Foster City public meetings in 2021
57 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council held a special meeting on December 13, 2021, and took several actions. The most consequential decision was adopting Minute Order No. 1823, which directed staff to rescind the Code of Conduct, passing 3-2 with the vice mayor and one councilmember voting no. The council also approved a new AFSCME labor agreement, amended pay plans, reestablished subcommittees, and approved a consent calendar with 16 items, including resolutions on opioid settlement, levee project, and police software purchases.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1823 to rescind Code of Conduct (3-2)
- Approved AFSCME MOU with $363,886 budget addition (5-0)
- Adopted amended pay plans effective July 1, 2021 and Jan 1, 2022 (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1822 to reestablish subcommittees (5-0)
- Approved Foster City Village agreement for community center space (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar with 16 items including opioid settlement and levee project (5-0)
- Agendized resolution in support of 'Our Neighborhood Voice Initiative' (4-0-1)
City Council Regular Meeting
The City Council unanimously elected Richa Awasthi as Mayor/President and Jon Froomin as Vice Mayor/Vice President (4-0-1, with Councilmember Hindi abstaining). The meeting also included a statement from outgoing Mayor Sanjay Gehani, a plaque presentation, and oaths of office. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 7:17 p.m.
- Elected Richa Awasthi as Mayor/President by unanimous vote (5-0-0).
- Elected Jon Froomin as Vice Mayor/Vice President (4-0-1, Hindi abstained).
- Administered Oaths of Office to Mayor Awasthi and Vice Mayor Froomin.
- Presented a plaque to outgoing Mayor Sanjay Gehani for his service.
- Adjourned the meeting at 7:17 p.m. with no objection.
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Planning Commission approved a use permit modification for facade improvements and a sign use permit amendment to the Metro Center Master Sign Program at 921-987 E. Hillsdale Blvd., adopting Resolutions P-13-21 and P-14-21 by a 5-0 vote. The commission also approved the October 21, 2021 meeting minutes. A study session on the proposed redevelopment of the vacant El Torito building into a life sciences office at 388 Vintage Park Drive was continued to November 18, 2021.
- Approved the October 21, 2021 regular meeting minutes (5-0-0-0).
- Adopted Resolution No. P-13-21 approving use permit UP2021-0022 for facade improvements at Metro Center.
- Adopted Resolution No. P-14-21 approving sign use permit SR2021-0005 amending the Metro Center Master Sign Program.
- Continued the study session on the El Torito redevelopment (RZ2021-0003, UP2021-0023, UP2021-0024) to November 18, 2021.
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council unanimously approved a 4.5% increase in solid waste, recyclables, and organic materials collection rates for calendar year 2022, along with a 1.947% increase for unscheduled services. The council also unanimously accepted the consent calendar, which included approving a right-of-entry agreement for the levee project, a development impact fees study contract, and a city manager recruitment agreement. Additionally, the council received and accepted reports on the wastewater treatment plant master plan, levee improvements, and the levee bond oversight committee's annual report. No action was taken in closed session.
- Approved 4.5% solid waste rate increase for 2022 (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including levee right-of-entry agreement (5-0)
- Approved $148,965 contract for development impact fees study (5-0)
- Approved $30,000 additional for city manager recruitment (5-0)
- Accepted wastewater treatment plant master plan update (5-0)
- Agendized discussion to reestablish council subcommittee meetings (5-0)
- Accepted levee improvements monthly update (5-0)
- Accepted levee bond oversight committee annual report (5-0)
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Foster City Planning Commission held a regular meeting on October 21, 2021, approving the minutes from the October 7 meeting. The commission continued study sessions on multi-family objective design and development standards and the inclusionary housing ordinance and affordable housing overlay zone, providing feedback and hearing public comments. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved October 7, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0-1-1, Bronitsky abstained, Haddad absent)
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council approved several labor agreements, including a police union MOU and management compensation plan, along with a consent calendar covering ordinances, resolutions, and a workforce housing agreement. They also adopted a Canada geese mitigation plan and received a financial update. No action was taken on a research and development use proposal and housing element workshops.
- Approved consent calendar including ordinances 641-643 and resolutions 2021-157 to 2021-160 (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1816 for Canada geese population mitigation plan (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1817 to receive 4th quarter FY 2020-2021 financial update (5-0)
- Approved FCPOA MOU with $270,839 budget addition (Resolution 2021-161, EMID 3613) (5-0)
- Approved Management Group Compensation and Benefit Plan with $360,758 budget addition (Resolution 2021-162, EMID 3614) (5-0)
- Approved Amended Pay Plan for FY 2021-2022 (Resolution 2021-163, EMID 3615) (5-0)
- No action taken on preliminary review of R&D use at 1065 E. Hillsdale Blvd.
- No action taken on housing element update community workshops
City Council Special Meeting
The City Council held a special meeting and interviewed two recruitment firms for City/District Manager recruitment services. After discussion, the Council unanimously voted 5-0 to select Ralph Anderson & Associates for the recruitment services. No other substantive decisions were made; staff reports on police union MOU and a vision summit were informational only.
- Approved Ralph Anderson & Associates as recruitment firm for City/District Manager (5-0)
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Foster City Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. P-12-21, recommending City Council acceptance of the 2021 Multijurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP), which updates the 2016 plan and assesses hazards like flooding, drought, wildfire, and cyber threats. The motion passed 4-0-0-1, with Commissioner Bronitsky absent. The commission also approved the August 12, 2021 special meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included only a director's report on housing workshops and commissioner comments.
