Public Meetings - Walnut Creek, California

The Walnut Creek Arts Commission held a regular meeting on Monday, April 21, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 6:56 PM in the Council Chamber. All commissioners were present (Commissioner Baltazar arrived at 6:14 PM). The meeting covered election of officers, approval of prior minutes, consideration of fee changes for FY 2026/27, and updates on public art projects and the Lesher Center strategic plan. Consent Calendar - Approval of January 27, 2025 Minutes: Motion by Klauber, second by Magnani, carried unanimously (7 yeas: Baltazar, Dresser, Klauber, Magnani, Tesfay; Perelman preferential vote YEA). The minutes were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No oral in-person public comments were made. Chair Dresser opened and closed the public comment period with no speakers. Discussion Items - Election of Chair & Vice-Chair: - Motion by Dresser, second by Klauber, to elect Vice-Chair Baltazar as Chair. Unanimous (7 yeas). - Motion by Dresser, second by Klauber, to elect Commissioner Magnani as Vice-Chair. Unanimous (7 yeas). - Chair Baltazar arrived and assumed the chair; Vice-Chair Magnani presided during the interim. - Consideration of Proposed Changes to FY 26/27 Fees & Charges for Arts Related Programs: - Staff presentation by Kevin Gordon (Business Manager, Arts and Recreation Department). Key proposed changes included: - Eliminating set fees for Bedford Gallery public art walking tours in favor of a "pay what you can" model, following the success of a similar model for admissions (which saw a 50% increase in revenue). - Expanding fee ranges for season subscriptions, equipment rentals, and advertising packages at the Lesher Center. - Eliminating telephone and online order fees to comply with SB 478 (Honest Pricing Law); these fees are now included in advertised ticket prices. - Increasing the minimum rental hour requirement for the Vukasin Theater to align with standard event rental periods. - Reducing the minimum rental fee for Rudney Plaza (from $1,000 to $600) to accommodate smaller events. - Removing the photo shoot backdrop fee at Bedford Gallery due to non-use and potential copyright issues. - Setting the concession fee at 0% (previously 15%) based on a successful pilot. - Commissioners asked detailed questions about revenue impacts, implementation logistics, fee range justifications, and specific items (e.g., gallery outreach presentations, resale merchandise, artist commissions). Staff and Emily Anders (Bedford Gallery Curator) provided responses. - Motion by Magnani, second by Dresser, to accept the proposed changes as part of the FY 26/27 budget process and forward to City Council. Unanimous (7 yeas). - Public Art Projects Report (presented by Mariah, Public Art Manager): - Hand of Peace mosaic at Civic Park completed biennial maintenance over three days at a cost of just over $15,000 (previously approved in 2023). Loose tesserae were re-grouted, base stucco repaired and resealed. - 2025 public art walking tour season launched with 41 participants on the first tour, significantly higher than typical April numbers. - Heather Farm Park project: meetings with architects and artists ongoing; staff in contract process. - Downtown Big Belly receptacles: Walnut Creek Downtown Association has selected artists for rewrapping; project done in collaboration with Recycle Smart and city departments; rollout in phases starting with 10 units. - Lesher Center Strategic Plan Update (presented by staff): - New ticketing software launched, resulting in significant staff time savings (e.g., season subscription seat assignments completed in one day vs. multiple weeks). - Partnership announced with SF Jazz for a headliner series (4-5 productions next season). - Presentation to City Council scheduled for May 20, 2025, summarizing strategic plan progress over the last three years. - Staff Announcements: - Center Rep's season closing with "Happy Pleasant Valley, a Senior Sex Scandal Murder Mystery Musical" (world premiere, June 1). - Headliner series: Fiesta Cultural featuring Mariachi Reina de los Angeles (June 13) and free street fair (June 14). - Bedford Gallery spring exhibition "Limitless: Celebrating Artists with Disabilities" (65 artists, 177 works) now open; will travel nationally. Upcoming workshops (lino cut printing, freestyle art) and Pride Day events (June 7). - Commissioners’ Announcements: Commissioners shared cultural activities attended, including the Limitless show, Berkeley Rep's "Here There Are Blueberries," and upcoming community events (Beautiful Resistance March, LGBTQIA+ town hall, May Day events). One commissioner noted leading a painting class at Central California Women's Prison. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the January 27, 2025 minutes. - Election of Sarah Baltazar as Chair and Peter Magnani as Vice-Chair (both unanimous). - Unanimous acceptance of the proposed fee and charge changes for FY 26/27 for arts-related programs, to be forwarded to the City Council for approval as part of the budget process. - The public art walking tour season launch saw strong early attendance (41 participants). - The new Lesher Center ticketing system is operational with demonstrated efficiency gains. - Next meeting: Not specified; future presentations to Council on May 20 for the Lesher Center strategic plan.

