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HomeMy Public PortalAboutJanuary 30, 2023 City Council Emails701-32 DOCUMENTS IN THIS PACKET INCLUDE: LETTERS FROM CITIZENS TO THE MAYOR OR CITY COUNCIL RESPONSES FROM STAFF TO LETTERS FROM CITIZENS ITEMS FROM MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS ITEMS FROM OTHER COMMITTEES AND AGENCIES ITEMS FROM CITY, COUNTY, STATE, AND REGIONAL AGENCIES Prepared for: 1/30/2023 Document dates: 1/23/2023 – 1/30/2023 Note: Documents for every category may not have been received for packet reproduction in a given week. From:Aram James To:Binder, Andrew; Sean Allen; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Jethroe Moore; Bains, Paul; Jeff Rosen; Council, City;Reifschneider, James; Foley, Michael; Figueroa, Eric; Joe Simitian; Josh Becker; Winter Dellenbach; JayBoyarsky; Wagner, April; chuck jagoda; Lee, Craig; Barberini, Christopher; Tannock, Julie; Perron, Zachary;Rebecca Eisenberg Subject:From The Mercury News e-edition - Pastor prays for peace after brutal beating of Tyre Nichols Date:Monday, January 30, 2023 9:36:15 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ I saw this The Mercury News e-edition article on the The Mercury News e-edition app and thought you’d be interested. Pastor prays for peace after brutal beating of Tyre Nichols https://edition.pagesuite.com/popovers/dynamic_article_popover.aspx?guid=1a830399-dbea-42b0-9a4b- 82418e4dd934&appcode=SAN252&eguid=b9ca57e8-2347-425e-b2f2-9004d7238661&pnum=11# For more great content like this subscribe to the The Mercury News e-edition app here: Sent from my iPhone From:Carla Befera To:Lait, Jonathan; French, Amy; Council, City; Shikada, Ed; City Attorney; Kou, Lydia Cc:Andie Reed; Hank Sousa; Alan Cooper; Tom Shannon; Bruce McLeod Subject:Castilleja TDM - follow up Date:Monday, January 30, 2023 9:20:18 AM Attachments:Castilleja ROLUA.pdf20220606amccsm.pdf Hello Jonathan: I am circling back again on the emails below. As a refresher, when last we met with you on October 13, neighbors of Castilleja were looking to receive information including an advance view of the proposed TDM for this project, as well as well as a copy of the signed CUP. We were told by Amy French at that meeting that the ROLUA did NOT contain the final CUP. We are now hearing that it DOES incorporate the final CUP and has been signed by the school. Can you provide clarification on this? Also of concern, the MOTION by City Council (6/6/22 - attached) notes: 7. Staff to draft detailed TDM and return for a public session with Council, ideally within 6 months. We have since been told that Castilleja has provided to the City a TDM (unseen by neighbors) which is currently under review, with plans to then place it on the consent calendar. This hardly seems in keeping with the Council’s request that the City prepare a TDM that enforces the provisions stated, but rather that the City has invited the applicant to create their own governing guidelines. Neighbors are concerned that this is very much like asking the fox to guard the henhouse. Perhaps our fears are unfounded, but the lack of information has not been reassuring. We know you all are busy and this is yet more detail on a project that has taken so much of everyone’s time. But as we are all aware, the prior CUP contained vague language that left much room for interpretation, and we have learned by hard example that the school relies on non- specifics to bolster its actions. This time we are taking pains to make sure the specifics are in place, with measures for recourse, so that everyone can live in peace going forward. Many thanks for your timely attention to this matter. - Carla ____________________________ CBCO PR/Marketing Direct: 650.219.6472 www.cbpr.co ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Carla Befera <carlab@cb-pr.com> Date: Tue, Dec 6, 2022 at 12:57 PM Subject: Castilleja TDM - follow up To: Lait, Jonathan <Jonathan.Lait@cityofpaloalto.org> Cc: French, Amy <Amy.French@cityofpaloalto.org>, Andie Reed <andiezreed@gmail.com>, Hank Sousa <thomashenrysousa@gmail.com>, Alan Cooper <akcooper@pacbell.net>, Bruce McLeod <mcleod.bruce@gmail.com>, <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org>, Tom Shannon <tshannon2@cs.com> Hi Jonathan – As Thanksgiving is now behind us, we are circling back on your email below. Castilleja held a community meeting last week with neighbors, and when asked about the status of the TDM reported it was “likely to go before the City Council as a Consent item this month.” This is disconcerting, as we have yet to see the proposed TDM, nor heard back about any of the issues we raised in our meeting with you and your team on October 13th. You indicated in October that the school’s TDM would not be put before the Council this year, and that it would be made public in a timely manner prior to being presented as a Consent item. Has this timeline changed? Of major concern: 1. Under which TDM is/should the school be operating under this school year? We have learned they will be off-campus starting next summer, when they intend to begin construction. All bets seem to be off at the moment. Can we get clarity on which rules they should be currently observing? 2. Counting methodology: Neighbors ask the City to a) make the counting requirement consistent with the methodology used to determine the maximum car trips and b) clarify greater and more impartial oversight (via an independent traffic consultant) to alleviate future concerns of misrepresentation. At the moment it looks like the school is asked to self-monitor and self-report, which was clearly not the City Council’s intent. 3. TDM during construction: as there will be no driveway or counters during this phase, it is entirely unclear how construction traffic will be monitored, if at all. Neighbors understand it will be years of disruption and are very concerned that there will be no oversite or rules relating to traffic, parking for the 100+ construction and crew vehicles, staging areas, truck waiting areas, use of smaller residential streets, lane closures, etc. At the recent meeting, the school advised neighbors that construction vehicles would not be regulated under the TDM. We ask that this be specifically addressed in the TDM. 4. The Neighborhood oversite committee: as we discussed, the current CUP indicates it will be City Council appointed, which evidently triggers Brown Act Compliance. This was added after the council meeting, we all assume by the City Attorney, you were going to look into this. (Concern: Brown Act restrictions will mean two of the three members cannot discuss any relevant issues without full meeting, reported agenda, etc.) We propose the Neighborhood Committee be self-nominated by neighbors who are not affiliated with the school and permanently reside within 600 feet of the school. PNQL is prepared to create a nominating body, manage this process, present City Staff or Council with its recommended members, track tenure of the members, recruit new members as needed, etc. 5. Local enrollment: The new CUP requires a % of local students - who/how will it be determined who “resides within a 5-mile radius” and where will this be reported? (The school also admitted at the recent meeting that it “monitors arrivals” by noting how many girls walk in, rather than get dropped off by car. They agreed they have no way of knowing which of these students park a block away and walk in.) Attached is a spreadsheet with specific page numbers, sections, item numbers with our notes on inconsistencies or missing information in the Record of Land Use Action. Can there be a “clean- up” document alongside the signed CUP? We know you all are busy and this is yet more detail on a project that has taken so much of everyone’s time. But as we are all aware, the prior CUP contained vague language that left much room for interpretation, and we have learned the school’s fallback position is consistently to follow the letter (and then only when sharply monitored) of its agreement, and not the spirit. This time we are taking pains to make sure the specifics are in place, so that everyone can live in peace going forward. As discussed, we hope to avoid any confusion or ambiguity in this document, which will be used as reference for some time to come and which we all hope will help us establish an amicable co- existence with the school. Many thanks for all your assistance. We look forward to hearing from you. Best, Carla Befera __________________CBCO PR/Marketing www.cbpr.co ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Lait, Jonathan Jonathan.Lait@cityofpaloalto.org Date: Wed, Nov 9, 2022 at 11:38 PM Subject: RE: Agenda from today's meeting To: Carla Befera carlab@cb-pr.com, French, Amy Amy.French@cityofpaloalto.org Cc: Andie Reed andiezreed@gmail.com, Hank Sousa thomashenrysousa@gmail.com, Alan Cooper akcooper@pacbell.net, Bruce McLeod mcleod.bruce@gmail.com Hi Carla, I just wanted to follow up and let you know that this is still on our radar even if it is not moving as quickly as we’d all like. I hope to respond to all your questions on your previously attached agenda before Thanksgiving. Thank you all for your continued patience. Jonathan From: Carla Befera <carlab@cb-pr.com> Sent: Thursday, October 13, 2022 2:56 PM To: Lait, Jonathan Jonathan.Lait@CityofPaloAlto.org; French, Amy Amy.French@CityofPaloAlto.orgCc: Andie Reed <andiezreed@gmail.com>; Hank Sousa <thomashenrysousa@gmail.com>; Alan Cooper <akcooper@pacbell.net>; Bruce McLeod <mcleod.bruce@gmail.com> Subject: Agenda from today's meeting CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Jonathan and Amy – Thank you again for meeting with us today to discuss the status of Castilleja’s CUP and TDM. Attached is the agenda, amended to reflect some of the points made during the meeting. We understood you to say the TDM was no longer on track to be placed before Council as a Consent item by the stated deadline of December 6, 2022 - and further that you will ensure neighbors see an early draft in a timelymanner, so that they may give input on how the regulations are going to be spelled out. As discussed, we hope to avoid any confusion or ambiguity in this document, which will be used as reference for some time to come and which we all hope will help us establish an amicable co-existence with the school. We will follow up in a couple of week to see if at least some of these questions can be answered, and learn what might be the timeline for next steps. With best regards, Carla Befera -- Andie Reed CPAPalo Alto, CA 94301530-401-3809 From:FEC United To:Council, City Subject:FEC United Faith Newsletter Date:Monday, January 30, 2023 8:09:48 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious ofopening attachments and clicking on links. Image   FEC United Faith Pillar Devotional January 30, 2023   Taste and See… If you need some encouragement, read Psalm 34. This chapter in the Bible reminds us that the Lord is with us through ALL THINGS! He is our refuge in times of trouble. Websters 1828 Dictionary definesrefuge as: Shelter or protection from danger or distress. God protects us, guides us, and loves us! To fully realize how good God is we need to turn to him through prayer and His word. Everysingle time I read the Bible my stress lowers and my hope rises! Below I have copied the entire chapter of Psalm 34 and have highlighted some passages that will hopefully remind us all that whenwe spend time with the Lord—we can taste and see that He is Good! Also, there is a link to a great worship song by Travis Greene—Enjoy! Travis Greene--Taste and See Psalm 34 1 I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be onmy lips. 2 My soul boasts in the LORD; let the oppressed hear and rejoice. 3 Magnify the LORD with me; let us exalt His name together. 4 I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. 5 Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed. 6 This poor man called out, and the LORD heard him; He saved himfrom all his troubles. 7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them. 8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! 9 Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. 10 Young lions go lacking and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. 11 Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 12 Who is the man who delights in life, who desires to see good days? 13 Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech. 14 Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. 15 The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry. 16 But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to wipeout all memory of them from the earth. 17 The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers themfrom all their troubles. 18 The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit. 19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all. 20 He protects all his bones; not one of them will be broken. 21 Evil will slay the wicked, and the haters of the righteous will be condemned. 22 The LORD redeems His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned.   Copyright © 2022 FEC United, All rights reserved. Mailing Address:PO Box 891, Parker, CO 80134 Want to change how you receive these emails?You can unsubscribe from this list. Unsubscribe at https://papp.pidoxa.com/unsub Sent by FEC United PO Box 891 , Parker CO 80134. Copyright 2023 by FEC United or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. From:Aram JamesTo:Binder, Andrew; Shikada, Ed; Sean Allen; Jethroe Moore; Council, City; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Reifschneider, James; Wagner, April; Rebecca Eisenberg; Jeff Rosen; Josh Becker; Foley, Michael; Michael Gennaco; Figueroa, Eric; Tannock, Julie; chuck jagoda; Figueroa, Eric; Angie Evans; ladoris cordell; Joe Simitian; Jay Boyarsky; Greer StoneSubject:71 Commands in 13 Minutes: Officers Gave Tyre Nichols Impossible OrdersDate:Sunday, January 29, 2023 8:29:07 PMAttachments:the morning newsletter.png CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Its not the race its the culture and Palo Alto Police Chief Andrew Binder is all about the warrior culture thus his insistence on maintaining deadly Tasers and a canine unit both of which he knows are weapons of torture used almost exclusively on black and brown people. Andrew Binder has no intention of creating a culture shift in the leadership of the PAPD or in the rank and file of the PAPD . Andrew Binder thumbed his nose at the recent RIPA data that shows thePAPD continues to engage in racially discriminatory policing. Andrew Binder’s leadership or lack there of creates a clear and present danger to all people of color and other marginalized members of our community. As I said at Saturday’s retreat both Andrew Binder and his boss Ed Shikada should be fired. Mark my word these two individuals will cost our city millions in law suits given their support of an old school racist model of policing. If you refuse to look atthe truth, look the other way, avert your eyes, you will be held complicit for their criminal acts carried out in our names. Sent from my iPhone On Jan 29, 2023, at 7:41 PM, Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com> wrote:  VISUAL INVESTIGATIONS71 Commands in 13 Minutes:Officers Gave Tyre NicholsImpossible OrdersA Times analysis found that officers gave dozens of contradictory and unachievableorders to Mr. Nichols. The punishment was severe — and eventually fatal. By Robin Stein, Alexander Cardia and Natalie ReneauJan. 