Public Meetings - Redwood City, California

The Redwood City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, January 22, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The meeting opened with presentations and acknowledgments, including the annual Water Conservation Poster Contest awards, an update from the San Mateo County Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Commission, and a feasibility study presentation from the Center for Creativity. Public comment was dominated by calls for a ceasefire resolution regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict, with nearly 30 speakers addressing the council. The consent calendar, containing 13 routine items, was approved unanimously, as were two staff reports on animal control ordinance updates and executive management classification and salary adjustments. Presentations & Acknowledgments - Water Conservation Poster Contest (Item 4A): The city recognized 12 winners of the 28th annual contest, themed "Rain Comes and Goes, Only Pearl Precipitation Knows." Awards were presented by Public Works Superintendent Justin Chapel and Mayor G. The program aims to teach youth about water conservation and has been ongoing for 28 years. - Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention Commission (Item 4B): Chair Joanna Rasmussen presented an overview of juvenile justice trends in San Mateo County. Key data: from August 2022 to August 2023, there were 270 bookings at Hillcrest Juvenile Hall; 76 came from Redwood City. 95% of incarcerated youth in the county are youth of color. The average daily population is 21 youth, with an average length of stay of 25 days. The commission is advocating for a moratorium on transfers to adult court, improved conditions at the hall, inpatient substance abuse treatment for youth, and community-based prevention programs. Councilmembers expressed concern and asked about partnerships with youth groups and school districts. - Center for Creativity (Item 4C): Representatives from the steering committee presented results of a feasibility study for a community arts center. The proposed center would offer classes, studio memberships, event rentals, and gallery space. Financial projections indicate an annual operating budget of approximately $1.37 million (excluding building costs), with a cost recovery rate of 76% and a need for $332,000 in annual fundraising. The committee seeks council support, partnerships with developers, and assistance in identifying a location. Councilmembers encouraged partnerships with the San Mateo County Community College District and local nonprofits. Consent Calendar The consent calendar included 13 items (6A through 6M) and was approved unanimously with a motion by Councilmember Getty and second by Councilmember Howard. Items highlighted during discussion: - 6H – Police Recruitment Marketing Agreement: Councilmember Sterkin asked about the selection of All-Star Talent over a lower bidder (Census). The Chief of Police explained that All-Star had more current data and successful references. A representative from All-Star provided additional clarification on their metrics. - 6J – Utility Rate Assistance Program (URAP): Councilmember Howard noted that the city is increasing the benefit amounts for low-income customers to offset planned water, sewer, and solid waste rate increases. Public Comments & Testimony During the public comment period (Item 5), 29 individuals spoke or submitted comments. The overwhelming majority (26 of 29) urged the council to pass a resolution calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, citing the high number of civilian casualties, the humanitarian crisis, and the use of U.S. tax dollars. Several speakers identified themselves as Palestinian, Jewish, or community activists. One speaker (Wayne Regalia) raised a local traffic safety concern about double-parked vehicles on James Avenue and Brewster Avenue near school drop-off zones, requesting police enforcement. No public comments were received for items 8A or 8B. Discussion Items - 8A – Animal Control Ordinance Update: Deputy City Manager Jennifer Yamaguma and San Mateo County Animal Control Director Lori Morton Frizzell presented proposed amendments to adopt the County’s animal control ordinance by reference and update fee schedules (first increase since 2006). Key changes: raising the threshold for declaring a dog "vicious" to require severe injuries (muscle tears, broken bones, etc.), allowing removal of "dangerous" designation after 3 years of compliance, and adjusting fees (e.g., license fees increased by $5). Councilmembers asked about cost-of-service recovery and the frequency of fee updates. The item passed unanimously. - 8B – Classification and Salary Plan Adjustments: Human Resources Director Michelle Katsuyoshi presented a package of changes, including reorganizing the Community Development Department into two separate departments (Community Development and Engineering/Transportation), updating job descriptions, and adjusting salary ranges to address compaction and internal equity. Changes affected positions such as Police Chief, Assistant City Manager, Library Director, and several management roles. Councilmembers discussed the rationale for maintaining minimum differentials between supervisors and direct reports, the challenge of recruiting in a tight labor market, and the potential fiscal impact given projected deficits. The motion to approve passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (Motion by Getty, Second by Howard). - Animal Control Ordinance (8A): Approved unanimously (Motion by Martinez-Sabayos, Second by Howard). - Classification & Salary Plan (8B): Approved unanimously (Motion by Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica, Second by Martinez-Sabayos). - No action taken on ceasefire resolution: Public comments requesting a ceasefire were heard, but the item was not on the agenda. Several councilmembers acknowledged the speakers but did not commit to placing a resolution on a future agenda. - Next Meeting: A special council offsite meeting is scheduled for Saturday, February 3, 2024. The next regular meeting is on February 12, 2024, which will include a presentation from the new owners of Sequoia Station. - In Memoriam: The council adjourned in memory of Barb Valley, a longtime volunteer on the Senior Affairs Commission and Library Board who passed away during the previous meeting.