Discrepancy Note: The published agenda stated the meeting was cancelled due to no business. However, the raw transcript shows that the meeting did occur, with a quorum present and formal actions taken. The following summary is based on the transcript. Consent Calendar - No items were considered under the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Master Sign Program (MSP) for 1904 Olympic Boulevard: - Staff presented a request for a new Master Sign Program for the building at 1904 Olympic Boulevard. The MSP would include a table of contents, criteria for sign use, design guidelines, and location maps. Six sign locations were identified, with signs being non‑illuminated, aluminum‑backed, and totaling just over 12 square feet. Letter heights could be up to 16 inches (logos up to 20 inches). A CEQA exemption (Class 15301, existing facilities) was recommended. - A subcommittee member noted that flexibility was offered to the applicant but not chosen; no other issues were raised. - The commission asked no additional questions of staff or the applicant. - Commission Considerations – Science Subcommittee: - Commissioners volunteered to serve on a science subcommittee. Commissioner Riley and Vice Chair Basting offered to continue serving. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve MSP and CEQA Exemption: Commissioner Riley moved to adopt the resolution approving the new Master Sign Program for 1904 Olympic Boulevard, subject to the standard conditions of approval, and to approve the CEQA exemption (15301). Commissioner Case seconded. - Vote: The motion carried 4‑0 (Chair Newsom, Vice Chair Basting, Commissioner Riley, Commissioner Case all voting yes). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned immediately after the vote and brief announcements. No further business was conducted. Note: The remainder of the transcript (beginning with the mayor’s message and state‑of‑the‑city event) pertains to a separate, unrelated gathering and is not part of the Design Review Commission meeting.

The Walnut Creek City Council held a special closed session at 5:00 PM followed by a regular meeting at 6:00 PM on April 15, 2025, in the Council Chamber at City Hall. All five councilmembers were present: Mayor Cindy Darling, Mayor Pro Tem Kevin Wilk, Councilmembers Craig DeVinney, Matt Francois, and Cindy Silva. The regular meeting included presentations, public hearings, and a briefing, concluding at 9:06 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (5-0) the consent calendar comprising nine items: - Approval of April 1, 2025 City Council minutes. - Acceptance of warrant registers (March 28, April 4, 2025) and direct payroll transfers (April 4, 2025). - Adoption of Resolution No. 25-15 accepting a Grant of Easement for Emergency Vehicle Access at 2800 Mitchell Drive. - Adoption of Resolution No. 25-16 declaring support for preserving the federal tax exemption of municipal bonds. - Adoption of Resolution No. 25-17 declaring support for the Acalanes Union High School District's Measure T parcel tax. - Acceptance of work for Contract 24-01 (Overlook Storm Drain project) and authorization to file Notice of Completion. - Acceptance of $71,000 Community Development Block Grant for Civic Park Community Center patio replacement. - Authorization to transfer approximately $789,878 in unused project funds to the Traffic Impact Fee Fund. - Adoption of a proclamation declaring April 2025 as Fair Housing Month. - Public comment was received from Stacey Schweppe (Walnut Creek resident) in support of Measure T (Consent Item 2e), stating the parcel tax would advance academic programs and maintain high-quality schools. Public Comments & Testimony - Stacey Schweppe (Consent Calendar): Expressed strong support for Measure T, noting it helps attract qualified teachers, maintain class sizes, and provide academic services. - Steve Elster (Friends of Walnut Creek) (under Builder’s Remedy): Argued that the city’s housing element was substantially compliant as of August 1, 2023, based