Public Meetings - San Leandro, California

The GAD Board of Directors convened after a closed session and focused on the public hearing and decision process for potentially dissolving the Hillside Geological Hazard Abatement District. The meeting included a staff recap of the dissolution procedure, public questions about geographic scope and post-dissolution responsibilities, and a board vote to proceed after the City Clerk reported objection levels were below the statutory threshold. Attendance & Roll Call - Directors present: Azevedo, Bolt, Aguilar, Viveros-Walton, Bowen, and Chairperson Gonzalez - Directors absent: Simon (noted as absent at the vote) Consent Calendar - Adopted minutes from the prior meeting (motion by Director/Councilmember Aguilar; second by Director/Councilmember Viveros-Walton) - Vote: Passed 6-0, with Director Simon absent Public Comments & Testimony - Douglas Spalding (via Zoom): Asked about the geographic extent of the hillside geologic hazard area and whether it affects Lake Chabot Road, Bay-O-Vista, areas near the creek, and properties along the fault line in San Leandro. - Jeffrey (via Zoom): Asked what happens after dissolution and whether they would be able to plant vegetation on the hillside currently covered by a tarp to mitigate landslide risk. Discussion Items - Public Hearing: Potential Dissolution of the Hillside GAD - Staff presentation (Erwin Ching, GAD Manager): - Reported that on October 6, the Board approved a Resolution of Intent to Dissolve and set the public hearing for November 17. - Stated that at least 30 days prior to the hearing, notices were mailed to 26 property owners within the GAD, requesting written agreement/objection submitted before close of the public hearing. - Explained the legal threshold: if written objections exceed more than 50% of the weighted assessed value of real property, the Board must abandon dissolution proceedings; if 50% or less, the Board may proceed if it makes findings meeting one or more of four required factors. - Staff recommended relying on Factor 3 as most applicable: the GAD has not levied or collected assessments and holds no significant liquid assets. - Noted that even if the Board orders dissolution, it must still be confirmed by property owners in writing within 90 days of the public hearing. - Staff responses to public questions (Erwin Ching): - Stated that the GAD location, if dissolved, does not impact Lake Chabot Road, and does not affect areas of Bay-O-Vista other than the properties within the GAD (described as including properties on top of the hill). - Regarding planting on the slope covered by tarp: said it depends on how the proceedings go; if the GAD is dissolved, responsibility for maintaining and repairing the currently damaged slope would revert to the property owners. - Public hearing timing: Opened at 7:01 PM and closed at 7:03 PM. - Chairperson Gonzalez invited any remaining written objections to be submitted before close; the record reflected no one approached to submit additional written objections at that time. Key Outcomes - City Clerk tabulation of written objections: - Reported no additional written objections received during the hearing. - Determined that fewer than 50%, based on weighted assessed value, submitted written objections. - Board action to approve proceeding with dissolution step (as presented): - Motion by Director/Councilmember Aguilar; second by Director/Councilmember Viveros-Walton - Vote: Passed unanimously (Director Simon absent) - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 7:07 PM

The San Leandro City Council met on November 17, 2025, beginning at 7:07 p.m. and adjourning at 9:26 p.m. The meeting included a proclamation for Transgender Awareness Week (Nov. 13–19) and Transgender Day of Remembrance (Nov. 20), approval of multiple consent items (with one item pulled for clarification), extensive public comment focused on transparency regarding an investigative report and related Brown Act issues, and three major actions: approval of up to $80 million in tax-exempt bonds for an affordable-housing acquisition/rehab project, adoption of an updated Environmental Hazards Element for the General Plan, and first reading of the 2025 triennial building code adoption. Notable Agenda/Process Updates - Senior Commission nomination (Item 5L): The Clerk announced Marianne Benz could not accept the nomination; the item was pulled. - City Attorney announcement (re: investigative report/Brown Act): No closed-session reportable action. The City Attorney stated that, on advice of legal counsel, the agenda item related to waiver of attorney-client privilege was not placed on this agenda. The City is working to cure a Brown Act issue related to 11/3/2025 Council action, including scheduling a special meeting in early December regarding the continuation of a request for discipline involving Vice Mayor Bowen. Recognitions - Proclamation: Transgender Awareness Week & Transgender Day of Remembrance - Mayor Juan Gonzalez III proclaimed Nov. 13–19 as Transgender Awareness Week and Nov. 20 as Transgender Day of Remembrance. - Proclamation statistic cited: 2.8 million people in the U.S. identify as transgender, representing 1% of the adult population. - Willow Idlewild (recipient) expressed support for trans community safety and solidarity, and raised concerns about ICE presence, policing, and data/surveillance (e.g., Flock cameras). Idlewild suggested considering demilitarizing police, limiting sensitive data storage, and hiring a “sanctuary consultant,” and encouraged consistent public use of pronouns. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (Items 5B–5K, plus 5C/5D/5G etc.), excluding: - 5A (pulled for discussion; later approved unanimously) - 5L (pulled due to nominee withdrawal) - Staff clarified on Item 5C (Permanent Local Housing Allocation / Homelessness Prevention / Rental Assistance Program management contract): - Human Services Director Jessica Lofredon stated the City does not currently contract with Bay Area Community Services for San Leandro services, but it has a longstanding presence; 3 applications were received in the RFP. Public Comments & Testimony - On the Consent Calendar - Douglas Spaulding praised several consent items, highlighted the 18-month term for the housing allocation contract extending into 2027, supported extending the Alternative Response Unit to June 2027 while expressing interest in expanding its hours, asked about Bayfair transit-village planning, and praised the $195,000 Western Alameda County Tree Partner Network item. - Alvaro Ramos (Item 5C/5D) asked about measuring “unbanked/underbanked” populations and expressed concern about fees and predatory banking; for the Alternative Response Unit, urged prioritizing dignity and steering away from involuntary treatment. - Sarah Bailey thanked the Mayor and Vice Mayor for advocacy with ACTC and congratulated Public Works on $6 million in grants for crosstown bike corridors; also urged respectful treatment of staff. - General Public Comment (non-agenda) - Multiple speakers—many identifying as members of the League of San Leandro Voters—urged release of an independent investigative report involving Vice Mayor Bowen’s allegations against Council Members Simon and Aguilar (bullying/workplace misconduct). Speakers emphasized transparency, adherence to the 11/3/2025 vote described by commenters as 4–2, and requested the matter be handled in open session with Bowen present. - Speakers included: Sarah Bailey, Mitch Heideman, Willow Idlewild, Whitney Walker, Malin Dupree-Dominguez, Meneka Mahajan, Deborah Acosta, Jesse Rubin, Jennifer Molina, Yelena Nadelko (and Will Douglas). - Bridget Salazar spoke in support of Council Member Fred Simon, urging due process and “innocent until proven guilty,” and raised concerns about inconsistent scrutiny. - Leo West made comments supporting Officer Jason Fletcher and included inflammatory/discriminatory remarks. - After public comment, the Mayor stated the Council received the report on Oct. 31, 2025, received subsequent legal advice, and is working to cure a Brown Act challenge regarding how the prior motion was formulated. Discussion Items Item 5A (Pulled from Consent): Crosstown Bike Corridors Grant Acceptance/Project Clarification - Vice Mayor Bowen requested clarification for community understanding. - Public Works Director Sheila Marquises summarized the Bancroft & Williams Crosstown Corridor safety project: - Study began in 2021 with robust community engagement; City Council approved the study at end of 2022. - Main issues cited: vehicle speeding; limited safe facilities for students walking/biking. - Proposed improvements: Class IV separated bike lanes (Bancroft: east side near high school; Williams: north side), plus crossing safety improvements such as bulb-outs and rapid rectangular flashing beacons. - Timeline: RFP for design consultants expected around January; design work anticipated to begin around summer 2026, with design progressing into 2027. - City Engineer JC Numaia clarified funding scope: - ACTC CIP grant is for design. - Federal earmark may be used for design or construction, but both are tied to the named project; using funds for broader bike safety programming may be “questionable.” - Bowen asked for future grant pursuit for bike access/programming and noted a Hayward example program (“Hayward Rides”) as a model. City Manager Report - Nov. 14: Grand opening of Sprouts Farmers Market at Central Callan; reported “hundreds” lined up before the 7:00 a.m. ribbon cutting. - Promoted Shop Small Saturday (Nov. 29) and events including Mistletoe Madness (Nov. 29) and It’s a Wonderful Night (Dec. 5). Public Hearing 8A: TEFRA Hearing & $80 Million CMFA 501(c)(3) Bonds for Woodchase Apartments - Community Development Director Tom Liao presented a TEFRA hearing for issuance of CMFA tax-exempt revenue bonds, not to exceed $80 million, for acquisition/rehab and conversion of Woodchase Apartments: - Existing property: 186-unit market-rate multifamily at 2795 San Leandro Blvd, built mid-1970s. - Proposed affordability: 75% of units affordable for at least 15 years; breakdown stated as over 20% for very low income, about 55% for low income, and 25% market rate. - Rehab scope described (examples): fitness center/leasing office/pool upgrades; painting, roof replacement, plumbing/electrical repairs, wood repair, and sub-panel replacement. - Anti-displacement: Step Up stated no tenant displacement; affordability achieved via turnover/attrition and some existing tenants expected to be income-qualified; work phased with tenants in place. - Timeline: bond approval sought “shortly this week,” closing mid-December, permits/work