract with Kerex Engineering ($4,397,236). Unanimous. - Item 18: Resolution for tank maintenance contract with TEC Accutite ($200,000 for 3 years). Unanimous. - Item 19: Resolution for on-call storm water maintenance contract with United Storm Water ($200,000 for 3 years). Unanimous. - Item 20: Resolution declaring intent to vacate a 381.23-foot portion of Carleton Street (27,449 sq ft) and convey to Bayer Healthcare LLC. Unanimous. - Item 21: Resolutions for purchase orders with SCL, Safety-Kleen Systems, and Lube Buster for vehicle lubricants (each $140,000). Unanimous. - Item 22: Resolution reinstating street sweeping on the 2900 block of Regent Street. Unanimous. - Item 23: Resolution approving appointment of Patricia Fontana-Narell to the Mental Health Commission (term July 9, 2025 – July 8, 2028). Unanimous. - Item 24: Resolution adopting a letter in support of continued funding for Berkeley Rides for Seniors & The Disabled (BRSD) to Supervisor Nikki Fortunato Bas. Unanimous. - Item 25: Resolution approving expenditure of up to $500 per councilmember from office budgets to support Port Chicago Alliance for Port Chicago Remembrance Weekend. Multiple councilmembers pledged additional amounts ($250 each from Humbert, Lunaparra, O’Keefe, Bartlett, Mayor Ishii; $100 from Kesarwani; $100 from Tregub). Unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Matters: Several speakers expressed frustration about the ongoing encampment at Ohlone Park, stating it was unsafe and unsanitary, with one speaker noting a child nearly picked up a syringe. Others urged compassion and more resources for homeless individuals. The City Manager noted the outreach team visited the encampment 47 times, and the camp closure was planned. - Consent Calendar – Middle Housing: Many public speakers commented. Supporters argued the ordinance is a historic step to increase housing supply and affordability, corrects exclusionary zoning, and will allow more people to live in Berkeley. Opponents criticized the process (alleging inadequate notice and last-minute changes), raised concerns about environmental impacts (shading, heat island, loss of tree canopy), and argued the ordinance does not guarantee affordable units and will accelerate displacement of Black and Brown communities. Several noted the ordinance lacks required affordability and that the council ignored community input. Some requested mitigation measures like a cap on permits, permeable surfaces, and solar protections. Discussion Items - Action Calendar – Zoning Ordinance Technical Edits (Item 26): Staff presented non-substantive technical amendments to various sections of Title 23 (Zoning Ordinance) to maintain consistency and accuracy. The public hearing was opened and closed with no additional public comment. Councilmember Humbert thanked staff for the detailed work. The council voted unanimously to adopt the first reading of the ordinance. Key Outcomes - Middle Housing Ordinance Adopted (Second Reading): Unanimous vote (9-0) to adopt Ordinance 7,978-N.S. The city attorney clarified the Brown Act was not violated; the special meeting on June 26 was properly noticed and the interim regulations of the 1973 Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance are no longer in effect. Councilmembers emphasized the six-year process, the need for density, and that the ordinance requires a future impact study after 25 projects are built. - Zoning Technical Edits Adopted (First Reading): Unanimous vote (9-0) to adopt the ordinance with non-substantive corrections. - Consent Calendar Approved as Amended: All items on the consent calendar were approved unanimously, including the middle housing ordinance and individual pledges for Port Chicago funding. - Meeting Adjourned: The meeting was adjourned after the final vote.

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting was held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. However, the instruction specifies the meeting date as June 26, 2025. This summary uses the provided date but notes the discrepancy. The Berkeley City Council met on June 26, 2025, for a regular meeting that included an urgent item, consent calendar approval, a public hearing on the Tourism Business Improvement District, and extensive deliberation on the FY 2026 proposed budget. The meeting featured public testimony on homelessness, healthcare worker rights, and affordable housing funding. Consent Calendar - The Council added an urgent item (Resolution calling for protection of healthcare workers’ rights at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland) to the consent calendar by a unanimous vote. - Approved all consent calendar items (A–L and 1–22) in one motion, including: - Second readings of FY 2026 tax rates for various measures (large non-profits, Measure M, G/S/I, paramedic, SAFE STREETS, parks, Measure O, T1, library, etc.). - Amendments to the coordinated pricing algorithms ordinance (suspending effective date to March 2026). - Recommendations for County Measure W funding priorities. - Contracts and resolutions for cultural planning, investment policy, appropriations limit, fire protection tax rates, housing trust fund reservations, Meals on Wheels donations, Shelter Plus Care grants, HR software, workers’ comp administration, YMCA memberships, IT software, vegetation management, MTC TOC planning grant, additional Civic Arts Commission meeting, and reappointment to Mental Health Commission. - Council consent item 22: Support for Berkeley High School All Class Reunion (with contributions from multiple councilmembers). Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Matters: Several residents spoke about the encampment at Ohlone Park, citing safety concerns, drug use, and degradation of the park. Speakers urged the city to take action despite pending litigation. The Mayor acknowledged the issue and noted ongoing efforts by the homeless response team and advocacy for Measure W funds. - Consent Calendar/Urgent Item: Multiple healthcare workers and union representatives from Children’s Hospital Oakland spoke in support of the resolution, describing UCSF Health’s integration plan as detrimental to workers and patients. They requested the city to delay the plan and protect workers’ rights. - Item 3 (Measure W): Speakers supported the city’s letter to Alameda County, emphasizing the need for regional funding for homelessness services. - Budget Hearing: Public testimony was heavily in favor of preserving the Small Sites Program funding (3.9 million from Mayor’s proposal) and the Street Spirit vendor program. Several speakers urged the council to reject cuts to the Office of the Director of Police Accountability (ODPA) investigator positions and to maintain funding for affordable housing. Discussion Items - Item 23 – Re-Establishment of Berkeley Tourism Business Improvement District (BTBID): - Staff presented a renewal for 10 years starting July 1, 2025, with an assessment increase from 1% to 3% of room rentals (total guest charge rising to 15.2%). - Visit Berkeley CEO highlighted marketing campaigns, cultural tourism, and support for local businesses. The petition drive received 92% support from lodging businesses. - Councilmembers praised the work of Visit Berkeley and the Office of Economic Development. The public hearing was closed, and the council voted unanimously to adopt the resolutions modifying the current district and renewing the BTBID. - Item 24 – FY 2026 Proposed Budget Update Adoption: - Budget Manager Shauna Amenaghawon presented the budget, closing a $28.9 million deficit through one-time measures: freezing 42.4 positions, use of pension trust ($3M), workers’ compensation fund holiday ($5.1M), IT cost allocation ($6.2M), and shifting $2.5M from Measure U1 (Small Sites) to the general fund. The projected deficit for FY2026 is $126,000 after a fee adjustment. - Mayor Ishii presented her budget recommendations, focusing on funding council referrals: traffic study, daylighting, Ohlone Greenway, F&G dock replacement, deportation defense, Street Spirit, after-school programs, youth works, and the homeless response team (HRT). She proposed freezing an ODPA analyst and partially funding the risk manager position. - Councilmember Kesarwani (as Finance Chair) offered refinements, advocating for freezing additional charter officer positions (risk manager, ODPA investigator) and reducing Small Sites funding from $3.9M to $2.5M total. She also proposed funding the HRT position, F&G docks, and other items. - Extensive debate ensued over the ODPA investigator positions, the risk manager role, and the Small Sites allocation. The city attorney and ODPA director argued for maintaining the positions. Public comment strongly supported the mayor’s Small Sites funding. - After a break, the council attempted to reconcile the two proposals. The transcript ends before a final vote is recorded. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the BTBID renewal (10-year term, 3% assessment). - Consent calendar approved (including the urgent item on Children’s Hospital Oakland). - Budget adoption: The council deliberated but did not reach a final vote within the provided transcript. The mayor’s amended proposal and Councilmember Kesarwani’s alternative were both on the table. No final resolution was adopted as of the end of the transcript. - No action on Ohlone Park encampment due to pending litigation; the city manager noted ongoing outreach and cleanup efforts. - Referral: The urgent item on UCSF Health includes a referral to the Health, Life Enrichment, Equity & Community Committee for further discussion. Additional Notes - The meeting extended past midnight, with a motion to extend to 12:00 AM approved. - The date discrepancy between the agenda (June 24) and the instruction (June 26) is noted. The transcript confirms the meeting occurred on June 24, 2025.

On June 26, 2025, the Berkeley City Council held a special meeting (6:00 PM to approximately 12:15 AM) to consider and ultimately adopt a first reading of zoning ordinance and general plan amendments to encourage “middle housing” in low-density residential districts. The meeting included a staff presentation, two supplemental proposals from councilmembers, over two hours of public comment from approximately 100 in-person speakers and 25 online participants, and extensive deliberation. The council voted unanimously (8-0) to pass the staff proposal with amendments that set a uniform density of 70 dwelling units per acre across applicable zones, require an equity impact analysis triggered after 50 projects or two years, and direct the city manager to develop objective design standards. Public Comments & Testimony - Supporters: Many young residents, families, and housing advocates expressed strong support, arguing that the reforms would create more affordable housing options, allow families to stay in Berkeley, and address the city’s housing crisis and climate goals. Specific speakers included Sonia Trauss (moving into a triplex), Megan Walksbrass (wants children to live here), and several Cal graduates and students. They emphasized that smaller units (750–900 sq ft) would be more affordable for middle-income workers (e.g., teachers, nurses, firefighters). - Opponents: A significant number of longtime residents, including former councilmember Cheryl Davi, raised concerns about the lack of affordability guarantees, potential displacement of low-income and Black residents, loss of solar access, reduced green space, and increased fire danger. Speakers such as Virginia Warhigh (detailed solar shadow impacts), Moni Law (noted that 100% of Berkeley’s low-income housing goals were unmet), and several West Berkeley residents argued the ordinance would primarily benefit developers and wealthy newcomers, not existing vulnerable communities. - Neutral/Mixed: Some speakers, like Deborah Matthews (South Berkeley Now), urged the council to delay for deeper community engagement, especially with low-income property owners of color. Others requested safeguards such as preserving 40% open space or limiting height to 28 feet. Discussion Items - Staff Proposal: Planning Director Jordan Klein, Principal Planner Justin Horner, and Land Use Manager Ann Hirsch presented a package developed over six years, including 40 public convenings, planning commission hearings, and environmental review. Key changes: merging R-1A and R-2 zones, increasing maximum height to 35 feet, lot coverage to 60%, reducing setbacks, and allowing ministerial approval (zoning certificate) for code-compliant projects. The proposal did not include affordability requirements but noted that projects over 5,000 sq ft would pay into the city’s affordable housing fund. Staff estimated the changes might yield a few dozen