City of Menlo Park - Official Website

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12-month lease ordinance

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1. Where can I find the ordinance?: Menlo Park Municipal Code Title 8, Chapter 53

2. Does this ordinance apply to current tenants or new tenants?: It applies to all tenants, both current and prospective.

3. When does the landlord need to offer a one year lease to a tenant?

A one year lease must be offered to a tenant, in writing, every twelve months.

If there is no current written lease agreement (commonly known as month-to-month), a one year lease must be offered within thirty days of the ordinance taking effect April 5, 2017.
If there is a current written lease agreement, with an expiration date in place, a one year lease must be offered when the lease expires.

4. How do landlords prove they offered a one year lease to their tenants?: The ordinance does not specify how to prove a one year lease was offered. It is a best practice for landlords to keep track of offering tenants a one year lease and keep all of the signed rejected/accepted offers. The ordinance does specify, “a rejection of the offer must be documented in writing and signed by the tenant” and “signing of a lease which has a minimum term of one year shall be considered an offer in writing.”

5. Is there a specific document for landlords and/or tenants to sign?: No. The landlord is responsible for providing this documentation the tenants. Remember, the one year lease offer must be in writing and the specified language (in question above) must be included in the lease agreement.

6. What if the tenant does not respond to the landlord’s 12-month lease offer?

That would be up to a court to determine, not the City. Question of fact as to whether they received and rejected/didn’t accept the offer, or whether never received the offer unless you have proof of delivery.

It is recommended the landlord send the tenant a notification by certified mail.

7. What happens if a tenant does not want a one year lease?: A tenant may reject the one year lease option. A rejection of the offer must be documented in writing and signed by the tenant.

8. May the landlord and tenant agree to terms shorter or longer than a one year lease?: Landlords must offer tenants a one year lease, but the landlord and tenant may agree to other rental terms.

9. A landlord offers a tenant a one year lease and the tenant declines it. Within the one year, the tenant changes their mind and asks for a one year lease. Does the landlord have to give them a one year: No. Landlord are only obligated to offer tenants a one year lease every twelve months.

10. A landlord offers a tenant a one year lease but they both agree to and sign a six-month lease. At month three, the tenant wants a one year lease. Does a landlord need to offer a one year lease?: No. The landlord is only obligated to offer a tenant a one year lease every twelve months. Even after the six-month lease is up, the landlord does not need to offer the tenant a one year lease.

11. Is the landlord required to offer a one year lease to a tenant if they do not want to rent to them anymore?: No. The decision to renew a lease is between the landlord and tenant.

12. Can a landlord change rates within the one-year lease?: The ordinance does not address rate increases, but if the landlord and tenant agree to a rate increase within the lease agreement, it should be written within the contract of the lease agreement.

13. What happens if a tenant was not offered a 12-month lease?: The ordinance provides a tenant with the opportunity to file a civil claim against the landlord. For free legal advice, contact Community Legal Services. As an alternative, Project Sentinel offers free tenant/landlord dispute mediation.

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Belle Haven Community Visioning Process

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1. What is the Community Vision and why are we doing it now?: The Belle Haven Community Visioning process is a current effort led by the City of Menlo Park to involve local residents in identifying the Belle Haven neighborhood’s priorities, values, community assets and resources. This process will engage residents and stakeholders in identifying the highest-priority services and programs for the Belle Haven community and create an action plan to guide future implementation.
Recognizing significant recent changes in and around the Belle Haven neighborhood, the City of Menlo Park began a neighborhood-wide Community Visioning process in January 2013. The City Council will consider this information in the spring of 2013 as they begin to address funding and program decisions. This process also seeks to organize and position the community to work effectively with the City and other groups to advocate for its needs and priorities now and in the future.

2. Haven’t we done this type of visioning process before in Belle Haven?

In the past, the Belle Haven neighborhood has been involved in planning and priority-setting efforts, including regular updates to the Redevelopment Plan when the neighborhood was part of the Las Pulgas Community Development Area / Redevelopment Area (RDA). However, in 2012, RDAs were eliminated by state law. This resulted in significant budget cuts that have impacted the services the City is able to provide.

Many other changes are also impacting the Belle Haven neighborhood, including new land uses (the Facebook campuses and Menlo Gateway), changing demographics, and rising housing costs. With all of these changes, the City wants to have an up-to-date understanding of neighborhood needs, issues and priorities so it can consider this information in its decision-making.

The Visioning Process is unique in that it will identify a set of priorities with City decision-makers, identify specific actions and roles, and help build neighborhood capacity so that residents can work effectively with the City to realize the vision.

3. Who is leading this effort and who will be involved?: The Menlo Park Community Services Department is working with a consultant team to conduct extensive neighborhood outreach to gather information from as many neighborhood stakeholders as possible. Four Belle Haven residents have been hired to join the consultant team to conduct outreach including community events, small group conversations, and gathering data and ideas through a questionnaire. Youth, seniors, families, business owners and workers in Belle Haven will all be included in the process. All materials will be available in English and Spanish, and hard copies can be provided to neighbors who don’t use computers.

4. How can I keep track of what’s going on or get involved?: The best way to stay up-to-date is to visit the City website to find more information on the project, upcoming events, and opportunities for input. All of this information plus key program contacts are available on the Belle Haven Community Vision Process webpage.

5. What happens when this process is over? How can we make sure something gets done?: The results of the neighborhood outreach will be documented in a Community Vision and Action Plan that will guide future work by the neighborhood and City. Since there is no dedicated City or consultant support for this project after July, it will be up to Belle Haven leaders, community organizations and residents to keep the momentum going.
For that reason, the goals of the visioning process include developing a structure and framework for future community work with the City as well as a list of prioritized actions for the community to follow up on and resources to support that work.

6. What does the City’s Community Services Department do?: The Community Services Department is responsible for providing recreational and cultural programs for children, adults, and seniors. It manages facilities including parks, community centers, swimming pools, child care centers, and gymnasiums. The Department also offers a variety of classes and organizes community events.
In Belle Haven, the Community Services Department oversees Kelly Park, the pool, senior center, library, Onetta Harris Community Center, and the Child Development Center and is a partner at the Community School. Many programs and services at these facilities are supported by the Community Services Department.

7. How is the Community Services department funded?: Services are funded by a combination of tax dollars and fees paid by residents who use services. Specific funding sources vary by the type of service or facility, the amount of fees charged, and the availability of other funding sources (such as Foundation grants).
City services like Police and Public Works are all funded by Menlo Park’s share of tax dollars, including sales and property taxes and other revenue sources. Community Services, like recreation programs, the Menlo Children’s Center (including the after-school program), the pool and other activities on the Burgess Campus are largely funded by the fees participants in these programs pay. Community Services in Belle Haven, like the Onetta Harris Community Center, the senior center, the after-school program and the Child Development Center are more reliant on tax funds since user fees are typically lower in Belle Haven.

8. Why have some services and programs been eliminated in recent years?: Prior to 2012, Community Service funds were allocated from both the General Fund and RDA budget, but since the RDA was dissolved, over $3 million in services per year has been eliminated from the budget, including the City’s Housing Division which was eliminated in order to preserve Police services, such as the Narcotics Enforcement Team. Tight City budgets in recent years have forced other cutbacks, including the elimination of the Belle Haven Summer School, periodic closures of the Main Library, elimination of business development and other positions as well as over $3 million in other expenses, citywide. The City makes these decisions with resident input, typically at City Council meetings.

9. Does Belle Haven receive the same level of services as other Menlo Park neighborhoods?: The Community Services Department strives to provide services throughout Menlo Park that best meet local needs, desires and funding opportunities. Belle Haven has historically received a higher allocation of funds per resident when compared to the rest of Menlo Park. For example, in 2010, the City allocated $1,666 per resident to services in the Belle Haven neighborhood, while other areas of the City received $1,176 per resident. The higher-than-average allocation was based on greater demand for services in the Belle Haven neighborhood and community-wide support for allocation of resources to the neighborhood.

10. How can we make our voices heard at the City?: In addition to participating in focused outreach efforts like the Belle Haven Community Vision or the Housing Element Update (@Home in
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Menlo Park), you can attend meetings of and provide comments to the City Council and many City Advisory Committees, including the Parks and Recreation Commission and Planning Commission. City Council meetings are also streamed online so you can watch from home. All meetings are open to the public. Meeting agendas and materials are available on the City’s website or by calling 650-330-6610. The City also relies on Open City Hall, an online engagement forum. You can view meeting agendas online.

11. Why do Belle Haven students go to different schools than the rest of Menlo Park?

When Menlo Park originally became a City in the late 1920’s, the eastern part of the community was still referred to by its original name of Ravenswood, which dates back to the early 1800’s. Two school districts formed separately to address the needs of families in these two areas all the way back into the early 1900’s.

Several schools draw students from the Belle Haven neighborhood, such as Belle Haven and Willow Oaks Elementary Schools. These schools are part of the Ravenswood School District, while other Menlo Park neighborhoods are part of the Menlo Park City School District. Students from the whole city come together to attend high school at Menlo-Atherton High School beginning in 9th grade.

The Tinsley court-ordered desegregation program allows students of color living in the Ravenswood City School District attendance area who will be entering kindergarten, first or second grade in the following school year to apply for transfers to the following seven districts: Belmont-Redwood Shores, Las Lomitas, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Portola Valley, San Carlos and Woodside. Non-minority students in those seven districts and Redwood City may apply for transfers to Ravenswood.

12. What is the City doing to support quality education for students who live in Belle Haven?: In 2005 the Belle Haven neighbors voiced their desire for the City of Menlo Park to increase its role in improving education, primarily at the local public school, Belle Haven Elementary. A year later, with a significant investment and backing from the Silicon Valley Community Foundation and the Bohannon Family Foundation, the City of Menlo Park and the Ravenswood City School District entered into a formal partnership to convert Belle Haven Elementary into a “full service” community school that places a strong emphasis on improving student academic achievement coupled with addressing the social / emotional needs of students and their families.
Coordination of the “full service” school approach is led by the City through the Community School Director, who works side-by-side with the school principal. The Community School Director is tasked with addressing the barriers to learning, providing access to vital services and forging strategic partnerships so that the principal can focus on student achievement, teacher performance, increasing test scores and improving the school climate.

13. What’s being done about recent crime in the neighborhood?: In response to violent incidents in late 2012, the City of Menlo Park hosted a series of meetings to address the problem with Belle Haven residents in an effort to prevent future incidents and to address community concerns. In addition to these community dialogues with City officials and the police department, a Gang Awareness workshop was held at Belle Haven School in November 2012. Police Chief Robert Jonsen will continue to meet with Belle Haven residents to explore ways to improve public safety. Existing programs and resources include the Blackboard emergency notification program, Five Minute Stops, Nextdoor, and Neighborhood Watch groups.

14. How can we work with Facebook and other developers coming to the neighborhood?: Given the amount of change that is planned for the neighborhood in the near future, residents should consider engaging in the Belle Haven Community Vision process to define what, as a community, is most important to them. Residents can also begin to work together to form neighborhood structures, like block groups or associations, that can work with Facebook and other developers on issues of mutual interest. City staff have contact information for all major business owners and developers in the area and are happy to help convene meetings with neighborhood groups that have defined a common interest.

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Building in the Flood Zone

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1. I’m adding on to my house which is in the flood zone. What rules do I have to follow?

First, decide whether the project is a “Substantial Improvement” under FEMA regulations (see question 2, below).

If the addition is a FEMA substantial improvement, then the project must comply with FEMA regulations for building in the flood plain and with the City’s Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. In short, these requirements include:

a. Elevating the building above the BFE (requirements will vary on type of project - refer to question 6.)
b. Anchoring the building to prevent flotation and lateral movement
c. Using materials below BFE that are resistant to flood damage
d. Using construction methods that minimize flood damage
e. Placing utilities above the BFE (HVAC system, electrical and communication wiring, etc)
f. Wet-flood-proofing parts the building that are below BFE

2. What is a Substantial Improvement?: A “substantial improvement” is any addition or home improvement project that costs more than half the value of the existing house. See the City’s guidance on how to value the existing house and the improvement project. You may also use the City’s worksheet or call the Engineering Division at 650-330-6740.
If the improvement is being made to a commercial building, the City has a separate worksheet. Call the Engineering Division at 650-330-6740.