- Adopted Resolution No. P-12-21 recommending City Council acceptance of the 2021 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (4-0-0-1, Bronitsky absent)
- Approved minutes of August 12, 2021 special meeting (4-0-0-1, Bronitsky absent)
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council unanimously adopted several ordinances to comply with SB 1383, including repealing and replacing the solid waste chapter, adding administrative citations, and adding procurement requirements for organic waste products. They also approved a minimum wage ordinance directing staff to prepare an ordinance setting the wage at $15.50/hour starting January 1, 2022, and $16.00/hour starting January 1, 2023, with annual increases based on the regional CPI. The consent calendar was approved, including a $148,500 contract for dynamic signage and a $248,771.01 catch basin cleaner purchase. A motion to agendize a Hanukkah display discussion failed 2-3.
- Adopted SB 1383 ordinances (unanimous 5-0)
- Approved minimum wage ordinance directing staff to prepare ordinance (2-1)
- Approved consent calendar including $148,500 signage contract and $248,771.01 catch basin cleaner (5-0)
- Failed to agendize Hanukkah display discussion (2-3)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1812 accepting levee improvements report (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2021-151 appointing 14 Youth Advisory Committee members (5-0)
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Foster City Planning Commission held a study session on the proposed redevelopment of the vacant El Torito restaurant at 388 Vintage Park Drive into a 95,931 sq ft life sciences office building. No formal decisions were made; the Commission provided feedback, including support for the life sciences use but opposition to the proposed 42% parking reduction. The Commission also supported a feasibility analysis of alternative uses, including housing, to be paid for by the applicant.
- Approved minutes of July 15, 2021 regular meeting (5-0)
- Discussed EIR scope for El Torito redevelopment, no action taken
- Held study session on redevelopment proposal, no decision made
- Commission expressed support for life sciences use
- Commission not supportive of 42% parking reduction
- Commission supported feasibility analysis of housing use on site
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council voted 4-1 not to agendize a discussion on a campaign financing ordinance, with Councilmember Froomin dissenting. The council also introduced and passed to second reading two ordinances: one amending recycling and salvaging rules for construction and demolition debris, and another authorizing a fee to support public, educational, and governmental (PEG) channel facilities. All consent calendar items were approved unanimously, including resolutions for an edible food recovery program and easement deeds for PG&E gas facilities.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1810 to not agendize campaign financing ordinance discussion (4-1)
- Introduced ordinance amending Sections 15.44.050 and 15.44.060 on recycling and salvaging of construction and demolition debris (5-0)
- Passed ordinance amending Chapter 14.01 to authorize a fee for PEG channel facilities to second reading (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including Resolution No. 2021-147 for SB 1383 edible food recovery program (5-0)
- Approved Resolution No. 2021-149 appropriating $13,784.40 for police dispatch equipment maintenance (5-0)
- Approved easement deeds to PG&E for gas facilities at Bay Trail pedestrian bridge (5-0)
City Council Special Meeting
The City Council held a public hearing on proposed solid waste collection rates for 2022 and directed staff to mail Proposition 218 notices for a November 15, 2021 public hearing. The motion, adopted unanimously (5-0), allows increasing 2021 collection rates by no more than 4.5% and rates for additional services by 1.947% for 2022. No public testimony was received.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1809 directing staff to mail Proposition 218 notice for Nov 15, 2021 public hearing (5-0)
- Approved potential 2022 solid waste rate increase of up to 4.5% over 2021 rates
- Approved 1.947% increase for optional additional services rates for 2022
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council unanimously approved a consent calendar with 26 items, including resolutions for COVID-19 emergency extension, police vehicle purchases, and a $100,000 tenant relocation assistance agreement. Two items were pulled for discussion: Ordinance No. 638, which rescinds the prohibition on beekeeping, and Resolution No. 2021-146, authorizing a Request for Proposals for a snack shack concession at Sea Cloud Park. Both were adopted unanimously. The Council also directed staff to hire a new recruiting firm for the City Manager search and to continue lagoon water testing and geese mitigation efforts.
- Approved 26-item consent calendar, including COVID-19 emergency extension and $100,000 HIF tenant relocation agreement
- Adopted Ordinance No. 638 rescinding the beekeeping prohibition (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2021-146 authorizing RFP for Sea Cloud Park snack shack concession (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1804 supporting League of California Cities sales tax distribution policy (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1805 on CPUC railroad inspection funding resolution (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1807 directing continued lagoon water testing through March 2022 (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1807 directing staff to report on geese mitigation efforts (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1808 directing staff to hire a different recruiting firm for City Manager search (5-0)
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council/EMID Board met in special session on September 13, 2021, and immediately recessed into closed session to discuss the appointment of an Interim City/District Manager. No public decisions were made during the open portion of the meeting, which adjourned at 6:30 p.m. The minutes do not record any votes or actions on the appointment.
- Recessed into closed session for public employment discussion regarding the Interim City/District Manager position.
- Adjourned the meeting without any public action or vote on the interim manager appointment.
City Council Special Meeting
The City Council voted 4-1 to appoint Kevin Miller as Interim City/District Manager, with Councilmember Froomin dissenting. The appointment was made via City Resolution No. 2021-128 and EMID Resolution No. 3604, approving an employment agreement for interim services. The meeting was a special session held to consider this appointment, and no other substantive decisions were made.
