Parks and Recreation CommissionMenlo Park
Prepare 2026-27 Parks & Recreation work plan
The staff presented a draft work plan for the 2026‑27 fiscal year.
Info onlyComment option listedJul 22Parks & Environment
Parks, waterfronts, climate work, trees, open space, and environmental protections.
The staff presented a draft work plan for the 2026‑27 fiscal year.
The commission presented a report on completed self‑guided park tours.
The agenda includes a permit application form for removing heritage trees.
Project arborist will inspect sites during any work in non-intrusion zones of protected trees and document actions.
The commission will overview data for special landscape areas.
The commission presented an overview of the city’s urban forest and its benefits.
The commission will deny the appeal to remove a heritage tree at 2174 Clayton Dr.
The City Council is asked to support the urban canopy and adopt a new Urban Forestry Management Plan in the budget.
The commission will share a summary of sitewide ETAF and maximum applied water allowance (MAWA).
The commission will discuss the water‑efficient landscape worksheet for Lot #1.
The commission will present ETAF calculations for regular landscape areas (total 1,567 sf, 732 ha).
The agenda shared a GIS report showing Menlo Park’s overall canopy coverage at 28%.
The commission will review the landscape design and water‑efficiency plan for Station F (326 sf).
The commission will adopt its work plan for June through August.
The commission will review the hydrozone area for Station C (475 sf).
The city arborist approved removal of trees #1, #2, and #10 because they met the health rating criteria.
The commission will review the hydrozone area for Station 3919 (3,919 sf).
The commission will review the hydrozone area for Station 2 (138 sf).
The commission will summarize drip irrigation data points.
The commission will review the hydrozone area for Station B (138 sf).
The report explains that trees were inspected from the ground without climbing, using a D‑Tape to measure diameter.
The commission will review the hydrozone area for Stations D & E (379 sf).
The commission will review the hydrozone area for Stations 4 & 5 (271 sf).
The commission will provide an updated summary of sitewide ETAF and maximum applied water allowance (MAWA).
The commission presented data on the area covered by Station 1 hydrozone (239 SFHYDROZONE).
The commission presented a new project plan to create an Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) for the fiscal year June‑August.
The arborist report described inspection methods, measured tree diameters, and evaluated health of 11 surveyed trees.
Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA) is listed as 19,915 and 22,830.
City canopy coverage is reported at 28%.
The commission presented a proposal to create a new Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) to guide long‑term city investments in urban forestry.
Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA) is listed as 19,515 and 22,977.
The commission is asked to adopt an ordinance that requires sellers to disclose information about heritage trees on a property when transferring it.
EQC will consider a request for City Council to fund the Urban Forest Management Plan through the annual budget.
The arborist report identified 11 trees on the site, including two protected cork oaks in poor condition.
The city completed a canopy inventory and identified specific trees for removal or preservation.
Project arborist will inspect protected trees during soil excavation and document any impacts.
The city arborist approved removal of three trees that met health criteria and denied removal of four trees that did not meet health or development criteria.
Arborist surveyed 11 trees on the property, identifying species and health conditions.
The EQC is directed to create a new project plan for the Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP).
Project arborist will inspect protected trees during soil excavation.
Arborist report identified 11 trees on the property.
The subcommittee presented the importance of urban forest trees for health, environment, and economy.
The city arborist approved removal of three trees (Evergreen ash, Cork oak, Modesto ash) that met health rating criteria.
The commission will hear a presentation on the importance of the urban forest, covering health, environmental, and economic benefits. The talk will also discuss current challenges such as low canopy coverage and inadequate tree replacement standards.
The commission will consider a request for the City Council to fund the urban canopy program and adopt an ordinance requiring sellers to disclose tree and heritage‑tree information to buyers. The staff report also recommends denying an appeal to remove a heritage tree at 2174 Clayton Dr.
The arborist report identified 11 trees on the property, including two protected cork oaks in poor condition. It recommends removing those two oaks and provides health assessments and measurement methods used.
The project arborist will inspect protected trees while soil excavation occurs and again after work is completed. Findings will be documented in a final report with recommendations for tree longevity.
The EQC will present a table of recent tree inventory results, showing which trees were approved for removal and which were denied based on health and development criteria. The arborist’s findings include approvals for certain ash and oak trees and denials for others.