The Planning Commission regular meeting scheduled for January 16, 2024 at 6:00 PM was cancelled. No agenda items were discussed, no public testimony was heard, and no decisions were made.

The Redwood City Council held its first regular meeting of 2024 on January 8, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included proclamations, extensive public comment on the Israel-Hamas conflict, approval of updates to development impact fees and utility capacity fees, and adoption of the park impact fee project list. All votes were 6-0 with Councilmember Aguirre absent. Proclamations & Presentations - Proclamation declaring January 15, 2024 as Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Redwood City – Presented to the Domini Hoskins Black History Museum and Learning Center. The museum will be open February 1–29, 2024, noon to 6 PM, featuring 22,000 square feet of African American history. - Recognition of Samaritan House – Acknowledged the ongoing partnership with the city and Fair Oaks Community Center to fight poverty. Public Comments & Testimony The council modified public comment procedures, temporarily suspending Zoom comments due to regional disruptions. A total of 17 in-person speakers and 12 emailed comments (of 13 received) were presented. The vast majority of speakers addressed the Israel-Hamas war, urging the council to keep divisive foreign policy resolutions off the agenda. Speakers included members of Congregation Beth Jacob, Jewish community leaders, a Palestinian American Christian, and high school students. - Support for keeping the conflict out of local government (16 of 17 speakers): Many expressed concern about rising anti-Semitism, cited bomb threats at Beth Jacob synagogue, and stated that ceasefire resolutions would divide the community and harm local Jewish residents. Speakers thanked the council for not agendizing a ceasefire resolution. Rabbi Levi Potash, Ilana Goldhaber Gordon, and others asked the council to focus on local issues. A high school student described harassment for wearing a Star of David. - Call for a ceasefire (1 speaker): Seema Shami, a Palestinian American Christian, described her aunt and cousins sheltering in a Catholic church in Gaza with no access to electricity, clean water, food, or medicine, and urged the council to have a voice for ceasefire. - Emailed comments: 12 emails were read into the record. Most urged the council to avoid foreign policy resolutions; one comment supported the permanent pedestrian mall on Broadway, and another expressed concern about park impact fees for ADUs. - Mayor's response: The mayor reaffirmed the council is united against hate and apologized for hate speech experienced by community members, reaffirming the city's commitment to respectful dialogue. Consent Calendar Items 7B through 7G were approved in a single motion (6-0). - 7B: Resolution of intention to establish a pedestrian mall on the 2000 block of Broadway and on Redwood Creek. - 7C: Acceptance of FY2022 FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant ($1,320,578) and award of master purchasing agreement to Motorola Solutions ($1,446,572). - 7D: California Health and Safety Code Section 13146.4 Fire Department State Mandated Inspections Reporting. - 7E: Review and acceptance of Development Impact Fees report for FY ending June 30, 2023. - 7F: Approval of December 18, 2023 City Council minutes. - 7G: Approval of claims and checks from January 8 to January 22, 2024. Discussion Items Item 7A – Agreement for Services for Redwood Life Project (pulled from consent for discussion) - Councilmember Howard requested clarification on questions raised during public comment regarding consultant qualifications and community engagement. City Manager Diaz confirmed all consultant costs are funded by the applicant. Community Development Director Schwab explained that the optional tasks are included in the total contract price and that the community engagement strategy will be shared with the council before outreach. The motion to approve passed 6-0. Item 8A – Adoption of Nexus Study and Impact Fee Updates for Transportation, Water, and Sewer - Staff presented a comprehensive update of fees, some of which had not been revised since 1995 (sewer) or 2007 (water). The transportation impact fee (TIFF) was last updated in 2012. The proposed fees are based on a nexus study and growth projections to 2040. - Key adjustments: Downtown residential TIFF reduced by 