beginning early 2026, affordability targets hoped by mid-2027. - City impact: City has no financial/legal obligation for repayment; staff stated City would receive $20,000+ (a percentage of bond issuance) for general fund purposes. - Public questions included: - Whether residents/taxpayers pay bond repayment (answered: no, it is a private loan responsibility). - Possible impact from federal pullback of affordable housing monies (answered: no impact stated). - Lead paint/pipes given 1976 construction (Step Up stated Phase I environmental study found no lead). - What happens after 15 years (Step Up stated intent to refinance/redo program for another period). Public Hearing 8B: Environmental Hazards Element Update (2035 General Plan) - Senior Planner Cindy LaMarr presented adoption of the updated Environmental Hazards Element (final piece of housing-element-related General Plan amendments), to comply with state law changes (2015/2019/2021) and to modernize climate and hazard policies. - Planning Commission recommended approval in Nov. 2022. - CAL FIRE Board of Forestry approved in Aug. 2024 (triggered by prior very high fire hazard severity zone requirement). - New state fire hazard maps published Feb. 2025; City Council adopted revised zones (high/moderate) in June 2025. - New policies address: wildfire, excessive heat, drought, sea level rise, heavy rain. - Evacuation analysis themes: route capacity/safety, single-egress neighborhoods, communication to vulnerable populations, and emergency traffic management. - Next steps: update Local Hazard Mitigation Plan expected in 2026. - Public comment (Douglas Spaulding) raised concerns about Bay-O-Vista fire evacuation practicality, Bayshore flooding, marina-area development/liquefaction, and earthquake “big one” impacts. - Council discussion included questions about evacuation modeling limits (major streets only) and the role of police/fire in active route management. Public Hearing 8C: 2025 Triennial Building Code Adoption (First Reading) - Chief Building Official Michael Jeffrey presented the triennial code update cycle. - 2025 California Building Code based on 2024 International Building Code. - Local amendments discussed included prior changes such as lowering the commercial assembly sprinkler trigger from 10,000 sq. ft. to 5,000 sq. ft., and lowering valuation threshold for earthquake gas shutoff valves from $10,000 to $5,000 (noted as prior/local approach). - Staff recommended first reading to repeal/replace 2022 editions and adopt 2025 editions for multiple codes (Building, Residential, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Energy, Fire, Existing Building, Green Building), adopt by reference the 2018 Property Maintenance Code, and adopt findings supporting local amendments. Council Requests to Schedule Agenda Items - Councilmember Viveros Walton requested two items for the March Council strategy session: 1) A Vacant Lot Activation Program (temporary public-benefit uses in exchange for incentives such as regulatory relief/expedited review). 2) Exploration of a partial sales tax waiver/incentive for priority innovation industries (e.g., biotech/R&D). - Viveros Walton also requested posting a complete geotechnical report and supporting documents for Lake Chabot Road (all sites, cost estimates including slope stabilization/road reconstruction/drainage). The City Manager clarified process: non-urgent items go to retreat priority list; urgent referrals must meet handbook criteria and require a vote. Viveros Walton indicated intent to resubmit as urgent. Council Reports - Council Member Aguilar reported from Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District meeting (Nov. 12; 1,141st meeting), including statewide statistics cited: 11 new human West Nile cases reported that week from 5 counties, and 85 human cases in 2025 from 19 counties; of 85, 78 (92%) neuroinvasive and 8 (9%) fatal; median age 65; 53 male. - Vice Mayor Bowen reported upcoming National League of Cities travel, noted she would miss the Dec. 1 meeting, urged support for food insecurity resources (cited 316 people at San Leandro Food Pantry on a rainy Thursday), and referenced ongoing community concerns including “Know Your Rights” trainings. - Council Member Simon reported attending a Mission Bay Mobile Home Residence Association meeting; referenced mobile home rent stabilization discussions; made statements regarding council tensions and requested future urgent items including recording closed sessions and policy changes regarding public release of personnel investigations. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved unanimously (excluding pulled items 5A and 5L). - Item 5A (Crosstown Bike Corridors): Approved unanimously. - Item 8A (TEFRA / CMFA Bonds for Woodchase Apartments): Public hearing held; resolution approved unanimously to authorize issuance of qualified 501(c)(3) bonds up to $80 million. - Item 8B (Environmental Hazards Element update): Adopted unanimously. - Item 8C (2025 Building Code adoption): First reading introduced and approved unanimously. - Next steps noted: Special meeting in early December to address curing the Brown Act issue referenced by the City Attorney; Local Hazard Mitigation Plan update expected in 2026; Woodchase rehab/permitting anticipated starting early 2026 with affordability targets by mid-2027.