on HCD’s later certification, and urged the council to consider court challenge to the builder’s remedy application. - Charles Kreling (Walnut Creek resident) (under Builder’s Remedy): Questioned why the city was legally vulnerable, what could have been done differently, and suggested the state may have acted in bad faith. Discussion Items - Water District Presentations: Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) Division 3 Director/President Ernesto Avila and East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) Ward 2 Director Luz Gomez provided updates on water supply, infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and rates. CCWD noted 99% of water comes from the Bureau of Reclamation, plans to pipe the aging canal ($1.5+ billion), and that water conservation has kept consumption flat despite population growth. EBMUD highlighted its 1.4 million customers, planned rate increases of approximately 12–14 cents per day per median household (FY26-27), and a Walnut Creek Water Pre-treatment project (construction 2027-2030). Both agencies emphasized seismic resilience and mutual aid connections. - Public Hearing – TEFRA Revenue Bonds (699 Ygnacio Valley Road): Housing Analyst Jennifer Llamas and CMFA Financial Advisor Jarod Suzuki presented a request for the California Municipal Finance Authority to issue up to $65 million in tax-exempt revenue bonds to finance a 93-unit affordable housing project (“Civic Crossing”) by Resources for Community Development (RCD). The city has no financial obligation. No public comments were heard. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-18 approving the bond issuance carried unanimously (5-0). Financial closing is scheduled for May 15, 2025, with construction to start shortly after. - Public Hearing – Off-Street Parking and TDM Ordinance: Assistant Planner Henry Rood presented a zoning amendment to lower minimum parking requirements in the Multiple-Family Residential Zone, implementing “Flexible Demand” (Option C) as directed by council on April 1, 2025. New minima: 0.5 spaces for studios, 1.0 for one-bedroom, 1.25 for units with two or more bedrooms. Staff found current requirements produce 50% excess parking across study sites. No public comments were made. Motion to waive reading and introduce the ordinance (with an addendum) carried unanimously (5-0). A second reading is scheduled for May 6, 2025. - Consideration – Builder’s Remedy Process Briefing: Community Development Director Erika Vandenbrande, with City Attorney Steve Mattas, provided a general overview of state Builder’s Remedy law (California Housing Accountability Act), unrelated to any specific project. They detailed the timeline of Walnut Creek’s housing element adoption and HCD certification, noting the city’s housing element was adopted January 24, 2023, submitted January 27, 2023, and certified by HCD on October 24, 2023, after several addendums. The briefing explained that a Builder’s Remedy project applies when a jurisdiction lacks a substantially compliant housing element; the city received one such application (Mitchell Townhomes, 422 units, 13% affordable) on October 18, 2023, during the gap. Councilmembers expressed frustration with HCD’s process and changing requirements. Motion to receive the report carried unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 5-0 (Resolution Nos. 25-15, 25-16, 25-17; proclamation adopted). - TEFRA Bonds – Resolution No. 25-18 adopted 5-0, authorizing up to $65 million in bonds for the 93-unit Civic Crossing affordable housing project. - Parking Ordinance – Introduced 5-0; second reading set for May 6, 2025. - Builder’s Remedy Briefing – Received 5-0; no further action taken. - Closed Session – Held as noticed regarding security/safety training for public facilities; no report out. - Staff Announcement – City Manager Dan Buckshi announced unscheduled vacancies on city commissions (Design Review, Planning Commission alternate, Library Commission, Building Appeals Board); applications due May 12, 2025.