3. What is a Base Flood?: This is a flood having a 1% chance of occurring or being exceeded in any given year (previously referred to as the 100 year flood).

4. What is the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)?: The Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is how high the water will go, in feet above sea level, when a 1% flood occurs. BFEs are shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for flood zones AE.

5. If I want to build a new house or substantial improvement in the flood zone, can the crawl space floor be below the BFE?: Yes, City Code allows the crawl space to be below BFE if
a. The building is wet-flood-proofed
b. The crawl space height does not exceed four feet
c. The crawl space floor is no greater than two feet below the lowest adjacent grade

6. What does wet-flood-proofed mean?: a. Finished Floor is 12" above BFE for residential projects and at or above BFE for non-residntial projects
b. Flood vents are installed so that flood water can flow freely into and out of the crawlspace
c. All parts of the building below BFE are built with flood resistant materials
d. All utilities are installed 12" above the BFE for residential projects and at or above BFE for non-residential
e. The building is anchored to prevent flotation and lateral movement
f. The design complies with the City’s Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance (Menlo Park Municipal Code 12.42) and FEMA technical bulletins.

7. What are flood resistant materials?: a. Concrete
b. Pressure treated Douglas fir
c. Redwood
d. Other wood with a minimum dimension of four inches or larger (such as girders).

8. If I want to build a new house or substantial improvement in the flood zone, can the crawl space floor be below the lowest adjacent grade of the soil surrounding the building?: Yes, as long as these other requirements are also met:
a. The crawl space floor is no greater than two feet below the lowest adjacent grade
b. The crawlspace height does not exceed four feet
c. The building is wet-flood-proofed

9. For a new accessory building, can the floor be below BFE?: Yes, as long as these other requirements are met:
a. The building is used only for storage or parking
b. The building is wet-flood-proofed
c. The building doesn’t make flooding worse on someone else’s property
d. The building design complies with the City’s Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance (Menlo Park Municipal Code 12.42.51 (3) (E)) and FEMA technical bulletin 7-93.

10. If I want to make a substantial improvement to my house in the flood zone, do I have to raise the house if the bottom of my floor joists are below BFE?: Yes. Keep in mind that a house built in compliance with FEMA regulations may be safer for you and your family if you get trapped inside during a flood. The house and its contents may also be less likely to suffer damage in a flood.
Raising your house may reduce the cost of your flood insurance. Ask your insurance agent how much you will save. Multiply the yearly savings by the years you plan to spend in the house. Compare that expense to the cost of raising the house.

11. Is it possible for a property owner to avoid triggering the City’s Substantial Improvement Ordinance requirements by phasing their improvements?

No, a property owner may not construct improvements to their single family house in phases with the intention of avoiding compliance with FEMA requirements.

The City encourages all building projects in the flood zone, even those that are not FEMA substantial improvements, to comply with FEMA regulations and City ordinance. Structures in compliance with FEMA regulations keep people safer, improve the City’s emergency preparedness and disaster resilience.

All projects completed less that 36 months prior to an application for a building permit are counted toward the cost of the improvement project when deciding whether it is a substantial improvement. If 36 months have elapsed between the issuance of the ‘certificate of occupancy’ for a prior project and the date of application for a new project, then only the new project is counted when determining whether it is a substantial improvement.

12. Can the floor of a garage which is attached to the main house be constructed below the base flood elevation?: Yes, the slab of the garage floor can be below BFE if the garage is wet-flood-proofed.
However, if the garage slab is below BFE then the lowest adjacent grade (driveway approach) will also be below BFE. This will make it impossible to reduce the cost of flood insurance by removing the home from the flood zone through the LOMA process.

13. When determining whether a project is a FEMA substantial improvement do I add the value of improvement projects to my house and my detached garage?: No, treat each structure separately when deciding whether the improvements to that structure are a FEMA substantial improvement.

14. When determining whether a project is a FEMA substantial improvement how do decide the house value if part was built pre-FIRM and part was built post-FIRM?: Calculate the value of the portion of the house that is pre-FIRM using an appropriate depreciation factor for the year when it was built. Calculate the value of the portion that is post-FIRM using a different depreciation factor for the year it was built. Add the two together.

15. Where is the City’s Flood Management Protection Ordinance online?: Visit the City’s website and view Municipal Code section:
"12.42.51 Standards of Construction."

16. Who do I call if these FAQs don’t answer my questions?: Call the Engineering Division at 650-330-6740.

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City-Owned Trees

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1. Does the City of Menlo Park have a regular tree maintenance schedule?: The City of Menlo Park maintains approximately 27,000 park and street trees. Due to the large number of trees maintained by the City, the emergency and most critical cases are scheduled first. Normally, street trees are pruned on a 5 year rotating schedule.

2. Can I remove the street tree in front of my house?: No, only the City can remove street trees. Only trees that are dead, diseased or have serious structural problems are approved for removal.

3. If there is a City tree that appears unhealthy or needs pruning, where do I call?: Call the Maintenance Division at 650-330-6780 and request a work order. City staff will inspect the tree and determine what needs to be done.

4. Does the City replace street trees that are removed?: Yes, the tree will be replaced by the City. If you would like to see a list of replacement species, please contact the Maintenance Division at 650-330-6780.

5. If the City is replacing a City tree who is responsible for watering the tree?: The homeowner is responsible for watering the tree and will receive instructions when the tree is planted.

6. The tree in front of my house was removed, but the stump is still there. When is the City going to remove it?: Due to the underground utility lines, the City has to notify Underground Service Alert before grinding the stump. They will then mark the stump to identify utilities in the area around it.

7. Could I request a tree to be planted in front of my house?: City Staff will need to visit and review the sidewalks easement and right of way in order to determine whether a tree can be planted. Please call the Maintenance Division at 650-330-6780.

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ConnectMenlo M-2 Land Use Alternatives

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1. Why are the land use changes focused in the M-2 Area?: The City Council established the M-2 Area as the focus of the ConnectMenlo General Plan Update because it is the area of the city undergoing the most amount of change. Old industrial uses are no longer as popular and the demand for new land uses in this area is high. Land use changes in the residential neighborhoods of Menlo Park are not proposed.

2. How did the alternatives showing land use options for potential future development get decided?: Alternative One represents development under the current 1994 General Plan Land Use Element in the M-2 Area, with no proposed change.

Alternative Two was developed through the ConnectMenlo outreach process: community members and property owners have shared their ideas about improvements and land uses in the M-2 Area. The ConnectMenlo Planning Team sited the recommended/ desired land uses on specific parcels within the M-2 Area. The placement of land uses was based on proposed multi-modal improvements so that the new uses will be more accessible by train, foot, or bike. Transportation and mobility issues were considered and helped determine the location of particular land uses.

Alternative Three was developed from input at the community workshop on December 18, 2014. Four small groups of community members drew their own alternatives; the Connect-Menlo Planning Team took the commonalities of those four alternatives and created Alternative Three.

3. How will these land use alternatives for potential future development fit into the ConnectMenlo process?: During January, community members will review and rank the three alternatives, and provide written comments on what they like and what they dislike through an online survey (a paper survey will also be available). At the end of the survey period, the ConnectMenlo Planning Team will assess the results and possibly modify Alternatives Two and Three and/or create a new Alternative based on community comments. The survey results and revised alternatives will be presented to the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) and later to the City Council/Planning Commission at a joint study session tentatively scheduled in January and February, respectively. They will review the findings and suggest how to proceed with a “Preferred Alternative” for future development. Then the ConnectMenlo Planning Team will create a Preferred Alternative and present it to the community in March. For specific meeting dates, times, and locations, please visit the ConnectMenlo website.

4. What about improvements that are not land uses, like roadway improvements, bike/pedestrian connections, and transit? How will they be addressed?: The ConnectMenlo process is looking at citywide circulation improvements and will include goals, policies and programs to address multi-modal improvements (i.e. pedestrian/bike facilities, transit, service, parking programs, and roadway congestion). The land use Alternatives for the M-2 Area have taken the city’s existing conditions into consideration and have proposed land use locations close to potential circulation improvements. As the process continues, these programs will be developed. Drafts will be presented to the community, GPAC, Planning Commission and City Council, and then they will be finalized in the General Plan Update, anticipated to be reviewed by the City Council in June 2016.

5. What is the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC)?: The role of the GPAC is to help guide the ConnectMenlo process and serve as ambassadors to the community and communicate information about ConnectMenlo to other Menlo Park community members. The Committee is comprised of 15 members appointed by the City Council: Two City Council members; three Menlo Park community members; one member from each of the following six City Commissions: Bicycle, Environmental Quality, Housing, Parks and Recreation, Planning, and Transportation. For more information and to contact individual GPAC members, please visit the GPAC webpage.

6. What is the ConnectMenlo Planning Team?: The ConnectMenlo Planning Team is comprised of City staff and a group of consultants selected by the City Council to help update the General Plan Land Use and Circulation Elements and zoning regulations for the M-2 Area. The City departments that are most closely involved include the Community Development Department, Public Works Department, and the Office of Economic Development. The consultant firms include PlaceWorks, (planning, urban design and environmental review), Bay Area Economics (BAE, economics), Nelson\Nygaard and TJKM (transportation), Frederic Knapp Architects (historic resources), and Peninsula Conflict Resolution Center (PCRC, community engagement and facilitation).

7. How can I stay involved in the ConnectMenlo process?: Please visit the ConnectMenlo project page for information about upcoming events and posting of materials and information, including handouts and presentations, from previous events and meetings. You can also subscribe to email updates for when new information becomes available. Visit the ConnectMenlo website.

8. What is a Guiding Principles and how do the Guiding Principles relate to ConnectMenlo?: A Guiding Principles describes the kind of place that community members want Menlo Park to be. City representatives and community members developed them in a collaborative public process for consideration in guiding growth and preserving the city's unique features over the next 20 years. Future change in Menlo Park will involve a careful balance of benefits and impacts, as charted in the General Plan goals, policies, and programs. While growth is planned to occur generally between US 101 and the Bay, these aspirational Principles have community-wide application, including protecting the character of residential neighborhoods and expanding transportation options.

9. What are the Guiding Principles for ConnectMenlo?: The following Guiding Principles were accepted by the City Council on December 16, 2014.

Citywide Equity
Menlo Park neighborhoods are protected from unreasonable development and unreasonable cut-through traffic, share the benefits and impacts of local growth, and enjoy equal access to quality services, education, public open space, housing that complements local job opportunities with affordability that limits displacement of current residents, and convenient daily shopping such as grocery stores and pharmacies.

Healthy Community
Everyone in Menlo Park enjoys healthy living spaces, high quality of life, and can safely walk or bike to fresh food, medical services, employment, recreational facilities, and other daily destinations; land owners and occupants take pride in the appearance of property; Menlo Park achieves code compliance and prioritizes improvements that promote safety and healthy living; and the entire city is well-served by emergency services and community policing.

Competitive and Innovative Business Destination
Menlo Park embraces emerging technologies, local intelligence, and entrepreneurship, and welcomes reasonable development without excessive traffic congestion that will grow and attract successful companies and innovators that generate local economic activity and tax revenue for the entire community.

Corporate Contribution
In exchange for added development potential, construction projects provide physical benefits in the adjacent neighborhood (such as Belle Haven for growth north of US 101), including jobs, housing, schools, libraries, neighborhood retail, childcare, public open space, high speed internet access, and transportation choices.

Youth Support and Education Excellence
Menlo Park children and young adults have equal access to excellent childcare, education, meaningful employment opportunities, and useful training, including internship opportunities at local companies.

Great Transportation Options
Menlo Park provides thoroughly-connected, safe and convenient transportation, adequate emergency vehicle access, and multiple options for people traveling by foot, bicycle, shuttle, bus, car, and train, including daily service along the Dumbarton Rail Corridor.