units per year. - Supplemental from Councilmember Kesarwani, Mayor Ishii, Lunaparra, and Bartlett: Proposed equalizing density across all residential zones at 90 dwelling units per acre (DU/acre), allowing rooftop access, and requiring an equity impact analysis after two years. Councilmember Lunaparra presented a visual model showing that at 90 DU/acre, a 5,000 sq ft lot could yield 10 units of 765 sq ft each, while the building envelope would remain the same as at lower densities. - Supplemental from Councilmember Tregub: Called for a report by November 2026 evaluating the ordinance’s effectiveness compared to other jurisdictions (e.g., Sacramento) and developing objective design standards to address privacy, permeable space, and solar access. - Council Deliberation: Councilmembers Taplin, Humbert, Blackaby, Bartlett, O’Keefe, and Tregub spoke in favor of the overall goal while expressing openness to compromise on density. Councilmember Humbert proposed a compromise of 70 DU/acre, which was ultimately adopted. Councilmember Taplin expressed concern about the late timing of supplementals but supported equalizing density. Councilmember O’Keefe noted that 70 DU/acre would allow about 8 units on a typical lot and emphasized the importance of unanimous support. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: Councilmember Kesarwani moved to adopt the staff recommendation with the following amendments (seconded by Councilmember Bartlett): - Change maximum density to 70 dwelling units per acre across all applicable zones (R-1, R-2, R-2A, MU-R), excluding the hillside overlay zone. - Require a simple quantitative report (number of applications, building permits, certificates of occupancy) annually starting April 1, 2026. - Trigger an equity impact analysis after 50 middle housing projects or two years, whichever comes first, incorporating a review of comparable jurisdictions (per Councilmember Tregub’s request). - Direct the city manager to develop objective design standards considering loss of open/permeable yard space, solar access, privacy, tree canopy, biodiversity, and stormwater mitigation, without reducing development potential. - Request a corresponding edit to the General Plan to reflect the 70 DU/acre standard. - Additional: Councilmember Lunaparra’s friendly amendment to hold the second reading on July 8, 2025, was accepted. - Vote: The motion passed unanimously (8-0). Councilmember Bartlett was initially absent but returned for the vote; all other members present. - Next Steps: The ordinance will return for a second reading on July 8, 2025. The city manager will begin work on the equity analysis and design standards. The effective date of the ordinance is November 1, 2025.

This meeting of the Berkeley City Council, originally scheduled for June 24, 2025, extended into the early morning of June 26, 2025, and was dominated by a lengthy debate on the FY 2026 budget. The Council ultimately adopted a budget amended by a substitute motion, which reduced funding for the Small Sites Program while increasing support for the Marina Fund and freezing certain positions. Other actions included approval of a resolution on UCSF Children’s Hospital Oakland, renewal of the Tourism Business Improvement District, and numerous consent calendar items. Consent Calendar The Council approved the consent calendar in a single block, which included second readings of several tax rate ordinances (Items A–L, continued from June 17, 2025), amendments to the coordinated pricing algorithms ordinance (Item 1), minutes approval (Item 2), a letter to Alameda County on Measure W funding (Item 3), a contract with Cultural Planning Group LLC for a resilient arts and culture plan (Item 4), reaffirmation of the investment policy (Item 5), the appropriations limit for FY 2026 (Item 6), first readings of tax rate ordinances for Fire Protection (Item 7) and Firefighting/Wildfire Prevention (Item 8), funding reservations for the Maudelle Miller Shirek Community project (Item 9) and for Housing Trust Fund projects (Item 10), donations for Meals on Wheels (Item 11), Shelter Plus Care grant renewals (Item 12), and several contracts and amendments (Items 13–21). Council consent items included a resolution supporting the Berkeley High School All Class Reunion (Item 22). Public Comments & Testimony Public comment was taken on the budget and on non-agenda matters. Several speakers expressed support for increased funding for the Small Sites Program and for the Marina Fund. No speakers raised hands for the final non-agenda comment period. Discussion Items Urgent Item – UCSF Children’s Hospital Oakland: A resolution calling for delay of UCSF Health’s integration plan at Children’s Hospital Oakland until legal proceedings are resolved was adopted. The resolution was authored by Councilmember Tregub and co-authored by Mayor Ishii and Councilmembers Bartlett and Taplin. Public Hearing – Tourism Business Improvement District (BTBID): The Council held a public hearing and voted to re‑establish the BTBID for a 10‑year term starting July 1, 2025, and to modify the existing term to end on June 30, 2025. Public Hearing – FY 2026 Budget Adoption: The majority of the meeting was devoted to the FY 2026 budget. Two competing proposals emerged: a substitute motion from Councilmember Kesarwani and a main motion from Mayor Ishii. After extensive negotiation, the differences were narrowed to one key area: the allocation for the Small Sites Program. The substitute motion allocated $2.5 million for small sites, while the mayor’s proposal allocated $3.9 million. The substitute motion also included a freeze on the investigator position, additional funding for the Marina Fund, and a three‑month freeze on the risk manager position. The mayor’s proposal included a six‑month freeze on the risk manager and no freeze on the investigator, with additional funding for deportation defense. The Council voted on the substitute motion first. Action Items: Following the budget vote, the Council adopted the FY 2026 Annual Appropriations Ordinance (Item 25) in the amount of $829,213,359 in gross appropriations, as amended by the budget actions. It also approved the borrowing of up to $61 million through Tax and Revenue Anticipation Notes (Item 26). Key Outcomes - FY 2026 Budget Adoption: The substitute motion (Councilmember Kesarwani’s proposal) passed by a vote of 6–2–1 (Councilmembers Kesarwani, Taplin, Bartlett, Blackaby, Lunapara, and Humbert in favor; Councilmembers O’Keefe and Mayor Ishii opposed; Councilmember Tregub abstained). The budget includes $2.5 million for the Small Sites Program (a $1.4 million reduction from the original allocation), a 3‑month freeze on the risk manager position, a freeze on the investigator position, $126,374 for the Marina Fund deficit, and funding for speed bumps, Elmwood Music Festival, YouthWorks, and other priorities. The deportation defense fund was allocated $73,650. - UCSF Children’s Hospital Oakland Resolution: Adopted unanimously. - Tourism BID Renewal: Approved. - Annual Appropriations Ordinance: Adopted as amended by the budget vote. - Tax and Revenue Anticipation Notes: Approved for up to $61 million. Note: The meeting date on the official agenda was June 24, 2025, but the meeting extended into the early morning of June 26, 2025, consistent with the date provided for this summary. The transcript reflects a late‑night session ending after 1:00 AM.

The Berkeley City Council held a special meeting on June 26, 2025, continuing from a previous meeting, to conduct public hearings and adopt resolutions on several fee schedules. The meeting covered the Fire Permit and Inspection Fee Schedule and the Selected Marina Fee Increases. The Council also addressed the structural deficit in the Marina Fund and the impact of unpaid rent from the DoubleTree hotel. No public comment was heard on the fire permit item; extensive public testimony was taken on the marina fees. Both items were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Marina Fee Increases: Multiple members of the public spoke against the proposed parking and user fees at the marina. Speakers argued that the fees are regressive, disproportionately affect low-income and working-class families, and amount to charging for access to public trust lands. Several speakers noted that the city has not enforced its lease with the DoubleTree hotel, which owes approximately $700,000 in unpaid rent. Others highlighted that the marina is heavily used by diverse populations, including families, volunteers, and members of the Cal Sailing Club and Dragon Boat Club, who provide free community outreach. Some speakers requested that the matter be referred back to the Parks and Waterfront Commission for a full public process and that the city explore alternative revenue sources such as increasing berthing fees for larger vessels. The Parks and Waterfront Commission vice chair read a recommendation to refer the fee proposal back to the commission for further study. Action Calendar – Public Hearings 1. Fire Permit and Inspection Fee Schedule - Proposal: Adopt a resolution to increase the hourly fire permitting and inspection fee from $392 to $500, add fees for new construction and operational permits from the California Fire Code (2016, 2019, 2022) that previously had no fee assigned, add a fee for Class IIIB Combustible Liquids operational permits, and rescind Resolution 70,612–N.S. - Discussion: The public hearing had already been opened at a prior meeting. With no public comment or presentation, the Council voted to close the hearing. Councilmember Taplin moved adoption, noting that the program helps manage parking but expressed interest in a deeper dive on equity and a graduated fee for additional vehicles. The motion passed unanimously. 4. Selected Marina Fee Increases - Proposal: Adopt a resolution approving new fees and increasing select marina fees: (1) Waterfront parking fee of $1/hour, $6/day, or $500/year at three lots in the South Cove area (South Cove East, South Cove West, and JK lot), with enforcement from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week; (2) Organized group fee of $250 application fee plus $50 per day for up to 50 participants; (3) Commercial business fee; and (4) Adventure playground fee (already approved on June 24, 2025). Rescind Resolution 70,868-N.S. and amendatory resolutions. - Staff Presentation: Director of Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Scott Ferris presented. The Marina Fund has faced a structural deficit since 2008, recently exacerbated by the DoubleTree hotel’s inability to pay $700,000 in rent (expected to grow to $1.3 million in FY26). The city has already cut staff, deferred maintenance, and reduced security. Proposed fees are projected to generate gross revenue of $286,000, with net revenue of $37,000 in the first year and $170,000 in a full year. Over 1,000 free parking spaces will remain at the marina. Staff noted that other Bay Area marinas charge higher parking fees and that ADA and liveaboard parking are exempt. - Council Questions: Councilmembers asked about enforcement (existing staff), impact on liveaboards and ADA, possibility of exceptions for volunteer groups, and comparison to other marinas. Staff confirmed that liveaboards and ADA parkers are exempt, and that the three lots are the busiest near aquatic recreation areas. Enforcement will be done by existing staff; 72 citations have already been issued since mid-April in other areas. Staff indicated willingness to work with longtime groups on licensing arrangements and to waive fees during volunteer cleanup days. - Council Deliberation: Several councilmembers expressed regret but noted the necessity due to the city’s $27 million budget deficit and the Marina Fund’s long-term structural deficit. Councilmember Taplin moved adoption, stating that free parking is a subsidy that cannot continue. Councilmember Tregub requested staff return for an evaluation after implementation and confirmed that the former His Lordship’s lot remains open. Mayor Ishii highlighted that the DoubleTree’s rent is deferred, not written off, and that the hotel still pays transient occupancy tax. The motion passed unanimously (8-0). Key Outcomes - Fire Permit Fee Increase: Resolution adopted unanimously (8-0). New hourly fee of $500, with added fees for previously unassigned permits. Effective immediately. - Marina Fee Increase: Resolution adopted unanimously (8-0). New parking fees and user fees approved, with implementation to begin January 1, 2026, following infrastructure setup. Adventure playground fee already approved on June 24. Council directed staff to explore integration of parking and adventure playground fees and to return with an evaluation after implementation.