29, 2023 Updated 6:44 p.m. ET 5 MIN READPolice officers unleashed a barrage of commands that were confusing, conflictingand sometimes even impossible to obey, a Times analysis of footage from TyreNichols’s fatal traffic stop found. When Mr. Nichols could not comply — and evenwhen he managed to — the officers responded with escalating force.The review of the available footage found that officers shouted at least 71 commandsduring the approximately 13-minute period before they reported over the radio thatMr. Nichols was officially in custody. The orders were issued at two locations, onenear Mr. Nichols’s vehicle and the other in the area he had fled to and where hewould be severely beaten. The orders were often simultaneous and contradictory.Officers commanded Mr. Nichols to show his hands even as they were holding hishands. They told him to get on the ground even when he was on the ground. Andthey ordered him to reposition himself even when they had control of his body.Experts say the actions of the Memphis police officers were an egregious example ofa longstanding problem in policing in which officers physically punish civilians forperceived disrespect or disobedience — sometimes called “contempt of cop.” Thepractice was notoriously prevalent decades ago.“It was far more rampant in the ’80s, when I started doing police work, than it was inthe ’90s or 2000s,” said Geoffrey Alpert, a professor of criminology and criminaljustice at the University of South Carolina. “Even before body cams, cops weregetting more professional and wouldn’t make it personal, like it seemed to be in thiscase. This is just — it’s so far out of the norm.”To mitigate the potential for escalation and confusion during police encounters,today’s police training typically calls for a single officer at the scene to issue clear andspecific commands. It also requires police officers to respond professionally andproportionately to any perceived act of defiance.But The Times’s review shows that the officers did the exact opposite, over and over.The available footage does not show any sign that the officers present intervened tostop the aggressive use of force. If anything, it shows the contrary.At one point, footage captured an officer saying “I hope they stomp his ass” after Mr.Nichols’s attempt to flee the scene. A street camera captured Memphis police officersfatally beating Tyre Nichols.Desiree Rios/The NewYork Times More on the Death of Tyre Nichols A Complex Conversation: The five Memphis officers charged with themurder of Tyre Nichols, a young Black man, are also Black, complicating theanguish and the efforts at police reform.Reactions: The release of video footage of the fatal encounter drew horrorand disgust from law enforcement officials, lawmakers and Black Lives Matteractivists. A National Shift: The response from Memphis officials to Mr. Nichols’sdeath reflected how cities across the country are moving faster and speakingcritically when officers are accused of beatings.The Responsibility of Watching: The video of Memphis police beating Mr.Nichols challenges public complacency — and complicity, A.O. Scott writes.What are our duties as citizens and as human beings? When asked for comment on the officers’ conduct at the traffic stop, a spokespersonfrom the Memphis Police Department said: “All information that is available at thispoint has been released. However, know that this investigation remains ongoing.”The Memphis Police Association also said it could not comment because of theongoing investigation.The Times’s analysis is based on footage from police body cams and street camerasreleased by the City of Memphis and synchronized by The Times.Here are four key moments in which officers punished Mr. Nichols for not complyingwith flawed commands. These videos contain scenes of graphic violence. Confusing Orders The footage begins with a police officer driving up to the intersection where Mr.Nichols’s car had been boxed in by two unmarked police vehicles.The officer jumps out with his firearm drawn and joins a pair of officers rushingtoward the front seat.One officer pulls Mr. Nichols out of his car, and all three officers immediately startscreaming “On the ground!”These are the first orders in the bombardment of confusing commands thatconfound Mr. Nichols and prompt a cascade of retribution. How The Times uses visuals to investigate thenews. Our Visual Investigations team is made up ofmore than a dozen journalists who combine digitalsleuthing and forensic analysis with traditionalreporting to deconstruct news events. They haveuncovered important details about drone strikes, policeshootings and the Capitol riot. Learn more about how the team works. Mr. Nichols points out that he is sitting on the ground, as the officers instructed himto do.But multiple officers shout the same command over and over with intensifyingfrustration and physical threats.“Get on the ground!” one orders. “I’m gonna tase your ass.”It eventually becomes evident that the officers would like Mr. Nichols not only on theground but also lying down.When Mr. Nichols repositions himself, it appears to further antagonize the officers.He tries to convey that he poses no threat.“You guys are really doing a lot right now,” he says. “I’m just trying to go home.”With officers pinning down his arms, pressing a taser against his leg and barkingintensifying verbal threats, Mr. Nichols explodes: “I am on the ground!”Finally, one of the officers yells more specific instructions: “On your stomach.”Three seconds later, one of the officers shoots pepper spray into Mr. Nichols’s face. This video includes scenes of graphic violence.Jan. 29, 2023 Contradictory Commands After fleeing on foot, Mr. Nichols is seen lying on the ground a few hundred yardsaway from his car, flanked by officers demanding that he give them his hands. Butone of them is gripping his left arm, and the other is holding his right. It’s not clearhow the officers expect Mr. Nichols to move.Then a third officer runs up with a can of pepper spray.“You’re about to get sprayed good,” he says. The others start punching Mr. Nichols’sface.Mr. Nichols responds by pulling his hands back to protect himself. The punchingintensifies, and the pepper spray is fired.Wiping the pepper spray from his eyes, Mr. Nichols tries assuring them that he isgoing to comply.“OK,” he says. “All right. All right.”But just as one of the officers gets hold of him, a new officer arrives and alsodemands that Mr. Nichols give him his hands. Again, Mr. Nichols is unable to followthe conflicting directions. He flails about, which only multiplies the police officers’commands and the physical punishment they inflict. He is doused with pepper sprayfor a third time. This video includes scenes of graphic violence.Jan. 29, 2023 Orders Not Resisted Two officers stand above Mr. Nichols, who is lying on his side and rubbing his eyesafter being pepper-sprayed three times. An officer kicks Mr. Nichols in the face. Mr.Nichols appears to be barely conscious or coherent, but officers treat him as if he isresisting orders.“Lay flat, goddamn it,” one officer commands.Mr. Nichols moans and writhes on the ground. By this point, he has been tased,kicked in the head twice and punched and pepper-sprayed repeatedly.“Lay flat,” another officer shouts.Mr. Nichols is lying limp as an officer, without any apparent difficulty, snaps a pairof handcuffs to one of his wrists. This video includes scenes of graphic violence.Jan. 29, 2023 Impossible Orders Officers continue to issue commands while simultaneously constraining, controllingand beating Mr. Nichols in ways that render it physically impossible for him to followthose commands.One officer uses Mr. Nichols’s handcuffed arm to pull his body from the ground andinto a kneeling position. Then another officer strikes him with a baton three times,yelling “Give us your hands!”Surrounded by four officers, he tries to move away from the baton.“Give me your fucking hands!” one officer shouts.But Mr. Nichols — with one officer pinning his arms behind his back, anothergripping his handcuffed wrist and a third punching his face — cannot comply. This video includes scenes of graphic violence.Jan. 29, 2023 Mr. Nichols doubles over and calls out for his mother. The blows continue.Five officers have been fired and charged with second-degree murder. Lawyers fortwo of them said in a news conference last week that their clients intended to pleadnot guilty.Ishaan Jhaveri and Christoph Koettl contributed reporting.Natalie Reneau is a video editor for the Visual Investigations team. Recommended Newsletters Most Commented The Worst Foods and Drinks forYour Teeth Do Neti Pots Really Work? The Death ofTyre Nichols Police Video Is Released What We Know Timeline Who Was Tyre Nichols? 71 Commands in 13 Minutes This video includes scenes of graphic violence. PLAY VIDEO 01:11 This video includes scenes of graphic violence. PLAY VIDEO 00:55 This video includes scenes of graphic violence. PLAY VIDEO 00:23 This video includes scenes of graphic violence. PLAY VIDEO 00:49 DAILYThe MorningMake sense of the news, everyday, with David Leonhardt.See the latest ‘Shrinking’ Review: On theCouch With Harrison Ford Editors’ Picks How Parenting Today IsDifferent, and Harder The Food Expiration Dates YouShould Actually Follow Help! I Reserved a Rental Car,but There Was No Car for Me. Trending Near You Three Dead and Four Woundedin Shooting Near Beverly Hills $2.4 Million Homes inCalifornia Mr. Musk Goes to Washington ADVERTISEMENT Sent from my iPhone From:nnalekar@yahoo.com To:Kou, Lydia; Tanaka, Greg; Council, City; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; Veenker, Vicki; Lauing, Ed Subject:Regarding enormous gas price bill by Palo alto city utility - where was the notice to customer? Date:Sunday, January 29, 2023 7:57:37 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from nnalekar@yahoo.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi All, I am pretty sure many Palo Alto residents received massive gas bills from the PA utility for January 2023. I am a resident who has received a massive bill. We keep hearing about natural gas prices going up in winter every year. Utility companies keep promoting the same agenda of massive consumption due to storms or cold weather. In reality, consumption doesn’t go up more than 5 to 10% but price gouging happens at a massive level. PA utility never informs paid customers in advance for a 5 times increase in price. They knew this well in advance but never included it in the monthly bill. Palo Alto utility buries rate information in a pdf file, which is not easy to access. Do I have to subscribe to the bill? No, I received it regardless Why not publish monthly charges for gas & electricity upfront to customers in an easy to access manner? Before pumping gas for a car, you know the price upfront. You hear in the media and everywhere how much gas prices have gone up. You change your driving habits and pattern to assume such massive price increases. Do we have such notices from the PA utility? No..nothing nil. Do we have options (people who are renting) to change our habits to heat our home or prepare meals? Hell no..nothing..nil..nada PROBLEM: WHY PAID CUSTOMER DON’T GET ANY ADVANCE NOTICE ON BILL OR VIA EMAIL OR LETTER IN MAIL? SOLUTION: City council can implement such measures so customers know what they are gonna pay for next month's utility bill. For rolling black outs multiple warnings but not for such price hikes when the utility knew about them well in advance (profit margin or price gouging). Where is the fair system in America? Did people use that much no? Look, my usage was 36 therms in December 2022 and 40 therms in January 2023. It is hardly a 10% increase but for that utility is charging insane amounts. This will happen again if you allow one form of energy solution. You should have a hybrid approach where one type of energy is too expensive or unavailable. People don’t have to pay a heavy price in their wallet or life. I am not asking to waive the charges or discount because we know PA utility has not paid $12 millions of fine from an earlier lawsuit about money the Utilities Department gets from customer gas, electric and water usage is transferred to the city's general fund. Fool me once not again. I will reduce my usage of gas and ensure not to pay ridiculous prices ever again in winter. How am I going to heat up my apartment? It is my problem because our elected officials working overtime for outsiders and regular citizens are just tax paying cows. It is utter shame where America has come to in terms of governance and public fund management. Hopefully, the city council will act on this. I want answers not silence when it matters to regular folks. Thank you. PA Resident. From:Aram James To:Sean Allen; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Tanaka, Greg; Jethroe Moore; Richard k; Council, City; Binder, Andrew; JeffRosen; Shikada, Ed; Reifschneider, James; Winter Dellenbach; Josh Becker; Wagner, April; Foley, Michael;Figueroa, Eric; Tannock, Julie; Jay Boyarsky; Wagner, April; Shana Segal; Angie Evans; chuck jagoda; JoeSimitian; ladoris cordell; Michael Gennaco; Human Relations Commission; Enberg, Nicholas; Ed Lauing; LydiaKou; Bains, Paul Subject:THOUSANDS EXPECTED TO PROTEST SUNDAY IN OAKLAND IN WAKE OF TYRE NICHOLS POLICE BODYCAM FOOTAGE Date:Sunday, January 29, 2023 5:47:56 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ https://abc7news.com/amp/tyre-nichols-protest-oakland-sunday-police-issues-sf-bay-area-video/12746779/ Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Sean Allen; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Tanaka, Greg; Lydia Kou; Jethroe Moore; peaceandjusticecenter@gmail.com;Bains, Paul; Council, City; Shikada, Ed; Foley, Michael; Michael Gennaco; Jeff Rosen; Rebecca Eisenberg; JoeSimitian; Tannock, Julie; Figueroa, Eric; Wagner, April; Josh Becker; Jay Boyarsky; chuck jagoda; Greer Stone;ladoris cordell; Reifschneider, James; Winter Dellenbach; Human Relations Commission Subject:Police Crack Down on Atlanta Cop City Protesters Date:Sunday, January 29, 2023 5:37:35 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ https://theintercept.com/2023/01/27/cop-city-atlanta-forest/ Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Council, City; Shikada, Ed; Jethroe Moore; Sean Allen; Richard k; Rebecca Eisenberg; Binder, Andrew; JeffRosen; Winter Dellenbach; Joe Simitian; Jay Boyarsky; chuck jagoda; Wagner, April; Josh Becker;Assemblymember.Berman@assembly.ca.gov; ladoris cordell; Reifschneider, James; Human RelationsCommission; Enberg, Nicholas; Doug Fort Subject:Taser memo to sheriff Robert Jonsen-dated January 19, 2023 Date:Sunday, January 29, 2023 12:55:21 PM Attachments:final version ltr to Jonsen with link to Axon warning.pdf CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of openingattachments and clicking on links.________________________________ FYI:>> January 29, 2023> > Dear Council-member Pat Burt:>> Please read our ( CJA) memo on Tasers and see what you think. The footnotes are loaded withcritical information. Once you’ve read the piece please consider working with a colleague or colleagues to place the issue of whether Palo Alto should shelve its Tasers on an agenda in the nearfuture as an action item. I can certainly assist in locating competent witnesses who oppose the use ofTasers. Ok, thanks so much for considering my request.