u/Most_Proposal3518

East Palo Alto City Council Meeting
Summary July 8, 2026

The East Palo Alto City Council held a Regular Meeting on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, taking action on workforce development funding, housing incentives, a proposed general obligation bond measure, and amendments to the Sand Hill Development Agreement. The Council also convened as the East Palo Alto Sanitary District (EPASD) Board to approve updated sewer capacity fees. Mayor Webster Lincoln presided, with all Council Members present, including Councilmember Martha Barragan participating remotely.
Workforce Development Funding Moves Forward
The Council approved moving forward with the Measure HH Workforce Development Program Request for Proposals (RFP) by directing staff to separate, or bifurcate, the solicitation process and appropriating $300,000 to support the effort. The action followed Council discussion on the best approach to administering the program.

Why this matters: Separating the solicitation process allows the City to better target workforce development services while ensuring funding is distributed effectively. The additional investment supports efforts to connect residents with training and employment opportunities.

Temporary Housing Incentive Program Approved
Following a public hearing and community input, the Council introduced an ordinance establishing the Temporary Housing Development Incentive Program, with an amendment providing a limited exemption for projects containing 20 units or fewer. The ordinance was approved on a 3-2 vote.

Why This Matters: The program is designed to encourage the development of temporary housing while balancing community concerns.

General Obligation Bond Measure Advances
The Council approved a resolution and introduced an ordinance placing a proposed $125 million General Obligation Bond Measure on a future ballot. The measure was approved on a 4-1 vote, with Councilmember Carlos Romero voting in opposition. Public testimony was received before Council deliberated.

Why This Matters: If approved by voters, the bond would provide funding for major capital improvements, including public facilities, parks, and infrastructure, allowing the City to invest in projects that support residents and future growth.

Sand Hill Development Agreement Amended
The Council introduced an ordinance approving the First Amendment to the Sand Hill Development Agreement. Mayor Webster Lincoln recused himself from consideration of the item, and Vice Mayor Ruben Abrica presided during the discussion. The amendment was approved unanimously by the remaining four Council Members.

Why This Matters: The amendment updates the development agreement to reflect current project needs and helps keep a significant housing development moving forward, supporting the City's long-term housing and community development goals.

EPASD Board Updates Sewer Capacity Fees
Following adjournment of the City Council meeting, the Council convened as the East Palo Alto Sanitary District (EPASD) Board. The Board approved an updated Sewer Capacity Fee of $10,115 per Equivalent Dwelling Unit (EDU) after receiving the Sewer Capacity Fee Update Study. The resolution passed unanimously.

Why this matters: Updating sewer capacity fees helps ensure that new development contributes to the cost of expanding and maintaining wastewater infrastructure, protecting the long-term financial sustainability of the sewer system while accommodating future growth.