- Appointed Kevin Miller as Interim City/District Manager (4-1, Froomin opposed)
- Approved employment agreement for interim manager services (Resolution 2021-128 / EMID 3604)
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City City Council and EMID Board met in special session on August 31, 2021. The only substantive item was a closed session discussion regarding the appointment of an Interim City/District Manager. No action was taken in closed session, and the meeting adjourned without any public decisions. Public comments were received via email, but no votes or resolutions were made.
- No action taken in closed session on Interim City/District Manager appointment
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council held a special meeting on August 25, 2021, and in closed session voted 3-2 to terminate the City/District Manager's employment, with Mayor Gehani and Councilmember Froomin dissenting. The council also unanimously appointed Police Chief Tracy Avelar as Acting City/District Manager. No other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.
- Terminated City/District Manager's employment (3-2)
- Appointed Police Chief Tracy Avelar as Acting City/District Manager (5-0)
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council unanimously approved two reports: the Mid-Year Update on 2021 Strategic Priorities and a Long-Term Community Engagement Strategy on housing, economic development, and parks. Both were adopted via Minute Orders 1801 and 1802 with 5-0 votes. A proclamation recognizing Shilpa Badadare was also approved. The closed session on the City Manager's performance evaluation resulted in no action.
- Approved proclamation recognizing Shilpa Badadare (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1801, receiving Mid-Year Update on Strategic Priorities (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1802, receiving Long-Term Community Engagement Strategy (5-0)
- Closed session on City Manager evaluation: no action taken
City Council Regular Meeting
The City Council voted 4-0 to introduce an ordinance rescinding the prohibition on beekeeping in Title 6, Animal Control. The council also approved several consent calendar items, including resolutions for a dynamic signage pilot program, a mobile food truck concession at Leo Ryan Park, and funding for police vehicles and equipment. Additionally, the council adopted resolutions adding an Economic Development Manager classification and amending the pay plan.
- Introduced ordinance to rescind beekeeping prohibition (4-0)
- Approved consent calendar including dynamic signage pilot program (4-0)
- Authorized RFP for mobile food truck concession at Leo Ryan Park (4-0)
- Appropriated $75,211.16 for two police vehicles (4-0)
- Appropriated $7,161.71 for Vibe Audio System (4-0)
- Increased Foster City Foundation Fund appropriation from $7,370 to $100,000 (4-0)
- Adopted resolutions adding Economic Development Manager classification and amended pay plan (4-0)
- Received reports on levee improvements, wastewater treatment plant, and lagoon water quality (4-0)
Planning Commission Special Meeting/Study Session
The Foster City Planning Commission held a study session on July 15, 2021, to discuss multi-family design standards, an inclusionary housing ordinance, and the Housing Element update. No formal decisions were made; the session was for gathering commissioner feedback. The only action taken was approving the minutes of the June 17, 2021 meeting.
- Approved minutes of June 17, 2021 regular meeting (5-0)
City Council Regular Meeting
The City Council approved a contract with Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP for city attorney and district legal counsel services, and approved the consent calendar including a zoning amendment for two hotels at Metro Center. The council also directed staff to agendize a discussion on internet connectivity, appointed Paul Norton to the Mosquito and Vector Control District, and adopted minute orders on the legislative platform and parks improvement plan.
- Approved city attorney contract with Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP (4-0)
- Approved consent calendar including zoning amendment for two hotels at Metro Center (4-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1794 to agendize internet connectivity discussion (4-0)
- Appointed Paul Norton to Mosquito and Vector Control District board (4-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1795 to narrow legislative platform and agendize study session (4-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1796 on parks improvement plan outreach (4-0)
City Council Regular Meeting
The City Council approved a resolution certifying the Environmental Impact Report and adopting conditions of approval for a new seven-story, 151-room hotel at the southwest corner of Metro Center Boulevard and Shell Boulevard. The approval includes an amendment requiring the hotel to use 100% Peninsula Clean Energy electricity. The council also introduced an ordinance to amend the zoning map to allow up to two hotels on the Metro Center site.
- Approved City Resolution No. 2021-110, certifying the Final Environmental Impact Report and adopting conditions of approval for the 151-room hotel, with an amendment to require 100% Peninsula Clean Energy electricity.
- Introduced an ordinance to amend the zoning map to allow up to two hotels with a total of approximately 298 guest rooms on the Metro Center site.
- Adopted City Resolution No. 2021-109 and EMID Resolution No. 3595, establishing the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 appropriations limit.
- Adopted EMID Resolution No. 3596, adopting the 2020 Urban Water Management Plan.
- Adopted EMID Resolution No. 3597, adopting the 2020 Water Shortage Contingency Plan.
- Adopted City Resolution No. 2021-111, setting meeting protocols including an approach to the consent calendar and meeting duration.
- Adopted City Resolution No. 2021-112, adopting a policy for City Council subcommittees.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1793, establishing a Minimum Wage Ad Hoc Committee and a Privacy & Technology Policy Ad Hoc Subcommittee.
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Planning Commission approved a use permit for a new seven-story, 151-room hotel at the southwest corner of Metro Center and Shell Boulevards, along with a recommendation to the City Council on the environmental assessment and rezoning. The use permit (UP2019-0006) was approved 4-1, with Commissioner Haddad dissenting. The environmental assessment (EA2019-0001) and rezoning (RZ2019-0002) were both approved 5-0. The commission also approved the minutes from the May 6, 2021 meeting and reorganized, appointing Commissioner Wykoff as Chairman and Commissioner Adams as Vice Chairman.
