Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pleasanton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues with high priority
Citywide standards for private outdoor sports courts and canopies
The city proposed reserving three of six Muirwood courts for $6-7.50/hour to manage demand and raise revenue. Dozens of players said it would destroy the open-play community and double wait times, so the council sent it back to Parks and Rec for more research and input.
Affordable rental housing at 4780 Chabot Drive
A proposed 100% affordable, up to 142-unit family rental project near BART would be the city's first directly supported affordable family housing development. Council supports the concept but must still decide on ~$8.4M in fee relief and a $10.3M inclusionary fee transfer, with the term sheet coming back later.
Arroyo Mocho Trail north-bank gate reopening
Neighbors of Pleasanton Meadows strongly oppose reopening gates on the north bank of the Arroyo Mocho, citing safety, privacy, homelessness concerns, and a dangerous 30-degree slope. The council clarified the decision isn't final and directed residents to the Bike/Ped Committee this fall.
Sewer rate increase (Prop 218)
A Prop 218 notice for a sewer rate increase is in mailboxes; a resident formally protested the plan, citing an ~80% first-year jump for single-family homes and no cap. The hearing is November 17.
Caltrans safety grant applications ($5.86M)
The city is seeking $5.86M in Caltrans grants for signal upgrades, pedestrian crossings, and an Owens Drive protected bikeway. A bike/ped committee veteran criticized the process but the applications went forward.
Citywide Emergency Preparedness
The council and chiefs recounted the response to the Little Fire — 1,007 acres, 6,000+ evacuated, homes within 30 feet of flames, no structures lost. Residents overwhelmingly thanked responders; the mayor urged signing up for AC Alert and making emergency plans.
Asset Management Plan and CIP Strategy FY 2027-2032
The city catalogued 206,000 assets worth $4.8 billion and found only $28 million in poor/failed condition — way better than the $900 million deferred-maintenance fear. Staff will rank projects by risk and bring a funded and unfunded CIP list to council in March for adoption by July 1, 2027.