The Berkeley City Council met on June 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM (transcript indicates June 3, 2025; date per user instruction). The meeting included ceremonial adjournments in memory, proclamations, a public hearing on city vacancy rates, and an appeal of a 28-story mixed-use development on Shattuck Avenue. Key decisions included approving the consent calendar, closing the public hearing on vacancies, and denying the appeal with a modified condition of approval. Ceremonial Items & Proclamations - Adjournment in memory of Robert Shepard, a longtime Berkeley resident and activist, praised for his wisdom and kindness (Councilmember Traegub). - Adjournment in memory of Bill DeKarion, founder of Import Title Company and a force in West Berkeley development (read by Mayor Ishi on behalf of absent Councilmember Casarwani; his widow Evelyn Larson spoke). - Proclamation: 2025 Berkeley Poetry Festival Lifetime Achievement Award for Ma Shane Wynne, presented by Councilmember Taplin. - Proclamation: Christina Murphy Day (June 3, 2025) honoring the late rent board member and housing advocate; her sister Chris Trio accepted. - Proclamation: Berkeley Pride Day 2025, recognizing the first-ever Pride Street Festival on August 16, 2025. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (9-0) after adding an urgency item to excuse Councilmember Casarwani’s absence. - Included multiple funding relinquishments from council discretionary accounts (e.g., $500 from District 8 for Berkeley Humane’s Pints for Paws, $250 from District 6 for Taste of Downtown Berkeley, $200 each from Councilmembers Bartlett and O’Keefe for various items). - Councilmember Traegub’s resolution opposing Assembly Bill 942 (rooftop solar incentive changes) was added as a co-sponsor slot, with Councilmembers Blackaby, O’Keefe, Bartlett, and Mayor Ishi also co-sponsoring. - Councilmember Traegub’s resolution on the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act was co-sponsored by several councilmembers and supported by public commenters representing environmental groups. - Resolution supporting the U.S. Postal Service transparency was also on consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comments (in-person and remote): Several speakers criticized the city’s handling of the Aloney Park encampment, citing safety concerns, drug use, and unsanitary conditions. Speakers described personal encounters with aggressive campers and called for the city to use legal authority to clear the park. One speaker, Madeline Roberts Rich, criticized the council’s approval of the United Artists Theater demolition. - Consent calendar public comment: Maya Williams (UC Berkeley student) expressed support for the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund resolution. Sam Greenberg (Walk Bike Berkeley) supported the Oxford Street corridor redesign study. Tina Etcheverry (Berkeley Rotary) thanked the council for supporting the Taste of Downtown Berkeley fundraiser, which funds scholarships and hygiene kits. - Public hearing on Item 27 (vacancy report): Justin Pitcher (AFSCME Local One president) praised the HR department’s progress and urged continued collaboration to fill vacancies. - Public hearing on Item 28 (ZAB appeal): The appellant argued that the 28-story project strained infrastructure, violated CEQA exemptions, and would not deliver needed affordable housing. Mark Rhodes (applicant) defended the project, citing state housing laws and noting that rents have dropped 20-25% citywide due to new supply. He requested a modification of condition 82 to extend building permit timelines. Kelly Hammergren (public comment) supported the appeal, citing the city’s lapse permit ordinance and concern about stalled projects. Discussion Items - Item 26: Re-establishment of Tourism Business Improvement District – No formal action required; council expressed support. Visit Berkeley representative Jeff Church thanked the council. - Item 27: Public Hearing on Vacancies, Recruitment, and Retention (AB 2561) – HR Director Monica Walker presented data: 15.4% average vacancy rate in 2024, with two bargaining units above 20% (Police Association at 21.2%, IBEW at 41.2%). 306 vacancies were filled in 2024. The city launched an Employer of Choice initiative, including a career website and social media campaigns, receiving 20,000 applications (70% increase). Retention rate is 92%. Councilmember Blackaby requested further detail on high-vacancy units; staff provided data on IBEW (7 vacancies, 84 applications) and police (20 vacancies, 1,142 applications, 421 days to fill). Council discussed planning for retirements and the impact of a hiring freeze. - Item 28: ZAB Appeal – 1950-1998 Shattuck Avenue – The project is a 28-story mixed-use building with 599 units (58 very low-income), 16,000 sq ft of commercial space, and a labor agreement. The appellant challenged the height, density, CEQA exemption, and infrastructure strain. Planning staff noted state law limits the council to five public hearings (this was the fourth). The applicant requested a modification to condition 82 extending the building permit submittal timeline. Councilmembers Traegub and Bartlett expressed confidence in the project and the applicant’s track record. Councilmember Lyunapara emphasized the need for student housing. The council voted unanimously to deny the appeal and approve the project with the modified condition. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously (9-0) with an added urgency item. - Public hearing on vacancies closed (unanimous vote); no further action required. - ZAB appeal denied (9-0) and the project approved with a modification to condition 82, extending the timeline for building permit submission to two years. The council directed staff to incorporate the modification. - Adjournment in memory of Robert Shepard and Bill DeKarion. Note: The meeting date per the source material is June 3, 2025, but the user-specified date of June 18, 2025 is used here as instructed.