The San Leandro City Council convened on Monday, November 3, 2025, to address a Native American Heritage proclamation, consent calendar items involving budget and contracts, public comments regarding housing and surveillance, a tobacco regulation public hearing, and a significant disciplinary action request filed by Vice Mayor Bowen against Councilmembers Aguilar and Simon. Consent Calendar - The Council unanimously approved the Consent Calendar, which included multiple contract adjustments and the street rehabilitation project with increased funding. - Public Comment Position: Speaker Douglas Spaulding expressed concern that the city treats cost overruns as a necessary structural part of doing business. Speaker Christopher Bammer noted specific contract changes, such as street rehabilitation costs rising from approximately $588,000 to over $1.8 million, expressing skepticism about the project's scope and completion status. Public Comments & Testimony - Council Member Discipline: Speaker Jesse Rubin expressed support for Vice Mayor Bowen's complaint, stating that while she is innocent until proven guilty, the evidence constitutes a grave breach of public trust and called for her resignation. Speaker Jamie M echoed this, supporting the call for accountability and stating that continued presence drags the council into scandal. Speaker Laura Blumenthal, District 5, expressed concern that Councilmember Acevedo's legal issues and absence are impacting the council's ability to work and urged him to step down. Speaker Jamie M also stated that if Councilmember Acevedo does not step down, he should support Vice Mayor Bowen as a model for leadership. - Affirmation of Colleagues: Speaker Matt Jewel expressed support for Councilmember Brian Azevedo, noting that people make mistakes and praising Azevedo's character. Speaker Jenny Madsen, Nancy Rafaloff, Bridget Salazar, and Arlene Lam provided character witnesses for Councilmember Simon, describing him as a family man, dedicated, and never disrespectful. Speaker Lee Thomas questioned the fairness of the process, stating that the request for discipline lacked specific facts and that the council is rushing to censure without reading the report. - Surveillance and Flock: Speaker Mike Katz Lakabe and Speaker Jamie M expressed strong opposition to the city's partnership with Flock and the sharing of license plate reader and Ring camera data with immigration enforcement and out-of-state law enforcement, urging an end to these data sharing practices. - Homelessness: Speaker Fred Zhang reported an ongoing issue with a homeless individual near the San Lorenzo Creek causing a disturbance, stating that residents are frustrated after multiple attempts to contact the Sheriff's Department yielded no results. Speaker Christopher Bammer sought updates on the 555 Llewellyn Boulevard facility, asking how many people are being helped and seeking an update on the investment. - Housing: Speaker Mike McGuire corrected misperceptions about eviction problems post-pandemic and argued that housing is not a free market due to zoning laws and landlord order ownership. Discussion Items - Tobacco Regulation Public Hearing: Planning Manager Waylon Lee presented proposed zoning code amendments regarding tobacco sales, including allowing tobacco as an accessory use at new convenience stores (requiring a Conditional Use Permit) and increasing display area limits from 10 to 15 linear feet based on stakeholder feedback. The Council unanimously passed a first reading of the ordinance and adopted the termination of the temporary zoning mor. - Disciplinary Action Request: Vice Mayor Bowen formally filed a request for disciplinary action against Councilmembers Aguilar and Simon based on a completed independent investigation report received on October 31, 2025. She alleged gender bias, bullying, verbal intimidation, and retaliation. Councilmembers Aguilar and Simon questioned the procedural validity, citing the statute of limitations, lack of specific facts in the request, and the need to review the unredacted report before waiving attorney-client privilege. Mayor Gonzalez supported due process, stating she could not ask members to waive privilege without reviewing the report first. Key Outcomes - Tobacco Ordinance: The motion to introduce the ordinance amending tobacco regulations and terminate the moratorium passed unanimously. - Meeting Extension: The Council unanimously extended the meeting to 11:00 PM to allow for further discussion on the disciplinary action. - Disciplinary Motion Vote: A substitute motion was adopted with a 4-2 vote (Councilmembers Simon and Aguilar voting No; Councilmember Azevedo absent). The motion passed to: 1. Continue the Disciplinary Discussion: The item is continued to the November 17, 2025, meeting with the intent to schedule a disciplinary hearing for December 8, 2025. 