> > Best regards,>> Aram James>> 415-370-5056>> > > > Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Council, City; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Tanaka, Greg; Shikada, Ed; Diana Diamond; Dave Price; Emily Mibach;jdong@paweekly.com Subject:How does a community member get an item on the agenda as an action item-as an example canine unit-Tasers - RIPA data Date:Saturday, January 28, 2023 2:35:54 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ > Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Tanaka, Greg; Council, City; Pat Burt; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Shikada, Ed Subject:How does a community member get an item on the agenda as an action item-as an example canine unit-Tasers - RIPA data Date:Saturday, January 28, 2023 2:32:37 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ Sent from my iPhone From:Jessica Beeli To:Council, City Subject:Palo Alto safety Date:Saturday, January 28, 2023 12:14:13 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from jmbeeli@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi city council, As a resident of Palo Alto, I’d like to share my thoughts on our community’s safety. I feel safe here I'm so happy the city has invested in mental health professionals responding tomental health crises & would like to see the city continue to invest in that. I feel safest on the streets that have protected bike lanes & I would like more of them as well as making morestreets (like University Avenue) closed to pedestrian only and I'm excited for the upcoming on demand free shuttle service From:Katherine Causey To:Council, City Subject:Annual Retreat: Housing Date:Saturday, January 28, 2023 9:37:06 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Palo Alto City Council, In 2022 the council’s priorities included, “Housing for Social and Economic Balance” there were some parts of this priority where progress was made - the 100% affordable housing property Wilton Court opened, Measure K passed which will bring in more money for affordable housing, safe parking was passed at the First Congregational Church, and offices at 2850 West Bayshore are on track to be replaced with homes. Housing should again be a priority in 2023, with a focus on producing a compliant housing element, meeting our housing element goals, launching our rent registry, increasing renter protections, and elevating tenant voices and other voices vulnerable to losing their housing. The Palo Alto Renters’ Association can speak to how evictions happen everyday in Palo Alto and following some of the comments at the last council meeting I just wanted to clarify a massive amount of tenants in Palo Alto have lived in this community for decades (particularly seniors), and if not they are people who actively contributing to the community (teachers, healthcare workers, etc.). After the annual community survey I wanted to note that if council really wants to commit to getting feedback from renters and the most vulnerable populations in Palo Alto, the Palo Alto Renters’ Association has found that the most effective way to do that is to provide multiple flexible opportunities for renters to give feedback where they are given a giftcard or small stipend as compensation for their time (people working multiple jobs aren’t otherwise going to have time to give community feedback). It also means considering who gets to hold office and commissions in Palo Alto - until council receives a full time salary and commissions are stipended - you’re not going to get representation from renters and other vulnerable communities. How we elevate and protect renter voices in Palo Alto is part of our housing element - and launching our rent registry and starting to work other renter protections (rent stabilization, just cause, etc.) will save lives in this city. That also means prioritizing funding the city staff who work on these issues. As we enter this housing element cycle please consider how we can make it easier to build housing. Properties such as 660 University Avenue which is very walkable and close to public transit have a 5 step approval process and this is a perfect example of housing that would replace the housing stock lost by the President Hotel - we need the housing built sooner. While the Creekside Inn project received a lot of pushback, we constantly talk about how that neighborhood’s local businesses need more customers, and in addition the schools in that neighborhood are at risk of closure due to not enough families living there - finding a way to ensure that project gets revised quickly so it is appropriate for the neighborhood would be extremely beneficial. Thank you! From:Katherine Causey To:Council, City Subject:Annual Retreat: Community Safety Date:Saturday, January 28, 2023 8:28:25 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello Palo Alto City Council! In 2022 one of the priorities was community safety, I saw on the annual community survey that many residents reported not feeling safe - I wanted to just give the feedback that I do feelsafe in Palo Alto. I really appreciate that the city has invested in mental health professionals responding to mental health crises rather than police officers, and I would love to see the city continue toinvest in mental health professionals. As someone who has to leave work late at night and walk home, having more frequent public transit is extremely helpful and I'm very excited forthe upcoming free on demand shuttle service. Walking at night near dense housing where there's local business lots of pedestrian traffic and things are well lit is very helpful and Iwould love to see more protected bike lanes and more streets made pedestrian only (would love University Avenue to be pedestrian only) - and even if on days like Halloween closing alot of streets to be pedestrian only I think would really improve our safety. Thank you! From:Nancy Coupal To:Council, City Subject:Topic of concern Date:Saturday, January 28, 2023 6:48:50 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. To our Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council of Palo Alto, First I would like to welcome the new members of the City Council and I am looking forward to working with everyone in the quest for economic development for our City. We all know that businesses and Palo Alto, like other cities, have suffered economically over the last 3 years due to the pandemic and more recently with the climate effects caused by the series of storms. While I know that the Council is meeting today, Saturday, January 28th, to set the 2023 priorities for the Council, I am writing specifically about the Parklet issue requiring a Letter of Consent from the neighboring Landlord in the event of utilizing the parking space(s) in front of the neighboring property. I am sure all of you are aware that this topic has gone through various outcomes with the Council and last November it was changed from the prior direction to Staff to require consent. This decision will cause economic harm to those of us who built Parklets during the pandemic at a very high cost by having to tear them down, loose the outdoor seating that the community has grown to love, and bring in less sales tax to the City as well as less rent that the City plans to charge for use of public property where the Parklets are built. The bottom line is that the street is public property belonging to the City and this is where parklets are built. I urge you to bring this topic back to the table before the Consent issue changes the landscape of Palo Alto and reduces sales for restaurants and consequently sales tax for the City. It is also imperative that the Council reflect on the differences between Landlords, some reasonable and others not, that will impact the final decision given to them for property belonging to the City. Finally, we will be living with the effects of Covid and reinfections with new variants for a long time and the community will prefer to dine outdoors whenever possible. We need to consider that if the objective of Parklets is to help bring back vibrancy to our City then, let's not hinder this by requiring consent from Landlords of neighboring buildings who will more than likely always negate this consent. I gave a document with a list of problems related to requiring Consent to Steven Guagliardo and Jonathan Lait following the November 2022 Council decision related to this topic outlining a series of issues that will and have occurred by requiring Consent. I urge you to discuss this list with them and I am available to participate in any conversations that may move this topic towards a more beneficial outcome for our community. Thank you for your time, Nancy Coupal Founder & CEO of Coupa Cafe From:Aram James To:Binder, Andrew; Sean Allen; Jethroe Moore; Shikada, Ed; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Rebecca Eisenberg; Jeff Rosen;Joe Simitian; Winter Dellenbach; Council, City; Bains, Paul; Jay Boyarsky; Wagner, April; Josh Becker; ladoriscordell; Reifschneider, James; Greer Stone; chuck jagoda; Human Relations Commission; Enberg, Nicholas;Michael Gennaco; Foley, Michael; Shana Segal; Angie Evans; Ed Lauing; Lydia Kou; Greg Tanaka Subject:Twitter Date:Saturday, January 28, 2023 1:04:44 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ Binder committed to weaponized canines used on African Americans -weaponized tasers used on African Americans. Binder committed to thumbing his nose at RIPA data that shows his department engages in racially disparate pretext searches against black and browns - gun to the head consent searches against black motorist his cops stops. Binder committed to keeping Zack Perron on the PAPD payroll. Binder committed to an all white command staff. Binder committed to continuing to employee five members of his department who filed a law suit over a BLM mural. Binder committed to no culture shift in his department. Binder committed to old school racist policing. Binder committed to late or no release of body worn camera footage that shows his offices in a bad light. Binder needs to be fired now along with his boss Ed Shikada. https://twitter.com/paloaltopolice/status/1619106973810823168/photo/1 Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Sean Allen; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Council, City; ladoris cordell; Shikada, Ed; Jethroe Moore; Kaloma Smith; Bains,Paul; Rebecca Eisenberg; Joe Simitian; Winter Dellenbach; Josh Becker; Jay Boyarsky; chuck jagoda; Wagner,April; Michael Gennaco; Foley, Michael; Figueroa, Eric; Greer Stone; Reifschneider, James; Human RelationsCommission; Angie Evans; Binder, Andrew; Enberg, Nicholas; Shana Segal; Ed Lauing; Jeff Rosen; Lydia Kou; PatBurt; Greg Tanaka Subject:6 members of the PAPD sue over Palo Alto BLM mural. Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 11:27:45 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ Do you ever wonder like I do what type of mind set the members of the PAPD who sued over the BLM mural must have? Are these officers mentally fit to even be police officers? If you are POC would you feel comfortable being pulled over or stopped by an officer with a mind set antagonist to a simple symbolic BLM mural? Again is our white dominated council member afraid to even ask about this situation? Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Sean Allen; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Tanaka, Greg; Jethroe Moore; Council, City; Shikada, Ed; Binder, Andrew;Perron, Zachary; Joe Simitian; Winter Dellenbach; Rebecca Eisenberg; Josh Becker; Jay Boyarsky; Wagner, April;chuck jagoda; Michael Gennaco; Foley, Michael; Shana Segal; Angie Evans; Vara Ramakrishnan; ladoris cordell;Reifschneider, James; Wagner, April; Greer Stone; Human Relations Commission; Enberg, Nicholas; Ed Lauing;Lydia Kou; Bains, Paul; Pat Burt Subject:Cop’s use of n-word led to investigation that never became public Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 11:03:10 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. padailypost.com 9 years and counting and Perron still employed by the PAPD making $350,000 plus a yearnever apologized for his use of the N word and never disciplined. And our predominately white entitled council members wonder why POC have zero respect for the police or ourmajority white council. How long will this white dominated council allow the city attorney and city manager cow them in to silence. Let Perron sue better that than our council remainsilent on Perron’s conduct. Ask your self how long would Perron be employed in Memphis? Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Shikada, Ed; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Jethroe Moore; Binder, Andrew; Michael Gennaco; Wagner, April; Sean Allen;ladoris cordell; Human Relations Commission; Barberini, Christopher; Council, City; Rebecca Eisenberg; WinterDellenbach; Joe Simitian; Josh Becker; Jay Boyarsky; chuck jagoda; Greer Stone; Figueroa, Eric; Foley, Michael;Tannock, Julie Subject:$ 600,000 settlement in canine attack case Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 10:44:39 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Aram James <abjpd1@gmail.com>Date: January 27, 2023 at 10:29:51 PM PSTTo: Sean Allen <sallen6444@yahoo.com>Subject: $600,000 settlement in canine attack case https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/investigations/san-diego-to-pay-600000-to- mother-attacked-by-loose-k9-police-dog/509-2697ece1-acdf-4f5c-b98d-11f896dd5284 Shared via the Google app Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Sean Allen; chris.barberini@cityofpaloalto.org; Jethroe Moore; Binder, Andrew; Julie Lythcott-Haims; HumanRelations Commission; Shikada, Ed; Stump, Molly; Rebecca Eisenberg; Council, City; Winter Dellenbach; JoeSimitian; Josh Becker; Jay Boyarsky; chuck jagoda; Wagner, April; Tannock, Julie; Enberg, Nicholas; MichaelGennaco; Foley, Michael; Figueroa, Eric; Greer Stone; ladoris cordell; Reifschneider, James; Ed Lauing; Lydia Kou Subject:Fresno officer shoots police K-9 after dog attacks him Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 10:40:09 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/california-officer-shoots-police-k-9-after-dog- attacks-him/ Shared via the Google app Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Sean Allen; Council, City; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Jethroe Moore; Richard k; Raj; Council, City; Shikada, Ed; Binder,Andrew; Barberini, Christopher; Jeff Rosen; Rebecca Eisenberg; Winter Dellenbach; Josh Becker; Joe Simitian;Jay Boyarsky; chuck jagoda; Wagner, April; ladoris cordell; Reifschneider, James; Enberg, Nicholas; HumanRelations Commission; Michael Gennaco; Lydia Kou; Shana Segal; Ed Lauing; Greg Tanaka; Javier Ortega;Supervisor Otto Lee; Supervisor Cindy Chavez; Pat Burt Subject:A Police Dog Attacked a Black Man After a Traffic Stop. He Lost an Eye. Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 10:36:13 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. https://www.vice.com/en/article/epzxze/gainesville-terrell-bradley-lost-eye-k9-police Shared via the Google app Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Council, City; Shikada, Ed; Binder, Andrew; Jethroe Moore; Karen Holman; Kaloma Smith; Winter Dellenbach;Reifschneider, James; Wagner, April; Shana Segal; Angie Evans; melissa caswell; gmah@sccoe.org; Wagner,April; Figueroa, Eric; Michael Gennaco; Foley, Michael; Tannock, Julie; Josh Becker; ladoris cordell; Shikada, Ed;Joe Simitian; Rebecca Eisenberg Subject:Taser memo to sheriff Robert Jonsen Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 10:26:46 PM Attachments:final version ltr to Jonsen with link to Axon warning.pdf CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of openingattachments and clicking on links.________________________________ Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Julie Lythcott-Haims; Sean Allen; Jethroe Moore; Council, City; Shikada, Ed; Binder, Andrew; Jeff Rosen; WinterDellenbach; Rebecca Eisenberg; Josh Becker; Greer Stone; Joe Simitian; chuck jagoda; Wagner, April; ladoriscordell; Reifschneider, James; Human Relations Commission; Angie Evans; Shana Segal; Jay Boyarsky; EdLauing; Lydia Kou; Enberg, Nicholas; Greg Tanaka; Pat Burt Subject:Jameel Douglas victim of Palo Alto Police violence 2005 professional skateboarder 2023 Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 7:27:06 PM Attachments:image.png CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of openingattachments and clicking on links.