- Approved Resolution No. P-09-21 for environmental assessment EA2019-0001, 5-0
- Approved Resolution No. P-10-21 for rezoning RZ2019-0002, 5-0
- Approved Resolution No. P-11-21 for use permit UP2019-0006, 4-1 (Haddad dissenting)
- Approved minutes of May 6, 2021 regular meeting, 4-0-1 (Bronitsky abstaining)
- Appointed Commissioner Wykoff as Chairman, 5-0
- Appointed Commissioner Adams as Vice Chairman, 5-0
City Council Shirt Sleeve Study Session
The Foster City Council voted unanimously to suspend the golf course survey, with the understanding that meaningful community input will be sought. They also received an informational report on long-range planning and land use, and authorized staff to hire a consultant for an environmental site constraints study of the golf course site. The meeting included extensive public comment, mostly opposing housing development on the golf course.
- Suspended the Golf Course survey, with the understanding that meaningful community input will be sought (5-0).
- Received the informational report on long range planning and land use background (4-1).
- Authorized staff to engage a consultant for an environmental site constraints study of the golf course site (5-0).
- Approved City Resolution No. 2021-97, authorizing the City Manager to execute a maintenance agreement with Caltrans for the Levee Protection Planning and Improvements Project (5-0).
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council and EMID Board met in a special session on July 12, 2021. The only substantive item was a closed session to evaluate the City Manager's performance, after which no action was reported. The meeting adjourned without any public decisions or votes.
- Recessed into closed session for a public employee performance evaluation of the City Manager.
- Reported no action taken in closed session.
- Adjourned the meeting without further public business.
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council/EMID Board met in special session and immediately recessed into closed session to evaluate the City Manager's performance. The meeting reconvened after several hours, and the mayor reported that no action was taken in closed session. The meeting then adjourned without any public decisions or votes.
- Recessed into closed session for City Manager performance evaluation
- Reported no action taken in closed session
- Adjourned meeting at 12:50 a.m.
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council and EMID Board met in special session on June 22, 2021. They went into closed session to discuss the employment of the City Attorney/District Legal Counsel. No action was taken in closed session, and the meeting adjourned without any public decisions.
- Held closed session for public employment discussion
- Reported no action taken in closed session
- Adjourned meeting at 11:45 a.m.
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council and EMID Board approved the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 City and District budgets, along with the corresponding pay plan effective July 1, 2021. They also approved a $3.19 million contract change order for flood wall construction, tabled a communications services agreement, and appointed Raj Tiwari to the Parks and Recreation Committee.
- Approved FY 2021-2022 City and District budgets (Resolution 2021-95, EMID 3592)
- Adopted FY 2021-2022 pay plan (Resolution 2021-96, EMID 3593)
- Approved $3,194,181.56 change order for Flood Wall 19 construction (Resolution 2021-94)
- Tabled Tripepi Smith communications agreement to July 19, 2021 meeting
- Appointed Raj Tiwari to Parks and Recreation Committee partial term
- Approved 15 consent calendar items including contracts and resolutions
- Adopted legislative advocacy positions, excluding Senate Bill 6
- Received updates on levee project, COVID-19, and small business assistance
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Planning Commission approved the architectural review request for modifications to the design of a new two-story house at 390 Biscayne Avenue, passing Resolution No. P-08-21 by a 5-0 vote. The commission also discussed a proposal for a new outdoor pavilion at 1065 E. Hillsdale Boulevard, expressing support but requesting a site circulation study and color palette changes before a future public hearing. The meeting minutes from April 15, 2021, were approved.
- Approved Resolution No. P-08-21, approving AR2020-0017 for modifications to the house design at 390 Biscayne Avenue, passed 5-0-0-0.
- Approved the minutes of the April 15, 2021 regular meeting, passed 5-0-0-0.
- Discussed the proposed outdoor pavilion at 1065 E. Hillsdale Boulevard, with no formal action taken; feedback included completing a site circulation study and revising the color palette.
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council/EMID Board met in special session and immediately recessed into closed session to discuss the appointment of the City Attorney/District Legal Counsel. No action was taken in closed session, and the meeting adjourned without any substantive public decisions.
- Recessed into closed session for public employment discussion (unanimous)
- No action taken in closed session (reported by Mayor Gehani)
City Council Shirt Sleeve Study Session
The City Council/EMID Board unanimously adopted three minute orders: received the Parks System Master Plan status report and directed staff to develop community outreach survey content; authorized sending letters to SFPUC and BAWSCA on water supply reliability and drought allocations, and accepted the Water Shortage Contingency Plan update; and directed staff to return with a community survey for golf course redevelopment input for consideration at the first August meeting. A motion to call the question on the long-range planning discussion failed 3-2 due to supermajority requirement. Closed session items were removed from the agenda at staff request.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1783: Received parks master plan status, directed staff to develop survey content and provide to Council before dissemination (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1784: Authorized letters to SFPUC and BAWSCA on water supply reliability and drought cutback allocations; accepted WSCP update (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1785: Directed staff to return with community survey for golf course redevelopment input for August meeting (5-0)
- Motion to call the question on long-range planning discussion failed 3-2 (supermajority required)
City Council Regular Meeting
The City Council approved the preliminary budget for FY 2021-2022, directing staff to incorporate it into the final budget for adoption on June 21. It also adopted new water rates and amended the Master Fees and Service Charges Schedule for FY 2021-2022. The Council declined to appeal the draft RHNA allocation of 1,896 units and approved a $932,030.15 contract change order for the levee project. Non-profit funding for FY 2021-2022 was set at $123,100, with a $57,500 donation from Gilead Sciences accepted.
