INFORMATION BY AND FOR THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS

May 6-10

WEEK #19

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City Manager’s Note

Hello Neighbors,

Welcome to the Weekly, your source for news in the Town of Los Altos Hills.

To date, we have still just under 700 subscribers to the Weekly since our last publication. Thank you for spreading the word by having your neighbors, LAH friends, and affiliates sign up. We share important news that your neighbors need to know. Get the facts and spread the word!

We have a lot to cover so let's get started...

I shouldn't have to remind you that Mother's Day is coming up but if I did, you're welcome.

City Council is next week if you're interested. Keep reading for my unofficial teaser.

The Council is holding a study session on the formation of a Charter City and Real Property Transfer Tax. Keep reading to learn more.

Yesterday we celebrated Taco Thursday for Tim last Day.

Did you sign up for the Pathway Run? It's this Saturday. Bike to work week is also taking place next week. As well as a whole list of exciting events coming your way.

The Sheriff has an update, keep reading below.

Don't forget this upcoming Wednesday we are holding our Town Hall on Public Safety.

The Fire District has a number of updates so keep reading for those.

We need volunteers so if you are interested or know someone in the Town that might be send them our way. This includes several openings for appointments to the Planning Commission.

Sudden Oak Death (SOD) has killed thousands of California oaks. Keep reading to learn what you can do.

That's it for now. See you around Town!

Warm Regards,

Peter

1. Upcoming Council Meeting

The agenda can be accessed here

Next Week on May 16th at 6PM during our regular council meeting we have five (5) presentations and appointments, 13 consent items, 1 public hearing, 1 new business item and 2 council initiated items

Some things that may be of interest to those of you reading this include

request to approve plans and specifications for the Matadero Creek restoration project which has involved multiple jurisdictions and years of effort.

A request to approve plans for our 2024 pavement rehabilitation and drainage improvement project.

A request for authorization to renew an agreement with the city of Palo Alto for our animal control services. There is an increase in cost due to higher animal recovery rates in Town.

A resolution to consider raising the Pride Flag in June.

A revised contract for finance services as we work toward filling our vacancies in the Finance Department.

A public hearing to consider various ordinances related to our housing element and a request to review and approve our Annual Housing Element Progress Report. Requirements of HCD and our Housing Element.

And we have two proposed opposition letters for SB1037 and SB1886

2. Study Session on Charter City Formation and Real Property Transfer Tax

The agenda can be accessed here

On May 16th 1-5PM the City Council will be conducting a study session to explore the potential benefits of adopting a Town Charter and implementing a Real Property Transfer Tax (RPTT) to address pressing local needs. Here's a brief overview of the key points to be discussed during the study session:

Town Charter Consideration

- Los Altos Hills currently operates as a General Law city, limiting its authority over local affairs.

- The formation of a Town Charter would grant the city more autonomy in governance, particularly in areas like land use decisions.

- The proposed Charter aims to reclaim local control over fiscal matters and promote the welfare of residents.

Real Property Transfer Tax (RPTT) Proposal

- An RPTT is being considered as a potential revenue source to fund public safety measures and enhance disaster preparedness efforts.

- The tax would be collected upon the sale of property, providing a sustainable revenue stream for critical services.

- The revenue generated could support additional staff, equipment, and technology to bolster public safety and disaster response capabilities.

Rationale for 2024 Ballot Measure

- Urgency is highlighted due to increased public safety spending and the need for disaster preparedness enhancements.

- The 2024 ballot presents an opportunity to expedite the process, though it comes with inherent risks and uncertainties.

- Community engagement and support are crucial for the success of the proposed measures.

FAQs About Charter Cities and RPTT

- Information is provided to address common questions regarding the transition to a Charter City and the implementation of an RPTT.

- Examples of other Bay Area cities adopting similar measures are cited to provide context.

Timeline and Next Steps

- A tentative schedule outlines key milestones, including study sessions, public hearings, and the filing of ballot language by August 9th, 2024.

- Fiscal impacts are discussed, with estimated costs for legal, campaign, and polling efforts.

Conclusion

- The study session emphasized the importance of considering a Town Charter and RPTT to address current and future challenges facing Los Altos Hills.

- Community involvement and support will play a critical role in shaping the outcome of the proposed measures.

