Public Meetings - Walnut Creek, California

The Walnut Creek Planning Commission met on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting lasted until 7:40 PM. Commissioners Pamela Nieting (Chair), Brendan Moran, Cherise Khaund, and Steven Kwok were present; Vice Chair Molly P. Clopp, Commissioner Ken Strongman, and Commissioner Brandt Andersson were absent. The commission considered three public hearing items: one short-term rental application that was pulled, one short-term rental that was denied, and one restaurant alcohol hour extension that was approved. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4b (Krauss Short-Term Rental): Jan Warren, a neighbor of 40 years, expressed frustration with the city's response and noted ongoing unpermitted activity, including a car parked in front of her driveway. Jim McCamish argued that the draft resolution did not adequately demonstrate consistency with the General Plan, specifically regarding neighborhood protection. Jane McCamish reported being woken up multiple times by loud talking from the property and cited safety concerns due to the house advertised to sleep 14 people. - Item 4c (Daryoush Restaurant): No public speakers commented. Discussion Items - Item 4a (Cashion Short-Term Rental): This item was pulled from the agenda and will be rescheduled to a date uncertain. - Item 4b (Krauss Short-Term Rental, 635 Mandarin Lane): Assistant Planner Steven Cook presented the staff report. The applicant, Hector Krauss, requested a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for an unhosted short-term rental (STR) with stays up to 30 days. Staff noted the property had been operating without a permit despite multiple notices from planning and code enforcement in August 2025 and March/April 2026. The applicant gave a presentation arguing the STR benefits the local economy (citing 173 STRs in Walnut Creek generating $7.3 million annually) and emphasized noise monitors, cameras, and guest screening. Commissioners discussed the difficulty of making the required findings, especially Finding C (max stay one week) and Finding 2 (no detriment to public health/safety/welfare). Concerns about the applicant's noncompliance and lack of neighbor dialogue led Commissioner Khaund to move to deny the CUP. Staff clarified that a resolution would be brought to a future meeting to formalize the denial reasons. The motion passed 3-1 (Kwok dissenting). - Item 4c (Daryoush Restaurant, 1534 Locust Street): Senior Planner Simar Gill presented a request for a CUP to extend alcohol sales/service hours from 11:00 PM to 12:30 AM (last call) and consumption until 1:00 AM, seven days a week. The restaurant currently operates under an administrative use permit with no police calls for service. Applicant Daryoush Ermagan stated the extension would help retain customers. The commission found the application straightforward and voted unanimously to approve. Key Outcomes - Item 4b – Motion to Deny Krauss Short-Term Rental CUP: Passed 3-1 (Moran, Khaund, Nieting yes; Kwok no). A formal resolution will be presented at a later meeting to articulate the basis for denial. - Item 4c – Motion to Approve Daryoush Restaurant CUP: Passed unanimously 4-0 (all present commissioners in favor). The permit allows alcohol sales until 12:30 AM and consumption until 1:00 AM daily. - Next Meeting Notes: Staff announced that the June 11, 2026 meeting agenda is full; the June 25, 2026 meeting will be a joint commission session for the General Plan kickoff.