Complete Neighborhoods and Commercial Corridors
Menlo Park neighborhoods are complete communities, featuring well integrated and designed development along vibrant commercial corridors with a live-work-play mix of community-focused businesses that conveniently serve adjacent neighborhoods while respecting their residential character.

Accessible Open Space and Recreation
Menlo Park provides safe and convenient access to an ample amount of local and regional parks and a range of public open space types, recreational facilities, trails, and enhancements to wetlands and the Bay.

Sustainable Environmental Planning
Menlo Park is a leader in efforts to address climate change, adapt to sea-level rise, protect natural and built resources, conserve energy, manage water, utilize renewable energy, and promote green building.

10. How has my input been incorporated into the M-2 land use alternatives?: As part of the ConnectMenlo process, there have been a number of opportunities, including workshops, open houses, and focus groups, for public participation and input. Using the information we heard from community members and property owners, the ConnectMenlo team developed Alternative 2. Alternative 1 represents no change in land uses above what is allowed by the existing General Plan conditions.

At the December 18, 2014 workshop, attendees were asked to participate in a small group exercise to create a potential new land use alternative. Four groups were formed, and each group created a map representing their collective ideas. The workshop summary and small group exercise maps are available here. From the community workshop ideas, a third land use alternative map was developed. For practical reasons, not every idea we've heard can be displayed. Some of the ideas were in conflict with each other while others were potentially infeasible within the 25-year plan life. For these reasons, Alternative 3 incorporates the ideas where there was the greatest consensus and most potential for sound land use planning.

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Discover & Go

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1. Who pays for Discover & Go?: Our participation in Discover and Go is being generously funded by the Friends of the Menlo Park Library.

2. How does Discover & Go work?: In order to make a reservation, you must have a valid Menlo Park Library card and be age 16 or older.
You can cancel a reservation only if you have not already printed the admission pass.
The pass is for use only by the person named and only on the date specified.
You can have up to 2 reservations at a time.
No photocopies are allowed. Valid ID is required.

3. What museums are available for reservation as part of Discover & Go?: You can see which museums and cultural destinations are available by logging in an clicking on "Venues" at the Discover & Go website.

4. Are you limited to a certain number of museum pass reservations for the year?: Most venues do not have an annual limit per library card number; however, some venues have placed a restriction on the number of times you can use a pass. You can find details by logging in and clicking on "Venues" at the Discover & Go website.

5. Can I cancel an active Discover & Go reservation?: Once a pass has been printed your reservation cannot be cancelled. But if you haven't printed it yet, you can cancel an unprinted pass by logging in and clicking on "Cancel Pass" at the Discover & Go website.

6. How can I learn more?: Watch the detailed Discover & Go video.

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District elections

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1. What qualifications are needed to run for a district council seat?: A candidate must be a registered voter of the City of Menlo Park and must reside in the district they are running for at the time nomination papers are issued to the candidate. (Government Code § 34882.)

2. After a councilmember is elected to a district seat, may the councilmember move out of the district?: If the councilmember moves out of the district, they must vacate their City Council seat. (Government Code § 34882.)

3. If the City transitions to an elected mayor, may existing councilmembers run for mayor?: Councilmembers whose terms are up in 2020 (Mueller and Carlton) may run for mayor in 2018 without giving up their City Council seats. Councilmembers who are up for re-election in 2018 must choose to run either for a City Council district seat or mayoral seat.

4. If Councilmembers Mueller and Carlton choose to run for mayor and do not win, do they retain their existing City Council seats?: Yes, assuming they do not choose to vacate their seats while campaigning for mayor.

5. If a seated councilmember whose seat is not up until 2020 runs for mayor in 2018 and wins, how is the vacant City Council seat filled?: A special election will be conducted to fill the vacancy. (Municipal Code § 2.04.190.)

6. May candidates simultaneously run for a district council and mayoral seat?: No, candidates may not simultaneously run for incompatible offices. (Elections Code § 10220.5.)

7. Why is the City considering changing the election process?: On August 21, 2017, the City received a letter from Attorney Kevin Shenkman demanding that the City Council elections transition from the current “at-large” method to by-district” in order to conform to the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA). Mr. Shenkman alleges that the City of Menlo Park is in violation of the California Voting Rights Act of 2001 and that “racially polarized voting” occurs in the city.

The City Council is taking advantage of AB 350, California Elections Code 10010, which provides for a short window on opportunity to discuss, invite and receive public input and ultimately decide if the City should adopt a district based elections process.

The key provisions of AB 350 affords the City an additional 90 days to comply before a lawsuit can be filed as it is safe harbored from litigation throughout the public hearing and ordinance process.

8. What are the Federal and California Voting Rights Acts?

The Federal Voting Rights Act (FVRA) was adopted in 1965 and is intended to protect the rights of all citizens to participate in the voting process. The CVRA was passed in the California State Legislature in 2001, based on the Legislature’s belief that minorities and other members of protected classes were being denied the opportunity to have representation of their choosing at the local level because of a number of issues associated with at-large elections. Upon a finding of a violation of the CVRA, the act requires that “the court shall implement appropriate remedies, including the imposition of district-based elections that are tailored to remedy the violation.” As such, the default remedy and the clearly identified remedy by the Legislature is district-based elections.

Read more about the FVRA, the CVRA and CVRA Safe Harbor information.

9. Have other cities encountered this? What did they do?: Dozens of cities, school districts and other local agencies in California have faced similar challenges in recent years.

Other cities have voluntarily or been forced to adopt changes to their method of electing City Council members. While some cities have settled claims out of court by agreeing to shift to district elections, others have defended at-large elections through the court system and have incurred significant legal costs because the CVRA gives plaintiffs the right to recover attorney fees.

10. Why haven’t cities prevailed in challenging these allegations?: The threshold to establish liability under the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) is considered low. The Federal Voting Rights Act requires four conditions to be met to prove a city is not in compliance. The CVRA only has two condition requirements.

11. What are by-district elections?: A by-district election process means voters within a designated City Council electoral district elect one City Council member who must also reside in and be a registered voter of that district.

12. What are the pros and cons of by-district elections?

Pros

Each geographic area of the city is represented
Viewpoints that might not be citywide can be represented
Minority candidates (racial or political) have a better opportunity to be elected
It will likely cost less to run for City Council since citywide campaigning is not required
Each voter has a specific City Council member to contact for assistance
Voter’s choice is simplified with less candidates to learn about

Cons

City Council members may represent only the interests of their districts, not the whole city
Candidates may be elected with few votes
City Council members may have divergent views, may conflict with each other
District lines have to be reviewed and possibly redrawn after each census and significant annexation
Best-qualified candidates may be concentrated in one district
Depending on staggered terms, not all voters may be voting each election, reducing overall turnout

13. What is the City’s current City Council election process?: The City of Menlo Park currently elects City Council members through an at-large election process, which means that each voter elects all members of the City Council.

14. What criteria are used to create City Council electoral districts?

Many factors may be considered, but population equality is the most important. Other factors include:

Communities of interest
Be compact
Be contiguous
Have visible (natural and man-made) boundaries
Include respect for past voter selections
Plan for future growth

15. What are communities of interest?

A community of interest is a neighborhood or community that would benefit from being in the same district because of shared interest, view or characteristics. Possible community features or boundary definitions include:

School attendance areas
Natural neighborhood dividing lines such as roads, hills or highways
Areas around parks and other landmarks
City borders
Common issues, neighborhood activities or legislative/election concerns
Shared demographic characteristics, such as:
Similar levels of income, education or linguistic isolation;
Ancestry (not race or ethnicity)
Languages spoken at home
Percentage of immigrants
Single-family and multifamily housing units

16. How can I participate?: Residents in Menlo Park can attend public hearings and community meetings to learn about next steps in determining the process.

If you are unable to attend the public meetings, the City of Menlo Park is pleased to provide you with live and archived public meetings online at menlopark.org/streaming. City Council meetings are also broadcast live on government access Channel 26.

The City’s district elections project website will be updated as new information becomes available.

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Downtown Parking

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1. What are the potential changes to the downtown parking program?: 1. Downtown public off-street Parking Plazas free parking time limits will extend from 2 hours to 3 hours. Plaza 4 will remain 2 hours.
2. Downtown 1 hour on-street parking spaces free parking time limits will extend to 90 minutes.

2. Where will these downtown parking program changes take effect?: See the Menlo Park Downtown Parking map for Plaza and on-street time limits.

3. When will these downtown parking program changes take effect?: The changes will be implemented as part of a 6-month pilot program that begins on January 4, 2016.

4. Why are these changes being recommended?: The City has received repeated remarks from Downtown patrons that their stays in Downtown typically exceed the current time limit restrictions. In response to these remarks, the City is implementing this 6-month pilot program in hopes of alleviating these issues.

5. Will there be any adjustments to the current pay parking option in parking plazas 1 and 5?: Downtown patrons will be offered 3 hours of free parking instead of 2. The current pay parking option and rate will remain unchanged after the free time limit.

6. Will there be any adjustments to the number of parking spaces?: No, the existing number of parking spaces will remain.

7. Will there be any adjustments to the parking enforcement periods?: No, the parking enforcement period will remain unchanged. Current enforcement periods are Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

8. Will there be any adjustments to the temporary one-day or annual parking permits?: No, the current temporary one-day and annual parking permit program policies and procedures will remain unchanged for the upcoming year (2016). However, due to high continuous yearly demand, the current annual permit program will be evaluated in the upcoming year. Findings will be shared at a future Council meeting before any permanent changes are made. If you’d like to participate or provide feedback as part of this evaluation, please contact us at transportation@menlopark.org.

9. How would my parking experience be impacted by these changes?: Longer parking time limits are expected to generate more parking demand, as well as re-distribution of the existing parking demand. As part of the pilot program, studies will be conducted to evaluate whether parking spaces remain available for customers during the 6-month pilot program. Results will be shared at a future City Council meeting before any permanent changes are made. If you’d like to provide feedback as part of this evaluation, please contact us at transportation@menlopark.org.

10. Who should I contact for any concerns and/or questions?: Please contact the Transportation Division directly.

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El Camino Real / Downtown Specific Plan

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1. What is a Specific Plan, anyway?: A specific plan is a comprehensive, action-oriented set of rules for a specific geographic area. For Menlo Park, the El Camino Real / Downtown Specific Plan sets the direction for the heart of the city over the coming decades. It builds on the successful 2007-2008 Vision Plan process, which established twelve key goals. The Specific Plan defines what our community desires for its future by regulating land use and defining other aspects of possible future public and private development.

2. Why do we need a Specific Plan? Aren't things fine as they are?: By having a specific plan, we as a community can control our future based on positive changes the community would like to see. Many of the previous zoning rules were several decades old, and didn't necessarily reflect community values or modern opportunities and challenges. The plan addresses long-standing concerns people have with the El Camino corridor - parking, blight, pedestrian access, traffic, and vacancies. It also addresses concerns people have with downtown - parking, pedestrian access, inviting community spaces, and increased vibrancy. At the same time, the plan maintains and enhances what we value most about these areas.

We want our future choices to include information about impacts (both positive and negative) so we can make informed decisions about the area as a whole, not as individual projects are proposed and we want to ensure public investment successfully leverages private investment and results in improved prosperity for the community overall. A specific plan helps achieve these important goals.

3. How has the community been involved in the process?

The plan included extensive opportunities for input in various formats including:

An email list of over 1,000 people who get regular updates
Booths at all the Downtown Block Parties
Eight citywide mail-outs to all residents and businesses in Menlo Park
Extensive sets of Planning Commission and City Council meetings
One-on-one interviews with downtown business owners and other important stakeholders
Regular Chamber of Commerce outreach
Seven workshops
Two community-wide surveys responded to by over 2,000 people
Two walking tours
And more!

The process has used detailed information to help people weigh alternatives and engage in dialogue with one another around the various choices.