The Berkeley City Council met on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, starting at 6:00 PM, for a regular meeting that lasted until approximately 11:30 PM. The agenda included consent calendar approvals, public hearings on fee adjustments, and extensive debate on the EMBER wildfire prevention ordinance (Items 43a, 43b, and 43c). The council approved all major items, including the contentious EMBER plan, after hearing hours of public testimony. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (8-0): 26 items including assessments for Downtown Berkeley, North Shattuck, and Telegraph Business Improvement Districts; contracts for public art curation; temporary appropriations for FY 2026; tax rate ordinances for various measures (M, G, S, I, FF, O, T1, etc.); cooperative agreements (e.g., Downtown Berkeley Bike Station); Poet Laureate program funding; a resolution reaffirming Vision Zero; formation updates for Lorin and Gilman commercial districts; referrals for fire facility revenue measures; and relinquishment of council office funds for pride events, historical plaques, and the Poet Laureate program. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Comments: Multiple residents expressed concerns about public safety in parks (e.g., Ohlone Park, Civic Center Park), homelessness, and encampments. One speaker criticized the city’s handling of CEQA exemptions for a historic theater. Others called for better enforcement and maintenance. - Consent Calendar Comments: Representatives from the Downtown Berkeley Association, Pacific Center for Human Growth, Berkeley Historical Society, Civic Arts Commission, and Telegraph BID thanked the council for support of pride events, poet laureate funding, and district assessments. - Public Hearings (Fee Items): Very few speakers. One commenter questioned the ambulance fee increase; another suggested raising the affordable housing compliance fee to discourage developers from paying instead of building units. Items 33, 37, 40, and 41 were continued to June 24, 2025. - EMBER (Items 43a, 43b, 43c): Over 50 speakers addressed the council—both in person and online—with passionate arguments. Proponents (including Disaster and Fire Safety Commission, Berkeley Fire Safe Council, Sierra Club, League of Women Voters, and many hills residents) emphasized the urgency of wildfire risk, the science behind Zone Zero, and the need to act before a disaster. Opponents cited legal concerns (CEQA exemptions, Fourth Amendment, regulatory takings), financial burdens on homeowners, lack of coordination with East Bay Regional Parks and Oakland, the need to wait for state regulations, and the potential environmental impacts of removing vegetation. Several speakers questioned the conflicts of interest of Assistant Chief Winnaker and criticized the public process as rushed and dismissive. A few speakers offered to serve on working groups. Discussion Items - Items 43a, 43b, 43c – EMBER Wildfire Prevention Ordinance: - 43a (Fire Code Amendments): The council adopted second reading of Ordinance No. 7,959-N.S. to modify the Berkeley Fire Code, establishing “Zone Zero” (5-foot non-combustible area around structures) within two mitigation areas (Panoramic and Grizzly Peak). Mature and scenic trees are exempt, but dead/dying material must be removed. Combustible fences within 5 feet of a structure must be replaced. The ordinance becomes effective January 1, 2026. Fire Chief Sprague and Assistant Chief Winnaker presented the science, noting that CA law (AB 3074) requires this, but Berkeley is adopting it ahead of the state. - 43b (Fire Hazard Severity Zones): The council adopted Ordinance No. 7,958-N.S. designating Local Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zones as recommended by CAL FIRE, plus an additional Very High zone for the Panoramic Hill neighborhood. The council noted that the new map slightly reduces the area designated Very High compared to the current map. - 43c (EMBAR Implementation Plan): Councilmember Blackaby introduced an item to create a comprehensive rollout plan, a vegetation management working group, and clarifying code language. The item directs the city manager to return before September 9, 2025 with an implementation plan, and before December 31, 2025 with additional amendments. It also removes archaic misdemeanor language, clarifies protections for mature trees, and establishes financial assistance (over $1 million in grants for seniors and low-income residents, transfer tax credits, and free mesh/gutter guards). - Council Deliberation: Nearly all councilmembers spoke in favor, emphasizing the urgency of climate change, the 33 years since the last major fire, and the need to start the transition even as adjustments continue. Councilmembers Blackaby, O’Keefe, Humbert, Lunaparra, Tregub, and Mayor Ishii underscored that the science is solid, that the public process will continue, and that home hardening and regional coordination are also priorities. The mayor addressed CEQA concerns, stating the city is confident in its exemption determination. Key Outcomes - Vote on EMBER (Items 43a, 43b, and 43c): Approved unanimously (8–0, with all members present voting ‘aye’). The motion adopted the fire code amendments (with minor corrections read into the record), the CAL FIRE maps, and the implementation plan. - Fee Items (32, 34, 35, 36, 38, 39, 42): All approved unanimously after public hearings. These included ambulance transport fee increases, Berkeley High School Health Center fee schedule, Housing Trust Fund and Small Sites fees, affordable housing compliance review fee, recreation program and facility fee changes (with staff commitment to free days at Adventure Playground), planning and development fee schedule, and street lighting assessments. - Items Continued: The four fee hearings (Items 33, 37, 40, 41) were formally continued to a special meeting on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 4:00 PM at the same location. No public comment was taken on those items at this meeting. - Meeting Extension: The council voted to extend the meeting until 11:30 PM to complete the agenda. - Next Steps for EMBER: The city manager must deliver an implementation plan by September 9, 2025; a working group will review vegetation management language; and a further report on amendments is due by December 31, 2025. The council will track regional partner efforts and financial assistance programs.