The EQC will outline steps to create a citywide Urban Forest Management Plan, including a canopy inventory, setting metrics, and community outreach. The plan aims to guide long‑term investments in tree planting, care, and protection.
The commission will consider a grant from BayREN to fund electrification at the Belle Haven Child Development Center. The staff recommends moving forward with the funding agreement.
The city will proclaim July 2026 as Parks and Recreation Month.
The council will adopt a proclamation that designates July 2026 as Parks and Recreation Month in Menlo Park. The proclamation highlights the role of parks in health, community, and resilience.
The City Council will adopt a proclamation recognizing July 2026 as Park and Recreation Month. The proclamation highlights the role of parks in health, community, and the local economy.
The arborist must include a detailed work plan and mitigation treatments in their report.
The project arborist will inspect the site during soil excavation to document actions affecting protected trees.
A resident submitted a letter urging careful environmental and public‑health review of a proposed demolition and construction near community spaces.
The city found utilities are concealed and integrated with the building design.
All below-market-rate apartments are occupied and one person remains on the waitlist.
The project meets threshold criteria under Section 15192.
The agenda item presents the Hunter ICZ-101 Drip Control Zone Kit specifications, including a 1" ICV Globe Valve and HY100 filter system.
An arborist prepared a report for the property at 1908 Menalto Ave.
A warning sign designates a tree protection area where only authorized personnel may enter.
A tree inventory is being presented.
A public hearing will be held to confirm the project meets noise, air quality, and utility standards.
The map shows tree protection zone dimensions, setbacks, and height limits for the project.
The resolution confirms the project site is not subject to wildland fire hazard, explosion, or public health risks, and complies with CEQA guidelines.
The staff report presents a tree inventory and protection recommendations for the 624 University Dr site.
Sign warns that only authorized personnel may enter the tree protection area.
The commission adopted a resolution referencing the City’s General Plan environmental impact reports and mitigation monitoring programs for housing projects.
The commission will hear a study session on updates to the San Mateo County Flood Park.
Youth Advisory Committee members presented updates on their projects, marketing ideas, recreation program interests, community events, and collaboration with the Environmental Quality Commission.
The commission will receive a progress report on the 2025‑26 work plan.
Staff proposed a renovation that would replace aging playground structures with modern, inclusive equipment, add more picnic tables, repair landscaping, and install dog‑waste stations. The proposal includes fence repairs and irrigation fixes.
Staff recommended that the commission develop a work plan for 2026‑27 to submit to City Council by mid‑September. The plan will outline goals, priorities, and activities for the next year.
The commission will receive an update on completed self‑guided park tours.
The commission opened a three‑minute public comment slot where anyone can speak on any topic not on the agenda. Speakers are not required to give their name or address.
City Council will review applicants and appoint a person to fill an unexpired vacancy on the Environmental Quality Commission.
Council will consider applicants and make appointments to fill an unexpired vacancy on the Environmental Quality Commission.
The Council will hold a public hearing and consider a resolution to adopt the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and submit it to the State Department of Water Resources. The plan outlines water supply reliability, drought risk, and conservation measures.
The council will review applications and vote to appoint a new member to the Environmental Quality Commission. The vacancy arose after a commissioner resigned. The appointment must be confirmed before the next recruitment cycle in April 2027.
Council will hear a public presentation and vote to approve the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and authorize its submission to the state Department of Water Resources.
An arborist report was included with the Okeefe Street residential remodel permit.
Provide summary inventory, condition ratings, and protection measures for trees on the project site.
The city requires protection measures for heritage and city-owned trees near construction.
The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the arborist report and tree protection plan for the remodel at 351 McKendry Dr.
A public hearing was scheduled to discuss fair/good non-heritage retention on-site.
A tree survey documented six trees recommended for long‑term preservation on the site.
Arborist monitoring will be required whenever work occurs within the drip line of significant trees.
The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on required tree preservation measures for the remodel.
The agenda item presents architectural sections and insulation specifications for the remodel.
A tree survey conducted on August 18, 2025 lists condition, size, and health of trees on the property.
The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on tree protection guidelines for the remodel.
Report analyzes how construction will affect tree roots and recommends removal of three cypress trees.
The site plan shows utility locations, setbacks, and fencing for the remodel.