4. How will development occur now that the Specific Plan has been approved?: The Specific Plan establishes regulations and guidelines for development in the overall area, but does not include detailed development plans. Individual property owners will still need to propose specific development, which is subject to appropriate review processes, in particular detailed Architectural Control review, which includes additional environmental review (such as traffic studies) as needed.

5. How does the Plan support the Farmer's Market and other important community activities?: One important goal from the Vision step was to increase vibrancy - the number of people enjoying the downtown shops and eateries. The plan includes new public spaces for festivals and gatherings, including an enhanced, park-like space for the Farmers Market. These elements are based on extensive community input about the importance of preserving Menlo Park's special public attractions.

6. Why does the Plan include both El Camino Real and downtown?: From the very first project mailing (October 2007), the process has included both the El Camino Real corridor and downtown district, in recognition of the fact that these zones intersect at the Caltrain station area (which is not the case for all Peninsula towns - for example, Palo Alto and Los Altos' downtowns are not located directly adjacent to their El Camino Real segments).

Because of this proximity, the long-term vision for each area needs to consider the other, such as by El Camino Real providing uses that support but don't directly compete with downtown's retail core. As the iterative workshop-based process has unfolded, the community has had the opportunity to tailor the plans for downtown, El Camino Real, and the station area in detail.

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El Camino Real Corridor Study

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1. What is the El Camino Real Corridor Study?: The City of Menlo Park’s El Camino Real Corridor Study will review and recommend potential transportation and safety improvements to El Camino Real, making it safer and more efficient to move along and across El Camino for all modes of travel: pedestrians, bicycles, automobiles, and transit. The purpose of this study is to identify potential reconfiguration alternatives, and evaluate the feasibility and potential impacts (adverse and beneficial) of up to three of these alternatives to improve multi-modal transportation along the corridor. This study will consider possible modifications to allow for the addition of a bicycle lane or an additional through lane, for a total of three lanes in each direction between Sand Hill Road and Encinal Avenue. Impacts to traffic, active transportation, safety, parking and aesthetics will be addressed as part of the evaluation. In summary, within the limited right-of-way available, this study will assess safety, efficiency and convenience trade-offs between motorists and bicyclists on El Camino Real between Sand Hill Road and Encinal Avenue.

2. Why is the study being done?

In short, El Camino Real as it currently exists does not adequately serve the Menlo Park community’s need for safe and efficient multi-modal transportation and access to local destinations. This study will closely study existing conditions, evaluate alternatives, and recommend a solution. Community input will be sought and incorporated throughout the process.

El Camino Real is a key roadway connecting cities throughout the Peninsula, and it provides a key transportation route through downtown Menlo Park. El Camino Real serves many local businesses fronting and adjacent to the street, and is one of few north-south thoroughfares in the City, providing connections for residents to jobs and services in Palo Alto, Mountain View, Los Altos, Atherton, Redwood City, and beyond.

El Camino Real also divides the City, with the downtown business district on the west side and the Civic Center, recreation facilities and library on the east side, and the Menlo Park City School District schools straddling both sides. This orientation requires frequent crossings by Menlo Park residents on a daily basis, and represents a challenging situation for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists making short trips to local destinations.

The El Camino Real corridor and Downtown Menlo Park were recently re-envisioned through the City’s El Camino Real/Downtown Specific Plan (Specific Plan), adopted by the Menlo Park City Council in June 2012. The Specific Plan provides the framework for redevelopment of many underutilized parcels in the Plan Area, and encourages transit-oriented, mixed-use and infill development. Menlo Park also adopted a “Complete Streets” Policy in January 2013 to improve its commitment to a comprehensive, integrated transportation network that allows safe and convenient travel along and across streets for all users – including pedestrians, bicyclists, persons with disabilities, motorists, movers of commercial goods, users and operators of public transportation, seniors, children, youth, and families, emergency vehicles, and freight.

3. What issues have already been identified?: As the Specific Plan Area has begun to redevelop, the community, the Bicycle, Transportation and Planning Commissions, and City Council have raised concerns about the functionality of El Camino Real to serve multi-modal transportation users safely and efficiently. Key issues raised have included:

1. Occurrence of congested conditions and delay to motorists, transit vehicles, and emergency vehicles during peak commute hours;
2. Occurrence of a bottleneck for vehicular traffic in the northbound direction, where El Camino Real, Sand Hill Road, and Alma Street (six total lanes) feed traffic to El Camino Real, which drops from three to two lanes at Ravenswood Avenue-Menlo Avenue;
3. Ability to serve local traffic and connect local businesses, including provision of on-street parking;
4. Safety of motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians traveling along and across El Camino Real;
5. Barriers to vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians attempting to cross El Camino Real;
6. Prevalence of motorists making U-turns at Cambridge Avenue;
7. Comfort of bicyclists traveling on El Camino Real, and bicyclists’ need to access local destinations in the corridor; and
8. Designation of El Camino Real as a Class II bike lane/minimum Class III bike route facility in the Specific Plan.

4. How long will the process take?: The corridor planning process is anticipated to conclude in June 2015. Actual construction of roadway improvements would follow based on funding availability and other factors.

5. How can I get involved?: We are identifying improvements to El Camino Real in order to make it safer and more efficient for the Menlo Park community, so we want your input! The Corridor Study planning process includes many opportunities and ways to participate, such as public workshops; Bicycle, Transportation, and Planning Commission meetings; City Council meetings; a web survey; and more.

Please watch for details on upcoming events. You can also contact us directly with your thoughts and sign up for email updates on the project. We look forward to hearing your ideas on how to improve El Camino Real.

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Elections

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1. Who may register to vote?: You may register to vote if you are:
- A US citizen
- A resident of California
- At least 18 years of age on or before the next election
- Not in prison or on parole for a felony conviction
- Not declared mentally incompetent by court action

2. Which district am I in?: Use the Interactive District Map.

3. How do I register to vote?: By filling out a Voter Registration Form available at all Post Offices, city halls, most public libraries, Department of Motor Vehicles and most governmental agencies. You can fill out a registration form online at the
Secretary of State's website.

4. How can I find out if I am registered to vote?: You may call 650-312-5222 or check for yourself online at the
San Mateo County Elections Division website.

5. Where do I go to vote?: It's important to double-check the location because polling place locations change from time to time. You may lookup your polling place online at the
Smart Voter website.

6. What if I have more questions?: You can find answers to many election related questions on the
San Mateo County Elections Division website.

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eMagazines

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1. How do I use the library’s Zinio service?: Refer to the library's web site for instructions on how to get started.

2. Flash Player doesn't work on my iPad/iPhone. How do I view magazines?: Install the free Zinio app from the Apple App Store. The app is only for viewing magazines. You must return to the library's eMagazine collection page to check out more issues.

3. How do I return a magazine?: At the top right of your screen, click My Collection (if using a browser) or tap Edit (if using the Zinio for Libraries app). Magazines you have checked out will be displayed. Click the trash can icon or tap the X below each issue you want to remove.

4. How do I add additional magazines from the library's collection to my Zinio account?: If you were recently at the library's eMagazine collection page, it may still be open in another browser tab or window. If not, click the link above to open that page. If using the Zinio for Libraries app, tap Checkout Magazines.

5. How do I know when a new magazine issue is available?: Go to the library's eMagazine collection page and log in. At the top right next to your name, click the dropdown menu box and choose My Preferences. Click the + sign next to a title, and you will be notified when a new issue is available. Click Update when finished.

6. I am receiving emails from Zinio with special promotions and offers. How do I stop receiving these emails?

There are three ways to do this:
1. When you first create a user account on Zinio.com, you are asked to set up email permissions as part of that process. If you leave all of the ‘boxes’ unchecked, you will not receive promotional emails.

2. You may change your email permissions anytime by clicking in the “Account Settings” tab on your Zinio account page, then on the “Email Preferences” link and checking or unchecking the boxes.

3. At the bottom of every email is an “Update Contact Preferences” link that you can use to change your email preferences.

7. What do I do when I get an error message saying 'could not connect to server'?: Log out of Zinio and the library's magazine collection and close your browser. Open a new browser window and go directly to Zinio.com and sign in. Then go to the library's eMagazine collection page and sign in again.

8. I already have a Zinio account. Can I use the same account to access the library's magazine collection?: Yes! However, make sure that you use the same email address and password when registering for access to the library's magazine collection that you use with your Zinio account.

9. Why are some magazines not in the library's magazine collection or in Zinio itself?: The library must subscribe to individual magazines, which have various subscription prices, so not all Zinio magazines are purchased by the library. Additionally, some magazine publishers do not allow Zinio to offer their titles for sale and do not allow libraries to make these available through Zinio.

10. Can I purchase magazines that are not in the library's magazine collection?: Yes. Sign into your Zinio account and click on the Zinio logo in the upper left corner. Choose Shop and select a magazine. You will be asked for financial information. Be sure to check the library's magazine collection before purchasing to see if you have access for free through Menlo Park Library.

11. If I choose to purchase a title the library does not offer, is it added to the library's magazine collection? Does the library make any money off of this?: No. When you purchase a title, it is available to you only for personal use, and it is not added to the library's magazine collection. The library does not make any money off of these private collections.

12. Who can I contact for assistance?: The library's Adult Reference Desk can assist you with most questions, including setting up your account, browsing and selecting magazines, and reading magazines. If you are experiencing technical problems with the library's eMagazine collection page, contact Recorded Books. If you are experiencing problems with your Zinio account, refer to the Zinio help page.

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Flood Insurance

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1. FEMA is asking my insurance agent for documentation regarding my flood zone. Why and how do I respond?: The City’s flood maps were last updated on October 16, 2012. Whenever they are updated, the National Flood Insurance Program must verify the flood zone for each insurance policy prior to its annual renewal date. The cost of the insurance policy is determined by the flood zone where the home is located and the height of the home above a set elevation.
The City’s Floodplain Manager can provide the needed documentation to your insurance agent. Email a copy of the letter you received from the NFIP or FEMA to WJLoy@menlopark.org, or call 650-330-6740.

2. Why do I have to pay flood insurance if my property has never been flooded?

Because your property is included on a map that shows it is at risk of flooding. Homes in flood zones that have been paid for with federally-backed mortgages are required to carry flood insurance

In the early 1970s the City of Menlo Park followed FEMAs procedure to develop a map showing where floods were most likely to occur. The maps were based on historic records of rainfall, tides and volume of water flowing down local creeks. The maps have been updated five times since then and are due to be updated again in 2017.

The National Flood Insurance Program, through your homeowners’ insurance company, uses these maps to decide who needs flood insurance and how much it should cost.

3. How can I reduce the cost of my flood insurance?: If your home is built high enough you can ask FEMA to remove it from the flood zone. Or if your home qualifies, you can get a lower insurance rate by “grandfathering in.”

4. How can I get my property out of the flood zone?: If your house is built high enough you can apply to FEMA for a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA). A licensed surveyor must sign and stamp part of the application. For more information visit www.fema.gov. Search for “apply for LOMA.” FEMA is likely to grant a LOMA if the lowest adjacent ground elevation next to your house is at or above BFE.

5. What is a Base Flood?: This is a flood having a 1% chance of occurring or being exceeded in any given year (formerly referred to as the 100-year flood).

6. What is the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)?: The Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is the height of the water, in feet above sea level that has a 1% chance of occurring or being exceeded in any given year. The BFEs are shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and are used to determine the cost of flood insurance.

7. Does my home qualify for a grandfather flood insurance policy?: If the following conditions are met, a home may qualify for flood insurance based on lower rates:
a. You moved into your home and purchased your flood insurance policy before April 4, 1999
b. Before April 4, 1999 your lot was not in a special flood hazard area. After April 4, 1999 your lot was inside a special flood hazard area.
c. You have carried flood insurance continuously since you first obtained it.

8. What is a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)?

The SFHA is defined as an area of land that would be inundated by a flood having a 1% chance of occurring or being exceeded in any given year (formerly referred to as the 100-year flood). The 1% standard was chosen by FEMA to determine flood risk and flood insurance rates.