38%; general retail reduced by 80%. The water and sewer capacity fees are recommended at 100% of the justified amount. The TIFF is recommended at 50% for the first six months, then 100%, to allow completion of a fee burden analysis in February 2024. - Public comment: One emailed comment from Tishman Speier expressed concern about the TIFF increase on the 2300 Broadway project and asked for a delay until the fee burden analysis is complete. - Council discussion: Members noted the city’s fees remain low compared to peers, and that the fee burden analysis will inform future policy decisions on affordable housing, ADUs, and downtown incentives. The motion to approve the staff recommendation (including the 50% phase-in for TIFF) passed 6-0. Item 8B – Adoption of Updated Park Impact Fee Project List - Staff presented the required annual capital improvement plan for the park impact fee program under AB 602. The list includes 30 specific projects plus land acquisition goals for neighborhoods with deficiencies. The current ratio is 2.25 acres per 1,000 residents, below the adopted goal of 3 acres per 1,000. - Public comment: One emailed comment from a resident asked the council to consider waiving or reducing the park impact fee for ADUs over 750 sq ft. - Council discussion: Councilmembers discussed equity metrics, walkability, and the need to factor in privately held open space. Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica requested a future study on synthetic turf and expressed interest in focusing projects on equity priority communities. The motion to adopt the project list passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Votes: All actions passed 6-0 (Councilmember Aguirre absent). - Fee updates: Approved new transportation impact fee (50% for first six months, then 100% of nexus), water capacity fee (combined two previous fees, 100% of nexus), sewer capacity fee (100% of nexus), and user fee adjustments. Effective 60 days after second reading on January 22, 2024. - Park impact fee project list: Adopted for FY 2023-24. - Next steps: Fee burden analysis to be presented in late February/early March 2024; second reading of fee ordinances on January 22, 2024. - Ad hoc committee: The SR 84/US 101 interchange ad hoc committee (meeting Jan 5, 2024) reported on right-of-way and fundraising efforts, including a federal RAISE grant application in February. - City manager updates: A children’s swap event at the library on January 18, 2024, and a biannual resident satisfaction survey beginning January 17, 2024.

The Redwood City Council held its final meeting of 2023 on December 18, 2023. The evening included presentations honoring volunteers, a report on the sister city trip to China, an update from the Police Advisory Committee, public comment dominated by calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, approval of a consent calendar, and a detailed annual report from the Redwood City Improvement Association (RCIA). The meeting also featured council member reports and a city manager update. Presentations - Casa Circulo Cultural Presidential Volunteer Service Awards: Two volunteers, Claire Abigail Yu and Connie Guerrero, were recognized for their service. Claire co-founded a nonprofit (Dance Develope) to teach ballet; Connie provided healthcare services during COVID-19. Council members presented certificates of recognition. - American Chinese International Cultural Exchange Council (ACICE): Gladys Soto, on behalf of the delegation that traveled to Zhuhai, China, for the 30th anniversary of the sister city relationship, presented a video recap. Mayor Jeff Gee praised the sustained relationship and noted the importance of diverse community participation. - Police Advisory Committee (PAC) Update: Administrative Services Director Michelle Pochet introduced the PAC’s work. Vice Chair Roxana Enriquez and Chair Jim Hartnett outlined accomplishments: reviewed use-of-force policies, provided input on chief recruitment, town hall on transparency, and advised on policies such as automated license plate readers and the community wellness crisis response team. Chief Christina Bell thanked the committee and pledged continued collaboration. Councilmember Howard asked for future reports on the new body camera auditing software. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved with a unanimous vote (6-0, with Councilmember Aiken recused from items 6C and 6I). Items included: - Workers’ compensation program assessment - Settlement of Police Officers Association grievance and salary adjustments - Second amendment to landscape maintenance for 910 Woodside Road - Final acceptance of Maple Street Shelter remediation - Agreement with Pacific Pyramid Group for hotel respite program - Agreement with SCARDA Studios for art at Hardened and Ninos Park Expansion - Amendment to Axon Enterprise Inc. agreement for body camera auditing software - Agreement with HF&H Consultants for solid waste fee study - Purchase of six Ford F-150 Lightnings, one Ford Escape Hybrid, and one Ford F-250 Super Duty (EV fleet replacement) - Resolution phasing in EV charging fees - Waiver of second reading for water service charge updates - Approval of claims and checks (December 18, 2023 – January 8, 2024) - Item 6K (animal control ordinance) was continued to January 22, 2024. Public Comments & Testimony - Sixteen in-person speakers addressed the council during the public comment period, and 442 identical emails were received. The overwhelming majority urged the council to agendize and pass a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Palestine. Speakers expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, citing statistics (e.g., 20,000 Palestinians killed, 8,000 children, a child killed every 10 minutes). Several speakers identified as residents of Redwood City, some as Palestinian Christians, a clinical psychologist, and a nurse practitioner. They appealed to the council’s values of equity and peace, and referenced similar resolutions passed in Richmond, Oakland, Davis, and other cities. A few speakers also raised issues of Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, and the rise in hate crimes. One emailed comment praised the Box Company’s community cleanup (469.5 pounds of trash collected) and another urged the council to continue recording subcommittee meetings. Discussion Items - Item 6G – Body Camera Auditing Software (Axon vs. Trulio): Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica led the discussion, asking Chief Bell about the capabilities of Axon (the recommended vendor) versus Trulio. She inquired about Axon’s ability to measure use-of-force reductions, identify good officer behavior, and potential biases in language recognition software (e.g., accents). Chief Bell confirmed Axon can set random audit parameters, flag keywords, and track use-of-force trends. The Vice Mayor requested a report after one year comparing outcomes. The item was approved unanimously (5/7 vote required, passed). - Item 8A – Annual Report of the Redwood City Improvement Association (RCIA): Executive Director Amy Buckmaster and Project Manager Felicia Bosquez presented the RCIA’s fiscal year 2021-22 activities. Highlights included: sidewalk operations (power washing, trash collection, flag maintenance), placemaking (ADA-approved tables/chairs, community pianos, bollards on Theater Way), holiday lights, street banners, and social media promotion. The RCIA budget is approximately $900,000, with the largest share going to sidewalk operations. Council members praised the work and asked about future plans: public restrooms, additional grab-and-go parking spots, youth-focused events, and expansion of the district. The report was accepted unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Approved: All items except 6K (continued) passed, with item 6C and 6I approved on a separate vote (6-0, Councilmember Aiken recused). - Item 6G (Body Camera Auditing Software) Approved: Unanimous vote (5/7 required). - RCIA Annual Report Accepted: Unanimous vote. - Council Reports: Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica reported attending the LGBTQ Victory Conference in Washington, D.C. (Nov 30–Dec 2). Councilmember Gee mentioned attending the Colma Council of Cities dinner. Committee reports covered the ad hoc American Legion project (development agreement terms discussed) and the 2x2x2 meeting with Belmont and Redwood Shores School District (mental health support, business license tax update, joint transportation management). - City Manager Update: Storm preparation reminders, holiday events (laser light shows at Red Morton Park), limited facility hours (Dec 23–Jan 2), and opening of the new fitness court at Redwood Shores Library. No action was taken on the public’s request for a ceasefire resolution; the council did not agendize the item. The meeting adjourned at the conclusion of business.