The Walnut Creek Transportation Commission met on May 21, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:23 PM in the Council Chamber at City Hall. Chair Crowling led the meeting with Vice Chair Patch and Commissioners Guerrero and McMahon present (Commissioners Kirsch and Ash absent). The agenda included approval of prior meeting minutes, a detailed analysis and recommendations for the city's electric vehicle (EV) charger program, an update on Bike to Wherever Day 2026, and commissioner announcements. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (March 19, 2026): The commission unanimously approved the draft minutes from the March 19, 2026 meeting. Motion by Commissioner Guerrero, seconded by Commissioner McMahon, passed 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments during the public communications period or on any agenda item. Discussion Items - EV Charger Program Analysis and Recommendations: Sustainability Manager Candace Reagan Mumby and Public Works Manager Gina Eicher presented a staff report. Currently, the city owns 40 public EV charging ports across 23 stations (downtown garages, City Hall, and Shadelands Civic Arts Center). The program costs approximately $250,000 annually ($155,000 for electricity, $60,000 for maintenance contracts, and the remainder for staff time). Key issues include aging infrastructure (some chargers are 10+ years old), lack of dedicated staff for management, poor customer service, and no centralized data tracking. Staff recommended contracting with a third-party operator who could provide 24/7 customer support, proactive maintenance, and modern data analytics, funded by charging a fee for usage. Suggested rates would be lower than neighboring cities (average 36 cents/kWh) but enough to sustain the system. The goal is to target users who cannot charge at home and improve charger reliability. Commissioners expressed general support for moving to a fee-based model with a third-party vendor. They emphasized the need for data collection, exploring vendor models that include validation discounts or monthly credit programs, and considering solar integration. No formal motion was required as this was a feedback request; staff will present to City Council in July 2026. - Bike to Wherever Day 2026 Update: Transportation Planner Henry Rood reported on the May 14, 2026 events. The morning energizer station at Broadway & Newell (near the Iron Horse Trail) attracted 200 cyclists, slightly down from 219 in 2025. The afternoon event at Civic Park, dubbed a "Bike Rodeo" (a name staff may change due to confusion), featured an obstacle course, information booths from multiple city departments and vendors, and a "Pedal Passport" with stamp-collecting incentives (gift cards from Target). Approximately 55 gift cards were distributed. Feedback indicated attendees were primarily families with young children (ages 4–8), fewer teenagers than expected. Staff are considering consolidating resources into a single larger afternoon event and suspending the morning station to reduce staff strain. Commissioners praised the event and offered suggestions: partner with schools to attract older youth, expand to include other non-car modes (e-bikes, scooters, transit), consider separate events for different demographics, and use morning stations strategically for targeted public outreach. No formal vote was taken. Key Outcomes - EV Charger Program: The commission provided consensus feedback supporting a transition to a fee-based model managed by a third-party operator. Staff will incorporate this feedback into a plan to be presented to the City Council in July 2026. Key priorities include improving reliability, data collection, and targeting underserved users (e.g., those in multi-family housing). - Bike to Wherever Day: No formal decision was made, but staff will consider commissioner input (including renaming the event, adjusting outreach to older youth, and potentially consolidating into one event) for planning future bike month activities. - Other Announcements: Commissioner Patch reported on a police ride-along; Secretary Byrne announced grant updates (receiving $80,000 from a TDA grant for class IV bikeways, and applying for $220,000 TFCA grant for the Parkside cycle track project), a planned fire department preemption system ride-along, and an upcoming General Plan study session on June 25, 2026 at 6:00 PM for all commissioners.

Note: The transcript of this meeting refers to the date as "Tuesday, May 5th 2026," but the user-provided metadata specifies the meeting took place on 2026-05-20. This summary uses the provided date per instruction, while noting the discrepancy. The meeting included proclamations, consent calendar approvals with several pulled items for discussion, public comments on short-term rental enforcement, and councilmember reports. Key actions included approval of an entertainment zone ordinance and management plan, road repair funding, and compensation increases for the city attorney and city manager. Proclamations - Bike to Work Week: Mayor Wilk read a proclamation declaring May 2026 as Bike Month in Walnut Creek, with Bike to Everywhere Day on May 14. Representatives from Walk Bike Walnut Creek and Bike East Bay accepted and promoted bike events. - National Police Week: A proclamation declared May 10–16, 2026 as National Police Week and May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. Officer