There are several categories of SFHA. They include A, AE, AO, A99, V and VE. Each has a different flood insurance cost associated with it.

Homes in SFHAs that have been paid for with federally-backed mortgages are required to carry flood insurance.

9. Will FEMA grant a LOMA for a detached garage if the garage floor is below the BFE but the building is wet-flood proofed?: No. A building will only be removed from the flood zone if the floor and lowest adjacent grade are at or above the BFE.

10. Where can I obtain a copy of the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)?: FIRMs are in digital format on the FEMA website at www.fema.gov. Search for “How to Find Your Flood Map.”

11. Who do I call if I have more questions about flood insurance?: Call your local insurance agent.
Or call the National Flood Insurance Hotline at 1-800-427-4661
Or visit www.fema.gov/nfip.

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Garbage and recycling

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1. How can I find out my waste collection, recycling, and/or organics service day?: Recology of San Mateo County can inform you of your waste collection, recycling, and/or organics service days by calling 650-595-3900 or visit Recology's website.

2. Who can I call for waste collection service changes or questions about my bill?: Recology of San Mateo County can answer billing questions at 650-595-3900.

3. How can I recycle hazardous wastes such as oil, antifreeze, pesticides, computer monitors, sharps, fluorescent tubes, and bulbs?: Residents of San Mateo County can recycle their household hazardous waste with the San Mateo County Environmental Health Household Hazardous Waste program. To set up an appointment, please visit SMHealth's website or call 650-595-3900.

4. How do I recycle organics properly? I am not used to placing food scraps out for recycling.: The organics recycling cart is simply a large compost container. Place your food scraps in the bin with yard trimmings for weekly pick-up. Common household items that can be placed in the bin include coffee grounds, breads, pasta, eggshells, fruit, meat, pizza boxes, and wine corks. For additional information on how to compost, please visit the Recycling, Compost & Garbage Page.

5. Are plastic bags acceptable in organics containers?: Compostable bags certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) are acceptable in the organics program. For detailed information on these bags, please visit the South Bayside Waste Management Authority's website.

6. I am doing construction / remodeling on my property. Do I need to obtain a debris box from Recology?: Debris from construction, demolition, or remodel of a building is not included in the Franchise Agreement between the City of Menlo Park and Recology. This means that any company can be used for construction, demolition, or remodeling projects. If a project requires a deposit because of the Construction and Demolition Ordinance, be certain that recycling tags show Menlo Park as the City of Origin and that recycling requirements are met.

7. What is the proper way to dispose of prescription medication?: Prescription drugs should not be placed in the trash. The City of Menlo Park offers a free, safe, and convenient location for residents to dispose of unwanted or expired medication. A secured drop box is located in the Police lobby at 701 Laurel St. Drop-offs can be made during regular business hours.

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Heritage Trees

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1. Why do I need a permit to remove or prune my own tree?: In 1979 the City enacted regulations to preserve healthy heritage trees whenever possible. The primary goal is to ensure a significant number of large, healthy trees over the long term in Menlo Park. A permit is required to remove or heavily prune trees of heritage size.

2. What is the definition of a heritage tree in Menlo Park?: 1) Any tree having a trunk with a circumference of 47.1 inches (diameter of 15 inches) or more, measured at 54 inches above natural grade.
2) Any oak tree native to California, with a circumference of 31.4 inches (diameter of 10 inches) or more, measured at 54 inches above natural grade.
3) Any tree or group of trees specifically designated by the City Council for protection because of its historical significance, special character or community benefit. (There are none at this time.)

3. How do I measure a tree that has multiple trunks?: Measure at the point where the trunks divide, with the exception of multi-trunk trees that are under 12 feet in height, which are exempt.

4. How much of a heritage tree can I prune without a permit?: Up to one fourth of canopy and/or roots.

5. Where could I get an application to remove or heavily prune a heritage tree?: 1) City Hall/Administration Building (1st floor lobby)
2) City website
3) Call Public Works at 650-330-6740

6. What do I need to submit to the City for a permit application to remove or heavily prune a Heritage tree?: 1) Completed Application Form
2) Payment (check for fee)
3) Completed Certified Arborist Form

7. Is there a fee for the permit?: $135 per tree for first three trees and $90 for each additional heritage tree on the property (applied for at same time). No fee for 100% dead trees.

8. What does this fee cover?: This fee partially covers the cost of processing the permit, including an evaluation of the tree by the City Arborist.

9. Do I need a permit to remove a dead heritage tree?: Yes, but there is no fee and no arborist form is required.

10. Why do I have to have a private certified arborist complete the arborist form?: Arborists verify the type and size of tree and its condition. They can suggest alternatives to removal,
such as pruning, and will provide the owner with an estimate for the tree work.

11. What is required for Heritage Trees related to Development Applications?: Site plans must accompany the permit application, with tree protection measures, and plans for
replacement of removed heritage trees.

12. Could the City Arborist come out and take a look at my tree before I apply for a permit?: No. The arborist will evaluate your tree after the application has been submitted. Exception: if the tree is a street tree, the City takes responsibility for the removal.

13. Can the City recommend a certified arborist?: No, the City cannot recommend an arborist; it is suggested that you refer to the yellow pages. Look
for “ISA Certified” designation. The tree company should also have a business license with the City
before performing any work.

14. How long does it take to get a permit approved?: In most cases it takes approximately 3 weeks. It may take longer if the application is related to a
construction development project.

15. On what basis does the City Arborist approve a permit?: Generally, most trees are approved for removal if they are diseased, hazardous, dead or nearly dead, or interfering with buildings or structures. The ordinance lists the following considerations to be used in determining whether there is good cause for removal or heavy pruning of a heritage tree:
(1) The condition of the tree or trees with respect to disease, danger of falling, proximity to existing or proposed structures and interference with utility services;
(2) The necessity to remove the tree or trees in order to construct proposed improvements to the property;
(3) The topography of the land and the effect of the removal of the tree on erosion, soil retention and diversion or increased flow of surface waters;
(4) The long-term value of the species under consideration, particularly life-span and growth rate;
(5) The ecological value of the tree or group of trees, such as food, nesting, habitat, protection and shade for wildlife or other plant species;
(6) The number, size, species, age distribution and location of existing trees in the area and the effect the removal would have upon shade, privacy impact and scenic beauty;
(7) The number of trees the particular parcel can adequately support according to good arboricultural
practices;
(8) The availability of reasonable and feasible alternatives that would allow for the preservation of the tree(s).

16. What happens after I submit my application?: 1) The City Arborist will review the application and the arborist form, visit the property, and evaluate the tree and related conditions on the property.
2) The Arborist will then either approve a permit or request further review by staff. He will post a notice on or near the tree stating the reasons for permitting removal (or heavy pruning) and the process for inquiries, comments or appeals for up to 15 days after posting.
3) Staff will also mail notices to property owners and residents within 100 feet surrounding the applicant’s property.
4) If the City Arborist approves the permit, and there are no written appeals of his decision, a permit will be mailed to the owner of the property.
5) If the permit is approved, a copy of it must be in possession of the tree company on site during the tree work.
6) If further review of the application and comments are required, staff will strive to issue a decision in a reasonable period of time.

17. How do I find out when my permit has been approved?: You will receive in the mail a copy of your application with the City approval or disapproval indicated at the bottom.

18. Can I appeal the decision?: Any Menlo Park resident or property owner may appeal the permit decision to the Environmental Quality Commission within 15 days after the decision date. There is an appeal fee of $200 per appeal.

19. Do I have to plant a replacement tree?: Yes. For residential properties, one tree must be planted for each tree removed. The City provides a list of recommended trees, but any species that will mature to a height of at least 30 feet is required. Replacement trees for development projects are two for one removed, or more in some cases.

20. What if I don’t have any space on my property to replant a tree that has been approved for removal?: The City Arborist will have to inspect the property and determine whether there is space for the replacement tree.

21. My neighbor has a tree that is causing damage to my property can the City do anything about it?: The City cannot force the owner of the tree to remove it or prune it. It is recommended that you speak with each other to come up with a solution.

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Library system improvements

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1. Why do we need a new library?: Both of our existing library buildings are out of date and do not meet current or future user needs. We asked the library users what they wanted to see in an updated library, and they told us that it should be a center for lifelong learning, a hub for technology and a gathering place for collaboration, connection and growth. These added demands on public library space require all new facilities.

2. Why now?

In June of 2017, Mr. John Arrillaga came forward with a generous offer: If the City paid the first $20 million of construction costs for a new Main Library, he would pay the rest. It is anticipated that constructing a new Main Library could cost as much as $60 million. On the basis of public feedback, the City Council asked staff to plan new facilities for both the Main Library and the Belle Haven branch.

3. How do we know what kind of facility we need? Where will the new libraries be located?

Library staff sought community input during the development of the Library Strategic Plan and the Library Space Needs Assessment and is currently doing the same regarding the siting and uses of the Main Library building. Please join us at one of the workshops to tell us your thoughts. Future meetings will be held to gather input from neighborhood residents for Belle Haven Library services and uses. Council also funded a community based needs assessment for the Belle Haven branch. That process is underway.

4. How much will it cost?

Staff estimates that in addition to the $20 million needed to trigger the Arrillaga donation, there could be up to an additional $10 million in soft costs paid by the City associated with a new Main Library. These costs would be for preparing the building site, relocating/reconstructing utilities, and outfitting the new facility with shelving and furniture. A cost estimate for a new Belle Haven Library has not yet been determined.

5. How will the City’s share of the construction costs be funded?

The City’s Finance and Audit Subcommittee recommended several options: using reserves and paying back the funds with an increase in transient occupancy taxes or utility users taxes; taking out a loan to fund the costs; placing a bond measure for the costs before the voters, or a combination of these.

6. Shouldn’t we pay for other City improvements before we build a new library?: Mr. Arrillaga’s gift enables the City to significantly leverage the money it spends toward a new Main Library facility; it is not transferable to other City projects. It also saves money by allowing the construction to begin sooner, as building costs increase over time.

7. What about the branch? Shouldn’t it be updated first?

Planning for the new branch library is proceeding along the same track as taken by the new Main Library, through conducting a Belle Haven Neighborhood Library Needs Assessment and forming a Belle Haven Neighborhood Library Advisory Committee. The Belle Haven Branch Library is located inside the Belle Haven Elementary School; since the City does not own the school grounds, a new location must be found. In the meantime, the City Council approved funds both for updates to the existing facility and its collections, and an increase in open hours and staffing.

8. Why don’t you just remodel?

The Main Library was originally constructed in 1957, and expanded and remodeled in 1967, 1991, and 2012. The large scale renovations needed under the current plan would cost nearly as much as a new facility.

9. What about the books?

There are no plans to reduce the size of the Main Library’s current collection; on the contrary, our new building will have more space for reading and sharing stories. A new library in Belle Haven will allow an increase in the size of the collection housed there now.

10. Will the library uses be different?: They could be. It's been suggested that a new main library building could include affordable housing or public meeting space. Join us at one of the public meetings being held soon - that's where we will gather input on possible additional uses.

11. How can I get involved?: Join us and share your thoughts. Public meetings to gather input on the new main library's siting and uses will be held on December 4, January 17, and February 15. The City is forming a Belle Haven Neighborhood Library Advisory Committee to assist with the process of building a new branch library, and you can volunteer through November 22 here. Check the project page for other ways to get involved.

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Library wireless network

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1. How do I connect?

On your laptop or mobile device, locate the Wi-Fi network "Menlo Park Library" and connect
Open a web browser to view and accept the library's wireless usage policy. If the policy page does not load, point your browser to http://1.1.1.1
Once you click "Accept" you will be redirected to the library's website, and can access the Internet.