________________________________ Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Sean Allen; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Jethroe Moore; Council, City; ladoris cordell; Bains, Paul; Shikada, Ed; JeffRosen; Winter Dellenbach; Joe Simitian; Jay Boyarsky; Greer Stone; Josh Becker; chuck jagoda; Wagner, April;Reifschneider, James; Human Relations Commission; Enberg, Nicholas; Ed Lauing;citycouncil@mountainview.gov; jdong@paweekly.com; Gennady Sheyner; Sue Dremann; Greg Tanaka; ShanaSegal; Pat Burt; Angie Evans; Binder, Andrew; Rebecca Eisenberg Subject:Federal lawsuit filed by skateboarder against officer 2005 from the archives of Palo Alto online Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 7:11:14 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links.https://www.paloaltoonline.com/weekly/morgue/2005/2005_03_30.lawsuit30ja.shtml Shared via the Google app Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Sean Allen; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Jethroe Moore; Council, City; Rebecca Eisenberg; Binder, Andrew; Shikada, Ed;Winter Dellenbach; Josh Becker; Joe Simitian; Greer Stone; Assemblymember.Berman@assembly.ca.gov; Bains,Paul; Angie Evans; Shana Segal; Jeff Rosen; chuck jagoda; Wagner, April; ladoris cordell; Reifschneider, James;Human Relations Commission; Enberg, Nicholas; Tanaka, Greg; Ed Lauing; Lydia Kou; Pat Burt Subject:From the archives of Palo Alto online Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 6:56:26 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. https://www.paloaltoonline.com/weekly/morgue/2005/2005_02_09.council09.shtml Shared via the Google app Sent from my iPhone From:Suzanne Redfern-West To:Council, City Subject:Flood control Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 3:40:44 PM [Some people who received this message don't often get email from suzyredf@pacbell.net. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ Dear Members of the Palo Alto City Council, As 16-year residents of Forest Avenue, we urge you to make flood control in our area a top priority. We are 80-ish, less hale and hardy than we once were, and during the recent flood scare found ourselves forced to do things that proved to be dangerous to our physical well-being. Things like filling dozens of sand bags, dragging them to the car, loading and unloading them, then dragging them up against the house, where we wrapped them with clear plastic sheeting and taped them to the wall. All of which activity left us exhausted and sore as well as deeply worried about possible damage to our property. The solutions to the Pope-Chaucer clearance problems are clear and obtainable. After being discussed and debated by all affected agencies for nearly 25 years, we all know what must be done. Please take the lead in seeing that they are taken care of with all due speed. We’re confident that you are aware that your top priority must be to protect the safety of your citizens, including those of us who long to return all those sandbags to the Santa Clara Valley Water District and once again breathe freely when we hear the sound of rainfall. Respectfully yours, Suzanne and Robert Redfern-West 1350 Forest Avenue Palo Alto Sent from my iPhone From:Stephen Tull To:Council, City Subject:PARA and City Council Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 3:39:41 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from tullstephen@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. 1/27/23 This note is in response to Palo Alto Renters Association: Monday night the question was raised of how renters in Palo Altoparticipate in and value Palo Alto. It would be really helpful if renterswrote in or showed up to answer that question. Hello City Council, My name is Steve. I always say I grew up in Palo Alto. In truth, my family history here goes back before to when my grandparents were raising my mom here. Because it’s basically home, that is why I live in Palo Alto. In that, I do value living in Palo Alto. I now rent near University Ave. While I’ve lived on the Peninsula, I’ve wondered and worried about the sense of community here. I would be curious to ask anyone else, the average citizen, “do you feel a sense of community in Palo Alto?” There should be one, but I often wonder this, because there is a wonderful mix of people. About the people, I have observed this and know it. I have little hope of buying a home in this area although I am employed full time and receive some assistance from the VA: I am a Veteran. For the priority list in 2023, why not address some affordable housing for someone like me? Sunnyvale has it, Santa Clara has it. Campbell has it. Without referring to specific topics on the priority list, these are my suggestions to the city council for 2023: I can say that from reading in the local news about the President Hotel debacle that there might be aloss of trust. I think 77 long time renters were displaced. Additionally, the roads along El Camino need to be repaved. With homelessness, there were times this year walking around downtown University Ave that in theearly morning hours that the only people around I saw around were homeless. I found this unusualat this specific part of Palo Alto, so I think homelessness might be creeping up. Lastly crime seems to be increasing. From all the smash- and- grabs at Stanford Shopping Center it is clear this area is a target for thieves, and for good reason. If people felt safer then there might be better community. Thanks for your time, Steve Palo Alto resident From:Nate Saal To:Council, City Subject:City Council 2023 Priorities Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 3:36:57 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from nate@saal.org. Learn why this is important CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear City Council: I am writing to request that you please make flood protection a priority for 2023. Specifically, please renew your city priority of Climate Change and Adaptation for 2023. Thisyear please add the following projects under this priority: Newell Bridge replacementSupport for the full Reach 2 upgrade of San Francisquito Creek Clearing debris before flood season I live in the flood zone and we had water running down our street in December. Improved flood prevention and protection of our home from flooding is an imperative for our family’ssafety and well being. Thank you, Nate Saal 1381 Forest Ave From:Tran, Joanna To:Council, City Cc:Executive Leadership Team; Clerk, City Subject:Council Consent Questions: Item 2 (1/30/23) Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 2:21:56 PM Attachments:image001.pngimage003.pngimage004.pngimage006.pngimage007.pngimage008.pngimage009.png Dear Mayor and Councilmembers, On behalf of City Manager Ed Shikada, please view the following links below for the amended agenda and staff responses to questions from Councilmembers Tanaka for Monday night’s Council Meeting: January 30 Amended Agenda Staff response to Item 2 Thank you, Joanna Joanna Tran Executive Assistant to the City Manager Office of the City Manager (650) 329-2105 | joanna.tran@cityofpaloalto.org www.cityofpaloalto.org From:Matt B To:Council, City Subject:City Priority - Flood Control Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 1:23:19 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from mbuch2938@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear City Council, Please make flood protection a priority for 2023. Specifically, please renew your city priority of Climate Change and Adaptation for 2023. This year please add the following projects under this priority: the Newell Bridge replacement, explicit support for the full Reach 2 upgrade of San Francisquito Creek and clearing debris before flood season. I live in the flood zone and improved flood prevention and protection of our home from flooding is an imperative for our family’s safety and well being. Thank you. Matt Buchwitz 1216 Forest Avenue From:Dashiell Leeds To:Council, City; Kou, Lydia; Burt, Patrick; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; Lauing, Ed; Tanaka, Greg; Stone, Greer; Veenker,Vicki; Clerk, City Cc:James Eggers; Mike Ferreira; Gladwyn D"Souza; Barbara Kelsey; Jennifer Hetterly Subject:Sierra Club Letter to Palo Alto Regarding 2023 Priorities Date:Friday, January 27, 2023 12:33:18 PM Attachments:SCLP letter to PA 2023 priorities.pdf Some people who received this message don't often get email from dashiell.leeds@sierraclub.org. Learn why thisis important CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Mayor Kou and Palo Alto City Councilmembers, Humanity is experiencing two major existential threats: the rapid loss of biodiversity and anaccelerating climate crisis. To protect Palo Alto residents and ecosystems, both crises mustbe addressed simultaneously. Fortunately, protecting nature and reducing emissions haveinterconnected and mutually beneficial solutions. Please consider the attached letter, which contains the Loma Prieta Chapter'srecommendations for Palo Alto's 2023 priorities. Sincerely,Dashiell Leeds Conservation Organizer Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter From:Marie-Jo Fremont To:Council, City Subject:Annual retreat City Council Date:Thursday, January 26, 2023 8:58:07 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. City Council Members, I won't be able to join the retreat meeting on Saturday because of a prior commitment. I would like to thank all Council Members and City Management for their efforts and continued commitment on the airplane noise problem that residents experience. I do hope that reducing airplane noise will continue to be an important goal for our City in the future as it continues to impact many residents across our City. Thank you for your continued support. Marie-Jo Fremont From:dick held To:Margaret Bruce Cc:reisenberg@valleywater.org; Council, City; dick held Subject:Fwd: Flood video Date:Thursday, January 26, 2023 5:58:37 PM Attachments:Video.mov Some people who received this message don't often get email from rwheld@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Ms. Bruce, I previously furnished you this film of the San Francisquito Creek overflowinto our yard on Desoto Drive on December 31. Since I associate myself with the requests for urgent action to replace the Chaucer Street Bridge made by Mr. Gu and Ms. Hammer I alsowant to make it available to Ms. Eisenberg and the Palo Alto City Council. Twenty five years ago in 1998 we were forced to evacuate our house for over two monthswhile extensive repairs were made due to flood water damage to our house from overflow at the same bridge.Today you went to great lengths to compliment the response of responsible parties to the December 31 flooding. I, too, appreciate their assistance. I must remind you, however, thathad corrective action been taken in the last twenty five years their most helpful efforts would not have been necessary.No corrective action for twenty five years is an unacceptable response by government at all levels. We need no more time spent on process, studies, or more business as usual. Please bean aggressive force for seeing the Chaucer Street Bridge is promptly removed. Sincerely,Dick Held Begin forwarded message: From: Bri King <briheldking@gmail.com>Subject: Flood videoDate: January 1, 2023 at 7:42:11 PM PSTTo: dick held <rwheld@gmail.com> From:Austin Brennan To:Council, City Cc:Anicet MABONZO; Hocine Benaoum Subject:City of Palo Alto- Applying for EECBG Program for Solar Lighting Projects Date:Thursday, January 26, 2023 4:47:49 PM Attachments:image001.pngimage002.pngimage003.pngimage004.pngimage005.pngimage006.pngFonroche Smartlight Brochure.pdf Some people who received this message don't often get email from austin.brennan@fonroche.us. Learn why thisis important CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi Mr. Burt, I hope you’ve been doing well! I can’t believe it’s already been 4 months since we met at the League of California Cities show. I remember discussing with you about a bike path project that could use our solar lights. I wanted to reach out to make sure your city is taking advantage of the EECBG Grant Program. I hope to find a time to have a meeting to discuss this Grant further. In the meantime, I just wanted to share with you this info regarding this Federal Grant : https://www.energy.gov/clean-energy-infrastructure/energy-efficiency-and-conservation-block- grant-program-formula-grant For this Energy Efficiency and Conservation Grant, Palo Alto was allocated a $141,790 voucher, and Fonroche Autonomous Solar Street Lights qualifies 100% for this Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. With this amount, we can substantially impact the City, in a short period time. We can improve safety and security in areas in need of additional lighting or help with any upcoming projects needing lighting for residential streets, parking lots, trails, or roundabouts. Please, could you have a look and share it with your team? We will take care of all the planning and all inputs needed to apply for the Grant before April (Application design, Carbon savings, energy efficiency… ). I know it’s a bit of a short notice, but our team will be in your area early next week, I’d appreciate if Austin BrennanInside Sales Representative Office: 339-225-4530 ext. 207Cell: 773-425-8389 austin.brennan@Fonroche.us - www.FonrocheSolarLighting.com FONROCHE LIGHTING AMERICA910 Main St.Ste 350Boise, ID 83702 we can find a time to have a quick meeting to discuss this topic further. All the Best, From:Aram James To:Sean Allen; Jethroe Moore; Julie Lythcott-Haims; Bains, Paul; Binder, Andrew; DuJuan Green; Council, City;Shikada, Ed; Jeff Rosen; Rebecca Eisenberg; Joe Simitian; Josh Becker; Winter Dellenbach; Cindy Chavez;Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; Lydia Kou; Tanaka, Greg; citycouncil@mountainview.gov; Tony Dixon; CeciliaTaylor; bob nunez; Betsy Nash; Human Relations Commission Subject:Memphis police indicted for second degree murder and numerous additional charges body-worn camera footage to be released at 6pm Jan 27, 2023 Date:Thursday, January 26, 2023 1:50:05 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2023/01/26/us/tyre-nichols-memphis-thursday/index.html Sent from my iPhone From:Aram James To:Julie Lythcott-Haims; Tanaka, Greg; Sean Allen; Jethroe Moore; DuJuan Green; Council, City; Stump, Molly;Shikada, Ed; Joe Simitian; Cindy Chavez; Richard Konda; Supervisor Otto Lee; Javier Ortega; Lydia Kou; CeciliaTaylor; Figueroa, Eric; Tannock, Julie; Foley, Michael; Binder, Andrew; Michael Gennaco; Rebecca Eisenberg;Winter Dellenbach; Josh Becker; Shikada, Ed; Jay Boyarsky; Jeff Rosen; Wagner, April; chuck jagoda; ladoriscordell; Reifschneider, James; Human Relations Commission; Enberg, Nicholas; Supervisor Susan Ellenberg; EdLauing Subject:California lawmaker wants reparations proposal to be a nationwide ‘blueprint,’ beyond ‘financial compensation’ Date:Thursday, January 26, 2023 11:19:03 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ https://www.foxnews.com/media/california-lawmaker-reparations-proposal-nationwide-blueprint-beyond-financial- compensation.amp Sent from my iPhone From:Jethroe Moore Subject:Fw: Flyer for African American flag raising Date:Thursday, January 26, 2023 9:19:39 AM Attachments:Black History Month 21 - Flag Raising 2023 (4).pdf Some people who received this message don't often get email from moore2j@att.net. Learn why this is important CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Please come out and attend the Flag Raising Ceremony on February 10th 2023 5pm at San Jose City Hall spread the word. From:Charlie Weidanz To:Council, City Subject:Discover Love at Town & Country Village | Palo Alto Chamber Date:Thursday, January 26, 2023 9:00:37 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Discover Love, Town & Country Village - More than 50 Shops, Restaurants, & Services The first 50 to RSVP will be entered to win a $100 gift card to the Town & Country Villagemerchant of your choice.