On December 5, 2023, the Redwood City Planning Commission convened to consider multiple items, including the Architectural Advisory Committee (AAC) work plan, the adoption of the 2024 meeting calendar, and the approval of Stanford in Redwood City Phase 2 developments. The meeting lasted from 2:30 PM to approximately 5:30 PM, with Commissioner Chu recusing herself from the Stanford item due to a conflict of interest. Architectural Advisory Committee Work Plan - The commission reviewed and discussed the AAC's proposed two-year work plan for fiscal years 2023-24 and 2024-25. The plan includes updates to objective design standards for multifamily residential development, professional development for committee members, and recruitment of qualified members. Commissioner Lazarus suggested using the word "seek" instead of "maintain" or "achieve" regarding balance in design. The commission unanimously approved the work plan (6-0). 2024 Meeting Calendar - The commission adopted the proposed 2024 regular meeting calendar without discussion. The motion passed 6-0. Stanford in Redwood City Phase 2 – Block C (505 Broadway) - Staff Presentation: Staff introduced the proposal for two office buildings (228,000 sq ft, up to 5 stories/88 ft tall), 26,000 sq ft of amenity space, and 905 parking spaces. The project also includes a reduction in parking from 3 spaces per 1,000 sq ft to 2.5 spaces per 1,000 sq ft (15% reduction) based on a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) plan and trip generation analysis. Staff recommended approval with conditions. - Applicant Presentation (John Donahoe, Stanford University): The applicant noted the project aligns with the 2013 Precise Plan and Development Agreement. The existing phase one buildings were fully occupied before the pandemic; parking demand has been lower, supporting the reduction. The commission asked clarifying questions about bike parking (long-term/short-term split), current employee commuting patterns, and tree planting along Highway 101. Staff confirmed the bike parking count will be maintained at pre-reduction levels. - Public Comment: No public speakers. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners expressed strong support, noting the project faithfully fulfills the Precise Plan and creates a pedestrian-friendly, bike-friendly campus. Commissioner Chu recused herself. The motion to approve the Planned Community Permit and Tentative Map for Block C passed 5-0-1 (one recusal). Stanford in Redwood City Phase 2 – Block E (440-510 Broadway) - Staff Presentation: Staff presented a 265,000 sq ft medical office building (9 stories, up to 150 ft tall), three-story parking garage (650 spaces), 184 surface parking spaces (834 total), and a pedestrian bridge. The building height exceeds the Precise Plan's 120-ft limit by up to 30 ft, which is allowed for one building per block subject to city approval. A 30% parking reduction (from 5 spaces per 1,000 sq ft to 3.5 spaces per 1,000 sq ft) was supported by a TDM plan and parking demand analysis. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Presentation (Molly Swenson, Stanford Medicine): The medical office building will include cardiovascular health, urology, LGBTQ clinic, and same-day access clinic, with 180,000 sq ft of clinical space and 60,000 sq ft shelled for future growth. The parking demand on the existing outpatient center (3.8 spaces per 1,000 sq ft) consistently remains below capacity. The commission praised the project's design and its contribution to community health access. - Public Comment: No public speakers. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners commended the project's architecture and community benefits. The motion to approve the Planned Community Permit and Tentative Map for Block E passed 5-0-1. Phase One Parking Reduction - Staff Presentation: Staff requested approval to reduce the approved phase one parking for blocks A, B, and part of C by 15%, consistent with the parking analyses and TDM program. The actual parking demand in phase one is significantly lower than originally projected. - Applicant Presentation: The reduction is supported by ongoing annual parking monitoring and aerial photography showing low occupancy. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners noted the reduction aligns with observed demand and the TDM program's flexibility. The motion to approve the reduction passed 5-0-1. Key Outcomes - AAC Work Plan: Approved unanimously (6-0). - 2024 Meeting Calendar: Approved unanimously (6-0). - Stanford Phase 2 Block C (PC2020-001, TM2020-004): Approved with conditions, 5-0-1 (Commissioner Chu recused). - Stanford Phase 2 Block E (PC2019-003, TM2019-005): Approved with conditions, 5-0-1. - Phase One Parking Reduction: Approved, 5-0-1. Meeting adjourned at approximately 5:30 PM. The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 16, 2024.