2. What if I still can't connect?

Please try the following steps:

Does it work for others in your area of the library? If yes, continue with #2. If no, please tell library staff. You may have to move to another part of the library where reception is better until the problem is fixed.
Check that your wireless card is set to use automatic addressing (DHCP). It might not be set this way if you use other specific Wi-Fi network settings when at home or work.
Check that your wireless card is turned on. Many laptops provide a switch or keyboard combination to turn the wireless card on/off.
Check if Windows is preventing you from automatically connecting. Windows may detect the network, but will not connect until you tell it to do so. (This is especially true when it detects an "unsecured" network, like at Menlo Park Library.)
Try temporarily disabling your firewall software, and see if there is any change. If so, you may have to change the firewall settings to allow the wireless connection. (You should not leave the firewall turned off while browsing the Internet.)
In Windows Network Connections, if you see an IEEE 1394 connection, try disabling it (right click, disable).
If you are using an iPad or MacBook with Safari browser, try opening another browser (if you have it) and typing in the URL mentioned in question #1.

3. Can I print?: Yes! See wifi printing instructions here. Printouts are 15 cents/page.

4. How can I pay for printouts?: You can pay with coins or small bills when releasing your job at the print release station. You can also preload money on your account with cash at the print release station, or with a credit card at this site.

5. Where can I use the Menlo Park Library wireless network?: The network is accessible from any place in the library, including the outside patio and the downstairs conference room.

6. Why won't my apps work when I'm on the network?: Users must accept the library's wireless policy via a browser in order to connect the device to the wireless connection. Once connected, your apps will begin to work.

7. Why do I need to accept the policy?: The policy must be accepted in order to confirm understanding that the wireless connection is wide open, meaning it is not secure. It also confirms acceptance and understanding of rules and regulations of wireless use.

8. Do I need to accept the policy every time I start a new connection?: The policy must be accepted once a day per device. By accepting the policy, it protects both you and the library by reminding the user that the wireless connection is not a secure connection.

9. What do you mean the wireless connection is not secure?

The library wireless network is an "open" or "unsecured" network and does not require passwords, certificates, or applications to connect. Thus it does not protect the information on your laptop from malicious users on the same network, nor does it protect information transmitted when using the Internet. Gathered from various Internet sources, here are some tips to make your use of an unsecured wireless network safer:

Install firewall software to guard against incoming network attacks
Install and frequently update anti-virus software, preferably one that scans Internet traffic as it passes to and from the host system
Install anti-spyware software
Avoid checking confidential accounts or making personal transactions online when using a wireless connection.
If you do check confidential accounts (including web-based email) or make transactions, be sure the web site uses a secured (https://) connection.
If using POP3 to check your email, contact your email provider and see if they support an SSL connection.
Minimize the amount of time you are exposed to network threats by disconnecting from the wireless network when you're not using it.
Consider a VPN service, which creates an encrypted connection to the service and routes all your Internet traffic through that.

10. Do you filter websites or web content?: No.

11. Why can't I send email using my mail client (Windows Live Mail / Outlook Express / Thunderbird / etc.)?: SMTP is blocked to restrict spammers from sending email from our public WiFi networks. Any issues with spam coming from our networks could result in the City being blacklisted by major email hosts such as Gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo! Mail, MSN Mail, etc. You can send email through a web browser as an alternative.

12. If there are too many users, will I be blocked from using the wireless network?: No.

13. What does "laptop-friendly table" mean?: It is a place with an electrical outlet nearby, in case you need to plug in your laptop.

14. How fast is the Internet connection?: The connection is comparable to average DSL / Cable modem service, but your speed will vary depending on traffic from other Wi-Fi users in the library and beyond. MPL uses 802.11n access points, and has a fiber optic connection to the Internet. The wireless network has been allocated a portion of this connection, which is shared among users, so your speed will vary.

15. How was the wireless network funded?: The wireless network equipment and setup costs were kindly funded by the Friends of the Menlo Park Library, an organization of volunteers dedicated to enhancing the library, its resources, and its services. Activities include sponsorship of events and efforts to promote literacy, as well as raising funds through the sale of donated books. To volunteer, or for more information, call 650-330-2521.

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Mosquito Spraying / Fogging

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1. Who is responsible for mosquito spraying / fogging in Menlo Park?: The San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District (SMCMVCD) handles mosquito control for all of San Mateo County, including the 20 independent cities plus all unincorporated County areas. It is an independent special district, which is a type of local government entity that delivers specific services to citizens within its boundaries (similar to the Menlo Park Fire Control District). The District’s mission is, “To safeguard the health and comfort of the citizens of San Mateo County through a planned program to monitor and reduce mosquitoes and other vectors." The District is governed by a Board of Trustees consisting of one resident from each city. The District can be reached at 650-344-8592 or online at www.smcmad.org

2. What will trigger mosquito spraying / fogging?: If West Nile virus is detected in the community, the District’s initial response will be to intensify its efforts to locate and reduce mosquito breeding sites, increase its levels of larvaciding in those areas in which West Nile virus has been found, and increase trapping of adult mosquitoes for disease testing. Reducing the adult mosquito population with pesticides (adulticides) registered by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will be done if necessary to prevent human illness or to suppress a heavy nuisance infestation of mosquitoes. The decision to spray, by truck mounted sprayers, will be based on surveillance information or the documentation of West Nile virus activity at a level that indicates a threat to human health. Spraying will be concentrated in areas most at risk for disease occurrence and will be conducted by certified and licensed applicators. The District’s aggressive campaign against mosquito larvae is intended to minimize the need to use adulticides.

3. What pesticides are used by the District for controlling adult mosquitoes?: When necessary, the District may use ground application of pesticides to kill adult mosquitoes that pose a health risk to the residents of San Mateo County. In the case of adulticiding, or targeting adult mosquitoes, they would use botanical insecticides (plant derived compounds) or synthetic versions of that include pyrethrins and synthetic pyrethroids, as well as piperonyl butoxide. All of the products they use are registered with the EPA and applied according to label directions by their trained and certified technicians.

4. What risks are there to the residents of San Mateo County, including Menlo Park, from the pesticides?: The risks to the public and to the environment are very low. Mosquito adulticides are applied as ultra-low-volume (ULV) sprays. ULV applications involve very small quantities of active ingredient in relation to the size of the area treated, typically less than 2 ounces per acre, which minimizes exposure and risk to people and the environment. There is no need to relocate during the spraying.

5. Where will the spraying / fogging take place?: The spraying will take place in areas of concern, as determined by the San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District’s mosquito and disease surveillance programs. Their trained and certified technicians use a variety of surveillance techniques and treatment criteria to ensure effective mosquito control with the least amount of risk to our residents and our environment. The District’s website will also show a map of the spray zone. You can visit the District’s website at www.smcmad.org

6. What risks are there to the environment from the pesticides that are used for mosquito abatement?: The risks to the public and to the environment are very low. Mosquito adulticides are applied as ultra-low-volume (ULV) sprays. ULV applications involve small quantities of active ingredient in relation to the size of the area treated, typically less than 2 ounces per acre, which minimizes exposure and risk to people and the environment.

7. Are the insecticides exclusive to mosquitos that carry West Nile Virus?: No. The pesticides chosen by the District are used to target a variety of mosquitoes that can transmit West Nile Virus as well as other diseases.

8. Should I or other residents take steps to reduce exposure to the pesticides used during mosquito control spraying / fogging?: Generally, there is no need to relocate during mosquito control spraying. The pesticides have been evaluated for this use and found to pose minimal risks to human health and the environment when used according to label directions. All of the products used by the District are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency for controlling mosquitoes and protecting the public.
Although mosquito control pesticides pose very low risks, some people may prefer to avoid or even further minimize exposure. People who suffer from chemical sensitivities or breathing conditions such as asthma can reduce their potential for exposure by staying indoors during the application period and may want to consult their physician or local health department for more information.

9. Should those who are pregnant be concerned or take extra precautions during the mosquito spraying / fogging?: According to the District, there are no special precautions needed for pregnant women. As always, if you have medical concerns you should consult your physician.

10. Will the spraying / fogging for adult mosquitoes affect pets?: Pesticides used for adult mosquito control do not affect pets. The ultra-low-volume (ULV) application rates have a significant margin of safety for mammals, birds, fish and reptiles.

11. Will the spraying / fogging for adult mosquitos affect local honey bees?: Although the pesticides used for adult mosquito control may be toxic to bees, at the ultra-low-volume (ULV) application rates and the fact that they are applied late at night when honey bees are normally in their hives, there should be no exposure or impact to local honeybees.

12. Will the spraying / fogging for adult mosquitoes affect my lawn furniture, play equipment, toys, and garden plants?: There is nothing you need to do in response to the District’s spraying for adult mosquitoes. Pesticides used by the District for control of adult mosquitoes have a half-life of 1.5 days in water and 4.4 days in soil. The pesticide molecule rapidly degrades in sunlight at the soil and water surface into its constituent’s elements: Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen. Additionally, it should not affect car paints or other painted surfaces.

13. Will the spraying / fogging for adult mosquitoes affect fruits and vegetables?: The pesticides we used by the District pose little risk to people or the environment and are labeled to spray over crops. These materials have been used extensively throughout the county in mosquito control programs for decades with no evidence to suggest harm to people, or fruits and vegetables. For garden fruits and vegetables, as when brought home from the store, a normal washing with water before consumption is suggested.

14. Where can I get additional information regarding specific insecticides used by the District?: Inquiries concerning pesticides can be directed to the EPA (visit: http://www.epa.gov ). More information can also be found at the National Pesticide Information Center – NPIC (http://npic.orst.edu) or by calling toll free 1-800 858-7378. The District also posts information on their website at www.smcmad.org

15. How can I receive information about spraying / fogging for adult mosquitoes?: For more information and to sign-up for mosquito spraying / fogging alerts, please visit the San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District's website at www.smcmad.org

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National Night Out

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1. How do I register my block party?: You can use our convenient online registration form.

2. Will the Police Chief visit my block party?: The Chief and other officers try to visit every registered block party and greet everyone. You must register your block party in advance.

3. Is there a cost to plan a block party for National Night Out?: The registration and block closure costs are waived for this program.

4. Do I need insurance for my party?: Contact the City for more information.

5. What type of activities should I have at my block party?: Suggested activities include:
Start a neighborhood watch program
Ice Cream Social
BBQ
Pot Luck
Collections for Food Bank or Other Charities
Sidewalk Chalk-Art Contest
Three-Legged Races
Basketball Contests
Volleyball Games
Carnival Games
Bounce House
Water Games
Water-Balloon Toss
Face Painting
Music/ Live Entertainment
Dunk for Apples
Raffles
Piñatas
Outside Movie
Karaoke
Chili or Rib Cook Off

6. Are there any promotional resources available: Yes. Visit the National Association of Town Watch (NATW)'s National Night Out page and click Resources NATW website

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Online Reporting

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1. What do I do if online reporting is not right for me?: If you are reporting an emergency, call 911. If it is not an emergency, call 650-330-6300.

2. What if this happened on a state freeway?: If this took place on a state freeway, please call the Highway Patrol Office nearest you.

3. What is a "known suspect"?: A known suspect is when you or someone else knows the person or where to find the person who committed the crime or the license plate number of the vehicle the suspect(s) were in.

4. If this happened in another city, can I file a report using this online police citizen reporting system?: No. If a crime took place outside of the City of Menlo Park, please call the police department for that city.

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Police

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1. How can I file a police report online?: Please visit our online reporting page for guidelines on filing your report online.

2. How can I get a parking permit?: There are 3 categories of permit that can be purchased. View information about parking permits online. For questions, please call the Menlo Park Police Department at 650-330-6300.

3. How can I pay a parking ticket?: Parking tickets need to be mailed to the address on the envelope provided with the parking ticket, or they can be paid online. To pay online, please visit PTicket. For questions, please call the Menlo Park Police Department at 650-330-6300.

4. How can I pick up a copy of a police report?: Police reports may only be released to authorized parties and according to state law. Reports involving certain types of crime (i.e.; juvenile cases and some sex related crimes) cannot be released to anyone except district attorneys or law enforcement agencies.
For more information, and to determine if a report can be released to you, visit our police records page. For information about the status of your report, please contact the Records Division at 650-330-6310

5. How can I get my correctable citation signed off?: There is a $15 fee for the Police Records office to sign off a correctable violation. Please note, this fee is separate from the court fee you may be required to pay. Please read the back of your ticket to determine any fees required. The vehicle that was cited must be present for the officer to verify the correction. For questions, please call the police department at 650-330-6300.