The Planning Commission met on April 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at 1666 North Main Street, Walnut Creek. The primary item was a public hearing on a Special Use Permit (SUP) for a temporary MRI trailer at the UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital. The Commission also heard procedural announcements and a farewell to departing Commissioner Melissa Ward. Discussion Items - UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Temporary MRI Trailer (SUP Y25-006): The applicant, represented by Michael Valero (construction project manager) and Liz Epstein (special projects), requested a Special Use Permit to place a temporary MRI trailer in the parking lot at 2401 Shadelands Drive while the interior MRI suite is renovated. The trailer would occupy approximately 28 parking spaces, with hours of operation Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff senior planner Jessica Gonzalez presented the proposal, recommending an 18-month approval (instead of the requested 12 months) to accommodate potential construction delays. Two barrier options were presented: chain-link fencing with a vinyl wrap (showing a colorful butterfly/children’s graphic) or white water-filled K-rails. The applicant preferred the chain-link fence with the graphic wrap, and several Commissioners expressed support for the bright, child-friendly design. Safety concerns were raised regarding vehicle impact; the applicant offered to add K-rails behind the fence for extra protection. Commissioner Strongman also suggested verifying turning radii for delivery vehicles to avoid hitting the fence. The Commission discussed and supported the project. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve: Commissioner Strongman moved to adopt the draft resolution with two corrections: (1) correct the facility name to “Walnut Creek Pediatric Outpatient Center of UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital,” and (2) change the SUP expiration date to October 2026 (18 months from approval). The motion also included deleting Condition 4, which required neutral paint on the trailer, to allow the proposed vinyl wrap. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Andersson. Voting 6-0 in favor (Commissioners Strongman, Kwok, Ward, Clopp, Nieting, Andersson; Commissioner Reiser absent). The Special Use Permit was approved. - Farewell to Commissioner Melissa Ward: Chair Strongman acknowledged Commissioner Ward’s service (over 11 years on commissions, including Transportation and Planning). Commissioners shared personal remarks, and Ward gave a farewell speech thanking staff, the City Council, and fellow commissioners. She is moving to Alameda. - Procedural Announcements: Chair Strongman outlined new practices for future meetings, including allowing commissioner questions of public speakers and ensuring discussion after motions. He also noted upcoming vacancies and the need for a quorum (4 of 5 members) at future meetings. - Upcoming Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 24, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

The Park, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Commission held a regular meeting on Monday, April 7, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chamber. The meeting was chaired by Vice Chair Jason Cooke (acting) due to the absence of Chair Brendan Moran. The meeting addressed the election of new officers, a consent calendar, a presentation on open space weed abatement, and three major consideration items: recreation fee changes, trail committee updates, and playground replacements. The meeting adjourned at 7:58 PM. Opening & Election - Roll call: All commissioners were present except Chair Brendan Moran. - Election of Chair and Vice Chair: Commissioner Fran Garland nominated Jason Cooke for Chair, seconded by Commissioner Art Oller. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). Commissioner Cooke then nominated Sharon Pinkstaff for Vice Chair, seconded by Commissioner Garland; the motion also carried unanimously (4-0). Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the February 3, 2025, regular meeting. - Accepted the Facility Rentals Annual Report for April 7, 2025. - Motion by Commissioner Oller, second by Commissioner Garland, carried unanimously (4-0). No public comments were received. Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara Ginos (resident since 1996) expressed concerns about city staff selectively implementing the 2020 Trail Committee document, lack of community input on open space plans, lack of enforcement of rules/citations, and absence of a volunteer patrol program. She urged commissioners to fulfill their advisory role and ensure citizen comments are considered. No other public comments were offered on non-agenda items. Presentation: Open Space Annual Weed Abatement Program - Mike Vickers (Assistant Public Works Director) presented a detailed overview of the city’s vegetation management program. - Fire breaks: Approximately 78 miles of fire breaks are maintained annually using disking (18 miles, minimum 40–70 feet wide), mechanical mowing, and string trimming (11 miles of hand abatement, 25 miles of single-track trail trimming). - Fuel load grazing: Cattle graze over 50% of Shell Ridge, 30–40% of Lime Ridge, and 80% of Sugarloaf. Goat grazing at Oka Lani expanded to 15 acres. Rotational grazing has been abandoned due to vandalism (electric fence cutting) and difficulty finding ranchers; traditional roaming resumed from late May through October. - Fuel reduction project (new): In response to the governor’s March 1 state of emergency proclamation, staff will remove dead vegetation (6 inches or less in diameter) within a 200-foot perimeter around open space boundaries. This work will take multiple years. - Deadlines: Weed abatement is typically required by June 1–7, subject to extension by the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District. Inspections