* Fall in love with Town & Country Village just in time for Valentine’s Day. Mix & minglethrough our delightful shopping center packed with specialty shops and delectable eateries. Guests will receive a map of participating retailers for refreshments, prizes, gifts, activities,special discounts & more! Visit participating retailers for chances to win fantastic prizes. In partnership with the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce, Silicon Valley ConciergeAssociation, and The San Francisco Peninsula, you are invited to experience Town & CountryVillage to Discover Love for all your shopping needs and dining pleasures. Date: Thursday, February 9, 2023 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM PST Location: Town & Country Village 855 El Camino Real Palo Alto, CA 94301 When you arrive, check in at the guest services area near Kara’s Cupcakes to receive a map ofparticipating merchants. By invitation only, RSVP today! *Winner will be chosen at random from 6:30pm-6:45pm. Must be present to win. This email was sent on behalf of Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce 355 Alma St Palo Alto, CA 94301.To unsubscribe click here. If you have questions or comments concerning this email or services in general, please contact us by email atinfo@paloaltochamber.com. From:Yahoo Mail.® To:Honky Subject:Watch to the end to find what was LEFT behind in Afghanistan $$$$$ ? AND .......... What would our hungary poor and homelessAmericans think about this ? Date:Thursday, January 26, 2023 12:31:58 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of openingattachments and clicking on links. https://videos.dailymail.co.uk/video/mol/2021/09/11/7046065370208094002/640x360_MP4_7046065370208094002.mp4 US left behind weapons, piles of American dollars in Afghanistan: Lawmaker Ronny Jackson US left behind weapons, piles of Americandollars in Afghanistan: Lawmak... The United States troops left behind a cache of weapons and piles ofAmerican dollars in Taliban-controlled Afgh... Watch: Taliban flaunt weapons, dollars after US, IMF freeze funds amidst Afghan turmoil US left behind weapons, piles of Americandollars in Afghanistan: Lawmak... The United States troops left behind a cache of weapons and piles ofAmerican dollars in Taliban-controlled Afgh... https://videos.dailymail.co.uk/video/mol/2021/09/11/7046065370208094002/640x360_MP4_7046065370208094002.mp4 https://www.manufacturing.net/video/video/22419205/over-7b-in-weapons-and-equipment-abandoned-in-afghanistan Watch: Taliban flaunt weapons, dollars after US,IMF freeze funds amidst... Watch: Taliban flaunt weapons, dollars after US,IMF freeze funds amidst... Watch: Taliban flaunt weapons, dollars after US,IMF freeze funds amidst... visual footage of what was left behind in afghanistan - Google Search visual footage of what was left behind inafghanistan - Google Search USA DOLLARS CASH MONEY LEFT BEHIND FOR THE TALIBAN IN AFGHANISTAN VIDEO - Google Search visual footage of what was left behind inafghanistan - Google Search visual footage of what was left behind inafghanistan - Google Search USA DOLLARS CASH MONEY LEFT BEHIND FORTHE TALIBAN IN AFGHANISTAN VIDEO ... From:Carolyn Hoskins To:Council, City Subject:Fwd: 2/3-2/28 Black History Month Pop-Up Museum in Redwood City Date:Wednesday, January 25, 2023 9:37:37 PM Attachments:Please Join Us.png Please Join Us.png Black History Month Pop-Up Museum.pdf Black History Month Pop-Up Museum.png Black History Month Pop-Up Museum Sponsorship Form.png Some people who received this message don't often get email from info@hoskinsblackhistorymuseum.org. Learnwhy this is important CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Greetings! Thank you for all you in service to our community. You're invited to the grand opening of our Black HIstory Month Pop-Up Museum in Redwood City: Thursday, February 2 from 6-8pm 890 Jefferson Avenue, Redwood City, CA 94063 The Domini Hoskins Black History Museum & Learning Center, with support from The Northern California Chapter of the NFL Alumni Association & San Mateo County Event Center, is celebrating Black History Month! We feature 22,000 SF of exhibits on the extraordinary contributions that African-Americans have made throughout our history. There is knowledge all around us and education gives people the chance to change the world. Friday, February 3-Tuesday, February 28 12noon- 5:00pm daily Closed on Mondays - we offer special group tours by appointment only. 890 Jefferson Avenue, Redwood City, CA 94063 Tickets: $10 Adults, $5 for Children under 12 or Seniors 65+ To volunteer: https://bit.ly/3ZsrjGm Please help us to spread the word - we welcome group tours by school and community groups! From:neva yarkin To:Council, City Subject:from neva, ideas for City Council Retreat Date:Wednesday, January 25, 2023 2:48:10 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from nevayarkin@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Jan. 25, 2023 For the city council retreat on Jan. 28, 2023. I would like to see more crime prevention – more police hired. Why should I feel afraid of going into the Apple Store or Stanford Shopping Center? What about the Midtown area or Charleston Shopping Area. My concerns are as follows: 1) Robberies at the Apple store on University Ave.– more patrols around University Ave. 2) Robberies at Stanford Shopping Center – more patrols around the area 3) Home burglars at dinner time 4) Midtown area - 7 Eleven store, Safeway, and Baskin Robbins Ice Cream. 5) More traffic police hired – speeding at 60mph on Alma 6) People going through stop signs on Thursday night after Paly games. 7) Elderly having purses/wallets stolen or being targeted. 8) More police presence around town (visibility). Thank you. From:Maria Beckham To:Council, City Subject:Quick question for Lydia Kou - Palo Alto City Council… Date:Wednesday, January 25, 2023 9:03:40 AM Some people who received this message don't often get email from mariyaabegumm9282873@gmail.com. Learnwhy this is important CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi there, My name is Maria Beckham from Ultreasi, we help companies such as yours handle incomingcalls with our team of highly-skilled American representatives. We’ve successfully cut answering expenses for similar businesses by as much as 35%, while delivering a professionally managed, production-raising solution their customers love. Would you be open to an Inbound Call Answering quote? Reply back with your rough callvolume on a monthly basis, and we’ll get in touch shortly to review your needs. Regards, Maria Beckham | Assistant Marketing LeadUltreasi View this email in your browser Visit us on www.lwvpaloalto.org, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter JANUARY E-BLAST January 24, 2023 In this Issue LWVPA Updates From:LWV Palo Alto (Eblast)To:Council, CitySubject:LWVPA January E-Blast: Join Issue-Based Program Planning Meetings This and Next WeekDate:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 10:20:56 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious ofopening attachments and clicking on links. Subscribe to our Google Calendar Program Planning 2023-2024 In Memoriam: Betty Gerard Climate Calls: Deciphering the Latest EV Tax Credit Upcoming Events Canvas for the Planet in Palo Alto Practicing Civil Discourse - A Conversation: Equity vs. Equality Announcement The 2023 Farm Bill is Coming LWVPA UPDATES Program Planning 2023-2024 Saturday, February 11, 2023 9:30 am - 12:00 pm Social 9:30 - 10:00 am Meeting starts at 10 am In Person Meeting at PCC Rapter Room 3921 E. Bayshore Road, Palo Alto LWVPA’s Program Planning member meeting will be held IN PERSON this year! All members are invited to discuss and vote on League priorities, both locally and statewide. Program planning is the League's grassroots process of recommending and selecting public policy issues for study, education, and advocacy to move our mission forward. Voter Services is not considered part of “Program” but will always be a priority for the League. State Issues. The state League will be implementing the national "Campaign for Making Democracy Work". Our local League will review and vote on three other state priority issues of Climate Change, Housing and Homelessness, and Criminal Justice. Should LWVC consider new aspects of these issues, choose different issues, or do a new study? Please review LWVC’s Advocacy Wrap-up and work planned before our meeting. Local Issues. We will review current local issues and select issues for 2023- 2024. Our current local issues are: Affordable Housing for All; Climate Change; Civics Education; Local Campaign Finance Reform; and Gun Violence Prevention. All issues are to be viewed with a diversity, equity, and inclusion lens. Hear about LWVPA’s accomplishments and goals for the coming year. Members will vote on whether these issues should continue for 2023-24, or whether new aspects of these issues or new issues should be added. Summaries of local committee activities are here: Housing and Transportation Committee Climate Change Civics Education Local Campaign Finance Reform Gun Violence Prevention We hope you will join us to identify state and local public policy issues for education and advocacy for the coming year. We look forward to seeing you in person! Register Now Program Planning 2023-2024 Issue-Based Zoom Meetings Prior to the Program Planning meeting, the League invites its members, community organizations and interested members of the public to attend three Zoom meetings on important public policy issues. These community discussions are a chance to give input on both the local League and the state League priority issues for the upcoming one and two years, respectively. Please complete this short GOOGLE FORM if you are interested in joining these issue-based Zoom meetings. 1) January 24, 2023, 4:00-5:30 pm - CLIMATE ACTION Meeting. Topics include food waste reduction in schools and institutions, equitable electrification, state-level climate advocacy, housing-climate connection, and sustainable agriculture. In addition to helping the League set climate action priorities, participants will learn about local climate action projects that they can participate in. Join CLIMATE ACTION Zoom Meeting on January 24. Meeting ID: 857 2429 3897 Passcode: 029458 2) January 25, 2023, 3:30-5:00 pm - SOCIAL POLICY Meeting. Topics include housing, transportation and gun violence prevention. Topics could also include education, criminal justice reform, immigration, reproductive rights, health care, or other issues raised by attendees. Join SOCIAL POLICY Zoom Meeting on January 25. Meeting ID: 824 2139 9909 Passcode: 845884 3) February 1, 2023, 4:00-5:30 pm - MAKING DEMOCRACY WORK/REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT Meeting. Topics include local campaign finance reform and civics education. Topics could also include civil discourse, good government principles such as protecting public participation (Brown Act issues), improving elections through ranked choice voting, public financing, districting or redistricting, increasing voter participation, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Join MAKING DEMOCRACY WORK Zoom Meeting on February 1. Meeting ID: 854 4647 0047 Passcode: 933095 We hope you will join us and help us identify local issues for the coming year. Please let us know which issue-based Zoom meetings you will attend by completing this GOOGLE FORM. In Memoriam: Betty Gerard For decades, Betty Gerard was a faithful League member, serving on the board in her capacity as public-relations pro and, in later years, hosting our book group. After writing and doing public relations for other companies, she began a 22-year career as a writer/editor for Hewlett-Packard, where she managed a worldwide internal news service. She loved both politics and community volunteering and, as a news junkie, read five daily newspapers until the very end. Betty died peacefully at her Palo Alto home of 61 years on November 16, 2022, at age 97. Her family is planning a virtual celebration of her long and accomplished life on February 26, 2023. You may read Betty’s life story or sign up for the Zoom memorial & “reception” HERE. Climate Calls How To Claim EV Tax Credit Photo on ScreenRant Deciphering the Latest EV Tax Credit by Hilary Glann There’s a lot of confusion about the $7,500 tax credit available on new and used green vehicles. The simple message is that to receive the credit, you must be a qualified buyer, and you must buy a qualified car, and then you can receive up to the full tax credit. Qualifications include: The EV must: Be placed in service after January 1, 2023. Must be manufactured by a qualified manufacturer (more on this below). Must be manufactured primarily for use on paved roads and have at least four wheels. Must have a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 14,000 pounds. Must have had final assembly in North America (50 states plus District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Canada). Cannot exceed M.S.R.P of $80,000 for new vans/SUVs and pickup trucks, or $55,000 for all other automobiles. The buyer must: Fill out the correct tax forms on their Federal return, which includes providing the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for the eligible car. Have an Adjusted Gross Income that doesn’t exceed: $300,00 if married filing jointly or filing as a surviving spouse. $225,200 if head of a household Or $150,000 for all other taxpayers. A number of popular EVs do not qualify because they are not assembled in North America. Bookmark this page from the IRS which lists the status of all EVs sold in the US. Want to be part of this important effort? Please write to us at climate@lwvpaloalto.org with the subject header: Climate Calls. All League members are welcome to join! UPCOMING EVENTS Canvas for the Planet in Palo Alto Talk to Your Neighbors about Switching From Gas to Electric Water Heaters Saturday & Sunday, February 11 & 12, 2023 Saturday & Sunday, March 11 & 12, 2023 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm heat pump water heater people Join the nonprofit 350 Palo Alto Climate Team in a city-wide neighborhood canvass to inform other residents about a new City offering that will improve local safety and health—and reduce our climate-changing carbon emissions. Most water heaters typically last about 8-10 years, so the City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) is offering residents a "no hassle" program to upgrade older gas water heaters to cleaner, smarter, more efficient electric models. Visit CPAU's website for more information about upgrading your water heater. Community volunteers are needed to talk to about 25 homeowners in their neighborhood (or drop off the info if no one is home). Training will be provided via Zoom several times during the week before. Community service hours are available for students. You can canvass by yourself or with a friend if you prefer. It's a great way to meet your neighbors, get in some walking exercise‚ and do something about climate change! Other questions? Contact 350 Palo Alto member and Midtown resident Debbie Mytels. Practicing Civil Discourse - A Conversation: Equity vs. Equality LWV Civil Discourse Program Thursday, March 16, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Register Now Join us for a Participative Workshop Conversation on the elements of Equity & Equality and whether they provide fair solutions to community issues. Participants will discuss: - What is Equity? - What is Equality? - Why are these elements important? - How can they be achieved in the public sphere? ANNOUNCEMENT The 2023 Farm Bill isComing Every five to seven years, Congress writes and authorizes legislation that will govern policies and provide funds for agriculture and food programs throughout the United States. The impact of this legislation, more commonly known as the Register Now Farm Bill, cannot be overstated. At an estimated cost of over $400 billion, it provides mandatory and discretionary funding for twelve separate areas including commodities, crop insurance, conservation, nutrition programs, and more. It drives not only what is produced but also how that food is produced. With such a broad scope and with so much funding involved, many entities have a vested interest in the bill and spend enormous amounts of money lobbying on behalf of their interests. Here are a few key areas to watch: SNAP benefits About 75% of the funding is for nutrition programs including SNAP benefits (supplemental nutrition assistance program). In 2019, SNAP households included 22,000 active-duty service members, 213,000 members of the National Guard or reservists, and 1.1 million veterans. SNAP is the largest domestic hunger safety net program helping low- income older adults to achieve food security. Funding for soil heath and climate change mitigation Coalitions of farmers and soil scientists are calling for funding in the Farm Bill to help farmers. Are practices incorporated to improve soil health and mitigate the impacts of climate change? Food waste and greenhouse gas reduction More than 30% of the food that is produced in the United States is thrown away or wasted. Wasted and lost food is a significant source of methane, a greenhouse gas. A coalition of groups collaborated on a report, "Opportunities to Reduce Food Waste in the 2023 Farm Bill," including: 1. Prevention: Top recommendations include standardizing and clarifying date labels and launching a national education campaign. 