6. How can I view my red light photo violation?: You can view your red light photo enforcement video by going to PhotoNotice and entering your citation number. Read more about photo enforcement in Menlo Park on our photo enforcement page.

7. Does Menlo Park Police install child safety seats?: The Menlo Park Police Department has child safety seat technicians available by appointment only. Please call the hotline at 650-330-6397 to schedule an appointment.

8. Is there an alternate phone number I can program in my phone or cellphone for emergencies?: If you would like to program a phone or cellphone with our emergency number, please use 650-325-4424. This is also the number to call if you are calling from outside of Menlo Park but need to report an emergency that is occurring in Menlo Park.

9. Where can I get my fingerprints taken?: The City of Menlo Park no longer does Live Scan fingerprinting on site. There are some local agencies that do, such as the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office Live Scan service or the Stanford Department of Public Safety Live Scan service. There are also private companies that provide this service and can be found online.

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Public Works

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1. Who is responsible for maintaining sidewalks and other frontage improvements?: State law (Division 7, Part 3, Chapter 22 of the Streets and Highways Code [Sections 5600 and 5610]) requires property owners to maintain sidewalks, parking strips, curbs, retaining walls, and other such works between their property line and the street line. Property owners are required to maintain these frontage improvements such that they will not endanger persons or property or interfere with the public convenience in the use of those works or areas.

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Red Light Photo Enforcement

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1. What is red light running?: A violation occurs when a motorist enters an intersection some time after the signal light has turned red. Motorists inadvertently in an intersection when the signal changes to red (waiting to turn left, for example) are not red light runners.

2. What is the penalty for running a red light?: The penalty for a convicted red light violation is one point on your driving record and a minimum fine of $380. Traffic school is an option for those who meet the court requirements. Information can be obtained through the San Mateo County Superior Court. If you have received a red light citation at an intersection equipped with digital video, you can schedule an appointment by calling 650-330-6693 to review it at the Menlo Park Police Department. You can also view the video of the violation online.

3. Do the cameras photograph every vehicle passing through an intersection?: No. Cameras are set so that only those vehicles that enter an intersection after the light has turned red are photographed. Vehicles that enter on yellow and are still in an intersection when the light changes to red are not photographed. This technology is intended to identify vehicles driven by motorists who enter an intersection after the signal has turned red.

4. Does someone review the photographs before motorists are ticketed?: Yes. Trained police officers and staff review every picture to verify vehicle information and ensure the vehicle is in violation. Tickets are mailed to vehicle owners only in cases where it is clear the vehicle ran a red light.

5. Do red light cameras violate motorists' privacy?: No. Driving is a regulated activity on public roads. By obtaining a license, a motorist agrees to abide by certain rules, such as to obey traffic signals. Neither the law nor common sense suggests drivers should not be observed on the road or have their violations documented. When citations are issued, the only recognizable person in the photos is the driver - all passenger faces are carefully blocked out.

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Reusable Bag Ordinance

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1. What stores does this ordinance affect? What types of bags will be regulated?: All retail stores in the City of Menlo Park will be prohibited from distributing plastic bags and will charge for recycled paper bags at check-out. Restaurants are exempt from this ordinance. “Protective” plastic or paper bags without handles will still be allowed at no charge for items such as meat, fresh produce, prepared food, or prescription medication at all retail stores.

2. What types of bags can retailers sell at check-out? How much will they cost?: Retailers may sell paper bags made of at least 40% recycled material for a minimum price of 10 cents per bag. The minimum price will then increase to 25 cents in the year 2015.

3. How do I keep my bags clean and safe?

Do not store reusable bags in car trunks, as high temperatures can promote bacteria growth
Do not transport raw foods and other food products in the same bag
Do not use reusable grocery bags for other purposes, such as carrying books or laundry
Wash reusable bags often

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Ringwood Pedestrian / Bicycle Overcrossing

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1. How will the residents in the vicinity of the pedestrian / bicycle overcrossing (POC) stay updated as to the design process?: The city website will include information regarding the status of the POC including meetings with the community. The website will allow the ability for users to be notified via email if changes and/or additions are made to the webpage. The city and/or Caltrans will also mail a postcard to all residents within 500 feet of the POC if there are any future meetings regarding the project.

2. What other cities on the 101 corridor empty into a residential community? We'd like to see designs and understand how the bridge emptying into a residential area was implemented.: Caltrans is looking into other similar locations where POCs are accessed at residential neighborhoods and will provide the designs and process for development by the end of May 2009. Typically, any issue that affects the local community is discussed with the city, and it is their decision how to involve their citizens. Concerns from the community are also addressed through the environmental process.

3. What environmental process was conducted for the POC?: As this is a Caltrans project, the city is not involved in the environmental process. Caltrans is the agency responsible for the project and conducted the environmental review of the project. The POC was evaluated as part of the US 101 Auxiliary Lanes from Embarcadero Road to Marsh Road project. The POC was determined to not result in a significant adverse visual affect. There were no public comments submitted to contradict this determination. The environmental process is considered implemented and completed, with the level of environmental documentation considered appropriate.

4. Has it been determined, that the current bridge cannot be maintained by moving the columns out of the path of the US 101 improvements?: Yes, the structure has been analyzed by a structural engineer, and it has been determined that the existing Ringwood POC must be replaced in order for the auxiliary lanes to be constructed. Moving the columns outside of the sound walls would create span lengths that could not be supported by the structure.

5. Will the POC be required to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements? Can a waiver be granted to reduce the footprint of the new POC?: For new construction, a waiver from ADA requirements is considered only when the accessibility design standard is structurally impracticable and only in those rare circumstances when the unique characteristics of terrain prevent the incorporation of the accessibility standard. The Ringwood POC is technically feasible. Caltrans is obligated to comply with ADA because it is the law; it is a civil right of persons with disabilities. It would be too costly to the department if it failed to comply or accommodate individuals. The cost of not complying can result in lawsuits against Caltrans and increased federal scrutiny, including fines or curtailment of funding and activities on our part that take away from our primary mission.

6. Can an elevator be used instead of ramps for the POC?: Caltrans does not own and operate elevators for public use because of the problems associated with maintenance and safe operations. ADA standards require facilities to be made available to the disabled without interruption. Other public transportation facilities where elevators are used, such as train stations, have a history of mechanical breakdowns of their elevators. Where staff is onsite, this can be readily reported and repairs can be made. However, the POC will not be staffed, so misuse of an elevator is likely to cause more frequent breakdowns and render it unavailable to users of the POC.

Information was obtained from the City of Emeryville related to a pedestrian overcrossing with elevators they constructed over railroad tracks at their Amtrak station. Due to excessive maintenance costs, continual breakdowns, and vandalism, they are not going to use elevators for their upcoming project that is similar in scope (pedestrian bridge over railroad tracks). They will be using ramps instead. Caltrain has four stations that use elevators, and they have had problems with breakdowns (one elevator cost $125,000 to repair), vandalism, and high maintenance costs for their elevators. Their call buttons for service go directly to the local police office, and they have to spend their time handling the problems. The cities pay for all service (electricity, license fees, etc.) and maintenance (routine and repair) costs associated with the elevators either directly or through reimbursement.

7. Can a shuttle bus be used to provide pedestrian and bicycle connectivity instead of the POC?: A shuttle bus would not provide the same level of service and/or convenience to pedestrians and bicyclists. A shuttle would run during limited hours of the day and would not provide the same connectivity as the current POC.

8. What type of things will be done to minimize construction impacts?: Work will meet local noise ordinances, and dust will be minimized. Traffic Management Plans will be developed to minimize traffic disruption.

9. What type of notifications will be sent to residents regarding construction?: Residents will be notified prior to work starting and can be provided with regular updates on progress. Caltrans can work with the city to determine the best way to notify residents.

10. How long will construction last?: We are estimating 6 months of construction time for the entire removal and reconstruction. This estimate can be more accurately provided once the design is completed, the contractor is on board, and a work schedule is developed.

11. What times will construction activities be allowed during the day? Will work be done on weekdays or weekends?: Caltrans tries to have its work done in a manner to least disrupt the residents and traveling public. Construction of the ramps can be done during the weekday, but the portions over the freeway may need some night work if freeway lane closures cannot be accommodated during the day. This will be held to a minimum since worker safety is a concern during night work. As the design progresses, we will be able to provide more details as to when work will be allowed. Input from the city will also be welcomed, and efforts will be made to accommodate.

12. What are the costs of design options 2 and 4?: A preliminary cost estimate during the environmental phase was done only for option 1. The $5.7 million estimate we have includes the removal of the existing POC, the construction of the POC over the freeway, and ramps on both sides of the freeway. Option 2 would be similar in cost to Option 1. The estimate for option 4 will be slightly more (10-20%). We have not done enough design work on either option to provide a reliable estimate because we were hoping to get a decision on which option was preferred before moving forward with more detailed design.

13. Are drawings available with height information for design options 2 and 4?: The elevation of the ramps as they go over the existing sound walls is controlled by the vertical clearance requirements over our freeway. This vertical clearance (18.5 feet) is measured from the roadway to the bottom of the structure. Since this is the minimum standard, we will have to design it to be slightly higher to allow for construction tolerances. The elevation of the floor of the ramps (where pedestrians will be walking) is dependent on the type of bridge deck that is used for the structure. The preliminary design is for a box girder type of structure with a range of deck depths of 3 to 6 feet. This would mean a pedestrian standing on the POC would have their feet at a height of at least 21.5 to 24.5 feet above the road surface. This will drop down as the ramp comes down to street level. Both options 2 and 4 will have the same elevation as they go over the sound wall, but the switchback ramps will be approximately 11 feet closer to residents (laterally) for the segment that is highest. Drawings will be provided as soon as they are available. Caltrans will work to minimize the thickness of the structure to provide as thin a design as possible to reduce the overall height.

14. What is the height, width, and length of design options 2 and 4?

The new bridge dimensions are as follows:

10 feet wide (10 feet is the outside width of the structure. The usable pathway is 8 feet wide. This is both an ADA requirement to have 4 feet minimum clear width in each direction and a bicycle standard for 8 feet minimum width for two-way travel)
Will vary from 3 to 6 feet deep depending on the span length.
The ramp lengths on either side of the overcrossing are 350 feet for option 2 and 370 feet for option 4. The total length of the overcrossing including the ramps would be approximately 870 feet.

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Successor Agency

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1. What is a Successor Agency and why does Menlo Park need one?: In order to address the state’s estimated $17.2 billion budget gap, Governor Jerry Brown has proposed a mix of expenditure reductions and tax increases. The broad set of budget cuts touch nearly every area of state funding and include a significant redistribution of local property tax revenues. The governor’s proposal includes dissolving the state’s 425 redevelopment agencies (RDAs) and transferring their revenues (over $5 billion of annual property tax revenues) to local successor agencies. The successor agencies are charged with using these funds to retire redevelopment debts and contractual obligations and redirect remaining revenues to other local governments in the county, including K-14 education and fire service districts. For more information, you can view a copy of the California Supreme Court Decision that created Successor Agencies.

