Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in East Palo Alto public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues with critical priority
Woodland Park inclusionary housing compliance
The council rejected an ordinance that would have exempted projects of 20 units or fewer from inclusionary housing requirements until the countywide nexus study is complete. Opponents said it would permanently lose about 17 affordable homes and $2 million in fees; supporters argued the requirements make small projects impossible to build. The issue will return when the study concludes in 2027.
ALPR Camera Oversight
Public commenters and a councilmember urged the city to reconsider its Flock camera contract after Mountain View pulled out over federal data-access abuses. The contract isn't signed yet, so the council can still exit.
Affordable housing at 2120-2160 Euclid Avenue
The council approved the inclusionary housing plan for a 430-unit, 100%-affordable project tied to the Ravenswood School District, with about 195 units under local hiring preference and a developer commitment to deepen discounts on ten units to 50% AMI or below.
Woodland Park Euclid housing project amendment
Sand Hill wants changes to its deal to build 550 units (160 rent-stabilized) on Euclid, including paying $12M toward Ravenswood School District's 430-unit affordable teacher housing instead of building 78 off-site units. Council wants a better price before approving.
Housing Element Progress and Market-Rate Housing Shortfall
The city is at 27% of its 829-unit state housing target, doing well on low-income units but far behind on moderate and market-rate housing. Dinan argued the shortfall costs the city millions in property tax and drives up rents; others countered that inclusionary requirements and affordable housing subsidies are essential to prevent displacement.
$125 Million General Obligation Bond for Civic and Infrastructure Projects
The council voted 5-0 to put a $125 million bond on the November 2026 ballot for a new civic center, library, police facility, sports field, and water and stormwater infrastructure. Homeowners would pay about $105 per $100,000 of assessed value per year. A recent poll showed roughly two-thirds support.
Four Corners housing development at Bay Road and University Avenue
After nearly 40 years as a vacant lot across from City Hall, the council approved two Sand Hill projects totaling 274 homes, 36 of them affordable. Supporters called it long overdue housing and tax revenue; critics cited weak affordability, minimal retail, and no union labor deal.