The Berkeley City Council met on June 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM in a hybrid format to address a full agenda including ceremonial items, public comments, consent calendar approvals, and action items. The meeting began with land acknowledgement, adjournments in memory of Robert Sheppard and Bill DeKarrian, and proclamations for the Berkeley Poetry Festival Lifetime Achievement Award, Christina Murphy Day, and Berkeley Pride Day. Key decisions included unanimous approval of the consent calendar, a public hearing on vacancies and retention under AB 2561, and denial of an appeal for a major development at 1950-1998 Shattuck Avenue. Consent Calendar - Amendment to FY 2025 Annual Appropriations Ordinance (Item 1): Second reading adopted, adjusting appropriations by $85.7 million gross and $58.3 million net. - Police Accountability Board Appointment (Item 2): Appointed Joshua Buswell-Charcoal (with title correction). - Multiple contracts and grants approved, including: California Arts Council grant ($30,000), SEP Technology database migration ($325,000), Essential Access Health grant ($120,000), AHEAD software licenses ($971,784), Geographic Technologies Group GIS services ($600,000), ConvergeOne Avaya support ($920,000), Superion AS400 maintenance ($309,000), CompuCom professional services ($1,051,000), CivicPlus recreation system ($28,000), BayGreen mobile pumpout ($346,623), Cazadero Performing Arts Camp erosion control ($200,000), E.F. Brett MLK Jr. Youth Services Center seismic retrofit ($11,859,100), and Dixon Resources Unlimited police support ($50,000). - Council Consent Items (Items 19-25): Approved funding for Berkeley Humane Pints for Paws, Taste of Downtown Berkeley, Berkeley Baby Book Project; resolutions opposing California AB 942 (net energy metering) and USPS mailbox removal, supporting Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act (AB 1243/SB 684); and referral for Oxford Street quick-build bicycle facility ($400,000). - Urgency item added to excuse Councilmember Kesarwani's absence. - Vote: All present members voted aye (8-0, with Councilmember Kesarwani absent and Kesarwani absent; later presence noted). Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Matters: Multiple speakers (including Steve Tracy, Gina Reger, Nicholas Alexander, Alison Bond, Erica Shore, and others) voiced strong concerns about the encampment at Alameda Park, citing public health, safety, and sanitation issues. Some called for the city to clear the encampment and establish a sanctioned camping area. One speaker thanked Councilmember Tregub for his tribute to Robert Sheppard. Another speaker (Madeline Roberts Rich) criticized the city's approval of the United Artists Theater demolition. - Employee Union: Justin Pitcher, president of SEIU Local 1 (Berkeley chapter), spoke in support of the AB 2561 hearing, praising HR efforts and urging continued collaboration to fill vacancies. - Consent Calendar Items: Maya Williams (UC Berkeley student) expressed support for the Polluters Pay resolution on behalf of multiple environmental groups. Sam Greenberg (Walk Bike Berkeley) supported the Oxford Street bicycle facility referral. - Action Calendar: On the ZAB appeal, Kelly Hammer (public comment) questioned the timeline for building permits and urged caution to avoid stalled projects. Discussion Items - Item 26 – Re-Establishment of Berkeley Tourism Business Improvement District (BTBID): A public meeting was held to discuss renewal for 10 years starting July 1, 2025. No formal action was taken; the public hearing will occur on June 24, 2025. Councilmembers expressed support for the district and thanked Visit Berkeley for their work. - Item 27 – AB 2561 Public Hearing on Vacancies, Recruitment, and Retention: Monica Walker, Interim HR Director, presented data showing an average vacancy rate of 15.4% in 2024, with higher rates in the Berkeley Police Association (21.2%) and IBEW (41.2%). The city filled 306 vacancies, with a retention rate of 92%. Recruitment efforts include a new career website, social media campaigns, and direct outreach. Councilmembers asked about historical comparisons, retirement planning, and detailed data for high-vacancy units. The hearing was closed with no action required. - Item 28 – Zoning Adjustments Board Appeal: 1950-1998 Shattuck Avenue: The project is a 28-story mixed-use building with 599 units (58 very low-income), 16,000 sq ft of commercial space, and a rooftop bar. The appellant argued that the project strains infrastructure, violates CEQA, and would not serve community needs. Applicant Mark Rhoades defended the project, citing state law limitations and requesting modification of condition of approval to extend the timeline for building permits. Council discussed the merits, with several members noting the need for housing and the constraints of state law. The public hearing was closed. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (8-0) with all present members voting aye. - AB 2561 Hearing: No action taken; report received and filed. - ZAB Appeal (Item 28): Council voted unanimously (8-0) to deny the appeal and affirm the ZAB decision, approving the project with a modified condition of approval (Condition 82 extended to two years for building permit issuance). The motion was made by Councilmember Tregub and seconded by Councilmember Taplin. - Ceremonial Items: Proclamations and adjournments were adopted without objection. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:30 PM (estimated) in memory of Robert Sheppard, Bill DeKarrian, and Christina Murphy.