2. What will the Successor Agency do?

By serving as the Menlo Park Redevelopment Agency’s successor agency, the city agrees to wind up the affairs of the former redevelopment area in a way that maximizes the amount of funding that will eventually be redistributed to other local entities (mainly San Mateo County, area schools, and the Fire District). As the Successor Agency, the city will play a key day-to-day role in assuring that the existing obligations of the former agency are properly paid, and that the former agency's properties and other assets are disposed of in an appropriate manner. While the Successor Agency will be overseen by an Oversight Board of seven representatives selected largely by the county and various local education districts, the staff of the Successor Agency will have a strong role in initiating and implementing actions in a way that achieves not only the requirements of the dissolution act but also is sensitive to the long-term development needs of the city and local community, and that protects the good name of the city in the financial markets by assuring timely repayment of the former RDA’s existing debts. One of the main tasks of the Successor Agency is to develop an Enforceable Obligation Payment Schedule, or EOPS, that will include all loans, bonds, contracts, and legally-binding agreements that the former RDA was responsible for paying for. The EOPS, once approved by the Oversight Board, will then be designated as an ROPS or Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule which will allow the city to retain property taxes from the former RDA in the amount needed to cover those obligations. For more information, check out the following documents:

3. Who makes up the Oversight Board for the Successor Agency?

The Oversight Board includes seven members representing or appointed by:

The County Board of Supervisors (two members)
The Mayor (one member)
The County Superintendent of Education (one member)
The Chancellor of California Community Colleges (one member)
The Largest Special District taxing entity (for Menlo Park, this is the Fire District) (one member)
A former RDA employee appointed by the Mayor (one member)

The Oversight Board’s job is to determine whether contracts, agreements, and other arrangements between private parties and the former RDA should be terminated or renegotiated to reduce the Successor Agency’s liabilities and to increase net revenues to the taxing agencies. The actions of the Oversight Board are overseen by the State Director of Finance and may be subject to modification.

Each of the 13 cities in San Mateo County that had an RDA (and now serve as Successor Agencies) will have an Oversight Board. These 13 Oversight Boards will be consolidated into one body in July of 2016.

4. What special challenges does Menlo Park face in winding down its redevelopment activities?

Redevelopment activities in Menlo Park have been largely successful in planning and implementing improvements in the redevelopment area and promoting the area as a safe and healthy place to live and do business. To this end, ongoing activities include:

Affordable housing programs
Code enforcement
Continued blight mitigation
Economic development
Graffiti control
Narcotics abatement

With the loss of dedicated redevelopment funding, the city must determine to what extent each of these activities will be retained and funded from other limited city resources. In addition, Menlo Park’s Community Development Agency operated under a “hybrid” staffing model, in which city staff provided a percentage of their time in support of redevelopment activities and projects. The city has already determined that affordable housing programs will not be continued, and other activities may need to be curtailed. Still, the additional costs to the city’s General Fund budget exceed $1.2 million, an increase of over 3% in General Fund expenditures. Retaining public safety services in the area will require new revenues for the General Fund or reductions in services in other areas of the organization.

5. What is community development?

Community development is a process created to assist local government in eliminating blight from a designated area (the "project area") and to achieve desired development, reconstruction, and rehabilitation including (but not limited to) residential, commercial, industrial, and retail. Through this process, the project area receives focused attention and financial investment to reverse deteriorating physical, social, and economic trends; enhance the overall living environment; and encourage private sector investment together with the provision of improved / additional public amenities. The process of community development involves:

Citizen and property owner participation
Comprehensive planning for revitalization
Improved public facilities
Public and private enterprise partnerships

6. How did community development work under the Community Development Agency?: The Community Development Agency of the City of Menlo Park was the legal entity that undertook improvement activity in the Las Pulgas Community Development Project Area. City of Menlo Park council members made up the governing board of the Community Development Agency; however, the City Council and the agency were two separate, distinct legal entities. Agency and city staff carried out the day-to-day operations of the agency's improvement plans.

In addition to the Community Development Agency Board, there was also an Advisory Committee made up of project area residents, property owners, and business owners. The Las Pulgas Committee was created in 1981, the same year that the agency was established.

Improvement activities were undertaken following an adopted Community Development Project Area Plan and were financed by tax increment funds.

7. What are tax increment funds?: State law established a method of obtaining funds for community development agencies called tax increment financing. On the date a community development agency adopted its Community Development Project Area Plan, the property within the project area had a certain total property tax valuation. Improvements to property had resulted in higher assessed value for those properties, and a portion of the taxes that were derived from the increase went to the agency. These funds were called tax increments. Tax increment revenue could only be used in the project area (which generated that revenue), except in the case of residential projects benefiting low-and-moderate income households.

In order to accomplish significant projects, a community development agency could issue bonds that were then paid off by using the tax increments over time.

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Utility User Tax - Ordinance

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1. Is the utility user tax new?: No. Measure K, establishing a Utility User Tax for the City of Menlo Park, was passed in the General Election of November 7, 2006.

2. What is the purpose of the tax?: The purpose of the UUT is to support valuable services within the City's General Fund. Proceeds of the tax helps fund general city services including police, emergency preparedness, street and storm drain maintenance, and libraries.

3. Will the tax ever be increased?: The utility user tax cannot be increased without the voter-approved passage of a new ordinance. However, the City Council has previously reduced the tax percentage temporarily upon annual review as part of the budget process. This reduction is implemented if it is determined that the reduction will not adversely affect the city's financial health.

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Utility User Tax - Utility Customers

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1. Who must pay the utility user tax?: Utility users pay the tax to the utility services suppliers, who assess the tax on their customer bills, collect the tax and remit it to the city.

2. Who is exempt from the utility user tax?: Federal, state and local government departments, bureaus and agencies do not have to pay the tax. State law exempts insurance companies and insurance brokers (but not agents) and federal credit unions from the tax. In addition, individuals that qualify, and have been accepted, for the California Alternate Rates for Energy Program (CARE) are exempt from the tax.

3. How much is the tax?: The tax is 3.5% of the charges billed to the utility user for electric, gas, and water services. The tax is 2.5% of telecommunication and video services.

Effective October 1, 2007, the tax rates were temporarily reduced to 1% of the charges billed to the utility user for electric, gas, and water services and 1.0% of telecommunication and video services. This reduction is reviewed annually as part of the budget process.

4. Is there a maximum tax that can be paid?: Yes. A utility user is limited to combined electric, gas, and water utility user taxes (a "cap") of $12,000 per year.

5. How is the maximum tax, or "cap" applied?: A customer who has electric, gas and water utility bills that typically exceed $120,000 annually should apply for the maximum tax by pre-paying the cap amount 45 days prior to the utility user tax period. Upon receipt of the pre-payment and the application, the City will inform the service provider that the customer should be excluded from further UUT assessments for the remainder of the tax period.

6. If I overpay, how do I receive a refund?: In any case of overpayment of the tax, a claim for refund must be made, within one year of the tax period, providing complete documentation of the amount overpaid. A claim form is available on the Finance Department webpage.

7. When was the UUT implemented?: The UUT assessment on utilities and services provided to consumers began April 1, 2007. Starting July 1, 2007, the UUT tax year became the same as the city's fiscal year, (July 1 through June 30).

8. Where can I get more information?: If you have any questions regarding the city's Utility User Tax, you can contact the city's Finance Office (see contact info at right).

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Utility User Tax - Utility Providers

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1. What are the duties of utility/service providers with customers in Menlo Park?

To accurately assess and collect the utility user tax from the users
To file a return and remit the tax to the City of Menlo Park
To keep for 3 years all records necessary to determine the amount of such tax that the utility/service provider may have been required to collect and remit.

2. When must the utility user tax be remitted?: The service supplier must remit the full amount of the tax collected for each month to the city on or before the last day of the following month. The return must be in the format supplied by the city (Remittance Form).

3. What if the utility supplier fails or refuses to collect the tax from the utility user?: The utility/service supplier will be liable for the tax and for penalties (15% of the total tax due) and interest (at the rate of .75% per month until paid).

4. How long do records need to be kept?: Each person required to collect and remit the UUT must keep records for a period of 3 years. The city has the right to inspect these records at all reasonable times.

5. Where can I get more information?: If you have any questions regarding the city's Utility User Tax, you can contact the City's Finance Department.

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Water Conservation

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1. When do the regulations start?: The updated regulations began in late-June 2016 per recently adopted State law.

2. Who is affected?: Everyone, regardless of who they receive their water from, is affected by the recently adopted State law which allows each individual water agency to determine their own conservation goal and how best to meet it. If you are a Menlo Park Municipal Water District (MPMW) customer, the revised regulations on the City’s webpage apply to you. If you receive water from a different agency, you will need to contact that agency directly to determine drought regulations that apply to your home/business.

3. How do I determine my water provider?: Check your water bill or click on the interactive map at www.menlopark.org/drought and enter in your address.

4. When can I water?: You may water (i.e. sprinklers, drip irrigation, micro-sprayers, or hand watering) any day of the week and any time during the day as long as runoff does not occur onto hard surfaces.

5. What % of water will the Menlo Park Municipal Water District require me to reduce?: The Menlo Park Municipal Water District is not setting individual user conservation goals. We are asking that everyone try to conserve as much as possible. We are asking everyone to conserve 10% compared to 2013 water use.

6. Will I receive a water budget each month?: The Menlo Park Municipal Water District is not setting individual user conservation goals. We are asking that everyone try to conserve as much as possible.

7. Will I be fined if I use more than the previous month/year?: You will not be fined for increased water use. We are asking that everyone try to conserve as much as possible.

8. Can I use water to clean my driveway or sidewalk?: You may use potable water to clean your driveway/sidewalk/walkway for health and safety purposes only. We recommend using a broom.

9. Can I wash my vehicle?: You may wash your vehicle as long as the hose is equipped with an automatic shut-off nozzle. You may also wish to take your vehicle to a commercial car wash that recycles water.

10. What are the penalties? Would I receive a warning or fine?

First violations are normally warnings, however, the Public Works Director can issue fines for first violations depending on the water regulation violated. Below are the penalties adopted by City Council on May 5, 2015.

Violation - Enforcement
1st - Warning only. Educate customer on proper water conservation practices
2nd - $50 fine
3rd - $100 fine
4th - $200 fine, and review by the Public Works Director (or his/her designee) to
determine if a flow restricting device should be installed
5th - $500 fine, and review by the Public Works Director (or his/her designee) to
determine if water service should be discontinued
6th - $500 fine, water service shall be discontinued

Cal Water and O'Connor Tract Cooperative water customers should contact their respective water provider for more information about their enforcement procedures and penalties.

California Water Service 844-726-8579 Toll Free www.calwater.com
O'Connor Tract Coop Water 650-321-2723 www.oconnorwater.org

11. Can I use a power washer to clean a building?: Yes, you may use a power washer to clean a building or wash windows, as long as the power washer is equipped with an automatic shut-off nozzle.

12. I am collecting water in a bucket in the shower. When can I put that water on my outdoor plants/turf?: The water you collect is not potable water, so you can put it on your outdoor plants/turf anytime.

13. How do I report water waste?: Complete the online form at
menlopark.org/waterwaste

14. How will the water regulations be enforced?: Our Code Enforcement police officers physically visit properties from water waste reports to educate them on the water regulations. With repeat violators, we can issue fines.

15. Do the Code Enforcement officers patrol neighborhoods looking for violators?: We do not plan to patrol neighborhoods. We will rely on Water Waste Reports to identify properties that may need additional water conservation education.

16. Does the City have a recycled water system?: Unfortunately the City does not have a recycled water system. However, the Menlo Park Municipal Water District will be evaluating the feasibility of recycled water as part of the Water System Master Plan which is currently underway.

17. I have questions bout my water bill. Who do I contact?: Contact the City’s billing contractor, Global Water Fathom, directly at 650-330-0385 or https://menlopark.gwfathom.com/

18. What is the Menlo Park Municipal Water District doing to reduce its water use?: The Menlo Park Municipal Water District has significantly reduced watering turf and landscapes except for sports fields, turned off median island irrigation systems, replaced old sprinkler heads around the Civic Center, and reused storm water in City-owned decorative fountains.

19. Who can I contact for additional questions?: Call the water hotline at 650-330-6750 or email water@menlopark.org

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12-month lease ordinance

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Belle Haven Community Visioning Process

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Building in the Flood Zone

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City-Owned Trees

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ConnectMenlo M-2 Land Use Alternatives

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Discover & Go

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District elections

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Downtown Parking

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El Camino Real / Downtown Specific Plan

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El Camino Real Corridor Study

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