- Adopted preliminary FY 2021-2022 budget (Minute Order 1779) (5-0)
- Adopted new water rates for FY 2021-2022 (Resolution 2021-84/EMID 3587) (5-0)
- Amended Master Fees and Service Charges Schedule for FY 2021-2022 (Resolution 2021-83/EMID 3586) (5-0)
- Declined to appeal draft RHNA allocation of 1,896 units (Minute Order 1782) (4-1)
- Approved $932,030.15 change order for levee project (Resolution 2021-85) (3-0-2)
- Approved $123,100 in non-profit funding for FY 2021-2022 (5-0)
- Accepted $57,500 donation from Gilead Sciences for non-profit funding (5-0)
- Agendized discussion on beekeeping ordinance (Minute Order 1778) (4-1)
City Council Special Meeting
The City Council voted 3-0 to direct staff to prepare an analysis and community outreach for a local minimum wage ordinance, with a proposed increase to $16.00 plus CPI on a phased timeline. Two councilmembers recused due to business conflicts. The council also approved a $439,963.41 change order for coffer dams for flood wall construction, and several consent items including budget appropriations and a Juneteenth proclamation.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1777 directing staff to analyze a local minimum wage ordinance above $15 (3-0)
- Approved City Resolution No. 2021-76 for $439,963.41 coffer dam change order (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including $65,000 HR budget appropriation (5-0)
- Approved EMID Resolution No. 3583 for $65,000 HR budget appropriation (5-0)
- Approved Juneteenth proclamation request (5-0)
- Approved Minute Order No. 1776 supporting vehicle license fee shortfall language (5-0)
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council appointed Charlie Bronitsky to a full term on the Planning Commission (June 1, 2021 – May 31, 2025) by a 3-2 roll call vote, with Councilmember Froomin and Mayor Gehani voting for alternate candidate Sirish Bindal. The Council also approved a $7.5 million discretionary payment to CalPERS, authorized up to $66.865 million in wastewater revenue notes, and approved several contract amendments for the Levee Protection Project. All other substantive items were approved unanimously.
- Appointed Charlie Bronitsky to Planning Commission, full term through May 31, 2025 (3-2)
- Approved $7.5M discretionary CalPERS payment from Pension Stabilization Fund (5-0)
- Authorized $66.865M in 2021 Wastewater Revenue Notes, Series A (5-0)
- Approved $491,500 contract amendment with Tanner Pacific for levee project (5-0)
- Approved $162,000 contract amendment with Schaaf & Wheeler for levee project (5-0)
- Approved $355,331 EIR contract for El Torito site redevelopment (consent, 5-0)
- Approved Small Business Assistance Plan as one-year pilot (5-0)
- Approved $4,055,505 use of FY 2019-20 General Fund rollover surplus (5-0)
City Council Special Meeting
The City Council held a study session and adopted two minute orders. They accepted the preliminary budget for FY 2021-2022 and the five-year financial plan, directing staff to incorporate items into a revised budget for the June 7 public hearing. They also accepted the Master Fees and Service Charges Schedule, approving a 2% increase in most fees. No action was taken on non-profit agency funding, which will be decided on June 7.
- Adopted preliminary FY 2021-22 budget and five-year plan (5-0)
- Approved 2% increase in most fees in Master Fees and Service Charges Schedule (5-0)
- Deferred non-profit agency funding decision to June 7, 2021
City Council Shirt Sleeve Study Session
The City Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 2021-55, authorizing Shimmick Construction to purchase temporary sheet piles for a cofferdam to support floodwall 19 construction, with vetting from Tanner Pacific. The council also discussed SB 1383 organic waste methane reductions and long-term vision and strategic priorities, but took no action on either item. Councilmembers requested several future agenda items, including topics related to the Golf Course, Code of Conduct review, agendizing process, and Sea Cloud 2 land use.
- Approved Resolution No. 2021-55 authorizing Shimmick Construction to purchase temporary sheet piles for cofferdam (5-0)
- No action taken on SB 1383 organic waste methane emissions reductions
- No action taken on City Council long-term vision and strategic priorities for 2021
- Requested future agenda item: Golf Course related items
- Requested future agenda item: Code of Conduct review after new city attorney hired
- Requested future agenda item: Review of how items are agendized
- Requested future agenda item: Sea Cloud 2 land use discussion
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Foster City Planning Commission approved a use permit for a 408-square-foot first-story rear addition to a single-story waterfront home at 197 Flying Cloud Isle, passing Resolution No. P-07-21 by a 4-0-1 vote (Commissioner Adams recused). The commission also approved the April 1, 2021 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included only procedural items and staff reports.
- Approved use permit UP2020-0041 for 408 sq ft addition at 197 Flying Cloud Isle (4-0-1, Adams recused)
- Approved minutes of April 1, 2021 regular meeting (4-0-0-1, Jagtiani abstained)
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council approved four resolutions of intention for housing element implementation programs, including an affordable housing overlay district and multi-family design standards, and adopted the amended Master Fees and Service Charges Schedule for FY 2020-2021. The council also approved a $46,745 contract amendment for levee protection planning services and a 17-item consent calendar covering various resolutions, claims, and appointments. All votes were unanimous (5-0).