A title sheet for the True North Project was presented, showing building sections, elevations, and tree protection specifications.
A trunk protection measure is included in the project documents.
The item outlines required 6‑foot chain‑link fencing and signage to protect tree root zones during construction.
Critical root zones (CRZ) and structural root zones (SRZ) were estimated for each tree.
The survey reports six trees should be retained for long-term preservation.
The agenda includes a public hearing to remove a poor non-heritage Privet tree on site.
The agenda includes a public hearing to remove a poor non-heritage Cypress tree on site.
Eleven trees were assessed, covering eight different species.
Evaluations were based on ground observations only; no soil or tissue testing was performed.
Critical root zone (CRZ) measurements are estimates and may not reflect actual field dimensions.
The agenda item details a unit cost of $57.00 per square inch, a basic cost of $10,067.63, and various depreciation percentages for a tree removal project.
The agenda item provides a cost estimate of $180.00 for a tree at 351 McKendry Ave, with a unit cost of $57.00 per square inch.
Arborist monitoring is required whenever work occurs within the drip line of retained trees.
The agenda item lists tree diameter limitations and associated cost calculations.
Davey Resource Group conducted a tree inventory for 351 McKendry Ave.
The tree evaluation was based on ground observations without soil or tissue testing.
Arborist monitoring is required during construction within drip lines of significant trees.
Critical root zone (CRZ) measurements are estimates and may not reflect actual dimensions.
Arborist monitoring is required whenever work occurs within the drip line of retained trees.
Critical root zone (CRZ) measurements are estimates and may not reflect actual field dimensions.
The survey recommends retaining 6 trees whose condition warrants long‑term preservation.
The calculation shows a unit cost of $57.00/in², a basic cost of $10,067.63, and depreciation factors of 40% external, 70% functional, and 40% condition.
A public hearing will present a cost estimate for trees at 351 McKendry Avenue, including unit cost per square inch.
A public hearing will consider retaining non-heritage trees that are in fair condition on the project site.
A public hearing will consider removal of poor‑condition non‑heritage Cypress (Callitris columellaris) trees on the project site.
A public hearing will consider removal of poor‑condition non‑heritage Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) trees on the project site.
The evaluation was based on ground observations only; no soil or tissue testing was performed.
A public hearing will review a survey that recommends retaining six trees whose condition warrants long‑term preservation.
A public hearing will review detailed unit cost ($57.00/in²) and depreciation calculations for trees.
A tree inventory was conducted by Davey Resource Group for the property at 351 McKendry Ave. The report includes root zone calculations and condition assessments of 11 trees, identifying heritage trees and recommending removal of nine trees.
The assessment notes that data were collected from ground observations only, without soil testing, and explains how the findings will guide design decisions and permitting.
The report explains that critical root zone (CRZ) measurements are estimates and that preservation decisions depend on the percentage of the protected CRZ impacted.
Staff recommends the commission present the approved 2025‑2026 work plan to the City Council.
Staff recommends the commission choose a presenter for the EQC annual report to the City Council.
Staff recommends the commission choose a presenter for the EQC annual report to the City Council.
The commission will review and discuss multiple subcommittee recommendations, including approving the EQC 2025‑2026 work plan and providing feedback on various sustainability initiatives.
Staff recommends the commission choose a presenter to deliver the EQC annual report to the City Council and create a subcommittee to develop the EQC’s work plan.
The commission will discuss the electrification project for the Belle Haven Child Development Center and the grant funding from the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN). The project aims to upgrade the center’s electrical systems to support clean energy use. Funding from BayREN would help cover the costs.
What's happening
Why it matters
Electrifying the center reduces greenhouse gas emissions and can lower operating costs, benefiting children and families who use the facility. It supports the city’s climate goals.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Not listed in the source document.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The Commission voted to advance the funding agreement with BayREN for the Decarbonization Showcase program to electrify the Belle Haven Child Development Center, and the motion passed unanimously, providing final approval of the agreement.
Decided Jun 17, 2026.
The City Council will adopt a proclamation honoring Cal Water's 100-year anniversary. The proclamation highlights the company's history, water conservation efforts, and community contributions.
The council will adopt a resolution that overrules any protests, orders improvements, confirms the assessment area, and authorizes the levy and collection of assessments for the Landscaping Assessment District for FY 2026‑27.