The Redwood City Planning Commission held a regular meeting on December 5, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers, 1017 Middlefield Road, Redwood City, CA, with remote participation via Zoom. The meeting was adjourned at 7:58 PM. Commissioners present: Alvarez (arrived at 6:08 PM), Chu, Koch, Lazarus, Vice Chair Crnogorac, and Chair Hunter. Commissioners absent: None. The meeting included public hearings on the Architectural Advisory Committee (AAC) Work Plan, the Planning Commission 2024 Regular Meeting Calendar, and Phase 2 of the Stanford in Redwood City project (Blocks C and E), along with a parking reduction for Phase 1. Consent Calendar - No items were on the Consent Calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made in person or submitted via email for any agenda item. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (November 7, 2023): The minutes were approved by a 5-0 vote (Motion: Crnogorac/Chu). - AAC Work Plan for FY2023-24 & FY2024-25: Senior Planner Rojas and AAC Chair Spotorno presented the proposed work plan, which included updates to the mission statement (adding "strive" and sustainability language), recurring goals, and two new goals: review of objective design standards for residential development and improved recruitment for AAC vacancies. Discussion focused on the need for licensed architects, recruitment challenges (two unsuccessful recruitment cycles), and plans to update AAC eligibility criteria. The commission voted 6-0 to recommend City Council approval. - Planning Commission 2024 Regular Meeting Schedule: Assistant CDT Director Exline presented the proposed calendar. The commission voted 6-0 to adopt Resolution No. 23-25. - Stanford in Redwood City Phase 2 (Blocks C and E): Consultant Principal Planner Laux and applicants John Donahoe (Stanford University) and Molly Swenson (Stanford Medicine) presented the project. Block C: two office buildings (228,039 sq. ft., up to 88 ft, 5 stories), 26,077 sq. ft. amenity space, 905 parking spaces. Block E: a 265,000 sq. ft. medical office building (up to 150 ft, 9 stories), 834 parking spaces (structure and surface). The request also included a 50% reduction in Phase 1 parking requirements (Blocks A, B, and portions of C) based on post-COVID demand analysis. The Architectural Advisory Committee and Subdivision Committee had recommended approval. The commission discussed parking ratios, bike parking, community benefits (e.g., $1 million for neighborhood streets, bus shelter program, water tank), and building height exceptions. The commission voted 5-0 (Commissioner Chu recused) to approve three resolutions: Resolution No. 23-22 (Block C), Resolution No. 23-23 (Block E), and Resolution No. 23-24 (Phase 1 parking reduction). Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes of November 7, 2023 (5-0). - Recommended City Council approval of the AAC Work Plan for FY2023-24 and FY2024-25 (6-0). - Adopted the Planning Commission 2024 Regular Meeting Schedule (Resolution No. 23-25, 6-0). - Approved Planned Community Permits and Tentative Parcel Maps for Phase 2 of the Stanford in Redwood City project: - Block C (505 Broadway): Resolution No. 23-22 (5-0, Chu recused). - Block E (440-210 Broadway): Resolution No. 23-23 (5-0, Chu recused). - Approved a change to the Phase 1 permit parking requirements (Blocks A, B, and C): Resolution No. 23-24 (5-0, Chu recused).