- Adopted Resolution 2021-51 for Affordable Housing Overlay Combining District (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2021-52 applying Affordable Housing Overlay to specific properties (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2021-53 for Multi-Family Objective Design Standards (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2021-54 for Affordable Housing Requirements (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2021-50 and EMID Resolution 3574 amending Master Fees and Service Charges (5-0)
- Approved Contract Amendment No. 1 ($46,745) with Schaaf & Wheeler for Levee Protection Project (5-0)
- Approved 17-item consent calendar including school crossing guard agreement, RFP issuances, and claim rejections (5-0)
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council unanimously adopted new vision and mission statements for the city. A motion to receive a strategic value/priority areas report and move forward with implementation failed 2-3, but a subsequent motion to have staff review 33 identified projects against the new mission and vision passed unanimously.
- Adopted new vision statement (5-0)
- Adopted new mission statement (5-0)
- Motion to receive strategic priority report and proceed with implementation failed (2-3)
- Adopted motion for staff to review 33 projects against new mission/vision (5-0)
City Council Regular Meeting
The City Council unanimously approved design revisions for the levee sheet pile wall installation, reserving the right to challenge responsibility for the changes. It also directed staff to develop a COVID-19 business assistance implementation plan based on survey findings. All consent calendar items, including RFP issuances for communications and attorney services, were approved 5-0. No action was taken in closed session.
- Approved concrete cap design revisions for levee sheet pile wall installation (5-0)
- Directed staff to develop COVID-19 business assistance implementation plan (5-0)
- Approved RFP for strategic communications and outreach services for levee project (5-0)
- Approved RFP for city attorney services (5-0)
- Approved EMID RFP for city attorney services (5-0)
- Accepted Audit Committee 2020 year-end report and 2021 goals (5-0)
- Accepted Youth Advisory Committee 2020 year-end report and 2021 goals (5-0)
- Approved proclamations for Marlene Hopper retirement and Mental Health Month (5-0)
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Foster City Planning Commission approved Resolution No. P-06-21, recommending that the City Council find the proposed capital improvement projects for FY 2021-22 and the Five-Year 2021-26 CIP consistent with the General Plan. The motion passed 4-0-0-1, with Commissioner Jagtiani absent. The meeting was held via teleconference due to the state of emergency.
- Approved minutes of March 4, 2021 regular meeting (4-0-0-1)
- Adopted Resolution No. P-06-21 recommending CIP projects consistent with General Plan (4-0-0-1)
City Council & Planning Commission Joint Special Meeting
The Foster City City Council and Planning Commission held a joint special meeting on April 14, 2021, which included a study session on housing. Staff presented a report, and discussion followed, but no formal action was taken. The meeting was adjourned without any decisions or votes.
- No formal decisions made; study session on housing held with staff presentation and discussion
City Council Shirt Sleeve Study Session
The Foster City Council held a study session and voted to table the City Council Strategic Value/Priority Areas and Implementation Plan, with a 3-2 vote, to plan a long-term vision discussion at a later date. They also unanimously tabled three other items: City Organizational Structure, Quarterly Policy Calendar Look Ahead, and Councilmember Requests for Future Agenda Items. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Tabled City Council Strategic Value/Priority Areas and Implementation Plan (3-2)
- Tabled City Organizational Structure to future meeting (5-0)
- Tabled Quarterly Policy Calendar Look Ahead to future meeting (5-0)
- Tabled Councilmember Requests for Future Agenda Items to future meeting (5-0)
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council approved a resolution to fly the 50th Anniversary Flag in place of the City Seal flag for the remainder of 2021, with a 4-1 vote. They also established the Foster's Landing Ad Hoc Subcommittee, appointing Mayor Gehani and Councilmember Hindi as liaisons, and approved letters opposing Senate Bill 556 and supporting Senate Bill 612. Additionally, the Council directed staff to use remaining COVID-19 relief funds for the restaurant voucher program and to return to the pre-COVID loyalty program once funds run out.
- Approved Resolution 2021-41 to fly the 50th Anniversary Flag in place of the City Seal flag for the remainder of 2021 (4-1).
- Approved Minute Order 1752 establishing the Foster's Landing Ad Hoc Subcommittee and appointing Mayor Gehani and Councilmember Hindi as liaisons (4-1).
- Approved Minute Order 1753, a letter of opposition to Senate Bill 556 (5-0).
- Approved Minute Order 1754, a letter of support for Senate Bill 612 (5-0).
- Adopted Minute Order 1755, receiving the COVID-19 update report (5-0).
- Adopted Minute Order 1756, directing staff to use remaining $980 for the restaurant voucher program and then return to the pre-COVID loyalty program (5-0).
- Adopted Minute Order 1757 and Resolution 2021-42, authorizing an impact fee study and issuing an RFP for professional services (5-0).
- Approved the consent calendar, including resolutions on fire department agreements and an RFP for classification study services (5-0).
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Foster City Planning Commission held a regular meeting on March 4, 2021, via teleconference due to the state of emergency. The Commission approved the minutes of the February 4, 2021 meeting and adopted Resolution No. P-05-21, recommending City Council acceptance of the General Plan Annual Report for 2020. No other substantive items were discussed.
- Approved the minutes of the February 4, 2021 regular meeting (5-0-0-0).
- Adopted Resolution No. P-05-21, recommending City Council acceptance of the General Plan Annual Report for 2020 (5-0-0-0).
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council/EMID Board held a special study session and adopted a series of policy directions for the FY 2021-2022 budget and financial plans. They approved the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program, long-term capital funding plans, and directed staff to proceed with water and wastewater rate increases, including a 3.2% fixed and 2.8% variable water rate hike and a 2.0% wastewater increase for FY 2024-2025. The council also removed a hold on the Traffic Relief Pilot Program and approved budgets for several internal service funds. All actions were approved via motions, with one split vote on the traffic program.