2. Recovery: Top recommendations include strengthening the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act and increasing funding support for food rescue infrastructure and for innovative food rescue models. 3. Recycling: Top recommendations include providing planning and implementation grants for state organic waste bans and providing grants and loans for composting and anaerobic digestion facilities. 4. Coordination: Top recommendations include increasing funding for USDA’s food loss and waste liaison. Providing funding for the Farm Bill 2023 has even caught the attention of Palo Alto Online Food Blogger, Laura Stec, who will be leading a discussion about the book Food Fight, A Citizens Guide to the next Food and Farm Bill by Dan Imhoff. Mary O’Kicki, the Team Leader for the LWVC Food, Soil and Agriculture Team will host Zoom discussions about the book that will coordinate with Ms. Stec’s discussions. You can contact Mary at okickim@gmail.com. How Can League Members Get Involved to Influence the Farm Bill? Join the Climate Interest Group, Food, Soil and Agriculture Committee: use QR code Learn how the Farm Bill impacts your community. Members can ask their legislators to advocate for sustainable and equitable solutions with the House and Senate Agriculture Committees who are responsible for the 2023 Farm Bill: Committee Membership. JOIN A TEAM! Come to an LWVPA team meeting and learn about important issues affecting you and your community. You can make a difference! Learn More About Our Teams and Programs on our Website! Stay Informed! Sign Up for LWV California & LWVUS News & Alerts Click here to sign up for Email News and Action Alerts from LWVUS Facebook Twitter Website Instagram Copyright © 2023 League of Women Voters Palo Alto, All rights reserved. From Voter Recipient List Our mailing address is: League of Women Voters Palo Alto 3921 E Bayshore Rd Ste 209 Palo Alto, CA 94303-4303 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can unsubscribe from this list. From:Carole Mullowney To:Council, City Subject:San Franciscoquito Creek Flooding Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 4:08:26 PM [Some people who received this message don't often get email from carole.mullowney@gmail.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ Dear City Council, Please make flood protection a priority for 2023 and beyond. Specifically, please renew your city priority of Climate Change and Adaptation for 2023. This year please add the following projects under this priority: the Newell Bridge replacement, explicit support for the full Reach 2 upgrade of San Francisquito Creek and clearing debris before flood season. I live in the flood zone and improved flood prevention and protection of my home from flooding is imperative for my family’s safety and well being. Thank you, Carole Mullowney 1291 Pitman Avenue From:Tran, Joanna To:Council, City Cc:Executive Leadership Team Subject:(Reminder) RSVP Requested: 2023 State of the Valley Conference Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 2:26:39 PM Attachments:image001.pngimage010.pngimage011.pngimage013.pngimage014.pngimage015.pngimage002.pngimage003.png Hello Councilmembers, Sending a friendly reminder to please let me know by next Friday, February 3rd if you are interested in attending this year’s State of the Valley Conference at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View. Thank you! Best, Joanna Joanna Tran Executive Assistant to the City Manager Office of the City Manager (650) 329-2105 | joanna.tran@cityofpaloalto.org www.cityofpaloalto.org From: Tran, Joanna Sent: Wednesday, January 11, 2023 4:14 PM To: Council, City <city.council@cityofpaloalto.org> Cc: Executive Leadership Team <ExecutiveLeadershipTeam@cityofpaloalto.org> Subject: RSVP Requested: 2023 State of the Valley Conference Dear Councilmembers, The City of Palo Alto was provided 8 tickets for this year’s State of the Valley Conference hosted by Joint Venture Silicon Valley! The event will be held on February 17, 2023 at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View. More details of the event are included below. If interested in attending, please respond to this email by February 3rd. After that time, we will reach out to our Executive Leadership Team with the remaining tickets. Thank you, Joanna Joanna Tran Executive Assistant to the City Manager Office of the City Manager (650) 329-2105 | joanna.tran@cityofpaloalto.org www.cityofpaloalto.org From: Joint Venture Silicon Valley <info@jointventure.org> Sent: Wednesday, January 11, 2023 1:44 PM To: Shikada, Ed <Ed.Shikada@CityofPaloAlto.org> Subject: Join us February 17 at State of the Valley! Register now for the State of the Valley conference. Having trouble? View in browser Don't miss an email. Add us to your address book 2023 State of the Valley Conference - February 17 Friday February 17, 2023 • 9 AM to 12 NOON at The Computer History Museum, Mountain View Simultaneously streaming via Brandlive REGISTER NOW SPONSOR A TABLE Dear Ed: I'm writing to invite you to the 2023 State of the Valley conference, a hybrid event emanating from the Computer History Museum on February 17. What is State of the Valley? It's an annual "town hall" meeting where we assess how our region is faring. The centerpiece is always the Silicon Valley Index, a nationally-recognized report we've been publishing annually since 1995. At the conference we'll provide an in-depth briefing on the 2023 installment, and then you'll hear from our region's deepest- thinking experts and decision-makers about what they see ahead. Owing to continuing concern about the virus and its variants, our 2023 event will once again use a hybrid format. It will happen live and in person at CHM in Mountain View for an audience capped at 300, seated at sponsored tables (distanced, masks encouraged). Your organization can sponsor one of the few remaining tables by contacting our office. The three-hour event will be broadcast simultaneously via Brandlive, to a sizable audience in the Bay Area and beyond. Registration for the livestream ($35) is simple with a credit card, and we encourage you to grab yours right away. The 2023 Index paints a picture of a region going through a series of difficult adjustments, across several fronts. We're going to break it down systematically for you and — because audience surveys have adamantly asked for more — we're going to allocate considerably more time to the briefing. In fact, we're going to spread the briefing over two sessions, one on the state of the economy and one on the progress our community is making on its equity, sustainability and other goals. As always, we'll also be showcasing the expressive talents of our arts community. Whether in person or as part of our streaming audience, we hope you'll join in this important regional conversation. Sincerely, Russell Hancock signature Russell Hancock President & Chief Executive Officer Joint Venture Silicon Valley provides analysis and action on issues affecting our region's economy and quality of life. Copyright © 2023 Joint Venture Silicon Valley. All rights reserved. | www.jointventure.org 84 West Santa Clara Street, Suite 800, San Jose, California 95113 Unsubscribe from this list | Update your preferences | Add us to your address book Forward this email to a friend. To learn more about how we are complying with GDPR, read our privacy policy. Gmail Users: Not seeing our emails in your inbox? Learn how to add them to Gmail's Primary tab. From:Tran, Joanna To:Council, City Cc:Shikada, Ed Subject:Reminder: Questions on Consent Agenda Items (1/30) Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 2:13:23 PM Attachments:image001.pngimage003.pngimage004.pngimage006.pngimage007.pngimage008.pngimage002.png Hello Mayor and Councilmembers, I hope this email finds you well! Please send any questions you may have on consent calendar items or plans to pull agenda items for Monday night’s meeting to me by Wednesday, January 25th at 5 PM. We will send an email with answers to all questions at the end of the week. You may find the January 30, 2023 agenda at this link: Meeting Agendas and Minutes – City of Palo Alto, CA Thank you! Best, Joanna Joanna Tran Executive Assistant to the City Manager Office of the City Manager (650) 329-2105 | joanna.tran@cityofpaloalto.org www.cityofpaloalto.org From:Dan Cooper To:Council, City Subject:Project For Estimate - Follow Up! Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 12:27:37 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from dan@csi-estimating.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi, I haven't heard back from you regarding the email I sent a few days ago. I sent you an email about our cost estimation and take-off services and how they can play a significant role in improving the ROI of your business and winning you more bids. We have an experienced team that has been working in this field for 14 years. If you are interested in our services, you can reply to this mail so we can make further arrangements. Thanks. Best Regards, Dan Cooper Business Development Manager CSI Estimation, LLCTel: 516 856 321278th St Brooklyn NY 11214 From:Suzanne Keehn To:Council, City; Shikada, Ed; Lait, Jonathan Cc:Holzemer/hernandez Holzmer; Joe Hirsch; Jo Ann Mandinach; Paul Machado; Ann Balin; Ben Lerner; Maurice Green; Mary Gallagher; Suzanne Keehn; Summa, Doria; Greg Schmid (external) Subject:Follow up information, less employed in our Valley Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 12:18:40 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from dskeehn@pacbell.net. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. https://www.commondreams.org/news/tech-layoffs-wall-street From:Dave Poeschel To:Council, City Subject:Trancos Thank You! Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 8:01:36 AM Some people who received this message don't often get email from dave.poeschel@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Mayor Kou and Council Members, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for your actions in regards to the Trancosresidential project. I believe you made a sound decision because of your willingness to listen, investigate, and thoroughly discuss issues, including those that can be quite inconvenient. This cannot be said of all decision-making bodies. You can rest assured that the environmental advocacy organizations in our region -- SCV Audubon Society, Green Foothills, Sierra Club LPC, SCVC of CNPS -- all stride to ensurethat their positions are based in science and can be backed up with studies though at times it may initially sound fanciful as with an "insect apocalypse" caused by artificial lighting, forexample. These organizations are motivated to protect our environment and future generations, not a desire to frustrate the will of individuals. Thank You All Very Much,Dave Poeschel From:caroline hicks To:Council, City Subject:FLOOD PROTECTION CRUCIAL REMEDIATION IN 2023 Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 6:18:47 AM Some people who received this message don't often get email from cyhicksmail@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear City Council. Please make flood protection a priority in 2023. We live in the flood zone and saw knee deepflooded streets at the nearby Duveneck Elementary school during these recent storms. I am grateful that our storm drains worked so well on our street. However it is imperative thatwe prioritize the following projects for 2023: 1. The Newell Bridge replacement 2.full support for the full Reach 2 upgrade of San Francisquito Creek 3. clearing debris before flood season. Thank you! Respectfully yours, Caroline Hicks Bert Fingerhut195 Heather Lane Palo Alto, CA 94303 From:Katherine Causey To:Council, City; City Mgr Subject:Re: Reaching Renters Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 6:16:52 AM Some people who received this message don't often get email from katherinecausey@gmail.com. Learn why thisis important CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello new council! My name is Katie Causey I sit on the board of PARA - the Palo Alto Renters' Association, andI've worked as a staff member for them working with the nearly half of Palo Alto residents who rent, live with their family to save money, or live in their vehicle - essentially anyone inPalo Alto who's vulnerable to having nowhere to live if they lose their current shelter. First I just wanted to say if we haven't met - let's touch base sometime, I think everyone here ran on improving conditions for renters in Palo Alto and getting more feedback from renters. Making that happen does take a collaborative effort, and how to effectively get feedback from those struggling in Palo Alto is something we are constantly working on at PARA. I will justsay: right now we've found inorder to effectively get renter feedback you have to givepeople multiple, flexible opportunities to give feedback where they're given a smallstipend or gift card for their time - because those working multiple jobs in Palo Altoaren't going to have the time otherwise to give feedback. Second I wanted to flag one thing on the conditions for renters following the flooding. I thinkour city staff did a phenomenal job responding to the flooding on short notice and I think accomplished so much working quickly in dangerous conditions. I know on New Years Eve Igot a text alert of flooding at Pope Chaucer Bridge - it would have been perfect if that text alert included information on the city's initiative to provide hotels for those flooded out oftheir homes. That is the information many needed front and center. Unfortunately in climate change we are going to need to streamline communication to our most vulnerable populations.I know for myself I live in a building that does not have an H-VAC system and in the heat wave last summer I had to find somewhere else to go because even at night my apartmentwasn't dropping below the high 80s and all the surfaces were hot to touch. At the last council meeting we saw such an influx of people visiting the city's website and information resources. I know