Shane Blats (Walnut Creek POA president) accepted on behalf of the police department. Consent Calendar - Items Approved Without Discussion: Items 2A, 2B, 2E, 2I, 2J, 2K, 2L, and 2M were approved unanimously via motion by Councilmember Wilk, seconded by Councilmember Divini. A public commenter asked about remaining affordable housing funding after item 2I; staff answered that approximately $2 million would remain in the commercial linkage and housing in-lieu fee funds. - Items Pulled for Discussion: Items 2C & 2D (entertainment zone), 2F (road repair), and 2G & 2H (compensation) were pulled and approved separately (see Discussion Items and Key Outcomes). Public Comments & Testimony - Short-Term Rental Complaint: Three residents (Joe Warren, Jan Warren, and Lisa Blanco, all from Walnut Creek) spoke about a property on their street that they said is repeatedly rented for short periods (under 31 days) via VRBO, violating city regulations. They reported ongoing non-compliance and insufficient enforcement despite notifications to staff since mid-2025. Neighbors expressed concerns about noise, safety near an elementary school, and lost hotel tax revenue. They asked for clear enforcement. - Council Response: Mayor Wilk referred the matter to Community Development Director Erica Vanderbrand for follow-up. Councilmember Darling requested a future public service announcement clarifying short-term rental rules. Discussion Items - Entertainment Zone (Items 2C & 2D): Councilmember Silva asked clarifying questions about the second reading of the ordinance and management plan. Topics included: whether multiple zones could exist (yes), that the zone does not permit 24/7 alcohol consumption (events only), street closures during events, consistency of days (weekend vs. Friday/Saturday language), and restroom facilities. Assistant City Manager Charles Mayor explained that the ordinance sets outer limits, and the management plan can be more restrictive. Councilmember Silva proposed and staff presented three amendments to the management plan: (1) add language requiring restroom facilities per the city's special event permit, (2) clarify hours of operation (less than allowed by code), and (3) require project sponsor to ensure all participating businesses have necessary permits (ABC, business license). The motion to approve with these amendments and a typographical correction (SB 969) was made and seconded; voted unanimously. Kathy Hemenway (Walnut Creek Downtown) noted a dedicated webpage for the entertainment zone. - Road Repair Funding (Item 2F): Councilmember Darling asked about the Ignacio Valley Road project included in the FY2026-27 SB1 funding plan. Assistant Engineer Austin responded that construction is planned for 2027 from Oak Grove Road to the city limits. Councilmember Darling made a motion to approve, seconded; voted unanimously. - City Manager and City Attorney Compensation (Items 2G & 2H): Mayor Wilk spoke in support, praising City Manager Dan Buckshai's leadership and financial acumen. The items include a 4% salary increase effective July 1, 2026, and an additional 3% increase effective July 1, 2027, contingent on satisfactory evaluations. For the city manager, the amendment also extends the non-renewal notice period from 90 to 180 days after a new council election and increases severance from 9 to 12 months, including health benefits. Motion to approve made and seconded; voted unanimously. Councilmember Announcements - Councilmember Divini reported on attending the State of the Chamber, gubernatorial candidate events, Authors Gala, Challenger Baseball Jamboree, police awards ceremony, Rotary Club, Teleferic Barcelona anniversary, Cal Cities East Bay division meeting (e-bike legislation update), and Sustainable Contra Costa 5K run. - Mayor Pro Tem Francois read to first graders at Buena Vista Elementary, attended the quarterly commission update, and participated in the Recycle Smart Board meeting (executive director evaluation, cost allocation policy updates, school recycling program, and upcoming household hazardous waste drop-off). - Councilmember Silva added details on Recycle Smart's cost-sharing model and school food share programs, and reported on the League of California Cities' advocacy in Sacramento: supporting SB 922 (road repair cost recovery), AB 2296 (housing element timing), and increased homeless housing funding; opposing a Howard Jarvis initiative; taking no position on a ballot measure for public campaign financing. Also noted e-bike legislation discussions. - Mayor Wilk attended MCE board training on energy economy, East Bay MUD workshop, and other local events. Key Outcomes - Entertainment Zone: Ordinance and management plan approved unanimously with three amendments (restroom facilities, hour clarification, permit verification). - Road Repair: FY2026-27 SB1 funding approved; Ignacio Valley Road construction planned for 2027. - Compensation Increases: Approved for city attorney and city manager (4% in FY2026-27, additional 3% in FY2027-28 contingent on evaluations). City manager contract extended with modified notice and severance terms. - Short-Term Rental Enforcement: Referred to staff for follow-up; council requested a public clarification of rules. - Consent Calendar: All non-pulled items approved unanimously. - No Closed Session Actions: Reported. - Recognition: City Clerk's Week noted.