The council will conduct a public hearing, consider any rate protests, and adopt a resolution approving maximum rate increases for waste, recycling, and compost collection for commercial, multi‑family, and single‑family customers, effective July 1, 2026.
Public hearing on parking surfaces covering 3.83% of the site and tree protection fencing requirements.
The item addresses covered parking surfaces covering 3.83% of the site.
The work plan includes pursuing affordable housing on city‑owned downtown parking lots.
The Commission received a staff report summarizing completed self‑guided tours of city parks. Commissioners discussed observations and findings from the tours.
Staff presented updates on the Belle Haven Community Campus and Kelly Field facilities. The briefing covered program offerings, facility improvements, and upcoming community initiatives.
Staff recommended that the commission create a temporary subcommittee to draft a report on the 2025‑26 work plan progress for the City Council. The subcommittee would develop findings and recommendations.
What's happening
Why it matters
The report will inform the City Council about the commission’s progress and help guide future park and recreation decisions.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Attend the meeting in person at Belle Haven Community Campus or via Zoom.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The item “Form ad hoc subcommittee for 2025‑26 work plan report” was approved.
Decided May 27, 2026.
Commission will talk about preparing its annual report for the City Council and forming a subcommittee to develop the next year’s work plan.
The commission will receive an update on the Stanford Sustainable Cities project, which provides data and tools for tracking greenhouse‑gas emissions and climate‑action progress.
The BESO and BPS ad hoc subcommittee will present research on adopting a building emissions ordinance similar to Berkeley’s and a regional performance‑standard program for larger buildings.
What's happening
Why it matters
If adopted, the ordinances could require new and existing homes and commercial buildings to install electric heat pumps or improve energy efficiency, reducing citywide carbon emissions.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Join the meeting in person or via Zoom to listen and ask questions.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Public comment is allowed on any topic not on the agenda, up to three minutes per speaker.
Decision update
The commission approved the subcommittee report and unanimously directed staff to seek City Council direction on evaluating the feasibility of the Building Emissions Saving Ordinance in Menlo Park and on advancing the regional Building Performance Standards action.
Decided May 20, 2026.
The council adopted a proclamation recognizing Water Safety Month.
Staff presented an update on the City’s Urban Water Management 2025 Plan.
Staff gave an update on the status of the Olive Street and Middle Avenue intersection improvements and the relocation of planters in the Nealon Park parking lot.
Council will adopt the preliminary engineer’s report and intend to order the levy and collection of assessments for the Landscaping Assessment District for fiscal year 2026-27.
What's happening
Why it matters
Funds will support landscaping improvements and maintenance in the city.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Attend the meeting in person or via Zoom.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The City Council unanimously approved the preliminary engineer’s report for the Landscaping Assessment District and authorized the levy and collection of assessments for FY 2026‑27.
Decided May 12, 2026.
Join our open house to meet representatives from the three development teams and learn about their proposals in response to the City's Request for Proposals for Downtown Parking Plazas 1, 2 and 3.
Join the open house to meet representatives from the three development teams and learn about their proposals in response to the City's Request for Proposals for Downtown Parking Plazas 1, 2 and 3.
The Commission will hold a study session to discuss the use permit, architectural control, tentative parcel map, heritage tree removal permits, and Below Market Rate housing agreement for the O'Brien Drive project. The session is for staff and the public to provide feedback before any final decisions.
The Commission is holding a public hearing to receive comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Report for a mixed‑use project at 995‑1005 O'Brien Drive and 1320 Willow Road. The project includes new research/office buildings and a parking structure.
A study session is scheduled to gather feedback on the use permit, architectural control, tentative parcel map, BMR housing agreement, heritage‑tree removal permits, and environmental review for the O'Brien Drive project.
The commission opened a three‑minute public comment slot where anyone may speak on any issue not on the agenda. No name or address is required, but it helps staff to know who is speaking.
The Conservation Corps gave a 90‑day update on ranger services at Bedwell Bayfront Park. The presentation covered activities performed and any issues encountered.
Staff prepared a report recommending that the commission draft a summary of its 2025‑26 work plan to present to City Council between August and September.
Staff presented findings from a citywide survey of swim‑center users, highlighting usage patterns, satisfaction levels, and preferences for pool programs.