from working in housing that text alerts and online messagingto targeted audiences is a very effective way to directly get information to those who need it. Thank you all for the work you do! From:David Moss To:Council, City Subject:Subject: Item 13 on January 23 agenda: 575 Los Trancos Road Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 6:54:19 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from ssow111@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Mayor Kou, Vice Mayor Stone, and Palo Alto Council Members, My name is David Moss and I am a Palo Alto resident who cares deeply about our City’s wildlife and natural environment. I have personally visited this site and know this area well. The proposed house is too close to Los Trancos Creek, and unless the project ismodified, it is likely to significantly impede animal movement, harm the ripariancorridor and deprive the creek of the buffer it needs to maintain water quality forsteelhead trout, and render the creek more vulnerable to landslides and flooding. Please decline to approve the project, and ask the homeowner to: Require that the project be re-designed at a minimum of 55 feet from the top of the bank of Los Trancos creek (in line with the neighboring home) to reduce the impacts on the riparian ecosystem of Los Trancos Creek and allow wildlife movement along the creek. No roads or fences or structures should be allowed in the buffer area. In addition, Due to California’s prolonged drought and regional aridification, disallowing a swimming pool should also be considered to allow more space for relocation of the home further from the creek and for saving water. Require implementation of all the recommendations that were submitted by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District including disinfectant protocols to prevent spreading of sudden-oak death in the Los Trancos Valley. Require all outdoor lighting to be dimmable and in the yellowish range (2700 Kelvin or less) to reduce light pollution and the attraction of migratory birds and insects. Require that all glass surfaces apply effective Bird-Safety glazing treatment to protect birds from colliding with windows and other glass elements. Thank you,David Moss347 Ferne Ave, Palo Alto 94306ssow111@gmail.com650-862-8382 From:Rita Vrhel To:Council, City Subject:Fw: SCVAS Action Alert: Palo Alto - Protect Fish, Wildlife, and Riparian Corridors Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 6:08:39 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from ritavrhel@sbcglobal.net. Learn why this is important CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious ofopening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Mayor Kou and Council members: The informational email (below) from Shani Kleinhaus on behalf of the Santa Clara Calley AudubonSociety is a must read. Please take the time to do so. Allowing a private pool and house to be built 20 feet from a public creek is an absurd idea. It must NOT be approved. Surely with the recent rains flooding so much of California, and forecasts of more "atmosphericrivers" in the future, this building permit must be denied. I understand there are acres of land in this property; the house, pool, etc., can be relocated so as toprotect Creek, a natural watershed. The Creek flows thru their land but they do not OWN the creek. The potential for damage to thisportion of the Creek and portions further downstream is obvious. I can foresee future lawsuits againstthe city of Palo Alto for approving something so obviously flawed. The Creek, which is usually quite tranquil, has flooded before and large portions of Alpine and otherroads have been undermined and destroyed. Building this close to the Creek is a poor idea. Not sound engineering. Please deny this permit. Thank you Rita C. VrhelPhone: 650-325-2298 ----- Forwarded Message -----From: Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society <santa_clara_valley_audubon_socie@mail.vresp.com> To: "ritavrhel@sbcglobal.net" <ritavrhel@sbcglobal.net> Sent: Monday, January 23, 2023 at 08:26:40 AM PST Subject: SCVAS Action Alert: Palo Alto - Protect Fish, Wildlife, and Riparian Corridors Click to view this email in a browser LETTERHEAD_LOGO AshthroatedFlycatcher19 Ash-throated Flycatcher: Tom Grey Palo Alto: Protect fish, wildlife and riparian corridors What is happening? A landowner has proposed a 7,200 square foot home, plus a detached garage, a guest house, and a swimming pool, on an open-space-zoned meadow in the Palo Alto foothills.This development is a mere 20 feet away from the bank of Los Trancos Creek. The buildingsand swimming pool this close to the creek are likely to result in erosion and landslides intothe creek, impacts to sensitive species, and blocking of wildlife movement along the creekand its riparian corridor. The Sierra Club, Audubon Society and the Midpeninsula Open Space District submitted comments on environmental review documents, expressing concerns related to the proximity of the buildings to the creek, bird safety, lighting, sudden oak death, entrapment of endangered species, blockage of connectivity for wildlife and more. We asked for the project to be modified, and for a buffer of 55-feet, to alight with neighboring homes. The Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan suggests that in open space areas like this one, ripariansetbacks for development should be 150 feet, which is what Santa Clara County requires intheir jurisdiction. Unfortunately, Palo Alto has not yet updated its antiquated ordinance tocomply with the Comprehensive Plan; thus a 20-foot setback is all that is required. However, the City Council has discretionary authority to direct the landowner to modify the project because it is located in an ecologically sensitive area. We are recommending a 55- foot setback, which would be in line with neighboring homes. Why is this important? The recent storms, with their subsequent mudslides and flooding, have clearlydemonstrated that if we disrespect and neglect our creeks, people’s homes will suffer theconsequences. The foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains are notoriously erosion-prone, aswitnessed by the brown sediment coloring our creeks and floodwaters in recent weeks.When we allow construction too close to creek banks, the resulting erosion dumps tons of sediment into creek channels, increasing future flood risk. Also, putting homes too close to creeks is harmful to wildlife. Almost all of our local species use creeks and riparian corridors at some point of their life history — for drinking, for breeding, for nesting, for shelter, and for migration and movement in the landscape. Los Trancos Creek supports critical habitat for threatened steelhead trout as well as threatened and endangered frogs and salamanders. Furthermore, riparian corridors are criticallyimportant as movement pathways for larger animals like mountain lions, bobcats andbadgers. A house 20 feet from the creek is very likely to impede the movement of theseanimals. In addition, glass elements in the buildings pose hazards to birds that live ormigrate through this area. Exterior lighting from the house would disrupt circadian rhythms of all the species and impact local aquatic insects integral to the food chain. What can you do? Please participate in the Palo Alto City Council meeting on Monday, January 23, 2023, or write to the Council to express your concern. This is Item 13 on the agenda, and it will likely be heard around 7:30PM (although the length of council discussion is somewhatunpredictable). To participate in the meeting in person or virtually: please come to City Hall and fillout a speaker card, or zoom in to comment virtually. Meeting ID: 362 027 238 Phone:1(669)900-6833 To submit a written comment, please email ​​city.council@cityofpaloalto.org Pat.Burt@cityofpaloalto.org Lydia.Kou@cityofpaloalto.org Vicki.Veenker@cityofpaloalto.org Greg.Tanaka@cityofpaloalto.org Ed.Lauing@cityofpaloalto.org Julie.Lythcott-Haims@cityofpaloalto.org Greer.Stone@cityofpaloalto.org Talking points/example for an email (feel free to adjust and use your own words) To: city.council@CityofPaloAlto.org Subject: Item 13 on January 23 agenda: 575 Los Trancos Road Dear Mayor Kou, Vice Mayor Stone, and Palo Alto Council Members, My name is [enter your name] and I am a Palo Alto resident who cares deeply aboutour City’s wildlife and natural environment. The proposed house is too close to Los Trancos Creek, and unless the project is modified, it is likely to significantly impede animal movement, harm the riparian corridor and deprive the creek of the buffer it needs to maintain water quality for steelhead trout, and render the creek more vulnerable to landslides and flooding. Please decline to approve the project, and ask the homeowner to: Require that the project be re-designed at a minimum of 55 feet from the top ofthe bank of Los Trancos creek (in line with the neighboring home) to reduce theimpacts on the riparian ecosystem of Los Trancos Creek and allow wildlifemovement along the creek. No roads or fences or structures should be allowedin the buffer area. In addition, Due to California’s prolonged drought and regional aridification, disallowing a swimming pool should also be considered to allow more space for relocation of the home further from the creek and for saving water. Require implementation of all the recommendations that were submitted by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District including disinfectant protocols toprevent spreading of sudden-oak death in the Los Trancos Valley.Require all outdoor lighting to be dimmable and in the yellowish range (2700Kelvin or less) to reduce light pollution and the attraction of migratory birds andinsects. Require that all glass surfaces apply effective Bird-Safety glazing treatment to protect birds from colliding with windows and other glass elements. Thank you, [Your name, address optional] Thank you, Shani Kleinhaus, PhDEnvironmental AdvocateSanta Clara Valley Audubon Society If you no longer wish to receive these emails, please reply to this message with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line or simply click on the following link: Unsubscribe Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society22221 McClellan RdCupertino, California 95014US Read the VerticalResponse marketing policy. From:Peter Mueller To:Liberman, Art Cc:Council, City; Goldstein, Paul; Ellson, Penny; Courington, Bill; Arthur, Bruce; Nordman, Eric; Arce, Ozzy; Star- Lack, Sylvia Subject:Re: Remove PRC"s proposedE-bike restriction regulation from Consent Calendar Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 5:52:12 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from pklausm@me.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi Art, I totally support your comments. However, a few ride e-bikes with high wattage drive motors in the rear wheel. How to discourage their use on any bikinjg and walking trail needsattention. Thanks, Peter K. Mueller, Magnolia Drive, Palo Alto On Jan 23, 2023, at 7:56 AM, Art Liberman <art_liberman@yahoo.com> wrote: Mayor, Vice-Maor and Council members: I request that you remove item 7, the PRC recommended regulation for E-Bikes from the Consent Calendar and have an open discussion on this item. Let me give you five reasons. First – this policy would be negatively impact one group of cyclists, namely seniors. I am speaking as someone who is 82 years old and who is an avid cyclist. I am a member of PABAC and I ride regularly with a group of senior cyclists, many of whom have e-bikes. One member of our senior cycling group is 94 years old, a Korean War veteran. There is one specific part of the PRC recommendation that I object to. This would prohibit persons from riding e-bikes on the unpaved trails in the Baylands. This would prevent many seniors from accessing this marvelous area and enjoying the magnificent vistas. Second -- The PRC recommendation treats all the Open Space Preserves the sameway. But the Baylands are different from the other Palo Alto Open Space preserves. The Baylands are flat and the Baylands unpaved trails are really wide gravel roadways. Bicycles have been allowed on the unpaved trails in the Baylands for many years. Third , the Parks and Recreation Commission has not done an adequate amount of community outreach. The PRC rushed their proposal. They held one discussion meeting in October of last year, and then held a meeting in December to vote on the proposal. They presented their proposal to PABAC in November of 2022. At themeeting , PABAC did not endorse the PRC recommendation, Instead, a motion was passed requesting that the PRC delay their proposal until we have a new Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan. I am a member of PABAC's e-bike subcommittee, whose members are continuing to hold a dialogue with PRC, specifically with regard to the PRC proposal to ban e-bikes in the Baylands unpaved trails. Fourth the PRC says their proposal is based on the policies of the Mid-Pen District. However, the Mid Pen District allows E-bikes on unpaved trails in their Ravenswood Preserve . This Preserve borders the Bay and the Preserve and the unpaved trail there are very similar to the Baylands. At the Mid Pen Directors meeting in June, when they voted to not expand their pilot program of e-bikes access to other unpaved trails, there was no mention of any environmental damage caused by e-bike riders. At that meeting Palo Alto Open Space Director Yoriko Kishimoto, commenting on a consultant study of the pilotprogram, said ‘there was not much difference in the results of the pilot program between e-bikes and regular bikes. The big decision was to allow bikes on trails.’ As you know, bicycles have been allowed on the unpaved trails in the Baylands for many years. Fifth, the PRC regulations for the Baylands would be difficult or impossible to enforce. Almost every day, new types of e-bikes are announced by manufacturers. One new e-bike has a battery and motor in the hub in the rear wheel and it is virtually indistinguishable from a manually operated bike. My feeling is that the regulationmight not be consistently enforceable even if Palo Alto had a force of trained rangers, and there won’t be any of them anyway. The PRC recommendation mentions signs. I would hope the Council would ask the PRC to reconsider their draft Open Space e- bike policy. The Baylands is like Ravenswood Open Space Preserve. Prohibiting E-bike access on unpaved trails in the Baylands would mean that Palo Alto’s regulations would NOT be consistent with those of the Mid-Penn Open Space District. And since it would not be enforceable, I could envisage the regulation would be ignored. Thank you for your consideration. Arthur Liberman Chimalus Drive, Palo Alto From:Laura Granka To:Transportation; Council, City Subject:Proposal for Churchill Ave Quiet Zone Study Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 5:38:39 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from laura.granka@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear City Council, I am a 15-year resident of Palo Alto and am sharing a proposal based on feedback and discussion with my neighbors on Churchill Ave. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. Proposal for Palo Alto to establish a quiet zone (partial or full) at Churchill Ave, in coordination with the Churchill /Alma intersection safety improvements. Context The Churchill /Alma intersection has received federal funding for safety improvements. The designs were signed off by council in 2021 and are slated for bidding in early spring 2023 followed by construction. Separately, Palo Alto is initiating the process for a quiet zone at the Alma /Palo Alto Ave intersection. There has been significant resident advocacy for introducing a quiet zone due to noise disturbance from the train whistle. We are proposing that a quiet zone (full or partial) should also exist at the Churchill/ Alma intersection, and be coordinated with the upcoming safety improvements. Or – that the upcoming quiet zone study at Palo Alto Ave be extended to Churchill. Needs at Churchill /Alma With Caltrain’s full schedule, there are now 104 trains a day, including 8 trains an hour for 6 hours a day during rush hours, starting before 5am, in addition to freight trains. Housing is concentrated around this intersection in Old Palo Alto and Southgate. A full quiet zone would significantly improve circumstances where the horn is routinely heard at the high school, along the bike path, and by residents of Old Palo Alto, Southgate, and Professorville. A partial quiet zone would offer significant improvement to sleep by reducing horn noise from 9 Caltrains in the evening and 11 in the early morning hours (plus freights). The intersection is barely in use by pedestrians, bikes, or cars during partial quiet zone hours, so risks are significantly reduced at these times. And given the numerous students and children in the neighborhood, a good night’s rest is especially essential. We request that the city move forward with a quiet zone (full or partial)—ideally in coordination with the Churchill /Alma safety improvements. Alternatively, please include Churchill Ave crossing in the Palo Alto Ave Quiet Zone study, such that you can consider establishing one quiet zone that extends across those two intersections. If you’d like to see more community support, we’d be happy to put together a formal petition with signatures for you, please let us know. Thank you very much. Respectfully, Laura Granka, on behalf of my family and neighbors on Churchill Ave From:Annette Herz To:Council, City; Burt, Patrick; Kou, Lydia; Veenker, Vicki; Tanaka, Greg; Lauing, Ed; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; Stone,Greer Subject:Item 13 on January 23 agenda: 575 Los Trancos Road Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 4:58:01 PM [Some people who received this message don't often get email from annette.herz@gmail.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ Dear Mayor Kou, Vice Mayor Stone, and Palo Alto Council Members, My name is Annette Herz and I am a local resident who cares deeply about our City’s wildlife and natural environment. The proposed house @ 575 Los Trancos Road is too way close to Los Trancos Creek, and will impact wildlife movement, and damage the precious creek. It will leave the creek more vulnerable to landslides and flooding. And we just saw how disastrous flooding can be ! Please decline to approve the project, and ask the homeowner to re-design and stay a minimum of 55 feet away from the creek bank, just like his neighbors did in the past. We have SO LITTLE pristine nature left and I am surprised that the city would even consider a project like this, just for the enjoyment of one rich guy. This is not only against the interest of your residents, but against your ethics on preservation of nature and wildlife. No roads or fences or structures should be allowed in the buffer area. In addition: Due to California’s prolonged drought and regional aridification, disallowing a swimming pool should also be considered to allow more space for relocation of the home further from the creek and for saving water. (Is a swimming pool even legal ? I can't get a chimney but a pool is legal ????) Require implementation of all the recommendations that were submitted by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District including disinfectant protocols to prevent spreading of sudden-oak death in the Los Trancos Valley. Require all outdoor lighting to be dimmable and in the yellowish range (2700 Kelvin or less) to reduce light pollution and the attraction of migratory birds and insects. Require that all glass surfaces apply effective Bird-Safety glazing treatment to protect birds from colliding with windows and other glass elements. The above should go without saying - it's 2023 and i would think we all learned a bit - and become part of your building code. Thank you, Annette Herz From:C To:Council, City Subject:Public Comment on Unpaved E-Bike Use Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 4:52:28 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from cnpfi1@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello, I’d like to thank the City Council for the ability to make public comments on “Item 7” regarding electrically assisted bicycles in public parks and preserves. I understand that this is a new issue and a new type of vehicle, makingreview by the City Council both necessary and challenging. I believe that some key points should be addressed andconsidered before passing any new restrictions. Speed I think there may be some misconceptions about what a pedal assisted e-bike rides like. The existing ‘classing’system has kept them all speed limited, especially the ones in Classes 1 and 2 which are not capable of speeds higherthan what a normal non-assisted bicycle can reach. Nearly all electrically assisted off road mountain bikes alreadyfall into the “Class 1” category. Safety I understand how pedestrians could fear bikes zipping by them at unsafe speeds, but the relatively low speed ofClass 1 and 2 e-bikes is already less than what any experienced cyclist can reach unassisted. I’d also posit that a e-bike rider is much more likely to slow for pedestrians, since they then have the electrically applied assistanceavailable to them to get back up to speed after making a courteous pass, versus a traditional bike which needs tomaintain speed. Furthermore, most unassisted bicycles do not even have speedometers, whereas many e-bikes do,meaning it would be far more difficult for a non e-bike rider to know what their actual speed is. Environment When concerned with the environment, consider the larger impacts of a blanket ban like the one proposed here. E-bikes are a rapidly growing market, and existing and future owners will be forced to recreate farther and farther fromtheir homes. Is that really a net benefit to the environment? Pushing people to drive long distances in their cars, tothen use their electric bicycles? I have seen concerns about trail erosion. Again, I believe this is due to a misunderstanding of the nature of thevehicle. E-bikes lack the torque to spin up a tire and “tear up” a trail. The brakes on any bicycle, electric orotherwise, are far more capable of trail damage, and I hope no one is advocating banning brakes on bicycles. People make decisions about what types of purchase to make considering multiple factors. A resident who sees thatan e-bike could be useful and a multipurpose vehicle, for both recreation and commuting, is that much more likelyto make that purchase (perhaps at a local community-supporting bike shop) and then limit the number of milesdriven in their car overall as a result, compared to if the city council’s actions relegate e-bikes to just commutevehicles. I believe it is the stated goal of the city council to encourage e-bike ownership and use, and the limitsproposed here would have the opposite effect. Enforcement I see that there are concerns about how park rangers would enforce a differentiation between Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes. The presence or absence of a throttle makes a Class 2 very easy to identify. Also, after thoroughly researching I have not found a single example of a major bike manufacturer offering class-3 mountain bikes. Class 3 bikes tend to be used as road and commuting focused bicycles. Still, if one was to find itself on the trail, speed limits and unsafe riding prohibitions would capture any problems arising from the extra speed possible of a class 3versus a class 1 e-bike. Possible Compromises Laws passed at higher jurisdictions, along with the bicycle industry, have provided local governments with aconvenient framework in which to pass legislation. I could understand how a restriction on Class 2 e-bikes (in someways a lot like weakly powered motorcycles) or Class 3 e-bikes (which actually are capable of relatively highspeeds) might make sense, but I don’t see how a ban including Class 1 pedal-assisted bicycles is balancing theadvantages and disadvantages of allowing bicycles on unpaved trails. Let’s pass and enforce rules that make sense(like a prohibition on high speeds and unsafe riding) while allowing residents and visitors to enjoy our parks andtrails. This has been the approach at the state level and throughout nearly all of Europe, where the population isenvironmentally minded and electrically assisted mountain bikes are extremely popular. There is also the issue of how this ban would unfairly and inequitably affect those who are injured, disabled, or havesome other mobility limiting condition that precludes using an unassisted bicycle. As other residents have noted, e-bikes allow those of varying physical health to enjoy our trails together, with obvious benefits in health,socialization, and enjoyment. Unlike what was passed by the MidPen Open Space I see no exemption in theproposed code for people in this category to be able to continue using their e-bikes to have equal access to the trailsthat their tax dollars fund. I encourage members of the city council to personally ride a Class 1 pedal assisted bicycle to see for themselveswhat these vehicles really are before passing a ban. They aren’t any noisier than a conversation, lightweight, andride very much like a ‘regular’ bicycle, and not the noisy or dangerous motorcycles that many seem to fear they are. The State of California, with their considerable resources has already done this kind of research and reached theconclusion that e-bikes within the aforementioned classes do not have the issues that some seem to be concernedthey might. Thank you,Chris Nomura From:Jane Millman To:Council, City Subject:Speed up flood protection PLEASE Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 3:09:09 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from jane.millman@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear City Council, My name is Jane Millman and I live on De Soto Drive in Palo Alto. I was flooded in 1998 and subsequently went to 5 years of JPA meetings following that traumatic event. In 2003 I realized that nothing was going to be done to help me….it was ALL talk, studies, money concerns, more studies, etc. 25 years later, on Dec 31, the creek overflowed again and my street filled contaminated water. My husband and I both had covid at the time so were isolating per the protocol. Fortunately the water did not enter our house, but we were inches away from that happening. Please, please, please please make flood protection a priority for 2023. Specifically, please renew your city priority of Climate Change and Adaptation for 2023. This year add the following projects under this priority: the Newell Bridge replacement, explicit support for the full Reach 2 upgrade of San Francisquito Creek and clearing debris before flood season. Living in the flood zone, improved flood prevention and protection of our home from flooding is an imperative for our family’s safety and well being. Thank you. Jane & Paul Millman From:geetha srikantan To:Council, City Cc:geetha srikantan Subject:January 23, 2023 Agenda - please include Flood Protection under the Climate Protection & Adaptation Goal for2023 Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 2:51:01 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from gsrikantan@yahoo.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear City Council Members, Please include Flood Protection under the Climate Protection & Adaptation Goal for 2023. Per my understanding last year no flood protection projects were officially included under the Climate Protection & Adaptation Goal. There was flooding in multiple parts of Downtown North from the 9 atmospheric rivers we experienced from December 2022 - January 2023. By all accounts, climate changes indicate these situations are likely to arise more regularly, in future. While we applaud the work done by city and utilities staff remove tree debris from the creek and handle immediate issues, I believe this is also the time to move forward swiftly on improving Flood protection, including levee improvements, Newell bridge improvement projects in Downtown North and other parts of Palo Alto that are in the flood zone. I urge Council to take on full committment for the San Francisquito Creek flood zone's staged remedies and disclose budgets and timelines for these projects. Thank you. Sincerely, Dr Geetha Srikantan From:William Reller To:Council, City Cc:William Reller Subject:Flood Control-2023 Priority Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 2:39:50 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear City Council, Please make flood protection a priority for 2023. As a long time Palo Alto resident, my home and neighborhood were greatly affected by the recent storms and associated flooding. Specifically, please renew the city's priority of Climate Change and Adaptation for 2023. This year, please add the following projects under this priority: —Newell Bridge replacement —Explicit support for the full Reach 2 upgrade of San Francisquito Creek —Clearing debris before flood season. Improved flood prevention and protection of our homes from future flooding is an imperative for all. Thank you for your urgent attention to this matter. Sincerely, Bill Reller From:Gordon Tong To:Courington, Bill; Arthur, Bruce; Council, City; Arce, Ozzy; Goldstein, Paul; Ellson, Penny; Star-Lack, Sylvia;Nordman, Eric Subject:Re: Remove PRC"s proposed E-bike Restriction Regulation from Consent Calendar Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 2:20:50 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from gordy6850@gmail.com. Learn why this isimportant CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello Mayor, Vice Mayor and City Council Members, As a 72 year old avid bicycle enthusiast, I lead a weekly bike riding group on 15-24 milesrides throughout the Bay Area. The core group has been riding together for the past 10+ years. One of our popular rides is through the Mountain View, Los Altos, Palo Alto or Menlo Parkareas including the Baylands, where many of our riders reside so they simply ride to the designated start point vs driving. Our riders have expressed strong concerns with the proposedpassage of item 7. Most of our riders are senior citizens (oldest is 96 years old), some now riding e-bikes because of physical limitations or health issues. The many advancements in e-bike technology have made it very attract for seniors to continue riding for longer distances (both paved or packed gravel) and enjoy the beautiful open spaces in our Bay Area. If item 7 is approved, I will very likely stop riding these beautiful local bike trails and paths bcI do not want to select trails/paths where I’ll have to separate my riders between bikers and e- bikers. Please consider dropping the passage of item 7 or allow sufficient time for morecommunity discussions or comments. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully, Gordon TongLifetime Bay Area Resident From:Aram James To:Richard k; Sean Allen; Jethroe Moore; Javier Ortega; Cindy Chavez; Supervisor Otto Lee; Julie Lythcott-Haims;Joe Simitian; Jeff Rosen; bob nunez; Gabrielle Antolovich; Al Morales; Pete Carrillo; Raj; Charisse Domingo;Rebecca Eisenberg; Shikada, Ed; Binder, Andrew; Josh Becker; Jay Boyarsky; Reifschneider, James; Wagner,April; Council, City Subject:Use of force says tasers should be banned Date:Monday, January 23, 2023 1:19:27 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. ________________________________ https://www.insider.com/deadly-law-enforcement-tasers-spark-new-calls-for-bans-2023-1?amp Sent from my iPhone