The Walnut Creek City Council held a regular meeting on May 19, 2026, at City Hall beginning at 6:00 p.m. The meeting included proclamations, a consent calendar, reports from councilmembers and staff, and three major discussion items: an update on council priorities, fiscal year 2027 budget amendments, and a proposed ballot measure to transition the city treasurer from an elected to an appointed position. Proclamations - National Public Works Week (May 17–23, 2026): Recognized the Public Works Department; director Rich Payne accepted and thanked staff and council. - Affordable Housing Month (May 2026): Proclaimed May as Affordable Housing Month; Jan Warren (East Bay Housing Organizations) accepted and thanked council. - Jewish American Heritage Month (May 2026): Proclaimed in recognition of Jewish contributions and condemning antisemitism; Rabbi Jenny Shabon accepted. - National Mental Health Awareness Month (May 2026): Recognized importance of mental health; mayor noted his own family experience and promoted a fundraising event for NAMI. Consent Calendar The consent calendar included items 2a–2k. Councilmember Darling pulled item 2d (LGBTQ+ Pride Month flag raising) and Councilmember Silva pulled item 2e (City Council Handbook amendments). The remaining items (2a, 2b, 2c, 2f, 2g, 2h, 2i, 2j, 2k) were approved unanimously on a single roll call vote (5–0). - Item 2d was approved unanimously after a brief statement about the June 1st flag-raising ceremony. - Item 2e was approved unanimously (5–0) with an amendment: staff was directed to further study the timing of the mayor/vice mayor election in December and report back before December 2026. The addendum regarding meeting disruptions was also included. Public Communications & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the Public Communications period or on any agenda item. Councilmember & Staff Announcements - City Manager's Report: Provided an economic update noting that 79% of U.S. venture capital investment in 2026 is in the Bay Area, driven by AI and robotics. Encouraged residents to sign up for emergency alerts (text WC Alert to 888-777). Announced Chief Aaron McAllister as new Contra Costa County Fire Chief. - Councilmember Reports: Included updates on the Trinity Center Gala, MCE wind farm tour, Ridge to Ridge run, CCTA transportation planning for the next sales tax measure, library foundation gala, bike rodeo, and various community events. Councilmember DeVinney noted an award for the Permitted Outdoor Dining Program. Discussion Items 1. Update on 2025/2026 City Council Priorities & Outreach for Future Priorities Staff presented progress reports on five priority areas: Economic Development & Downtown Vitality, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Action, General Plan Update, Park & Recreation Facilities, and Public Safety & Social Wellness. Highlights included the completion of 7 outdoor dining pods, 230 leaf blower ban complaints in the first month, and the start of the General Plan 2050 process. Council unanimously directed staff to proceed with community outreach (survey and/or focus groups) to inform 2027–2028 priorities. 2. Fiscal Year 2027 Proposed Budget Amendments Staff presented adjustments to the General Fund and Measure O budgets to address a $2.3 million sales tax shortfall and other changes. Key proposals: - Increase General Fund contribution to fund balance by $600,000 (to $760,000). - Add an emergency management analyst (1 FTE) funded by Measure O. - Increase Walnut Creek Library hours from 12 to 16 per week during Ignacio Valley Library renovations. Council unanimously approved the amendments (5–0). 3. Ballot Measure to Transition City Treasurer from Elected to Appointed Staff recommended placing a measure on the November 3, 2026 general municipal election to change the treasurer position from elected to appointed. The measure would take effect after the current treasurer's term ends in 2030. Council voted unanimously (5–0) to adopt the resolution, which authorizes the mayor and mayor pro tem to submit argument in favor and rebuttal, directs the city attorney to prepare an impartial analysis, and requests election consolidation with the county. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved items 2a–2k with separate votes on 2d and 2e (all 5–0). - Future Priorities Outreach: Council directed staff to conduct community survey/outreach for 2027–2028 priorities (unanimous). - FY27 Budget Amendments: Approved as amended (5–0). - Treasurer Ballot Measure: Resolution adopted (5–0) to place measure on November 3, 2026 ballot. - Meeting Adjourned at 9:12 p.m.