are largely complaint-driven. - Commissioner questions: Commissioner Oller asked about fire road maintenance (annual smoothing) and enforcement; Vickers confirmed the city now handles fire road grading internally. Commissioner Pinkstaff inquired about reporting requirements for the fuel reduction project; Vickers stated no formal report is required. Consideration Items a. Proposed Changes to FY26-27 Recreation Fees & Charges - Kevin Gordon (Arts + Recreation Business Manager) presented proposed updates to the Master Fee Schedule, including eliminating certain fee categories, creating new ones (e.g., synthetic turf field rental, children under two aquatics fee), increasing ranges to accommodate rising costs (particularly mandated minimum wage increases), and modifying minimum rental hour requirements for facilities to anticipate the Heather Farm Community Center demolition. - A new synthetic turf field rental category was added for Heather Farm fields 1 and 2 (conversion expected fall 2025). - Commissioner comments: Commissioner Oller noted that rental minimums in red (e.g., 3–4 hours for larger facilities) could conflict with the “minimum two hours” header; Vickers agreed to add clarifying language. Commissioner Oller also asked about pickleball court fees at Heather Farm; Gordon and Recreation Manager Jim Carlson stated they would follow up with Lifetime Tennis to clarify the fee structure. Commissioner Pinkstaff confirmed that AquaBears, Aquanuts, Masters, and Walnut Creek Swim Club fees are set by separate contracts not included in this schedule. Commissioner Sasser asked about comparability surveys; Gordon responded that nearby municipalities (Danville, Concord, Alamo) are used for benchmarking. - Commission action: Motion by Commissioner Oller to accept the report and forward to City Council with the discussed changes, second by Commissioner Garland. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). No formal action beyond this referral. b. Walnut Creek Trail Committee Update – Unsanctioned Trails - Mike Vickers provided an update on the implementation status of the 17 recommendations from the 2020 Trail Committee report. The first seven are completed or ongoing; items 8–12 are in progress (including trail evaluation); items 13–17 are not yet started (e.g., volunteer patrol program). - Two unsanctioned trails are being evaluated for potential sanctioning: 1. Lime Ridge trail (approx. 1 mile): Multi-use, in use since the 1990s. Staff plan to install stairs (6–7 stairs) for pedestrians and a separate bike ramp, add barriers to close spur trails, and address safety after a serious accident in 2024. It will remain multi-use. 2. Shell Ridge trail (approx. 0.5–0.75 miles): A cut-through between Hannon Lane Trail and Costanoan Trail (offering a shorter 1.5-mile hike). The trail is only 2 feet wide with steep slopes; staff recommend pedestrian-only use due to safety concerns. - Vickers noted these are operational decisions; commissioner input was sought. Public comment: Barbara Ginos opposed the Lime Ridge trail, citing erosion risks, wildfire history (September 2024 fire near the area), vandalism, illegal bike jumps, and a 2023 fatality. - No formal action taken; the item was informational only. c. Playground Equipment Replacement Project at Civic Park and Waldon Park - Mike Vickers presented renderings and options for replacing aging playground equipment at both parks, funded by $500,000 from the 2024-25 Capital Budget (In-Lieu Parkland Funds). - Civic Park: Three options (A, B, C) for two playground zones (ages 2–5 and 5–12). Swings (including a new generational swing) will be retained. All options include bark surfacing (meets ADA requirements). The sand pit and train at Civic Park will remain; water features may be updated. Option costs range from approximately $450,000 to $500,000 (including synthetic turf in a muddy area). - Waldon Park: Three options for the 5–12 area (ranging $200,000–$250,000) plus a separate $40,000–$50,000 upgrade to the sand play area (ages 2–5) with a new water source. Swings (including a generational swing) will be kept. Costs are lower due to smaller park size and space constraints from state safety buffer requirements. - Public outreach plan: Staff will conduct pop-up tables at the parks, an online survey, and attend farmers’ markets and First Wednesdays events (starting within 30 days). Feedback will be brought back to the commission for further direction before bidding (likely late fall 2025). - Commissioner questions: Commissioner Garland asked about surfacing; Vickers confirmed bark meets ADA but noted resilient surfacing at Heather Farm costs nearly $1 million to replace. Commissioner Konson asked about permanent features (sand pit, train, boulders); Vickers said they will be retained or improved. Commissioner Oller praised the water addition for the Waldon sand area. - Commission feedback: General support for the approach. No formal action taken; staff will proceed with public outreach and return for further direction. Key Outcomes - Officer elections completed: Jason Cooke elected Chair, Sharon Pinkstaff elected Vice Chair for 2025-26 (both votes 4-0). - Consent Calendar approved unanimously. - Recreation fee referral: A motion to forward the proposed FY26-27 fee changes (with minor language edits) to City Council was approved unanimously (4-0). - Trail update received: No action taken; staff will continue evaluation of the two unsanctioned trails. - Playground project advanced: Staff will begin public outreach on playground options and return to the commission with community feedback before proceeding to bid. - Staff reports noted: Construction on Tice Valley lighting began April 7; synthetic turf at Heather Farm starts next Monday; aquatic center permitting ongoing; tennis court resurfacing at Arbolado and Rudgear scheduled for July; Sutherland/Fossil Hill pilot program continues with mixed feedback.