2. Report Access: Councilmembers Aguilar and Simon, along with their existing attorneys, will be granted access to review the unredacted investigation report in person at City Hall before the November 17 meeting. 3. Public Release: The decision to waive attorney-client privilege and release a redacted version of the report to the public is pushed to the November 17 meeting. 4. Attorney Access: The motion was amended to confirm that existing attorneys for the accused councilmembers may review the unredacted report in person. - Restorative Dialogue: Mayor Gonzalez proposed, and Councilmembers Simon and Aguilar agreed to, a facilitated discussion or restorative justice meeting between the parties involved (subject to Brown Act compliance) to resolve differences and build trust. - Proclamation: The Council formally proclaimed November 2025 as Native American Heritage Month, acknowledging the Hul'qumi'num and Bay Miwok peoples and the Alto Indian Tribe.

The San Leandro Culture and Library Commission met on October 21, 2025, at 6:41 PM and adjourned at 7:42 PM. A quorum of five commissioners was present. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, staff reports on attendance requirements, public comments, a presentation on the San Leandro Art Walk augmented reality project, and a discussion on expanding art gallery spaces in city facilities. Consent Calendar - Minutes of September 16, 2025: Approved by unanimous vote (motion carried). Public Comments & Testimony - A community member proposed reviving the original Arts Commission concept for the Hispanic Triangle, suggesting it become a sculpture garden as a welcoming gateway to the city. - The same speaker recommended screening the documentary The Apology about Russell City at the San Leandro theater, noting it was previously shown at the Bowl Theater but deserves a new screening. Discussion Items - Library Staff Report & Announcements: Library staff announced the resignation of Commissioner Cassidy, appointed at large by the mayor, and the need for a new nominee. The attendance requirement of 75% was reiterated; failure to meet it or missing three consecutive meetings may lead to removal. Staff will contact each commissioner individually about their attendance record. - San Leandro Art Walk Presentation: Katie Bowman (Economic Development Manager) and team from 440 Creates presented an augmented reality (AR) art walk in four downtown breezeways. The project uses AR murals triggered by a smartphone app, designed to attract a younger demographic (mid-20s to late 30s). Four murals were shown: 'The Heart' (cultural heritage), 'The Dip' (industrial/natural blend), 'The Beginning' (old vs. new San Leandro), and a whimsical piece with a Jack-in-the-Box theme. The murals are 4x8 feet, with a 10-foot viewing runway. The contract includes a subscription fee and a per-scan cost (approximately half a penny per scan), with a budget for 10,000 scans over six months. The goal is to launch before 'It's a Wonderful Night' in early December 2025. The backend animation can be updated seasonally. - Action Item 7a: Quality of Life Priority – Expand Utilization of Art Gallery Spaces: Susan Hughes (Adult Services Librarian) presented three deliverables under City Council Priority 3 (Arts Initiative): (1) identify city facilities that can function as gallery spaces, (2) identify local agencies and artists to submit exhibits, and (3) facilitate public art receptions. Deliverables have deadlines through July 2026. She asked the commission for input on desired art mediums, potential local artists, and possible future funding from the commission. Commissioners suggested diverse mediums (3D sculptures, fiber arts, performing arts like music and dance, poetry), youth involvement (K-12), and use of existing resources like plywood art from the Black Lives Matter movement. The commission expressed support and offered to help with artist outreach and potential grant funding. Key Outcomes - Arts Endowment Committee: The committee reported no meetings and was effectively disbanded, with future attention focused on the 1% for arts development initiative before the City Council's rules committee. Commissioners will be alerted to submit public comments in favor. - Grants Committee Report: The committee met to revise the arts and culture grant program for its third year. Changes include: reducing the maximum grant from two tiers ($5,000 individuals, $10,000 organizations) to a flat $5,000 for all applicants due to a $30,000 allocation; simplifying applications with a glossary and clearer instructions; and offering guidelines in Spanish and Chinese upon request, with applications required in English. The timeline for the next grant cycle is approximately February 2026. - Future Agenda Item: A commissioner proposed a brainstorming session on no-cost or low-cost arts, culture, and library projects. Staff agreed to agendize this for a future meeting to generate ideas from both commissioners and the public.