For more detailed information and updates, residents are encouraged to attend upcoming public hearings and engage with city officials. May 16th from 1-5PM

3. Bidding Tim McBirney Farewell

It is with a heavy heart that we bid our good friend Tim McBirney farewell as he pursues a life with his partner in Wisconsin. We sent him off in proper Town style... With food! Tim started as an intern last year and was elevated to a front counter technician helping customers and answering planning questions every day as well as helping with special projects and research. We will miss Tim but wish him great luck in Wisconsin. You'll continue to hear his name dropped as we will retain him on a project basis as needed through a vendor relationship. Best of luck Tim. You will always have a home here at Town Hall.

4. Upcoming Events

Pathways Run/Walk - TOMORROW

Come out to celebrate the 22nd Annual Los Altos Hills Pathways Run/Walk. This annual event begins at Westwind Community Barn, travels through the Byrne Preserve, and extends into the Los Altos Hills Pathways System. The run features a hilly and challenging 5k and 10k Pathways Run/Walk and a 1-Mile Fun Run. To register, volunteer, or for more race information, contact Emina Steta at 650-947-2518, esteta@losaltoshills.ca.gov or visit the event website at lahpathwaysrun.org.

🗓️ Date: Saturday, May 11, 2024

🕒 Time: 5k/10k: 9:00AM

1 Mile Fun Run: 10:30AM

📍 Location:  Westwind Community Barn

                   27210 Altamont Road

                   Los Altos Hills, CA 94022

💲Fee:5k/10k: $50

1 Mile Fun Run: $35

Website: lahpathwaysrun.org

Registration: Click here

Included with registration: Unique 2024 Pathways Run t-shirt, snacks, and drinks, race bib number, chip timing and complete online timing results options.

Bike Month 2024 Activities

Downtown Los Altos Bike n’ Dine

🗓️ Date: Saturday, May 17

🕒 Time: 5:00–8:00 PM

Team up with family, friends, and neighbors to experience the joy and freedom of biking to Downtown Los Altos. Dining discounts, music, activities for children, bike valet, and more! Register here.

Bike to Wherever Days

🗓️ Date: Wednesday, May 16-18

Whether you bike every day or once every couple of months - to work, to school, to the farmer’s market, to the library - you’re invited to join thousands in celebration of the humble bicycle. Pledge to ride for Bike to Wherever Days. Your pledge is free, and you can receive a free uniquely designed Bike to Wherever Days 2024 tote bag from an Energizer Station.

77th Los Altos Kiwanis Pet Parade

Kiwanis Pet Parade Returns to Downtown Los Altos on Saturday May 18th beginning at 10am A beloved community tradition since 1948, the Los Altos Kiwanis Pet Parade is a celebration that attracts thousands of people.

**The Town of Los Altos has registered to participate in the Kiwanis Pet Parade. If you would like to join with your furry friend(s), please fill out the form below:

losaltoshills.ca.gov/LAHkiwanispetparade

🗓️ Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024

🕒 Time: 11AM-12PM

📍 Location:   Downtown Los Altos Main and State Streets

                            Los Altos, CA 94022

25th Annual Town Picnic

The Town Picnic will offer a barbecue lunch, soft drinks, beer, wine, and ice cream, along with entertainment, games, and various attractions for both adults and children. This year marks the fourteenth classic car show organized by the Town, showcasing the beautiful vehicles owned by its residents! The Town Picnic is coordinated by the Town's Community Relations Committee, with assistance from numerous volunteers. If you'd like to contribute, you can volunteer for half an hour or more by calling (650) 947-2518.

Registration information will be sent to all Town residents in May. It's essential to register in advance to ensure the accurate ordering of lunches. Please note that all dogs must stay at home, as they are not allowed on the fields according to Town ordinance. The event is exclusive to Town residents, and ID is required for entry.

️

🗓️ Date: Sunday, June 2, 2024

🕒 Time: 12 NOON - 4:00PM

📍 Location:   Purissima Park

                    27500 Purissima Road

                    Los Altos Hills, CA 94022

Link: RSVP Here

Los Altos Hills Town Picnic History Walk – June 2

The History Committee will lead a walk from the Town Hall to the Picnic visiting points of historical interest along the way. We will assemble in front of the Council Chambers at 11:00 a.m. and first discuss the history of Town Hall, the Heritage House and farm equipment display. The walk will continue along Conception turning up Viscaino, and then down to Fremont Hills Country Club, ending at the picnic. Stops will be made at various points of historical interest. When ready to leave the picnic, the participants will be able to return to Town Hall via the bus service.

 Points of Interest:

-         Town Hall                    - Heritage House     - Farm Equipment 

-         Native Garden          - Brick Pillars             - Yellow Gates              

-         John Fowle Home   - Shumate Ranch Home      

-         Martha Lynn Water Tower                            - Shumate Ranch Stables

Cyber Security Event (Technology Committee)

Online scams and hacking are a growing problem and are expected to accelerate in this era of AI. The Technology Committee is organizing a session on identifying and avoiding scams, and how to protect yourself and stay safe online. There will also be a clinic to answer individual questions 1-on-1.