The Redwood City Council met on December 4, 2023, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included a closed session (no reportable action), presentations from Senator Josh Becker and Hip Housing, a public hearing on proposed water rate increases, an informational report on district boundary adjustments, and council committee updates. The council approved the water rate increase 6-0 (Vice Mayor absent) and took no formal action on the district boundary adjustment. Presentations & Acknowledgments - Senator Josh Becker presented a $200,000 state grant to Redwood City Together for the PACE (Purposeful Action Creation and Engagement) program, which supports at-risk youth through job opportunities, mental health support, and community engagement. The program has exceeded its first-year goals. Youth participant Hector and program partners Ivan Martinez (PAL Center), Tito Alvarez, and others spoke in support. - Hip Housing presented their 2024 calendar and highlighted their work in Redwood City: 384 people served, 19 through home sharing, 36 through self-sufficiency, and 129 living in Hip Housing properties. Fifth-grader Pavi, the calendar contest winner, read her statement about what home means. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (non-agenda): - Chris Romell spoke, correcting what he called false statements by city staff and council regarding the proposed property transfer tax. He argued the city currently collects no such tax, the county rate is $1.10 per $1,000 (not $0.55), the average home price is $2.25 million (not $1.7 million), and fewer than one-third of charter cities have a property transfer tax. He also criticized council urging blind trust in staff reports. - Nine emailed comments were read: Most opposed the property transfer tax, raised city manager pay, and overall spending. One comment (Paul Bocanegra) urged support for a permanent ceasefire in the Middle East. Another comment (Julie Pardini) criticized the council's hostile reception of Chris Romell at the prior meeting. - Public Hearing on Water Rate Increases (Item 8A): - In-person speaker Chris Romell noted the fixed water rate is increasing 39% (bi-monthly from $59.04 to $82.09), which penalizes conservation. He also flagged upcoming garbage and sewer increases. - 20 emailed comments were read: Most opposed the increase, citing high costs, inflation, and lack of cost-cutting measures. Some noted the 30% fixed rate increase and urged smaller increments. One comment (Barb Valley) supported the increase, noting the city's rates are in the middle compared to neighbors and that the council also pays these rates. The city received 60 written protests, far below the majority threshold of 10,913. Discussion Items - Water Rate Increase (Item 8A): - Staff presented a comprehensive study showing the need for revenue increases due to a 27% rise in SFPUC wholesale water costs since 2018, along with operating and capital costs. The proposal: 8% increase effective February 1, 2024, and 7% effective January 1, 2025. For the average single-family customer using 14 units per bi-monthly bill, the combined increase is 12.2%. Fixed service charges for single-family customers increase 30% (first year), but consumption charges rise only about 1%. The city has not raised water rates since 2018. - Town councilmembers Aiken, Geary, and Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica, who served on the Utilities Committee, spoke in support. Councilmember Aiken noted the 280 miles of water mains, 15 storage tanks, and 12 booster stations needing maintenance. Councilmember Howard requested a bill calculator tool and emphasized the URAP program (funded by late penalties) which provides $20/month (proposed to increase to $25/month) for low-income households. - Councilmember Sturkin highlighted conservation efforts and the need to maintain infrastructure. Mayor G questioned what happens if reserves are depleted, and Public Works Director Terrence Kier answered that lack of revenue could lead to system failures like those in Flint, Michigan. The city uses a pay-as-you-go approach to avoid bond debt. - District Boundary Adjustment (Item 9A): - City Clerk Jessica Castro presented an informational report on technical adjustments to District 7 following discovery that three parcels (one on Upland Road, two on Alameda de las Pulgas) were annexed in the 1950s but not reflected in the council district map. The adjustment adds these parcels to District 7, affecting no substantive population or candidate eligibility. No formal action required; the city clerk can execute the change. Key Outcomes - Water Rate Increase: Approved 6-0 (Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica absent). The ordinance updates water service charges and the water reserve policy. Staff will return in early 2024 with recommendations to increase the Utility Rate Assistance Program (URAP) benefit by 25% (to $25/month or $50/bi-monthly). - Consent Calendar: Approved 6-0. Items included rejection of a general liability claim, Historic Resources Advisory Committee Work Plan, grant applications for recycled water, notification of drone use, approval of November 27, 2023 minutes, and claims/checks. - Closed Session: No reportable action. - Council Committee Reports: - Climate Action Subcommittee: Update on wet weather preparedness, fleet electrification, sea level rise vulnerability study, and leaf blower summit. - Transportation Mobility Subcommittee: Update on mobile parking payment system, Broadway Pedestrian Mall project, Woodside Road construction outreach. - Equity and Social Justice Subcommittee: Launch of VOICE program (youth leadership), 2024 policy calendar. - Ad Hoc Committee on 10184: Update on advocacy progress and next steps. - City Manager Announcements: - Third cannabis retail store (Airfield Supply) opened; three more in pipeline. - Automated license plate reader installation began; annual reporting to council. - Park safety community engagement feedback available on city website; Parks and Recreation Commission continuing pop-up outreach.