The Finance Committee convened to review and recommend approval of fiscal year carryover appropriations and discuss proposed changes to the city's investment policy. Presentations were made by finance staff and an external asset management consultant, with committee members engaging in detailed discussions on investment strategies and risks. Consent Calendar - Request for approval of one-time carryover appropriations from fiscal year 2025 to 2026, totaling approximately $3 million for the general fund and $1.459 million for non-general funds (including special revenue, enterprise, and internal service funds). The request, presented by Assistant Finance Director Felicia Silva, was described as a routine reappropriation of previously approved council initiatives. The committee reached consensus to recommend approval. Discussion Items - Review of the city's investment policy statement was presented by Monique Spike from PFM Asset Management. Proposed changes aim to align with California government code, increase clarity, and expand investment opportunities in agency mortgage-backed securities and municipal obligations. Council members raised questions and concerns: one member expressed skepticism about the risk associated with mortgage-backed securities, noting that higher returns typically imply more risk and requesting further understanding. Another member inquired about the definition and purpose of the benchmark, highlighting concerns about always meeting the benchmark and its implications for portfolio management. The consultant explained the rationale for shifting from a one-to-three-year Treasury index to a zero-to-five-year Treasury index to capture higher yields while managing risk. Key Outcomes - The committee reached consensus to recommend approval of the carryover appropriations. - The committee reached consensus to move forward with the proposed changes to the investment policy, with plans to bring it to the full council for adoption in November or December 2025. Staff committed to providing a liquidity analysis in a future quarterly report. - A scheduling note was discussed: the finance committee meeting on November 19, 2025, will proceed as planned despite some members attending a conference.

The Senior Commission convened for its regular meeting, focusing on departmental updates, a presentation on a home-sharing program, and planning for age-friendly initiatives. City staff reported on budget constraints, emergency siren repairs, and upcoming community events. The commission also honored a departing member. Consent Calendar - Items 3A and 3B were bundled and approved unanimously via roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present, and no e-comments were submitted. Discussion Items City Staff Reports - Emergency Sirens: Staff reported the city's emergency sirens are not working; repairs are a costly project on the city's list. - City Budget: The city is in a structural deficit, requiring cuts for fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27. All departments have been asked to identify reductions. - Landscaping: An assessment of the Senior Center's irrigation system is planned before phased plant replacement, due to budget constraints. - Downtown Safety Ambassadors: The program scope is unchanged, but staffing shortages have slowed operations. Staff agreed to explore posting the ambassador phone number in the downtown area. - Diwali Event: An announcement was made for a Diwali cultural event on October 11 at the Manor Branch Library. - LOUEL Interim Housing Data: Over half of interim housing residents and a significant portion of drop-in center users are age 45 and older. Tours of the center are not currently available. - Resource Cards: Small business-card-sized resource guides for homeless services are available and preferred over larger pamphlets. - Halloween Event: A Halloween Bingo event is scheduled for October 31 at the Senior Center. - Center Monitor: The IT department is investigating systems to activate the center's display monitor for promotional content, citing potential cost and technical needs. Home Match Presentation - Rachel Matthews, Director of Home Match Alameda County, presented on the home-sharing program. She described it as a homelessness prevention tool that matches homeowners with rooms to spare with individuals seeking housing. - Key Program Aspects: Includes compatibility matching, background checks, lease agreements, and ongoing mediation support. The program is free and funded in part by the City of San Leandro. - Commissioner Feedback: Multiple commissioners expressed support for the program, sharing positive anecdotes and asking detailed questions about operations, including working with students, situations after a homeowner's death, and contracts for multiple tenants or ADUs. Age-Friendly Initiative Updates - Pedro Hernandez provided updates on the six priority areas of the age-friendly action plan. - Plan Sustainability: Webpage development is ongoing, with plans to include an AI chat function. Participation in the county Age-Friendly Council continues. - Outreach: Staff will table at upcoming community events, including a Spooktober event and the VASIB Fall