The regular meeting of the Design Review Commission scheduled for Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. was cancelled due to no business to conduct. The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 16, 2025. No actions were taken. Note: The official agenda states the meeting was cancelled. The provided raw transcription contains content that appears to be from a different meeting or includes extraneous material (e.g., discussion of a master sign program, a mayor's update, and a state of the city event) which is not part of this cancelled meeting. This discrepancy is noted per accuracy rules.

This meeting consisted of a 4:00 PM special closed session and a 6:00 PM regular session. The Council approved consent items (including a $800,962 slurry seal contract and a $187,500 theater production), held a public hearing to levy annual assessments for two downtown business improvement districts, and directed staff to bring forward a revised parking ordinance (Option C: Flexible Demand) for a future public hearing. Councilmember Francois was absent due to a work conflict. Consent Calendar The consent calendar included approval of March 18, 2025 minutes; acceptance of warrant registers and payroll transfers; acceptance of work for the Lesher Center Automation System Replacement project; authorization of a $157,302 engineering agreement for Ygnacio Valley Road Rehabilitation; and acceptance of the December 2024 investment and pension trust report. Items 2c (2025 Slurry Seal project) and 2e (Pemberley Productions agreement for "The Woman in Black") were pulled for separate discussion. - Item 2c: Awarded to Pavement Coatings Co. for $725,962 plus a $75,000 contingency, total $800,962, with a $95,000 budget transfer. Motion passed 4-0. - Item 2e: Authorized an agreement with Pemberley Productions, LLC for up to $187,500 for a co-production of "The Woman in Black" at the 300-seat Margaret Lesher Theater. Motion passed 3-1 (Councilmember Wilk opposed, citing concerns about budget cuts and lack of local casting; other members noted the strategic plan and projected positive returns). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received during the public communications portion or on any individual agenda item. Discussion Items - Closed Session Announcement: City Attorney Steve Mattas reported that by a 4-0 vote, the Council directed staff to resume litigation against Windsor Capital Group, Inc. - Proclamations and Presentations: - National Library Week (April 6–12, 2025): Library managers shared statistics—countywide circulation up 4%, e-circulation up 18%, visits up 6%, virtual use up 22%. The Walnut Creek Library opened 15 years ago (July 2010); the Ygnacio Valley Library turns 50 in September 2025. - Cleaner Contra Costa Month: The city recognized Sustainable Contra Costa; 930 Walnut Creek households have saved 350,000 lbs of GHG, 430,000 gallons of water, and $78,500 in energy costs since 2019. - National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 13–19): Recognized dispatchers; the observance originated in Contra Costa County in 1981. - Councilmember Reports: Councilmember Wilk reported that County Connection’s zero-emission bus transition faces delays due to federal grant denials and supplier issues; the inductive charging system at Walnut Creek BART is non-functional. Councilmember Darling reported MCE kept electric rates flat for most customers but raised demand charges for medium-sized commercial accounts. - Public Hearing – Business Improvement District Assessments: The Council held a public hearing and adopted Resolution 25-13 (Downtown BID) and Resolution 25-14 (South BID) for FY 2026, each with a 3% assessment increase. No written protests were received; both passed 4-0. - Parking Ordinance Update (Rightsize Parking Study): Assistant Planner Henry Rood presented four policy options to reduce minimum parking requirements for new multifamily/mixed-use developments outside the ½-mile BART transit zone (where state law already eliminates minimums). The options ranged from the more flexible (Option A: North Downtown Specific Plan, averaging 72% of observed demand) to the most conservative (Option D: Meet Demand, averaging 104%). Council discussed trade-offs; a substitute motion by Councilmember Silva to include guest parking language died for lack of a second. The Council voted 4-0 to direct staff to bring forward Option C: Flexible Demand (0.5 space/studio, 1.0/1-bedroom, 1.25/2+ bedrooms) as the recommended policy for a public hearing and first reading of an ordinance. Key Outcomes - Closed Session: Directed resumption of litigation against Windsor Capital Group (4-0). - Consent Calendar Items (2a,b,d,f,g): Approved unanimously. - Contract 24-14 (Slurry Seal): Awarded to Pavement Coatings Co. for $800,962 (4-0). - Agreement with Pemberley Productions: Authorized at $187,500 (3-1). - BID/SBID Assessments: Resolutions 25-13 and 25-14 adopted (both 4-0). - Parking Ordinance Direction: Staff to prepare a hearing and ordinance based on Option C: Flexible Demand (4-0). - Next Steps: The parking ordinance will return for a public hearing and first reading at a future meeting, allowing Councilmember Francois to participate.