- Approved the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program for FY 2021-2022 to FY 2025-2026, with repairs considered case-by-case and material selection based on durability.
- Approved removing the hold on the Traffic Relief Pilot Program (CIP 301-694) and moving forward with the competitive bid process for traffic signal poles, with a 3-1 vote and one recusal.
- Approved the Long-Term Capital Improvement Projects Program and Funding Plan for the City Capital Investment Fund for FY 2021-2022 to FY 2030-2031.
- Approved the Long-Term Capital Improvement Projects Program and Funding Plan for Water and Wastewater Enterprise Funds for FY 2021-2022 to FY 2030-2031.
- Approved proceeding with water rate increases of 3.2% for fixed charges and 2.8% for variable charges, and distributing Proposition 218 notices.
- Approved continuing wastewater rate increases, including 14.25% per year for FY 2021-2022 through FY 2022-2023, 10.00% for FY 2023-2024, and adding 2.0% for FY 2024-2025, with Proposition 218 notices.
- Approved preparing budgets for the Vehicle Replacement, Equipment Replacement, Self-Insurance, Information Technology, Building Maintenance, and Compensated Absences funds based on staff recommendations.
- Approved preparing budgets for the Longevity Recognition Benefits Plan and PEMHCA Benefits Plan based on staff recommendations.
City Council & Planning Commission Joint Special Meeting
The City Council and Planning Commission held a joint study session on housing, featuring expert presentations on water supply, transportation, state housing legislation, and Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA Cycle 6). No formal decisions were made; the meeting was adjourned with a unanimous 10-0-0 vote to continue the discussion at a future properly noticed special meeting.
- Adjourned meeting and continued housing discussion to future special meeting (10-0-0)
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council and EMID Board held a special meeting on March 22, 2021, conducted by teleconference due to the Governor's executive order. The council entered closed session to discuss existing and anticipated litigation and a public employment matter, but reported no action was taken. The meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
- Recessed into closed session to discuss three existing litigation cases, two anticipated litigation cases, and a public employment matter (City Attorney).
- Reported no action was taken in closed session.
- Adjourned the meeting at 9:30 p.m.
City Council Regular Meeting
The Foster City Council approved a 4-1 agreement with Flock Group, Inc. for 20 automated license plate readers (ALPRs), with Councilmember Sullivan voting no. The agreement costs $13,334 for the initial two-month term, followed by $50,000 for a 12-month renewal term, and includes an ALPR policy. The council also approved several other items, including expanding the Parks and Recreation Committee from five to seven members on a trial basis, appointing members to committees, and directing staff on non-profit funding and business relief options.
- Approved City Resolution No. 2021-34 for 20 Flock Group ALPRs, $13,334 initial term, $50,000 renewal, 4-1 vote.
- Approved City Resolution No. 2021-31 expanding Parks and Recreation Committee to 7 members on trial basis.
- Approved City Resolution No. 2021-32 and EMID Resolution No. 3561 for eighth lease amendment with V.B. Golf LLC.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1744 appointing members to Audit and Parks and Recreation Committees.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1745 directing staff on non-profit funding process with $50,000 earmark.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1746 directing staff not to pursue business license tax relief and defer loan programs.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1747 receiving the General Plan Annual Report for 2020.
- Adopted City Resolution No. 2021-33 formalizing sister city relationship with Inagi City, Japan.
City Council Special Meeting
The Foster City Council approved the 2021 implementation matrix for value/priority areas, including rebuilding the Recreation Center and approving items under several categories. The council also received a levee protection project update and tabled an impact fee study to April 5, 2021. A consent item to agendize changing the Parks and Recreation Committee membership from five to seven was approved.
- Approved assessing/repairing the Recreation Center for safety and moving forward with rebuilding, exploring finance options.
- Approved remaining Facilities and Infrastructure priority items as presented.
- Approved Smart Planning, Development, and Local Economy priority items as presented.
- Approved City Council Operations and Improved Community Engagement priority items as presented.
- Approved Innovation and Sustainability priority items as presented.
- Approved Public Safety and Social Equity priority items with amendments on ALPR community outreach and minimum wage consideration (4-1, Froomin no).
- Approved Staff Empowerment and Operational Excellence priority items as presented.
- Tabled the Impact Fee Study to the April 5, 2021 meeting.
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Foster City Planning Commission approved a use permit for a new private park and site improvements at the northwest corner of Bayside Way and Velocity Way for Gilead Sciences, Inc. (Resolution No. P-03-21). It also approved the minutes of the January 21, 2021 meeting and the annual review of the Gilead Sciences Development Agreement (Resolution No. P-04-21). All votes were 5-0.
- Approved the minutes of the January 21, 2021 regular meeting (5-0).
- Adopted Resolution No. P-04-21, approving the Gilead Sciences Development Agreement annual review (5-0).
- Closed the public hearing for the Gilead Sciences use permit (5-0).
- Adopted Resolution No. P-03-21, approving the use permit for a new private park and site improvements at Bayside Way and Velocity Way (5-0).
City Council Regular Meeting
The Council unanimously voted to draft a letter opposing Senate Bill 9, extended the local COVID-19 emergency proclamation, and reduced funding for park infrastructure improvements from $1,175,000 to $525,000. It also closed out several park and security projects, returning remaining funds to the city's capital fund. The Council approved the consent calendar, which included canceling three future meetings.