Health Fair. - Training: All public-facing staff are now CPR/First Aid certified. - Personal Protection: A walking assessment report with UC Berkeley is complete; next steps include technical assistance. A contract with MB Transportation for emergency shuttle services is executed. An emergency preparedness workshop and the Great Shakeout drill are scheduled for October. - Housing Security: Highlighted the Home Match presentation as an initiative under this priority. - Health & Wellness: Dementia care training sessions for caregivers are scheduled for October. - Transportation: A contract with Citiair for the Ride Care volunteer transportation program is executed; they will present in November. An assessment and redesign of the senior shuttle program is underway with a consultant. - Social Connection: Planning for monthly senior day trips using MB Transportation shuttles. The department recently participated in the Oakland Zoo Senior Living Festival. League of Women Voters Forum - Commissioner Shalini proposed having the League of Women voters provide unbiased voter information to seniors. Suggestions included setting up a table at the upcoming Senior Expo in December or incorporating them into a resource fair. Commissioner Comments and Announcements - Commissioner McHenry: Announced this was his final meeting after nine years of service, expressing appreciation for his colleagues. - Other Comments: Commissioners shared ideas including: a mobile grocery store concept for seniors (inspired by a Danish model), inviting the former lunch vendor to a meeting, confirming the annual Thanksgiving luncheon, and facilitating senior story recording for the America250 project. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Motion to bundle and approve items 3A and 3B carried unanimously. - December Meeting: Motion to cancel the December 2025 meeting carried unanimously. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 11:55 a.m. - Directives and Next Steps: - Staff to explore posting Downtown Safety Ambassador contact information publicly. - Staff to share information about dementia training sessions. - Citiair (Ride Care) to present at the November commission meeting. - Consultant to assess and redesign the senior shuttle program, with findings to be presented in the future. - The League of Women Voters' involvement to be coordinated, potentially at the December Senior Expo. - The commission will consider integrating senior story recording for the America250 project.

The San Leandro City Council met on October 21, 2025, handling routine consent items, extensive public comments, and detailed presentations on the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) implementation and progress updates for Quality of Life and Economic Development council priority work plans. The meeting also included a corrective action on the city manager's salary and council reports featuring serious allegations of misconduct. Consent Calendar - Motion by Councilmember Aguilar, seconded by Councilmember Vivero Swalton, to approve the consent calendar, including item 5e on the rent registry. The motion passed unanimously after a brief discussion on enforcement concerns. Public Comments & Testimony - Douglas Spalding: Expressed full support for the rent registry but raised concerns about potential landlord boycotts and enforcement. Also discussed housing protections and critiqued simplistic supply-demand arguments in housing policy. - Mitch Heidemach: Questioned the timeline of a city investigation and requested that the report include information on any delays or obstacles. - Mads Jewel: Shared personal neighborhood disputes involving lights and cameras, and praised the San Leandro Police Department. - Alvaro Ramos: Asked about the inclusion of white-collar crime in NIBRS data and expressed concerns about bias against working-class and poor people. Discussion Items - NIBRS Implementation Presentation: Consultant Ed Clotton, introduced by Acting Police Chief Torres, explained the transition from the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program to NIBRS, which provides more comprehensive crime data. Council members inquired about data accuracy, public perception, and implementation challenges. - Quality of Life and Economic Development Updates: Staff from various departments presented progress on council priority work plans, including arts grants, cultural programs, tree planting initiatives, volunteer opportunities, health and senior services, and economic development strategies such as innovation growth and small business support. - City Council Reports: Vice Mayor Bowen raised allegations of bullying behavior by Councilmembers Aguilar and Simon, requesting disciplinary action and transparency in the investigation process. Other council members reported on community events and engagements. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - Resolution to amend the master salary schedule to correct the city manager's salary, passed with a 6-0-1 vote (Councilmember Vivero Swalton absent). - No other formal decisions or votes were recorded during the discussed items, but significant discussions on NIBRS and priority work plans were noted.