Save the date. Sign up information will be forthcoming.

🗓️ Date: Sunday, June 23, 2024

🕒 Time: 2 - 4:00PM

📍 Location:   Town Hall Council Chambers and Zoom

                    26379 Fremont Road

                    Los Altos Hills, CA 94022

5. Sheriff's Update

Residential Burglaries

Between April 29 and today, we have had no residential burglary.

Don't let your guard down

Please remember to harden your homes, install alarms, turn them on, arm the second floor doors and windows, get shatter detection or place a shatter-proof film on your rear glass door, store your valuables NOT in the master bedroom, and form an active neighborhood watch (they work)

Town Hall Public Safety Forum - May 15

The Town is organizing a public safety forum based on direction from the council to educate and hear from our residents in the Town. We will have representatives from the Sheriff, Flock PalAmerican Security (FKA Genesis), and others. Mark your calendars for May 15 at 6:00 PM an official postcard was mailed to you that looks like the picture below:

6. LAHCFD UPDATE

Community Meeting: La Paloma Area Evacuation Route Project

We encourage residents in the La Paloma area, including Purissima Road and Westwind Way, to Learn about this evacuation route project and get answers to your questions. Read the media release or check out the project page with treatment photos.

Wildfire Preparedness Week

California recognizes Wildfire Preparedness Week from May 5-11. Ensuring everyone's safety requires proactive steps. Let's use this week and beyond to prioritize preparedness and ensure that we're equipped to handle the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires and other emergencies. Improve your preparedness in 5 simple steps!

Recap: Firewise Community Wildfire Preparedness Day

On Saturday, May 4th, our District hosted a Firewise Community Wildfire Preparedness Day. our LAH Firewise USA Communities united for a fun, educational event. In addition to LAHCFD staff, we had representatives from Purissima Hills Water District, Santa Clara County FireSafe Council, United Policyholders, and CERT -Even teens from Teen CERT and the Wildfire Awareness Initiative (WAI) got involved!

Interested in joining with your neighborhood? Visit lahcfd.org/firewise to get started.

Update: Goat Grazing Complete at Byrne Preserve

Grazing is complete, one day ahead of schedule! Camp has been broken down, and the goats have been trailered to other greener pastures. Stay tuned for more information about how they contributed to protecting us from wildfire, along with pictures capturing their hard work.

7. Committee Volunteer Openings

The Town of Los Altos Hills depends on its volunteer citizens. There are many opportunities to contribute to its direction and vision and to make the Town the best it can be for all who call it home. Over 120 residents are members of the Town’s advisory committees. You can make a difference by volunteering to become a member of one of these committees, where you can meet fellow residents and support the Town with your participation and experience. Play an active role in determining the future of your town! For more information contact Arika Miller at amiller@losaltoshills.ca.gov

We have openings on the following Committees/Commissions: 

Community Relations Committee- 1 vacancy 

Environmental Design & Protection Committee- 3 vacancies

Environmental Initiatives Committee- 2 vacancies

Finance and Investment Committee - 5 vacancies

Open Space Committee- 2 vacancies

Parks and Recreation Committee- 4 vacancies 

Pathways Committee- 2 vacancies

Planning Commission- 3 vacancies

8. SOD BLITZ: Volunteer for Sudden Oak Death Testing and Mapping

Sudden Oak Death (SOD) has killed thousands of California oaks, including many in our area. Help UC Berkeley researchers track SOD infection by collecting leaves from Bay Laurel trees (the most common carrier of the disease) for testing and mapping. Join the SOD Blitz Citizen Science project, May 17 through 20, by signing up on-line and viewing the instructional video. Pick up collection packets anytime at LAH Town Hall starting 8:00 AM May 17, gather leaf samples at locations you choose, and return them to Town Hall by 5:00 PM Monday May 20. Sample testing is free and will provide valuable information about the location of infections, where preventative treatments may help protect oaks. The SOD Blitz is an annual event organized by the Forest Mycology late at UC Berkeley and hosted locally by the LAH Open Space Committee/ The SOD Blitzes are part of the largest citizen science effort in the country and are vital to understanding the disease and developing management strategies. For more info visit www.sodblitz.org.

Sheriff's Report

Planning and Building

CM Signing Authority Log

Job Opportunities

Public Works

Volunteer Opportunities

Click the Icon above for the Town calendar.

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