Commission members discussed and voted to recommend changes to the policy governing use of racquet‑sport courts, including reservation procedures and reporting issues.
The commission opened a public hearing where anyone can speak on any topic not on the agenda. Each speaker gets up to three minutes.
The commission shared its work plan for fiscal year 2025‑26, outlining goals such as climate action advice, tree preservation, and public engagement.
Commission heard a presentation from the Community Climate Ambassador Team (CCAT) outlining objectives, stakeholder outreach plans, and potential subcommittee recommendations.
Commission received an update on the ZELE ordinance, focusing on the third phase of a voucher program for zero‑emission lawn mowers. Staff discussed early engagement options.
Commission reviewed the 2025‑26 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, covering risks like earthquakes, floods, wildfires, and sea‑level rise. The discussion highlighted community input on priorities.
Commission adopted a resolution recommending the City Council accept the 2025 General Plan Annual Progress Report, which reviews housing and environmental justice progress.
The Commission voted to recommend that the City Council end the Nealon Park parking pilot and keep the existing back‑in angled parking layout. The recommendation includes keeping the bike lane in the roadway right‑of‑way and not reducing overall parking supply.
Staff presented an overview of the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the 1005 O’Brien Drive and 1320 Willow Road development. Commissioners were asked to review the report and share any comments, but no formal action was taken.
Staff shared findings from the 2025‑26 aquatics user survey, covering pool usage and satisfaction.
The staff report proposes a new title and reorganizes the racquet sport court policy. It adds headings for hours, rental guidelines, contact info, and corrects typographical errors.
What's happening
Why it matters
The changes will clarify how residents can reserve tennis and pickleball courts, set rental fees, and outline user responsibilities, affecting court availability and fees.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Attend the next commission meeting to share your view.
Email: Email the City Clerk at jaherren@menlopark.gov.
Submit comment: Submit written comments to the City Clerk before the next public hearing.
Decision update
The item “Recommend updates to racquet sport court policy” passed (6–0–1).
Decided Mar 25, 2026.
Staff presented updates and statistics from the Library and Community Services department, including program attendance.
Staff presented recent updates on the city’s gymnastics programs, including class schedules and enrollment information.
The council will adopt a resolution accepting the 2025 General Plan Annual Progress Report, which includes the Housing Element and Environmental Justice Element.
What's happening
Why it matters
Shows the city is tracking progress on housing and environmental equity, informing future planning.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Attend the meeting or watch via Zoom.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The item “Adopt 2025 General Plan Annual Progress Report” passed unanimously (Unanimous).
Decided Mar 24, 2026.
The council will discuss and provide direction on possible programming options for the Belle Haven Pool. This study session seeks input on recreational offerings.
What's happening
Why it matters
Decisions will shape recreational opportunities for families and youth in the community.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Not listed in the source document.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The item “Provide direction for Belle Haven Pool programming” was direction provided.
Decided Mar 24, 2026.
The Commission will consider a resolution recommending the City Council accept the 2025 General Plan Annual Progress Report, which updates progress on the Housing Element and Environmental Justice Element.
Staff presented a recommendation that the commission endorse ending the pilot with the current back‑in angled parking configuration. The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final approval.
What's happening
Why it matters
If adopted, the permanent parking layout will keep the safer back‑in angled design, improve driver visibility, and maintain parking capacity for park users.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Not listed in the source document.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The item “Recommend conclusion of Nealon Park Parking Pilot Project to City Council” passed unanimously (Unanimous).
Decided Mar 11, 2026.
Council authorized the city manager to amend the existing agreement with Knorr Systems Inc. for aquatics systems maintenance up to $130,114.38 for fiscal year 2025‑26.
The meeting was held on Feb. 26, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom (ID# 879 3070 9093) and in the City Hall Downtown Conference Room, 1st Floor, 701 Laurel St., Menlo Park. The agenda included discussion of Senate Bill 1383 waste‑reduction efforts, a food‑systems subcommittee report, an electric‑vehicle charging rate study update, and the 2025‑26 work plan.
Residents can speak for up to three minutes on any subject not on the agenda. No name required, but helpful. Comments are limited to one per person.
Staff provided a summary of recent projects supporting pickleball facilities.
Staff presented the 2025 aquatics program report, covering usage statistics, fees, and operational challenges for Belle Haven and Burgess pools.