The San Leandro City Council held a lengthy public meeting primarily dedicated to reviewing a draft Residential Rent Stabilization Ordinance. Staff presented the draft, which followed extensive public outreach, and sought council direction on three key policy questions: the annual rent increase cap, potential exemptions for small property owners, and the structure of capital improvement cost recovery. After a detailed presentation, council questions, and substantial public comment from both tenants and housing providers, the council gave majority direction to staff to revise the draft with specific parameters for further review. Public Comments & Testimony - Tenants and Advocates (Supporting Strong Protections): Multiple speakers expressed support for a rent stabilization ordinance, arguing it is necessary for housing stability and to prevent displacement. Specific positions included: support for capping annual increases at 3% or 60-65% of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower; opposition to capital improvement pass-throughs; and opposition to exempting small 'mom and pop' landlords. Concerns were raised about affordability, fear of retaliation from landlords, and the financial strain of unpredictable rent increases. - Housing Providers and Business Representatives (Opposing or Seeking Modifications): Speakers from landlord associations, small property owners, and the Chamber of Commerce expressed opposition or concern. Key positions included: arguing the ordinance is redundant with state law (AB 1482), too costly, and would disincentivize housing investment and maintenance; support for keeping the existing rent review program; opposition to including a CPI metric; and requests to exempt owners of small properties (e.g., four or fewer units). Some landlords stated they do not raise rents annually or do so modestly. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Director Tom Liao): Presented the draft ordinance, detailing its purpose, covered units (over 7,600 eligible), proposed 5% annual cap, capital improvement pass-through structure, and fair return petition process. Outlined three questions for council: 1) Should the rent cap remain at 5% or include a CPI component? 2) Should small rental properties be exempted? 3) Should the capital improvement pass-through structure be changed? Also presented two preliminary program cost options ($1.4M and $1.6M). - Council Questions & Deliberation: Council members extensively questioned staff on the ordinance's mechanics, enforcement, costs, and legal risks. Key points of discussion included: the definition of a 'fair return'; the administrative burden of petitions; the potential for 'double-dipping' via tax deductions and pass-throughs; and the lack of specific displacement data to quantify the problem. - Council Member Positions: - Councilmember Viveros Walton, Aguilar, Bolt, and Simon expressed support for a lower cap (in the 3% to 3.75% range) tied to a percentage of CPI (e.g., 65%), elimination of the tiered capital improvement pass-through in favor of a uniform fair return process, and no broad exemptions for small property owners. - Vice Mayor Bowen was open to a compromise, mentioning a 4% cap, saw potential benefits in banking unused increases, and was more open to considering exemptions for very small providers. - Councilmember Azevedo supported a CPI-based cap (e.g., 3.75%), no pass-throughs, and expressed interest in means-testing. - Mayor Gonzalez defended the original 5% cap as a compromise position, emphasized the need to consider policy elements (like banking) as an interdependent package, advocated for means-testing to target aid, and cautioned against rushing without data from the new rent registry. Key Outcomes - Direction to Staff: By majority consensus, the council directed staff to revise the draft ordinance with the following parameters: 1. Set the annual rent increase cap between 3% and 3.75%, specifically incorporating a limit of 60-65% of the regional Consumer Price Index (CPI). 2. Eliminate the proposed tiered capital improvement pass-through. Cost recovery for improvements should be handled solely through the fair return petition process for all property sizes. 3. Do not create broad exemptions based on property size ('mom and pop' exemptions). 4. Do not include rent banking (accumulating unused increases). 5. Do not include means-testing based on tenant income. - Next Steps: Staff will incorporate this feedback and the extensive public comments into a revised draft. A deeper analysis of program costs and further policy discussion is scheduled for a council work session on December 8th, with a first reading of the ordinance anticipated in Spring 2026.

The board of directors for the San Leandro Hillside Geological Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) met on October 7, 2025, to consider initiating dissolution proceedings. Staff presented the district's history, unfunded status, and survey results from property owners, recommending dissolution to mitigate city liability and administrative burdens. The board engaged in discussion and reached a unanimous decision. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Erwin Chang, agent for the district, outlined the GHAD's formation after 1998 landslides, repairs using grant funds, and depletion of funds after 2022 erosion control. He reported survey results: only 7 of 26 property owners showed interest in assessment levies, and less than 50% objected to dissolution. Staff expressed support for initiating dissolution to reduce legal risks to the city. - Board Deliberation: - Director Simon asked about outstanding slope repairs and property owner awareness, noting concern about city liability if deficiencies persist. - Director Viverous Walton inquired about property disclosure requirements and suggested enhanced communication, such as detailed notices or virtual meetings, to improve owner understanding. - Director Azevedo highlighted the low survey response rate, emphasizing the need for better outreach. - The city attorney stated that the dissolution process is part of legal risk mitigation, and if GHAD remains, responsibilities will be clarified to property owners. Key Outcomes - Decision: The board voted unanimously to adopt staff's recommendation to initiate dissolution proceedings and set a public hearing for November 17, 2025. - Vote Tally: All directors voted in favor (ayes). - Directives: Staff was directed to include more context, like presentation links, in notices to property owners and ensure meeting information is accessible on the Meeting Central platform under all meetings search.