- Approved drafting an opposition letter to Senate Bill 9 (Minute Order No. 1739).
- Extended the local COVID-19 emergency proclamation (Resolution No. 2021-24).
- Directed staff to provide COVID-19 updates monthly or as needed (Minute Order No. 1740).
- Directed staff to survey local businesses and shoppers on COVID-19 needs (Minute Order No. 1741).
- Reduced park infrastructure improvement funding from $1,175,000 to $525,000, removing City Hall landscaping and adding Sea Cloud Substation repairs (Resolution No. 2021-25).
- Closed out ADA compliance projects at Gull and Marlin Parks and the Civic Center security gates project, returning remaining funds (Resolution No. 2021-26).
- Approved the consent calendar, including authorizing a water system risk assessment RFP and canceling three 2021-2022 meetings.
City Council Special Meeting
The City Council, sitting as the EMID Board, unanimously adopted two minute orders. The first accepted the 2nd Quarter FY 2020-2021 Financial Update. The second provided 11 policy directions for preparing the FY 2021-2022 budget and five-year financial plan, including staffing assessment, fee schedule updates, a 2% wage increase placeholder, and maintaining reserve levels. The council also held a closed session on real property negotiations and anticipated litigation, reporting no action taken.
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1737 accepting 2nd Quarter FY 2020-2021 Financial Update (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1738 providing budget policy direction for FY 2021-2022 (5-0)
- Directed staff to assess staffing levels and propose fee schedule updates for FY 2021-2022
- Included 2% wage increase placeholder pending labor negotiations
- Maintained General Fund reserve of 33-1/3 to 50% of operating expenditures
- Maintained Water and Wastewater Enterprise Fund reserves of 25% of operating expenditures
- Directed review of non-profit funding process at March 15, 2021 meeting
- Held closed session on Mariner's Point Golf lease and anticipated litigation; no action taken
City Council Regular Meeting
The City Council approved a $61,000 contract amendment with Tripepi Smith and Associates for proactive communications support for the Levee Protection Planning and Improvements Project (CIP 327-657), waiving the request-for-proposals purchasing policy. The vote was 3-2, with Vice Mayor Awasthi and Councilmember Sullivan dissenting. All other agenda items, including consent calendar items, proclamations, and reports, were approved unanimously.
- Approved $61,000 contract amendment with Tripepi Smith for levee communications (3-2)
- Approved consent calendar including on-call building inspection agreements (5-0)
- Approved proclamation for Health for Humanity Yogathon (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1734 accepting COVID-19 update (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1735 accepting COVID-19 community assistance report (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1736 accepting levee improvements monthly update (5-0)
- Approved proclamation recognizing Human Trafficking Prevention Month (5-0)
- No action taken in closed session on labor negotiations
City Council Regular Meeting
The City Council adopted Resolution 2021-19 establishing an Early Relocation Assistance Program for Foster's Landing Below Market Rate (BMR) residents, with payments capped at $10,000 per household. The council also approved a resolution formalizing its position on the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for 2023-2031, and authorized the city manager to apply for a San Mateo County housing grant. All other consent calendar items were approved unanimously.
- Adopted Resolution 2021-19 establishing Early Relocation Assistance Program for Foster's Landing BMR residents (5-0)
- Set early relocation assistance for Phases II-IV tenants at monthly rent differential times months remaining, capped at $10,000 (5-0)
- Set early relocation assistance for already-relocated tenants at monthly rent differential times months remaining, capped at $10,000 (5-0)
- Set early relocation assistance for Phase I tenants at monthly rent differential times months remaining, capped at $10,000 (4-1, Froomin no)
- Adopted Resolution 2021-20 formalizing position on RHNA Cycle 6 and state housing bills (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2021-18 authorizing application for San Mateo County PLHA grant (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including BMR rent agreement amendment, COVID-19 emergency leave extension, forklift purchase, and engineering services agreement (5-0)
- Received and accepted COVID-19 update and community assistance reports, directing exploration of Stamp Me Program adjustments and Revolving Business Loan Program (5-0)
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
The Foster City Planning Commission held a regular meeting on December 17, 2020, and approved the minutes from the November 19, 2020 meeting. They also designated Commissioner Jagtiani as the alternate member to the Traffic Review Committee. The commission held a study session on a proposed private park by Gilead Sciences, expressing support but taking no formal action.
- Approved minutes of November 19, 2020 regular meeting (5-0)
- Designated Jagtiani as alternate to Traffic Review Committee (5-0)
City Council Regular Meeting
The City Council unanimously approved the audited FY 2019-20 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) and warrant registers, along with several consent calendar items including a budget appropriation for traffic signal backup power and a resolution encouraging employers to sign the Cut the Commute Pledge. The council also adopted a resolution repealing a 2012 posting locations resolution and received reports on COVID-19, levee improvements, and community assistance. Two preliminary development proposals (El Torito site and Century Plaza pavilion) were reviewed with no action taken.
- Adopted City Resolution No. 2021-15 and EMID Resolution No. 3555 approving audited FY 2019-20 CAFR (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including $20,339 budget appropriation for automatic transfer switches (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2021-14 repealing Resolution No. 2012-55 and approving official posting locations (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1726 receiving COVID-19 update (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1727 receiving COVID-19 Community Assistance report (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1728 receiving Levee Improvements Communication Plan (5-0)
- Adopted Minute Order No. 1729 receiving Levee Protection Planning update (5-0)
- No action taken on preliminary review of El Torito redevelopment and Century Plaza pavilion