The Redwood City Council met on November 27, 2023, at 6:00 PM to discuss a range of topics including directing staff to further research two revenue enhancement options for the November 2024 ballot, acceptance of the sanitary sewer capacity master plan, and implementation plans for police and fire departments based on recent studies. Public comments were extensive, with many residents opposing new taxes. The meeting was extended to 11:30 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: Item 6A (Single audit report), 6B (Contract to Kimley-Horn for bikeway design - $650,000), 6C (Forensic extraction device), 6D (Minutes), 6E (Claims and checks). Item 6B was pulled for discussion regarding cost and competitive bidding; staff explained the design is qualifications-based and comprehensive. Public Comments & Testimony - Kent Manske and Elizabeth Gomez (Steering Committee for Center for Creativity) presented a feasibility study for a permanent art center, requesting a January 2024 council presentation. They raised $70,000 for the study. - Jim Wrecker opposed the $650,000 design cost for bikeway projects, calling it excessive. - Chris Robel criticized the recent city manager salary increase ($393,000 base, $500,000 total compensation) and argued for a citizen committee to set comparables. - Emailed comments (118 total): Overwhelming opposition to new taxes, particularly a property transfer tax. Common themes: high sales tax (9.875%), city spending (city manager salary, $1 million office furniture), and burden on seniors and middle class. Some supported studying the business license tax reform. One speaker opposed the property transfer tax as regressive and volatile. Discussion Items - 8A – Revenue Enhancement Options: Staff (Michelle Prash-Fleury) presented two options: (1) changing the business license tax to a gross receipts model (Model 3A) estimated to generate $7–8 million annually, and (2) increasing the documentary transfer tax (currently $0.55 per $1,000, could generate $5–15+ million). A structural deficit of $8 million/year and a $327 million CIP shortfall were cited. Council members (Aiken, Gary, Espinoza, Howard, Martinez, Sturken) largely supported further study, emphasizing that no tax is being imposed tonight – only research and polling. They noted the current business tax is regressive, burdening small businesses. Stakeholder engagement was stressed. - 8B – Sanitary Sewer Capacity Master Plan: Ahmad Haya presented findings: 200 miles of sewer lines, no dry weather capacity issues, but wet weather deficiencies in specific locations (mainly downtown). 26 capital projects totaling $42.7 million (planning-level estimate) were recommended. The plan was accepted unanimously. Council discussed phasing and DEI considerations. - 8C – Police Operations Implementation Plan: Chief Bell presented 8 policy recommendations from the CPSM study, including adding Community Service Officers (CSOs), a crime analyst, and other civilian positions. Preliminary data showed 25% of 41,563 calls (Jan–June) could be handled by CSOs. 12% of daily calls involve unhoused persons. Council endorsed the plan unanimously, with support for prioritizing CSOs over sworn positions. - 8D – Fire Department Implementation Plan: Chief Iverson presented 6 recommendations, including deployment of a light rescue squad (Squad 409) to handle non-acute medical calls, improving response times. Data showed 1,000 calls/year for unhoused individuals, with an uptick at sheltered facilities during transition periods. Council approved implementation unanimously. - 9A – 2024 Meeting Calendar: Approved unanimously. - Committee Reports: Governance Subcommittee (Espinoza, Martinez, Gee) reported on AAC eligibility changes and a letter on gun violence prevention. Utilities Subcommittee (Espinoza, Aiken) discussed sewer and solid waste rates. Key Outcomes - Vote on 8A: Unanimous motion to direct staff to further research both revenue options (gross receipts business tax and property transfer tax), including polling and community engagement, with a report back in April 2024. - Vote on 8B: Unanimous acceptance of the Sanitary Sewer Capacity Master Plan; staff directed to implement CIP process for 26 projects. - Vote on 8C: Unanimous approval of the police implementation plan. - Vote on 8D: Unanimous approval of the fire implementation plan. - Vote on 9A: Unanimous approval of the 2024 meeting calendar. - Memorials: Adjourned in memory of Raina Barrigan (Library Board member) and former Sheriff/Supervisor Don Horsley.

The regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting for November 14, 2023, was cancelled. No agenda items were discussed, and no actions were taken.