The Berkeley City Council met on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the School District Board Room and via teleconference. The meeting opened with proclamations for Jewish American Heritage Month, East Bay Affordable Housing Month, and Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, followed by an adjournment in memory of former Rent Board Commissioner Christina Murphy. The Council approved a large consent calendar, conducted the first public hearing on the FY2026 mid-biennial budget update (which projected an $18.7 million general fund deficit), appointed four residents to the Measure FF Safe Streets Citizen Oversight Committee (SSCOC), and heard an appeal on a landmark designation for 2500–2512 San Pablo Avenue. The meeting was extended to midnight. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved all consent items except Councilmember Lunaparra abstained on item 26 (letter supporting SB 692). Key items included: adding ADA compliance expertise to the SSCOC (Ordinance 7960); a $78 million amendment to the FY2025 appropriations ordinance; confirmation of Janelle Rodrigues as Director of Human Resources ($240,000 annual salary); a $50 million funding application for the North Berkeley BART affordable housing project; a $250,000 contract amendment with The Village of Love for a drop-in center; approval of the 2024 Police Equipment and Community Safety Ordinance annual report; and adoption of resolutions supporting SB 692 (vehicles/homelessness) and AB 91 (MENA demographic data). Item 28 authorized up to $500 per councilmember from discretionary accounts for the Asian Cultural Festival. Item 29 (Alternative Housing Options for People Experiencing Homelessness) passed with amendments, directing staff to identify shelter sites and report on homelessness efforts, gap analysis, geographic equity, and county partnerships. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda matters: Speakers raised concerns about park encampments, called for compassion for unhoused residents, and urged divestment from Israel regarding Gaza. - On consent items: Several speakers criticized item 21 (police equipment report) for lack of transparency and requested deferral. Item 26 (SB 692) drew both support (as a compassionate buyback program) and opposition (fear of expanded towing and discriminatory enforcement). Multiple speakers strongly supported item 29 (alternative shelter sites), citing successful models like Horizon Village and tiny house villages. Item 8 (North Berkeley BART funding) received praise. - On the budget: Over a dozen speakers urged the Council not to cut the $2.5 million small sites program (funded by Measure U1), arguing it is cost-effective and honors promises to voters. Others called for cuts to police overtime instead. Online commenters echoed these themes. - On the landmark appeal: Speakers supported preserving the building as a landmark, noting the appellant’s concerns about future development were speculative. Discussion Items - Appointment to the SSCOC: After interviewing candidates, a substitute motion (Fisher, Fraser, Legg, Marzola, Allen as alternate) failed (3 abstentions, 2 passes, 1 nay). The main motion (Fisher, Legg, Gerhardstein, Hatch, with Fraser as alternate) passed 8–0–1 (Councilmember Tregub initially passed but later voted aye). Council acknowledged the strong applicant pool and noted a lack of diversity. - FY2026 Mid-Biennial Budget Update (Public Hearing 1): Staff presented a $310 million general fund expenditure budget with an $18.7 million deficit. Proposed balancing measures included holding 55.2 positions vacant ($9.3 million savings), a workers’ compensation holiday ($5.2 million), using $6 million from the Section 115 pension trust, reducing the IT cost allocation contribution ($6.2 million), and reallocating $2.5 million from the small sites program. Council discussed the structural deficit ($22 million in FY2027–28), the impact of federal funding cuts, and the need to honor voter-approved measures. Councilmembers shared priorities (e.g., Ohlone Greenway safety, marina repairs, after-school programs, deportation legal services, pedestrian safety). A motion passed (unanimous) to receive the budget update and direct the City Manager to work with charter officers (Mayor/Council, City Auditor, Police Accountability) to develop recommendations for a hiring freeze on vacant positions. - Landmark Appeal – 2500–2512 San Pablo Avenue: The appellant (property owner) did not object to landmarking but sought removal of two character-defining features (“one-story massing” and “13 storefront bays”) to allow future housing. Staff and the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) argued that preservation does not preclude development, citing the California Theatre precedent. After public comment, the Council adopted a substitute motion to affirm the LPC decision with amendments: striking “one-story massing” and changing “storefront bays” to “bays” to allow flexibility. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Appointed Reena Fisher, Douglas Legg, Ben Gerhardstein, and Sybil Hatch (with Zach Fraser as alternate) to the SSCOC. - Received the FY2026 mid-biennial budget update and initiated discussions with charter offices on a hiring freeze. - Affirmed the landmark designation for 2500–2512 San Pablo Avenue with modified character-defining features, dismissing the appeal. - Approved the consent calendar as amended, including all contracts, resolutions, and policy referrals.