This meeting combined updates from the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Commission and the Planning Commission, along with public comments, staff announcements, and a decision on a food truck special use permit. (Note: The transcript includes a portion explicitly dated April 9, 2026, but the overall meeting date provided is May 14, 2026. This summary treats the entire transcript as the May 14 meeting.) Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara commented on Boundary Oaks golf course, stating it is not fully self-funding because the general fund provided a low-interest loan for the driving range. She also raised maintenance concerns about bike jumps at Diablo Shadows Park and along the Ignacio Canal Trail, asking that staff address them. Barbara deferred further open-space comments to the June meeting. - Jim Harrison, representing the Model Railroad Club at Larkey Park, reported that parking lot lights are insufficient, creating a safety hazard for elderly patrons who may fall in the dark. He noted that one light is motion-sensored (staff clarified it is always on) and another was turned away from the lot. Staff acknowledged the issue and said it would be prioritized. Discussion Items - Parks and Open Space Update: Staff (Mike) reported that two new permanent pickleball courts opened at Heather Farm, bringing the total to five at that location and 13 citywide. Rudgear courts operate as drop-in play (no fee, structured by the Diablo Pickleball Club); Heather Farm courts have a fee and are more structured. San Miguel Park is underutilized; the dog park area has moisture issues leading to digging, and the park lacks restrooms, has a half basketball court in poor condition, and is not up to city standards. Staff suggested exploring improvements similar to the Northgate renovation. A previous community garden initiative at San Miguel (2014) was rejected by the HOA; similar gardens were built at Heather Farm and planned for Arbolato. Other parks discussed: Heather Farm’s museum (Wonder Creek Historical Society, used for youth programs and events), Tice Valley (recently lighted playground; potential pickleball relocation from Rudgear under consideration), Valley Verde (small pass-through park), and Walden Disc Golf Course (successful volunteer partnership, regional draw with 400–500 club members). The open-space portion was deferred to the June meeting for a deeper discussion on history and challenges. - Planning Commission – Special Use Permit for Ignacio Center Food Trucks (1990 N. California Blvd): Associate Planner Curtis Sawyer presented a request from Hall Equities Group to operate up to four food trucks twice weekly (Mondays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) in an existing pedestrian courtyard. No alcohol sales. The use is not classified in the zoning ordinance, requiring a special use permit. Staff supported the permit, finding it consistent with general plan goals for economic vitality and regional destination. The permit has no expiration date (staff corrected an earlier two-year reference). Public hearing was held with no speakers. The commission amended the effective date to 10 days after mailing (April 19, 2026). Motion passed unanimously (7–0). - Mitchell Town Homes Update: Staff reported that on Tuesday of the same week, City Council upheld the Planning Commission’s February 12, 2026 decision, approved the project, certified the EIR, and denied both appeals. - TransPAC Update: Vice Chair reported that the Central Contra Costa Transportation Authority is evaluating funding applications with twice the requests as available funds. Walnut Creek, Concord, Choice in Aging, and Rossmore presented transportation projects for limited-access populations. - Staff Announcements: Community Service Day is April 18, 2026. Art and Wine Festival will be at Civic Park on June 6 and 7 (dates to be confirmed). The Planning Commission meeting of April 23 is canceled; the May 14 meeting will include items on short-term rentals, Galpa Gacho appeal, and Restoration Hardware. - Commissioner Request: A commissioner asked about field visits to parks. Staff agreed to schedule dates for commissioners to tour sites. - Leaf Blower Ban: A promotional video (featuring Ollie the owl and staff member Brandon) announced that the city banned gas-powered leaf blowers effective April 1, 2026, after resident petitions and letters. Key Outcomes - Approved: Special use permit for Ignacio Center food trucks (7–0) with corrected effective date. - Deferred: Open space discussion to the June PROS Commission meeting. - Referred: Larkey Park lighting issue to staff update at next PROS meeting. - Directed: Staff to arrange field visits for commissioners. - Noted: City Council final decision on Mitchell Town Homes; leaf blower ban effective April 1, 2026.

The Finance Committee of Walnut Creek met on May 12, 2026, at 9:30 AM in the City Hall 3rd Floor Conference Room. Committee members Craig DeVinney and Matt Francois were present. The meeting focused on the third-quarter budget update for Fiscal Year 2026 and proposed budget amendments for Fiscal Year 2027. No public comments were received. Approval of Minutes - The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the February 18, 2026, Finance Committee meeting (motion by Craig DeVinney, second by Matt Francois). Discussion Items - FY26 3rd Quarter Budget Update: Administrative Services Director Kirsten LaCasse presented the current information on the FY26 budget. The committee unanimously accepted the report on the FY26 3rd Quarter Budget Update (motion by Craig DeVinney, second by Matt Francois). - FY27 Proposed Budget Amendments: Director LaCasse also presented the proposed budget amendments for FY27. The committee unanimously voted to refer the report on the FY27 Proposed Budget Amendments to the City Council for consideration (motion by Matt Francois, second by Craig DeVinney). Key Outcomes - The FY26 3rd Quarter Budget Update report was accepted by the committee. - The FY27 Proposed Budget Amendments were referred to the City Council for further action. - Both motions passed with unanimous votes (2-0).