The Walnut Creek Planning Commission held a regular meeting on March 27, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The primary agenda item was the Rossmoor Pickleball Courts project, involving design review, tree removal permits, and a CEQA exemption. The commission also conducted elections for Chair and Vice Chair for the upcoming term. Consent Calendar - There were no items on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on items not on the agenda during the Public Communications period. Disclosure of Ex-Parte Communications - Chair Strongman disclosed that he is a Rossmoor resident, does not live within 1,000 feet of the planned development, and has remained neutral on the topic. Discussion Items - Rossmoor Pickleball Courts (Application No. Y23-053) - Location: 1021 Stanley Dollar Drive, a 2.4-acre site adjacent to the existing Event Center. - Proposal: Construction of a 12,309 sq. ft., six-court covered pickleball facility as an accessory use to the existing clubhouse. Includes new landscaping, lighting, tree plantings, and removal of 8 trees (2 highly protected Valley Oaks). - CEQA: Staff recommended a Class 32 (Infill) Exemption. - Staff Presentation (Gerardo Victoria): Noted over 100 emails received, 80% in support; a petition opposing the project had over 200 signatures. Noise study showed compliance with the General Plan (all residential receptors below 60 dB). - Applicant Presentation (Jeff Matheson, GRF General Manager; David Masseton, ELS Architects): Detailed site selection process, design matching the Event Center (standing seam metal roof, stucco, wood accents), acoustic measures (walls, roof, acoustic blankets). Operations hours planned 8 AM to 6 PM. - Public Speakers (in person): - Mary Rose: Raised concerns about compliance with General Plan open space protections, parking calculations, and a recent lot line adjustment. She requested denial or further staff review. - Mary Ramos, Danielle Green, Harold Kershlin, William Bollin, Katie Fox, Lou Lynn DeSilva, Kailani Komodo, Roy Young, Julie Foley, Scott Burrell, Danny Wong, Frank Reynolds, Carol Saroni, Nancy Munson, Dana Ng, Joe Hayner, Leslie Winslow, Steve Welty, Raj Gizvani: Speakers expressed both support and opposition. Supporters highlighted health benefits, community building, fundraising (e.g., $82,000 for Parkinson's), and economic value. Opponents cited noise, parking shortages, traffic, safety concerns (especially for seniors), and inadequate sound mitigation. Some requested fully enclosed building or use of quiet foam balls. - Commissioner Questions and Discussion: - Questions addressed sound study methodology, acoustic treatments (blankets, trees), and hours of operation. - Staff clarified that parking analysis was done by the Transportation Administrator and a shared parking agreement is in place; the lot line adjustment was a ministerial process; the open space ordinance allows clubhouse facilities with planning commission approval. - Applicant stated they oppose using foam balls as it changes the sport; they believe the designed structure addresses noise adequately and will respond to future complaints individually. - Motion and Vote: Commissioner Ward moved to adopt the resolution (Attachment 1) approving CEQA exemption, design review, tree removal, and tree drip line encroachment permits, with an amendment to clarify hours of operation as 8 AM to 6 PM (not dusk). The motion passed unanimously (6-0). - Election of Chair and Vice Chair - Commissioner Kwok was nominated and elected as Chair (unanimous 6-0). - Commissioner Neeting was nominated and elected as Vice Chair (unanimous 6-0). Key Outcomes - Approved the Rossmoor Pickleball Courts project (design review, tree removal, and tree drip line encroachment permits, including CEQA Class 32 Exemption) with an amendment specifying facility hours from 8 AM to 6 PM. - Elected Commissioner Kwok as Chair and Commissioner Neeting as Vice Chair for the upcoming term. - No other business was discussed; the meeting adjourned.

