Weekly City Manager Updates: January 21, 2025
City Manager Ed Shikada shares brief updates at each Council meeting, highlighting details about upcoming events, City services, and City Council discussions planned. His comments are summarized through our Palo Alto Connect Medium.com series to catch up on City issues and gain the latest news.
Watch Ed share updates from the January 21, 2025 Council meeting
City Council Meeting — January 21, 2025
Timestamped City Council Video: City Council Meeting — January 21, 2025
RESOURCES TO SUPPORT LA FIRE VICTIMS
Thank you to the Palo Alto Fire Department personnel and all first responders who are actively deployed in the Los Angeles area supporting those in need. Palo Alto Fire’s deployment to the Palisades fire via mutual aid continues. A relief crew is being sent to replace initial PAFD Engine 65. Thanks to the PAFD staff working overtime to cover the staffing deployed. Part of the way we make this work with mutual aid is that Fire Fighters provide overtime at local fire stations to continue providing fire protection and other services here.
We’ve compiled a list of resources available should the community be interested in helping through donations, volunteering and more.
For more resources, visit www.cityofpaloalto.org/Support
CREEK-STREAM CORRIDOR COMMUNITY MEETING
The City is updating its creek/stream corridor ordinance to preserve natural vegetation and habitats, protect creek’s bank integrity, and manage public access while providing opportunities for future development. Attend a community meeting on February 6, 6–8 p.m. in the Community Meeting Room at City Hall with a hybrid option available. Gain an overview of the project and learn about regulations under consideration.
Learn more at www.cityofpaloalto.org/CreekCorridorOrdinance
UPCOMING LIBRARY ACTIVITIES
Children’s Library Closure
Children’s Library will be closed temporarily from Sunday, February 16 through May 2025 for renovations including new carpet and paint, plus a new Automated Materials Handling system to enhance customer experience.
Rinconada Library 10th Anniversary Celebration
On February 8, 3–5 p.m. celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Rinconada Library through festivities planned including speeches, architectural tours, performances, and more. Plus, get a commemorative library card while supplies last. Thanks to the Palo Alto community for the ongoing investment in City facility improvements.
JOIN A CITY BOARD, COMMISSION, COMMITTEE
The City is recruiting community members to participate on a board, commission, or committee. Deadline to apply is February 26.
There are openings on the following:
- Architectural Review Board (3)
- Human Relations Commission (2)
- Utilities Advisory Commission (1)
Volunteer and make a difference.
Learn more and apply at www.cityofpaloalto.org/BCRecruit
Council Actions Summary
Council Actions
Housing Element Program Implementation: Approved amendments to the municipal code to implement 2023–2031 Housing Element programs.
Affordable Housing Project: Approved the selection of Alta Housing, a non-profit development partner, to negotiate exclusively with regarding development of a 100% affordable housing project on the City-owned parking lot at Kipling Street and Lytton Avenue.
NOTABLE TENTATIVE UPCOMING COUNCIL ITEMS
Saturday, January 25, 9 a.m. at Mitchell Park Community Center
- Council Retreat
February 3
- Study Session: Cal Ave. Improvements
- Study Session: Plan for 2025 Special Events
- AB 2097 Parking Requirements for New Development
February 10
- Study Session: Homelessness in Palo Alto
- Weed Abatement
- 3265 El Camino Real
February 24
- Mid-Year Budget Review
- Council Priority Objectives Workplans
March
- Housing Element Actions
- 4075 El Camino Way
- Dark Sky Ordinance
- Study Session: Youth Council
Stay engaged and informed with the City Council portal at www.cityofpaloalto.org/CouncilAgendas.
BE INFORMED & STAY CONNECTED
- Gain emergency alerts and other updates: CityofPaloAlto.org/Connect
- Catch up on the latest City news through signing up for digital newsletters: CityofPaloAlto.org/newslettersignup
- Sign Up for Open Town Hall to share input through online surveys
- Attend events and meetings: CityofPaloAlto.org/Calendar
- View the City of Palo Alto Website: CityofPaloAlto.org
- Find City Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes: CityofPaloAlto.org/CouncilAgendas
- Search for Services Near You