The Walnut Creek City Council held a special closed session at 5:00 PM concerning existing and anticipated litigation, followed by concurrent regular meetings of the City Council and Parking Authority at 6:00 PM. The regular meeting included proclamations, a consent calendar with numerous routine items, three public hearings, and councilmember reports. The meeting adjourned at 8:23 PM. Consent Calendar The consent calendar was approved in several parts. Items approved unanimously (5-0) included: approval of City Council minutes from April 21, 2026; acceptance of warrant registers and direct payroll transfers; adoption of Resolution No. 26-20 accepting the Walnut Creek Police Department 2025 Annual Military Equipment Report and renewing Ordinance No. 2215 and Policy No. 708; adoption of Resolution No. 26-21 authorizing a $2,900,000 loan from affordable housing funds to Satellite Affordable Housing Associates (SAHA) for the redevelopment of Sierra Garden at 150-170 Sierra Drive; authorization for the City Manager to enter into a Master Consultant Services Agreement with Noll & Tam Architects for the Heather Farm Park Phase 2 Aquatic and Community Center (not to exceed $1,100,000); authorization for a five-year service agreement with Accella for a Development Services Permitting System (not to exceed $871,883); authorization for a one-year extension with Versaterm for police dispatch and records management (not to exceed $222,025); and authorization for a three-year Enterprise Agreement with ESRI for GIS software (not to exceed $190,500). Items 2c and 2d (entertainment zone ordinance and management plan) were pulled by Councilmember Silva for discussion. After staff presented amendments (including adding restroom requirements, clarifying hours, and specifying permit responsibilities), the council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 2256 and the Management Plan with those changes. Item 2f (SB1 road repair projects) was pulled by Mayor Wilk. Staff confirmed that the Ignacio Valley Road project is scheduled for construction in 2027. The resolution listing projects for FY 2026-27 was unanimously adopted (Resolution No. 26-22). Items 2g and 2h (city attorney and city manager contract amendments) were pulled by Mayor Wilk. The council approved Resolution No. 26-23 (Amendment No. 2 to the Professional Services Agreement with Redwood Public Law, LLP) and Resolution No. 26-24 (Amendment No. 8 to the City Manager Employment Agreement with Daniel P. Buckshi). These amendments include a 4% salary increase effective July 1, 2026, and an additional 3% increase effective July 1, 2027 contingent on satisfactory evaluations, as well as changes to severance and notice periods. Public Comments & Testimony During public communications, three residents (Joe Warren, Jan Warren, and Lisa Blanco) spoke about ongoing short-term rental violations at a property on their street, expressing frustration with the lack of enforcement and requesting clarity on city regulations. Mayor Pro Tem Francois requested staff return with information on short-term rental rules. During the CDBG public hearing, Molly P. Clopp (Trinity Center board chair) and Matt Hulse (Contra Costa Senior Legal Services) spoke in support of continued funding, emphasizing the importance of services for vulnerable populations. Discussion Items - Entertainment Zone Ordinance and Management Plan: Councilmember Silva proposed amendments to the management plan to clarify permissible days, add restroom requirements, and ensure participating businesses have proper permits. The changes were adopted unanimously. - CDBG Annual Action Plan: Staff presented the FY 2027 Community Development Block Grant funding plan with a total of $1,050,000 available. The recommended funding of $942,667 includes a return to a half-time core outreach team (shared with a neighboring jurisdiction) to right-size services. Councilmember Silva moved to direct staff to explore alternative service delivery models for outreach services, which was added to the motion. The resolution was adopted unanimously (Resolution No. 26-25). - Safety Element Update: Staff and consultant Darin Neufeld presented the update required by state law. The update strengthens policies on natural hazards, climate adaptation, and evacuation planning. An errata sheet with minor corrections was provided. No public comments were received. The council unanimously adopted the Negative Declaration and General Plan Amendment (Resolutions No. 26-26 and 26-27). - Energy Efficient Lighting Contracts: Public Works Director Rich Payne presented a proposal for sole-source energy services contracts with EcoGreen Solutions, Inc. for LED lighting upgrades at the Lesher Center, Walnut Creek Library, and Clay Arts Guild. The project is financed through PG&E's On-Bill Financing program, with an estimated cost of $444,000 and annual savings of $41,500. Councilmember Silva recused herself due to a potential conflict of interest (husband's PG&E retirement income). The resolution was adopted 4-0 (Resolution No. 26-28). Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items, including the entertainment zone, SB1 projects, and city attorney/city manager contracts, were approved unanimously. - The CDBG Annual Action Plan and FY27 funding plan were approved, with a directive to explore alternative outreach service delivery models. - The Safety Element Update was adopted, including a Negative Declaration and General Plan Amendment. - The sole-source energy services contracts with EcoGreen Solutions were approved 4-0 (Councilmember Silva recused). - Staff was directed to provide information on short-term rental regulations at a future meeting.