The Walnut Creek Transportation Commission held a regular meeting on March 20, 2025, from 6:01 PM to 8:29 PM in the Council Chamber at City Hall. Key actions included the election of a new Chair and Vice Chair, a detailed presentation on the Downtown Curbside Management Plan, and committee appointments. The meeting also featured public comments on neighborhood traffic safety and staff updates on grants and projects. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (January 16, 2025): Approved unanimously by a vote of 5-0 (Commissioner Asch motion, Commissioner Kreling second). Public Comments & Testimony - Ken Castleman and Ellen Castleman (Conejo Way residents): Expressed concerns about significant increases in traffic volume, speeding (drivers frequently exceeding 35-50 mph in a 25 mph zone), and unsafe driving on their street. They requested traffic calming measures such as permanent radar signs, speed humps, or increased police enforcement. They submitted a letter and petition with neighbor signatures. Discussion Items - Election of Chair and Vice Chair: - Commissioner Samantha Caygill was elected Chair unanimously (motion by Commissioner Asch, second by Commissioner Kreling). - Commissioner Charles Kreling was elected Vice Chair unanimously (motion by Commissioner Asch, second by Commissioner Patch). - Former Chair Rob Rees was thanked for his service. - Downtown Curbside Management Plan – Introduction: - Associate Engineer Briana Byrne presented an overview of curbside management strategies, existing city plans, and preliminary data collected via license plate readers (LPR) in fall 2024 (October) and additional holiday data in December 2024. - Key findings: On-street parking in the core downtown (Area A) reached 88% peak occupancy on weekdays (exceeding the 85% target), while city garages averaged 57% occupancy. During the holiday season, some garages (e.g., South Locust) reached 100% capacity. Average on-street parking duration was about 1 hour 20 minutes, while garage visitors stayed 2.5–3 hours. - Currently, there are approximately 1,500 on-street and 1,500 garage spaces in the study area. Monthly parking passes (600 total) are fully subscribed with a waitlist of 100–200 applicants. - Commissioners discussed: pricing strategies, employee parking programs, technology (dynamic pricing, wayfinding), pedestrian safety, parklets, and stakeholder outreach. No formal action was taken; the presentation was for feedback. - Commission Committee Appointments: - CCTA Citizens Advisory Committee: Motion to keep Commissioner Asch on the committee through his term ending in August 2025, after which the commission will revisit representation. Passed unanimously (5-0). - Shared Mobility Working Group: Dissolved and replaced with a new ad-hoc Committee on Traffic Safety, with Commissioners Patch and Rees as representatives. Passed unanimously. - Mayor's Quarterly Breakfast: Chair Caygill and Vice Chair Kreling will continue as representatives. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Elections: Samantha Caygill elected Chair, Charles Kreling elected Vice Chair. - Committee Appointments: Commissioner Asch retained on CCTA until August 2025; new Safety Committee formed with Commissioners Patch and Rees. - Staff Updates: - Public traffic requests: 263 in 2023, 277 in 2024, 59 year-to-date in 2025. - Signal upgrades: retro-reflective backings being added to all signal heads. - Grant awards: $1.9 million HSIP grant for left-turn signals on Ignacio Valley Road; $3.4 million CCTA grant for a shared mobility hub near BART; $120,000 (full requested amount) for trail crossing improvements. - Bike to Wherever Day scheduled for May 15, 2025, with a staff booth at the Iron Horse Trail crossing at Broadway and Newell. - Next Meeting: May 15, 2025.