Staff will provide an update on the municipal water rate study, outlining current findings and possible rate adjustments.
Staff will present an update on the solid waste rate study, reviewing findings and potential rate changes.
Staff will report on the spenddown progress of the communitywide electrification project grant.
Staff will present the 2025 aquatics program annual report, an independent financial analysis, and the results of a community survey.
The meeting scheduled for February 18, 2026 at 6 p.m. was cancelled. The next special meeting is set for February 26, 2026.
The City Council will consider a resolution to begin the Menlo Park Landscaping Assessment District for fiscal year 2026‑27. The resolution would direct the city to prepare an engineer’s report and set up the annual assessment.
Staff recommends updates to the picnic rental policy, including reformatting, new timeframes, additional guidelines, updated contact information, and typographical corrections.
What's happening
Why it matters
Changes affect how residents and non‑residents reserve picnic areas, fees, rules, and insurance requirements, impacting community events.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Attend the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Jan. 28, 2026 at Arrillaga Family Recreation Center or via Zoom.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Public comment is allowed on agenda items during the meeting; speak up during the designated time.
Decision update
The item “Update to Menlo Park picnic rental policy” passed (5–0–2).
Decided Jan 28, 2026.
Staff report provides an update on the planning of a community fun run scheduled for April 25, 2026, including route, sponsorship efforts, and upcoming subcommittee meetings.
Staff presented three options for the Middle Avenue undercrossing of the Caltrain tracks and asked the council to provide direction. Options include finalizing a shovel‑ready design, phasing the project, or discontinuing it.
What's happening
Why it matters
A safe undercrossing will give pedestrians and cyclists a protected way to cross the tracks, improving mobility and reducing accidents.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Watch the study session live on Zoom or in person at City Council Chambers.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The item “Direction on Middle Avenue pedestrian and bicycle rail crossing” was direction provided.
Decided Jan 27, 2026.
The Council will approve a construction contract to Medallion Landscape Maintenance for the Smart Irrigation Infrastructure project. The action is deemed categorically exempt under CEQA guidelines.
What's happening
Why it matters
The project will improve water efficiency for city landscaping and reduce long‑term maintenance costs.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Attend the council meeting in person or via Zoom (ID# 832 1285 7140).
Email: city.council@menlopark.gov
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The item “Award contract for Smart Irrigation Infrastructure” passed unanimously (Unanimous).
Decided Jan 27, 2026.
Staff presented a briefing on the ongoing solar photovoltaic projects at several city buildings, including the library, city hall, and community centers. The projects are being installed under a 20‑year power purchase agreement with Peninsula Clean Energy.
The commission will consider the appeal regarding the removal of thirteen heritage trees at 68 Willow Rd and decide whether to uphold the staff’s permit approval. The decision will be made during this meeting.
What's happening
Why it matters
Removing the trees could affect neighborhood shade, wildlife habitat, and air quality, and the decision sets precedent for future development impacts on the urban canopy.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Join the meeting in person at City Hall Downtown Conference Room or online via Zoom (ID 879 3070 9093).
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The commission considered two motions on the appeal to remove 13 heritage trees at 68 Willow Rd. Both motions failed, so the staff’s permit approval remains in effect and the appeal is not resolved.
Decided Jan 21, 2026.
Commission members voted to dissolve the Emissions Reductions Impact Study ad hoc subcommittee and create a new Sustainable Cities Project subcommittee with Commissioners Hill, Kissel, and Meyer. The new group will focus on prioritizing high‑impact climate initiatives.
The City Council will receive the annual report summarizing fees collected for transportation, storm drainage, construction, water capacity, recreation, and housing in‑lie fees as of June 30, 2025. The report shows revenue amounts and how fees are used for public improvements.
What's happening
Why it matters
Shows how fee revenues fund infrastructure and affordable housing, affecting taxpayers and developers.
Who is affected
How to act
Attend: Attend the meeting to hear the report.
Email: Not listed in the source document.
Submit comment: Not listed in the source document.
Decision update
The City Council voted 4‑0‑1 to approve the consent calendar that includes the annual report on development impact and in‑lie fees collected through June 30 2025, finalizing its adoption.
Decided Jan 13, 2026.
Staff will provide an update on the progress of the Middle Avenue pedestrian and bicycle rail crossing improvement.