The Measure O Citizens' Oversight Committee held a special meeting on April 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chamber. The meeting, which adjourned at 2:28 PM, focused on the third-quarter review of Measure O revenues and expenditures for fiscal year 2026. All four present committee members voted unanimously to refer the report to the City Council for acceptance. Opening & Roll Call - Committee members present: Chair Jonathan Bartlett, Vice Chair Brian Mulligan, Susan Hildreth, and Jesse Smyers. - Member Geoffrey Fite resigned due to moving out of Walnut Creek; the City Clerk will seek a replacement. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (December 1, 2025): Motion by Member Smyers, seconded by Member Hildreth. Approved unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received. (Public comment was limited to agenda items per California law for special meetings.) Discussion Items - Measure O FY26 3rd Quarter Revenue and Expenditure Update: Administrative Services Director Kirsten LaCasse presented the financial report. - Revenue: Projected at $13.28 million (transaction and use tax $180,000 over budget; interest $260,000 over budget). Total projected revenues and use of reserves: $23.16 million. - Expenditures: Projected at $20.88 million, about $80,000 under the $20.97 million budget. Capital project transfers: $10.13 million to the Capital Fund, expected to be fully spent. Debt service on $55 million bonds issued in December 2025 at 2.17% yield: $7.53 million due June 1. - Fund Balance: Projected contribution of $2.27 million, with total year-end fund balance of $12.38 million (including $6.12 million reserve for the aquatic and community center project and $3.99 million in unallocated reserves). - Category highlights: - Sales tax growth: Walnut Creek 3.5% year-over-year, exceeding county (0.8%) and state (1.2%). Measure O revenue increased 5.5% year-over-year. - Notable expenditure savings: $50,000 in leisure center programs due to delayed hiring; $20,000 in public safety due to removal of vacancy factor assumption; $9,000 in sustainability programs. - Homeless services: $250,000 from Measure O funds a full-time outreach team in partnership with Contra Costa County. - Library: Additional 12 hours per week at Walnut Creek and Ygnacio Valley branches (total annual cost $623,000) fully spent. - Downtown initiatives: $325,000 in one-time funding over FY25-26 for events, beautification, and the Downtown Vision Plan. - Committee Discussion: - Member Mulligan asked for a construction update on the Heather Farm Aquatic and Community Center. Public Works Assistant Director Mike Vickers reported that site work has begun; rain and groundwater caused minor delays but the project remains on schedule. - Member Hildreth clarified that the bond’s amortizing structure explains the $7.5 million annual debt service (not simple interest). Member Smyers confirmed that the auto sales tax reallocation issue affecting the General Fund does not impact Measure O. - Chair Bartlett invited Kathy Hemingway, Executive Director of Walnut Creek Downtown Association, to speak. She described how Measure O funding has supported events (Oktoberfest, Walnut Creek on Ice, First Wednesday/Locust Street Festival), placemaking (mini plazas, holiday decor, utility box art), and the Downtown Vision Plan, resulting in increased foot traffic and economic activity. Key Outcomes - Motion: Committee Member Smyers moved to refer the FY26 third-quarter Measure O budget update report to the City Council for acceptance. Seconded by Member Hildreth. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for early December 2026 to review year-end results and the audit.

On April 21, 2026, the Walnut Creek City Council held a special meeting at 4:00 pm (closed session) followed by a regular meeting at 6:00 pm. The regular meeting included proclamations, consent calendar items, public communications, a major consideration item on a senior housing ballot initiative, and a public hearing to introduce an Entertainment Zone ordinance. All five councilmembers were present. Consent Calendar - Approved (7 items unanimously): Minutes of April 7, 2026; acceptance of warrant registers and payroll transfers; professional auditing services contract with Macias Gini & O’Connell LLP (fiscal years 2026–2030, with two optional one-year extensions); two master on-call storm drain services agreements (each up to $500,000 for up to five years); revised 2026 meeting schedule canceling the April 28 special meeting; agreement with Computacenter for Cisco network equipment ($678,222). - Lesher Fire Alarm Replacement (Item 2e) – Pulled and Approved Unanimously: After public comment from Jan Warren, the council pulled the item and voted 5–0 to reject all bids for Contract 26-02 (Lesher Fire Alarm Replacement). Senior Engineer Alex Wong explained that the existing system is functional and that the high bids were due to the building’s height and complexity; the project will be reconsidered in future capital improvement planning. Public Comments & Testimony - Planned Parenthood Harassment: Kathy Dunne and Michael Vecchio reported that protesters are using amplified speakers (six-foot-tall tripod speakers) at the Planned Parenthood on Oakland Boulevard, which they said violates the city’s noise ordinance. Both urged enforcement. Mayor Wilk directed Police Chief Ryan Hibbs and a captain to follow up. - Mount Diablo Village: Ellen Osmundson (founder) announced a fundraising concert on May 20 2026 at the Lesher Center, featuring the Rossmoor Big Band, to support the nonprofit’s senior age‑in‑place programs. - Odyssey of the Mind: Four fifth‑graders from Buena Vista Elementary (Elle, Kieran, Jacob, and Rocco) announced their team qualified for the world championships (May 27 2026, Iowa State University) and requested community donations via Give Butter. - Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer‑Kahan Update: Cherise Khaund promoted a community event on navigating online safety for women and girls, scheduled for April 22 2026 at Creekside Commons (6:00–7:30 pm). Discussion Items - Senior Housing Transit Village Initiative (Item 5a): Assistant City Manager Charles Ching presented a request from Friends of Walnut Creek Senior Housing to prepare an Elections Code §9212 report on a proposed initiative for a 2.4‑acre site at North California Blvd. and Ygnacio Valley Road. The initiative would replace approved office uses with senior housing (age 55+), increase the commercial floor‑area‑ratio from 0.3 to 0.6, and rezone the parcel. The council voted 5–0 to direct staff to prepare the report and enter a cost‑reimbursement agreement. The report—due by early June 2026—must address 11 specific items, including: environmental impacts (traffic and view corridors), CEQA exemptions, Measure A height limit impacts, applicability of inclusionary housing requirements, whether the project can be 100 % residential, and economic demand for senior housing. - Entertainment Zone Ordinance (Item 6a): Economic Development Manager Mike Nimon introduced a proposed ordinance to add Chapter 7‑4 to the Municipal Code, permitting Entertainment Zones in the public right‑of‑way under SB 969. The ordinance establishes a framework for a sponsoring nonprofit (here, Walnut Creek Downtown) to apply for a council‑approved management plan and event‑specific permits. No public comments were received. Police Chief Ryan Hibbs stated no major concerns, noting the alignment with existing First Wednesday events. The council voted 5–0 to waive reading and introduce the ordinance, with a sunset clause: the ordinance shall expire on September 30, 2028 unless extended by the council. Key Outcomes - Senior Housing Initiative Report: Unanimously approved (5–0) to direct staff to prepare the Elections Code §9212 report with 11 specific analyses, and to execute the reimbursement agreement with Friends of Walnut Creek Senior Housing. - Entertainment Zone Ordinance: Unanimously approved (5–0) first reading of the ordinance establishing Entertainment Zones, with an amendment setting termination on September 30, 2028 unless renewed. - Closed Session (4 pm): The council completed performance evaluations for City Manager Dan Buckshi and City Attorney Steve Mattas. - Closed Session (8:47 pm): The council held conferences with labor negotiators regarding the unrepresented City Manager and City Attorney positions; no reportable action was taken. - Next Steps: The final report on the Senior Housing Initiative will be reviewed by the council in June 2026. The Entertainment Zone ordinance returns for second reading and adoption at a subsequent meeting; a separate management plan and event permits will be brought forward later.